Ep 8. Soft Opening

In Portlandia season 3 episode 8, entitled "Soft Opening," viewers are taken on a satirical journey through the world of artisanal and locally sourced food. The episode features a series of skits and vignettes in which characters navigate the often-absurd world of Portland's food scene.

The episode kicks off with a sketch in which two diners at a new restaurant struggle to decipher the menu, which is written entirely in esoteric foodie language. The diners ultimately settle on an order of "artisanal toast," which they find disappointing and overpriced.

Other sketches in the episode explore topics such as food allergies and intolerances, as well as the phenomenon of "pop-up" restaurants. In one particularly memorable sketch, a couple attempts to attend a pop-up restaurant that is housed inside a private residence. The couple is subjected to a series of bizarre rituals in order to gain entry to the restaurant, and are ultimately disappointed by the food.

Another highlight of the episode is a sketch in which a couple attempts to have a romantic evening at a new restaurant, but are thwarted by the restaurant's policy of sharing tables with strangers. The couple is forced to navigate awkward small talk with other diners, who seem more interested in their cell phones than in conversation.

In addition to its comedic vignettes, "Soft Opening" also features some truly impressive celebrity cameos. The episode features appearances by famous chefs such as David Chang and Andrew Zimmern, as well as Portland-based musicians such as Jack White and Joanna Newsom.

Despite its humorous tone, "Soft Opening" also touches on some deeper issues related to the food industry. One sketch, for example, explores the impact of gentrification on local neighborhoods, as a new restaurant threatens to push out longtime residents. Another sketch tackles the topic of food waste, as a couple attempts to use every part of a pig in their dinner party menu.

Overall, "Soft Opening" is a smart and entertaining look at the world of foodie culture, and is sure to leave viewers both amused and thoughtful.