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Updated February 2024
Portland, Oregon may be best known for its food carts, breweries, coffee, and doughnut shops, but its restaurants are worth a trip on their own. I spent a weekend in Portland recently where all I did was eat my way through the best restaurants in the city. There was so much to love here.
Across the city, you’ll find no shortage of stellar sit-down options, whether you’re looking for a quick, casual bowl of ramen or a fine dining-tasting menu dinner. As the birthplace of legendary chef James Beard, Portland is now home to several James Beard-nominated establishments and chefs. So many of these made this list of top Portland restaurants.
Pacific Northwest cuisine connotes locally sourced ingredients, particularly when it comes to seafood, like Portland specialty Dungeness crab. But don’t worry if that doesn’t appeal—the city has an abundance of vegetarian and vegan options, and the Portland restaurants on this list represent cuisines ranging from Russian to Korean to Norwegian.
From restaurants and food carts to Michelin to Michelin, you’ll learn more about all of the best places to dine in Portland. So if you’re after comfort food or a formal Michelin starred restaurant, there is really something for everyone.
Convinced yet that it’s time to make the trip to Stumptown? Read on for my top 20 picks when it comes to dining in the city.
Planning a Trip To Portland? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels in Portland:
- The Hoxton, for the best central location
- Jupiter NEXT, for the best new design hotel
- The Nines, for the best luxury hotel
*Please note: I have been to most of these restaurants. I’m including a few extras in case you cannot get a reservation or ones that I couldn’t get either and had on my list.
1. Kann
One of the most-anticipated restaurants not only in Portland but in the country until it opened in 2022, Kann, the first restaurant from James Beard nominee and two-time Top Chef finalist Gregory Gourdet, has been making headlines since its debut. Its menu, described as “Haitian meets Pacific Northwest,” has garnered rave reviews.
Address:548 SE Ash St, Portland, OR 97214
2. Langbaan/phu*ket Café
Portland serves knockout Thai food, in large part thanks to chef Akkapong Earl Ninsom, who was nominated as an outstanding restauranteur at the 2022 James Beard Awards for his dining establishments across the city. Two to add to your list: tasting menu destination Langbaan, which sits inside ultra-hip phu*ket Café.
Address:1818 NW 23rd Pl, Portland, OR 97210
3. Jeju
The lively restaurant Jeju is serving up some of the best Korean American food in Portland. Wood-fired cooking is central to many of the dishes on this robust and flavorful menu. It brings new meaning to Korean BBQ, and a place to show up with all of your friends. Come hungry, and ready to chow down here.
Address:626 SE Main St, Portland, OR 97214
4. Republica
One of several new restaurants to open in Portland’s Pearl District lately, Republica guides diners through what it calls a “Mexican-forward” tasting menu. It’s been lauded since its 2021 opening, grabbing a semifinalist nod for Best New Restaurant at the 2022 James Beard Awards.
Address:721 NW 9th Ave Suite #175, Portland, OR 97209
5. Lovely’s Fifty-Fifty
Lovely’s is one of the best pizza restaurants Portland has to offer, and undoubtedly one of the most creative, featuring toppings including foraged flowers. Like many Portland restaurants, it prides itself on the locally sourced ingredients that go into its pizza and can’t-miss ice cream.
Address:4039 N Mississippi Ave, Portland, OR 97217
6. Eem
Another Thai concept from Ninsom, Eem deserves its entry for its exciting take on Thai barbecue. Dishes like sweet and sour fried chicken and brisket fried rice set it apart from Ninsom’s other restaurants, and an array of frozen co*cktail offerings make this a fun spot for summertime al fresco dining.
Address:3808 North Williams Avenue st, 127, Portland, OR 97227
7. Le Pigeon
For innovative fine dining in a relaxed atmosphere, Le Pigeon is the way to go. The restaurant features a 5-course tasting menu that shows off James Beard Award-winning chef Gabriel Rucker’s unique culinary style, and a great wine list rounds out the experience. The menu at Le Pigeon changes frequently to reflect the freshest seasonal ingredients and the creative whims of the chef, ensuring a new experience with each visit. Le Pigeon offers both a la carte and chef’s tasting menu options, with wine and beverage pairings that complement the bold flavors of the dishes.
Address:738 E Burnside St, Portland, OR 97214
8. Luce
Luce’s dining room is small and it doesn’t take reservations, but the Italian food at this low-key spot is well worth any wait you might run into. The restaurant also features a great wine list and a charming shop of Italian foodstuffs like olive oil.
Address:2140 E Burnside St, Portland, OR 97214
9. Mediterranean Exploration Company
Those in search of global flavors will love Mediterranean Exploration Company, a stalwart in the Pearl District since 2014. The flagship of popular restaurant group Sesame Collective, MEC grants diners views of its open hearth kitchen and features severalgrilled meat, seafood, and vegetable dishes alongside a wide array of mezze. The restaurant is situated in Portland’s industrial Pearl District, offering a vibrant and energetic atmosphere with an open hearth kitchen. MEC also features a playful beverage program that complements the Mediterranean flavors of the dishes.
Address:333 NW 13th Ave, Portland, OR 97209
10. The Paper Bridge
For an authentic taste of Vietnamese cuisine, don’t skip The Paper Bridge on your Portland trip. The focus of the cuisine is Northern Vietnamese, flavors that transport and dishes to remember. All of their food here is done from scratch, done traditionally, sourcing high-quality ingredients that help share just how great this cuisine is. You’ll find small dishes like water buffalo jerky, to things like rolled pho noodles and even whole grilled duck and fish with fish sauce.
Address:828 SE Ash St, Portland, OR 97214
11.Toki
From the team behind the fine dining establishment Han Oak, the more relaxed Toki serves Korean food, including variations on Korean fried chicken, for daily dinner and weekend brunch. The menu at Toki is an expansion of the offerings from Han Oak, its sister restaurant, and includes a variety of Korean dishes such as bibimbap, bulgogi, dumplings, gimbap, Korean fried chicken, noodles, and a unique steamed bao burger.
Address:580 SW 12th Ave, Portland, OR 97205
12. Alpenrausch
One of the latest newcomers to the Portland dining scene brings a taste of the Alps and Pacific Northwest. The food here is undeniably “alpine” with classics like sausages, Bavarian pretzels, and fondues. And while the Alps cover several countries in Europe, you’ll certainly get a bit from each. All in all, it’s a spot that brings in the local ingredients to create a taste of what can be found in the Alpine food of Europe. The restaurant serves dinner nightly from 4-9pm, extending to 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and offers lunch from 11:30-4pm on Fridays through Sundays.
Address:3384 SE Division St, Portland, OR 97202
13. Kachka
Dining at Kachka, one of the country’s top spots for Russian food, is an experience unlike any other in Portland. Its menu features classic Russian dishes, sometimes with a twist—think short rib borsch—as well as specialties from nearby countries like Georgia and Uzbekistan. Don’t miss the vareniki dumplings, particularly the sour cherry variety on offer for dessert.
Address:960 SE 11th Ave, Portland, OR 97214
14. Maurice
Maurice, a small, Instagram-friendly space that bills itself as a “modern pastry luncheonette,” serves Norwegian and French fare throughout the late morning and afternoon. It’s a lovely place to stop for lunch or fika while exploring downtown or the Pearl District. In addition to its culinary offerings, Maurice also boasts an impressive selection of wines, craft co*cktails, and specialty beverages, curated to complement the flavors of the food and enhance the overall dining experience.
Address:921 SW Oak St, Portland, OR 97205
15. Xiao Ye
Self-described as a cozy neighborhood restaurant, Xiao Ye is first-generation American food that comes from family recipes. On the menu, a range of dishes like tempura fried sardines, half-fried chicken, and the classic — Jolyn’s favorite noodle dish. An alkaline spaghetti with sesame, Taiwanese black vinegar, and lao gan ma. Don’t miss a cozy meal here during your trip.
Address:3832 NE Sandy Blvd, Portland, OR 97232
16. Coquine
Thoughtful and seasonal dishes come to life at Coquine, located just two blocks from the extinct volcano Mt. Tabor. A 2022 semifinalist for the James Beard Awards in outstanding hospitality, the top-notch food at this neighborhood spot is supported by a fantastic wine list. Led by Chef Katy Millard and her husband, Ksandek Podbielski, Coquine offers a menu that highlights the region’s bounty of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, with a focus on simple yet refined preparations that allow the natural flavors to shine. The menu changes regularly to showcase the best of each season, offering diners a diverse array of dishes that are both comforting and inventive.
Address:6839 SE Belmont St, Portland, OR 97215
17. Pasar
Pasar showcases a taste of Indonesian Market meals, each unique in flavors and dishes. It’s dishes from Indonesia that often don’t get as much highlights at our restaurants around the world. Their unique, and often found in the market stalls in Jakarta. The dinner service here has small dishes with snacks and treats that are great for even a quick bite. A classic? The Lemper ayam, a sticky rice soaked in coconut milk with lemongrass, layer with chicken and aromatics.
Address:3023 NE Alberta St, Portland, OR 97211
18. Afuri Izakaya
Popular chain Afuri chooses Oregon as the location for its first restaurant outside of Japan, citing a geography that yields ideal spring water for its ramen. While yuzu ramen is the specialty here, the izakaya also serves a variety of nigiri, sashimi, dumplings, and beyond. Led by Chef Shuichi Kotani, Afuri Izakaya’s menu features a tantalizing selection of small plates, shareable dishes, and grilled skewers inspired by the izakaya culture of Japan. From crispy gyoza and savory yakitori to inventive fusion creations like sushi burritos and poke bowls, every dish is meticulously crafted with high-quality ingredients and bold flavors that pay homage to both Japanese tradition and Pacific Northwest culinary influences.
Address:923 SE 7th Ave, Portland, OR 97214
19. Queen Mama’s Kitchen
As the only restaurant in Portland that is dedicated to Saudi Arabian cuisine, Queen Mama’s Kitchen is outstanding. Whether you dine in or takeout, the dishes are vibrant and full of flavor. Some of the classics like Chicken Shawarma and vegetarian Koshari, are must-haves while eating here.
Address:406 SW Oak St, Portland, OR 97204
20. Magna Kusina
Modern Filipino food shines at this restaurant from Chef Carlo Lamagna, another semifinalist for Best Chef: Northwest and Pacific at the 2022 James Beard Awards. Magna Kusina’s menu is inspired by the cuisine of Lamagna’s childhood and infused with techniques he learned working at farm-to-table restaurants in Chicago.
Address:2525 SE Clinton St, Portland, OR 97202
21. Friendship Kitchen
Dine in for Saigon to Singaporean cuisine at Friendship Kitchen. One scroll through their Instagram feed gives you a very good look at the love and passion behind this delicious food. Vegan and vegetarian-friendly, lots of the dishes feature tofu like their abundance bowl that has chewy, crispy tofu skin — so good, you might think it’s meat.
Address:2333 NE Glisan St, Portland, OR 97232
22. Canard
As the sister restaurant to the famous Le Pigion, Canard plays odes to French brasserie cuisine. You’ll find things like foie gras dumplings, endive salads, to more forward dishes like smoked sablefish queso dip with caviar. It’s funky, it’s an ode to French cuisine, and all very delicious.
Address:734 E Burnside St, Portland, OR 97214
23. Câche Câche
As a raw bar, the food here extends beyond fresh seafood and clever bites. New specials hit this seasonal menu frequently, always giving reason to return. Set right behind the Fracture Brewing Taproom, this pairs well with those who want to start the night with a brew and end with serious eats. From flavorful sardine toasts to their famous lobster roll on brioche, there are plenty of delicious choices.
Address:1015 SE Stark St, Portland, OR 97214
24. Cafe Olli
As an all-day cafe, Cafe Olli gives odes to locally and seasonally focused cuisine in the Pacific Northwest. Their popular daytime menu has everything from soups to fresh bread available, always perfect for the colder days that come to Portland. Stop in for a casual bite here when out exploring.
Address:3925 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Portland, OR 97212
25. Chem Gio at Mosaic Taphouse
As a pop-up restaurant at Mosaic Taphouse, Chem Gio is frequently named as one of the best eats by Eater in town. A rotating menu, all that pairs well with the house brews, packs some serious flavor. Recently, the salt and pepper panko-crusted shrimp were a hit.
26. SunRice
Inside the Moxy Hotel, SunRice is a favorite for great, homemade-style Filipino food. Classics like chicken adobo to barbecue pork skewers, all dishes on here are a hit. And their silog bowls, well, top it with pork belly bbq or even seared fish filet, either way, it’s so delicious.
Address:585 SW 10th Ave, Portland, OR 97205
27. Street Disco
As a natural wine bar with some great food, you can come in and drink and eat well. Street Disco opened their brick-and-mortar and haven’t looked back. It’s casual, yet elevated, the food has everything from croquettes to burgers. And if you’re passing through, don’t skip their bottle shop — the wine list here is extensive and has something for everyone.
Address:4144A SE 60th Ave, Portland, OR 97206
28. Kaede
This small sushi bistro set over in Portland’s Sellwood, Kaede gives you a taste of Japan. It’s reservation-only, so with a bit of planning you can enjoy their sushi-forward menu. With well-selected fish, their nigiri and sashimi are some of the best in town.
Address:8268 SE 13th Ave, Portland, OR 97202
29. Lilia Comedor
Pacific Northwest is the name of the cuisine, all done through the eyes of Mexican-American Chef, Juan Gomez. The food here is some of the best right now in Portland, and one to watch as it continues. The food may be hyper-seasonal, but continues to wow in flavor and ingredients.
Address:3159 S Moody Ave, Portland, OR 97239
30. Bhuna
Modern Indian cuisine that is casual yet incredibly delicious. This is a staple restaurant in Portland and a favorite of locals. The flavorful Indian soul food has all the classics from pork vindaloo to several vegetarian dishes available on the menu.
Address:704 NW 21st Ave, Portland, OR 97209
Portland Travel Tips
Book restaurant reservations in advance
While Portland is more relaxed than some other cities in terms of reservations—and some spots, including Luce, don’t take them—you’ll want to book some of the buzzier tables in town well in advance. Reservations at Kann, for instance, are snatched up within minutes after they are posted on the Resy website more than a month in advance.
The Best Time Of Year to Visit Portland
Spring, from March to May, brings mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and budding trees, making it ideal for exploring parks and gardens. Summer, from June to August, offers warm and dry weather, perfect for outdoor festivals, concerts, and activities like hiking and exploring the Columbia River Gorge.
Fall, from September to November, brings crisp weather and vibrant foliage, making it an excellent time for hiking, wine tasting, and enjoying seasonal produce. Winter, from December to February, is mild with occasional rain or snow but offers a festive atmosphere with holiday lights and markets, as well as opportunities to explore indoor attractions like museums and breweries.
The Best Area of Portland to Stay In
Choosing the best area to stay in Portland depends on your preferences and the type of experience you seek. Downtown Portland offers a central location with easy access to attractions like Pioneer Courthouse Square and the Portland Art Museum, along with a vibrant dining and entertainment scene.
The Pearl District exudes a trendy atmosphere with art galleries, boutiques, and upscale dining options. Northwest Portland, including Nob Hill and Northwest 23rd Avenue, blends historic charm with modern amenities, featuring trendy shops and beautiful Victorian homes. For a more eclectic vibe, the Alberta Arts District boasts colorful murals, unique shops, and diverse dining choices.
Meanwhile, the Hawthorne District in Southeast Portland offers a bohemian atmosphere with vintage stores and laid-back cafes. Ultimately, the best part of Portland to stay in depends on your desired atmosphere, whether it’s a bustling urban scene, a trendy neighborhood, or a more eclectic and alternative vibe.
Want More Travel Tips For Your Vacation In Portland?
Check out my Weekend Guide to Portland and 7 Coffee Shops Not To Miss In Portland, Oregon for more travel details.
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1. Book Your Flights
Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.
2. Book Your Accommodations
Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.
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Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.
4. Book Your Car
Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.
5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access
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I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.
My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:
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Xx,
Jessica
