At Bling Dental, we love more than just bright smiles--we love good food, too! We’re lucky to be located in Portland’s vibrant Pearl District, surrounded by some of the city’s best restaurants. That’s why we’re starting a new blog series where we spotlight local gems, some even within walking distance of our office!

To kick things off, two of our team members, Kate (our amazing hygienist) and Becky (our wonderful dental assistant), took a short 5-minute walk from Bling Dental to visit a local restaurant:

Mediterranean Exploration Company (MEC)

Dinner: Open Daily 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Happy Hour: Monday - Friday 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Exclusive to Bar)
Address: 333 NW 13th Ave, Portland, OR
Reviews: Over 1,400 reviews on Google with an average of 4.7 stars

First Impressions
From the moment they stepped inside, Kate and Becky said MEC felt like the kind of place where you could unwind while also feeling like you were still treating yourself. The space was cozy and inviting, with soft lighting, flickering candles, and gentle background music setting the tone. It’s the sort of ambiance that works just as well for a romantic date night as it does for a group dinner with friends or family.

The seating is flexible, with booths and tables that can accommodate both intimate dinners and larger parties. Kate and Becky said it was the perfect balance between casual and refined.

What They Ate (and Loved)
Dinner started strong with small plates full of bold, layered flavors. The Crispy Lamb Hummus was a highlight! Served in a wide, shallow plate of silky hummus topped with a mound of tender, juicy lamb and finished with a lemon tamarind vinaigrette and herb salad – yes, please! According to Kate, it was the standout dish of the night. "It was rich and satisfying but also incredibly well balanced," she said.

They also tried the Roasted Eggplant Dip, made with tahina, mint, and smoked olive oil, along with shishito peppers, Greek lamb chops, and a flavorful hanger steak served with potatoes, capers, and preserved lemon. Every dish was thoughtfully presented. They described the plates as “works of art,” with colors and textures that felt just as special as the flavors.

“The food tasted like a dance between flavors,” they said. “Each bite was layered, balanced, and beautifully composed.”

Bonus: MEC offers plenty of options for those with dietary needs. With many dishes, this is a great place for those with gluten-free or vegetarian preferences/needs.

Drinks That Feel Like Dessert
While they skipped dessert, Kate and Becky said the drinks were a highlight of the evening. The Turkish Delight cocktail came highly recommended—Kate described it as a “dessert in a glass” with a silky texture and floral, aromatic notes. The other cocktails also brought bold, unique flavors and impressive presentation. They sampled the Buck Hunter, a bolder cocktail made with a rum blend, Jägermeister, strawberry, sumac, coconut, and lemon. And for those who prefer something bubbly or hoppy, MEC’s bar menu includes champagne and local brews like Fort George IPA.

The Vibe: Relaxed, Romantic, and Group-Friendly
MEC is a balance of elevated food and cocktails in a welcoming, laid-back environment. Whether you’re on a date, catching up with friends, or dining with family, MEC is a versatile spot with top-tier service and ambiance.

And while MEC isn’t the cheapest restaurant in the neighborhood, according to our team, it’s well worth the price. The flavor, presentation, and overall experience make it feel like a treat—perfect for special occasions or just a memorable night out. For those looking to try a bit of everything, there's a Chef Tasting Menu for $75 per person. It's “An Exploration of the menu guided by our talented Chef!” and a one of-a-kind experience.

Final Thoughts from Kate & Becky:
✔️ Would they go back? Absolutely.
✔️ Best part? The food looked and tasted like art.
✔️ Value? On the pricier side, but worth it for the quality, flavor, and experience.

Next time you’re visiting us at Bling Dental, consider making a night of it! After your cleaning, walk a few blocks over to MEC and treat yourself to a little culinary exploration.

Stay tuned for more Neighborhood Bites as our team continues to highlight the amazing restaurants and small businesses that make the Pearl District such a special place to work and live.

—
Bling Dental
926 NW 13th Ave, Suite 150, Portland, OR
www.blingdental.com
(503) 222-5330

“Neighborhood Bites”: Mediterranean Exploration Company (MEC)