Portland Restaurants | The Official Guide to Portland

tables full of diners enjoy a meal in a lively, warmly lit restaurant with a bar in the background tables full of diners enjoy a meal in a lively, warmly lit restaurant with a bar in the background

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Portland Restaurants

Portland is a renowned culinary destination, and Portland restaurants run the gamut — no matter your budget, your location or the cuisine you crave, your next great meal awaits you in Portland.

Whether you’re craving a tried-and-true favorite or looking to experience a new cuisine for the first time, there’s no better place for a meal out than a city as eclectic as Portland. Whatever your mood, you can always find just the right restaurant in the City of Roses’ vibrant food scene: from indoor dining to patio dining, brunch to barbecue, fried chicken to food carts to fine dining.

What’s more, Portland’s size hits the sweet spot. Enjoy all the perks of dining in a major American city: the variety of restaurants, the high standards for quality, the availability of nearly any fare you can fathom. And at the same time, take advantage of the great parts of searching out a restaurant in a city that’s not too big: the easygoing vibe, the abundance of cozy neighborhood spots and the ability to find some excellent values (in Portland, a delicious meal doesn’t have to be an expensive one). Get started on the hunt for your new favorite restaurants today.

Brunch in Portland

Explore the all-but-endless breakfast and brunch options Portland has to offer.

a cook prepares food in a pan

Great Brunch Spots in Portland That Take Reservations

These local brunch hot spots offer reservations, meaning you can enjoy your pour-over coffee and avocado toast without waiting for hours.

a person at brunch holds a fork over French toast at Derby Kenton

Breakfast & Brunch

Every day, faithful breakfast and brunch fans file into Portland’s mouthwatering morning meal hot spots. Follow the crowd and make the most of the most important meal of the day.

A french toast sandwich with savory filling

Comfort Food Favorites in Portland

Get your comfort food fix — whether you’re hankering for mac and cheese, fries topped with gravy or a steaming bowl of pho, these local dishes don’t disappoint.

5 TO TRY

Hot Spots for Brunch and Breakfast

Dumplings, pancakes or pandan doughnuts: find the perfect brunch spot to satisfy your craving.

  • Mother’s Bistro & Bar

    Mother’s Bistro & Bar serves comfort food classics made from scratch. Enjoy biscuits, pot roast, chicken and dumplings, and a different decadent macaroni and cheese daily.

  • Broder

    Broder is known for its Scandinavian brunch offerings. Brave the lines for a plate of authentic Swedish meatballs or their famous æbleskivers (Danish pancakes). They also have the largest selection of aquavit on the West Coast.

  • MATTA

    Owner/chef of MATTA Richard Le creates fresh, flavorful Vietnamese dishes from family recipes and reinterpreted by a first-generation Vietnamese-American. The menu features two changing daily specials and fresh daily batches pandan doughnuts.

  • Tin Shed Garden Cafe

    Tin Shed Garden Cafe offers fresh, wholesome food featuring free-range, organic and locally sourced ingredients. They serve breakfast, brunch and lunch, and even offer menus for kids and dogs!

  • Screen Door

    Screen Door celebrates Southern cuisine, from well-known hearty fare to everyday foods gathered fresh from the garden. They serve natural, local and organic produce and meats, seven days a week.

Best Restaurants in Portland

Portland has famously trailblazed many culinary truths: That great food can be prepared in a truck. That the humble doughnut can become an elevated delicacy. That, yes, you really can organize a whole Sunday around brunch. But Portland was also integral to the birth and spread of an even more foundational truth: Restaurants should serve fresh food, prepared with local ingredients.

Today, this trend infuses much of the Portland restaurant scene, but it all started with restaurants like Higgins, which opened in 1994 and continues to serve up great food today. Chef and co-owner Greg Higgins’ focus on seasonal, sustainable food made it a hugely popular dining destination (and helped earn Higgins himself a James Beard award in 2002).

James Beard Award-Winning Chefs

With such a talked-about and delicious food scene, it comes as no surprise that Portland chefs have racked up a few James Beard Awards over the years.

Read More

As Portland has grown, the restaurant scene has exploded, with a daunting number of excellent, award-winning spots to choose from. Try Eem for delicious Thai-style barbecue and curries, bolstered by a first-rate cocktail program. For Italian, check out Amalfi’s, a storied Portland restaurant (it was established in 1959) that puts fresh twists on tried-and-true classics. At Magna, chef Carlo Lamagna presents elevated, elegant Filipino food, showcasing dishes from across the Philippines. Akadi specializes in traditional West African dishes that are packed with flavor (enough flavor to catch the eyes of some of the country’s most celebrated chefs — in 2020, Akadi was featured on Top Chef: Portland).

Then there’s E’Njoni for tempting Ethiopian and Eritrean food. Gabriel Rucker — another James Beard honoree — heads excellent eateries Le Pigeon (French-inspired fine dining) and Canard (stylish café, great wine, great cocktails). What about the hearty, traditional fare at Jamaican Homestyle Cuisine? And what trip to Portland would be complete without dumplings from Duck House?

But we’re getting ahead of ourselves. In the end, there’s no way to encapsulate all of Portland’s outstanding restaurants in a few short paragraphs, so let’s take our time and dig a little deeper. Because in Portland, you can find a great restaurant in every neighborhood, and no matter what cuisine you crave.

Portland Restaurants by Cuisine

Yes, Duck House is delicious — and it’s just one of the many Chinese restaurants awaiting you in Portland. In fact, you can find enticing Chinese eateries all over town, though the Jade District (a vibrant Southeast Portland neighborhood that’s home to many immigrants and people of color) is a solid starting point.

Great Portland Chinese Restaurants

Explore Chinese cuisine in Portland and enjoy dumplings, stir fries, hearty soups and much more.

  • XLB

    This laid-back spot on North Williams Avenue serves up soup dumplings, steamed buns, stir fry and other authentic Chinese dishes.

  • Szechuan Chef

    Restaurant specializing in typical Chinese American eats like sesame and General Tso’s chicken. For more adventurous eaters, the menu’s Sichuan specialties include hot pot or spicy fried Chongqing chicken with peanuts, chilies and scallions.

  • HK Cafe

    Locally beloved spot for authentic dim sum, seafood and Hong Kong-style dining. This restaurant can get busy, so anticipate a wait to be seated.

  • Master Kong

    A family-owned and operated Chinese restaurant specializing in comfort dishes of congee, jian bing and dumplings. Everything is fresh and hand-made by the sister and brother duo Amy and Kang Zhu.

  • Stretch The Noodle

    At Stretch the Noodle, chef Xuemei Simard hand stretches and pulls noodles for bowls of beef soup or stir fries, fragrant with five spice.

Let’s say you had Chinese food for lunch (maybe the spicy chicken skewers at Danwei Canting, or a family-style feast at Shandong). Why not follow it up with Indian food for dinner? Try Bollywood Theater for robust flavors and eye-popping colors. For vegan diners, The Sudra has been serving up delicious plant-based cuisine since 2013 (and hey — turns out it’s delicious for non-vegan diners too).

Top-Notch Indian Spots

Dietary restrictions? On a Budget? Majorly hungry? Portland’s Indian food scene has you covered.

  • East India Co. Grill & Bar

    This restaurant features complex marinades and time-honored Indian grilling methods to reflect the food trends in today’s India. The menu remains true to classic Indian recipes while also featuring innovative combinations and intricate spicing.

  • Bhuna

    Bhuna is a fast-casual Indian restaurant that offers thoughtful dishes based on family recipes.

  • Maruti Indian

    Maruti features modern interpretations of traditional family recipes. Their vegetarian menu includes many vegan and gluten-free options. They use local, organic ingredients, and every entree is made to order.

  • Dil Se Indian Cuisine

    This Indian restaurant in downtown Portland serves Northern and Southern Indian food, including dosas, tandoori dishes, curries and more.

  • Open Tandoor

    This bright, friendly restaurant serves traditional Indian dishes like chicken tikka, aloo gobi, naan wraps and kebabs, along with beer, wine and cocktails.

According to the 2010 census, Latinx people make up a robust 11.7% of Oregon’s population. Perhaps you’ve enjoyed an afternoon perusing the Portland Mercado, or taken in some culture at Milagro Theatre. But no experience of Latinx culture in Portland is complete without sampling some of the delicious cuisine, like a Cuban sandwich from Pambiche or an elegant ceviche at Andina.

Latinx Cuisine, Latinx-Owned Spots

Portland’s Latinx food scene boasts food carts, cafés, taquerias, markets, micro-eateries & more.

More Latinx Portland

groups of people at tables in an indoor market dining area

7 Great Latinx-Owned Eateries in Portland

Portland is home to authentic eateries from every corner of Latin America. Feast on tacos, tlayudas, pupusas and burritos; read on for some of the best Latinx-owned restaurants and food carts in Portland.

two tacos on a wooden table

Portland’s Top Taquerias

Follow our guide to Portland’s top taquerias and find a wide variety of tasty tacos — from meaty morsels to vegetarian creations — in every part of town.

exterior of a colorful market

Portland Mercado

With a neighborhood grocery, meat market, coffee shop, food cart pod and more, the Mercado is one of the city’s most delicious destinations.

Portland has had a robust Italian food scene for decades, and one of its stars is Cathy Whims — enjoy a classic, sophisticated Italian meal at her lauded eatery Nostrana, or a wood-fired pizza at Oven and Shaker. (Did we mention that she’s a six-time James Beard Award finalist?) If you’re in a hurry, but can’t stand to compromise on flavor, opt for a fast-casual, delicious experience at Rick Gencarelli’s Grassa.

Must-Try Italian Eateries

Whether you crave the classics or the avant-garde, you’ll find your ideal Italian meal in Portland.

  • Piattino

    This welcoming, cozy Italian restaurant offers wood-fired pizzas, handmade pasta, design-your-own charcuterie boards and more. They also have a full bar and an extensive, carefully curated wine list.

  • Gabagool

    Formerly a food cart, this locally-owned Italian eatery prepares fresh, handmade pasta daily, along with Italian classics like potato gnocchi and a capicola-loaded sandwiches.

  • Amalfi’s Italian Restaurant

    Family-run Italian trattoria since 1959 serving pizza, classic fare & cocktails in a warm setting.

  • A Cena

    This intimate Italian eatery values fresh ingredients, local farmers, handmade pastas and cured meats, breads prepared daily, a well-matched wine list, and a seasoned and personable staff.

  • Luce

    This Italian restaurant inside a little corner store offers classic dishes, handmade pasta and an extensive wine list.

Portland’s Best Barbecue

Sample the city’s tastiest slow-cooked meats (and more!) at these local gems — savor brisket, ribs and even vegetarian options at Portland’s best barbecue spots.

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5 TO TRY

Meat You Don’t Want to Miss

Portland has enjoyed a barbecue renaissance in recent years — spoil your taste buds today.

  • Matt’s BBQ

    Since 2015, Matt’s BBQ has been serving up excellent Texas-style barbecue from a fixed-location food cart on North Mississippi Avenue. The favorites go fast, so make sure you get to this popular spot early (or pre-order your food online).

  • Podnah’s BBQ

    Podnah’s serves Texas-style barbecue. The slow-smoked meats (some cooked for as long as 12 hours) have been praised by regional and national media.

  • Seven Rivers BBQ

    Inspired by travel and a passion for different cultures, Seven Rivers BBQ has a vast menu of culinary delights, utilizing the freshest ingredients to bring homemade dishes straight to your table.

  • Reverend’s BBQ

    Reverend’s BBQ serves fine barbecue and fried chicken using high-quality ingredients and classic techniques.

  • The People’s Pig

    After a few years as a popular downtown food cart, The People’s Pig added a brick-and-mortar restaurant to help serve its pork-centric barbecue to the masses.

Where to Eat in Portland, Oregon

Portland is divided into “quadrants” (with a couple of bonus sections thrown in, because we just have to be different). These areas create a convenient way to navigate the city, and great food abounds, no matter where you find yourself.

Southwest/Downtown Portland

There are several interesting neighborhoods in Southwest Portland, but the most action-packed of the bunch is downtown. It’s an ideally sized area to eat your way across — small enough to be walkable, but big enough to have an abundance of terrific restaurants. Downtown offerings include many fine dining destinations and lots of food trucks and lunch options.

Dining Out in Southwest Portland

Enjoy great downtown dining (and don’t sleep on the excellent options elsewhere in Southwest).

  • Maurice

    Acclaimed pastry chef Kristen D. Murray’s “pastry luncheonette” offers house-made pastries, a lunch menu, teas, vermouth and an eclectic wine program.

  • Luc Lac Vietnamese Kitchen

    With recipes that highlight fresh, local ingredients, Luc Lac’s menu consists of traditional dishes that were developed in Vietnam.

  • Verde Cocina Hillsdale

    Verde Cocina was started by husband and wife Noé and Anna Garnica in 2009. The menu highlights fresh, locally sourced ingredients and classic and contemporary flavors of Mexico and the Pacific Northwest.

  • Lardo – Downtown

    Lardo is a sandwich shop that worships at the altar of bovine and swine. Using old-world techniques, contemporary flourishes and a gonzo approach, Lardo proudly celebrates its excesses.

  • Fogo de Chao Brazilian Steakhouse

    Fogo de Chão is a steak house that started in Brazil and has now spread across America. Enjoy grilled meats carved tableside by Brazilian-trained gaucho chefs.

Southeast Portland

This sizable quadrant is packed with vibrant neighborhoods and bustling streets. It’s an exciting area, where you’ll find quirky shops, colorful street art and top-notch people-watching. Enjoy shopping, attractions — and of course, great local food.

Where to Eat in Southeast Portland

From Belmont to Brooklyn to Woodstock and onward, dining options in Southeast run deliciously deep.

  • Ava Gene’s

    Ava Gene’s is a Roman-inspired restaurant from executive chef Joshua McFadden, with an emphasis on the best local produce and meats grown and raised by Pacific Northwest farmers and ranchers.

  • Coquine

    Coquine is a full-service neighborhood restaurant located at the top of Southeast Portland’s Mount Tabor. Chef Katy Millard prepares thoughtful, seasonal food, and is committed to sustainable practices and sourcing from local farms.

  • Mestizo

    Mestizo is a gluten-free neighborhood restaurant and bar serving Latin-inspired seafood and vegan dishes in the heart of the Southeast Division neighborhood.

  • Malka

    Enjoy world-fusion dishes and inventive cocktails in this elaborately decorated Southeast Division Street restaurant.

  • Tusk

    This popular vegetable-forward restaurant and bar comes from Submarine Hospitality, the team behind Ava Gene’s. They serve an Israeli- and Moroccan-inspired menu that features small plates and lighter fare highlighting local veggies and whole grains.

Northeast Portland

Home to a true diversity of neighborhoods, Northeast Portland is also where you’ll find some of Portland’s noteworthy landmarks, and some of its best nightlife. Of course no trip to Northeast is complete without a stop on East Burnside Street, where you’ll find block after block of restaurants — cafés and bistros and diners, oh my!

Northeast Portland Spots to Explore

Burnside may come to mind first, but dining in Northeast Portland doesn’t stop there.

  • Screen Door

    Screen Door celebrates Southern cuisine, from well-known hearty fare to everyday foods gathered fresh from the garden. They serve natural, local and organic produce and meats, seven days a week.

  • Beast

    Helmed by James Beard Award-winning chef Naomi Pomeroy, this French-influenced eatery serves prix fixe, multi-course meals at communal tables.

  • Davenport

    At Davenport, Kevin Gibson — one of Portland’s veteran chefs — serves up simple, refined cuisine made with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients.

  • Navarre

    Navarre’s menu is inspired by the cuisine of Italy, France and Spain. They have a full bar, including an extensive selection of wine by the glass or bottle.

  • Laurelhurst Market Restaurant & Butcher Shop

    Laurelhurst Market is a steak-inspired brasserie, a full-service butcher shop and a neighborhood bar.

Northwest Portland

Looking for “Old Portland” charm, and interested in shopping and dining in historic homes that have been converted into unique new spaces? Then it’s time for a trip to Northwest Portland. This quadrant is home to Northwest 21st Avenue and Northwest 23rd Avenue, both of which offer an abundance of great restaurants (the latter was also named one of America’s Best Shopping Streets).

When in Need of a Meal in Northwest

Find fine dining, cheap eats and everything in between in Northwest Portland.

  • Papa Haydn West

    Papa Haydn is known for its classic Viennese-inspired desserts. They also serve lunch, dinner and weekend brunch, and have a full wine and cocktail program.

  • RingSide Steakhouse Uptown

    This family-owned and -operated steak house offers high-quality USDA prime beef, along with a variety of chops, chicken, Pacific Northwest seafood, an extensive wine list and house-made desserts.

  • Lela’s Bistro

    Lela’s Bistro offers authentic Vietnamese comfort food, made from scratch. Try their banh mi sandwiches, curry, pho, salads, salad rolls or noodle bowls.

  • St. Jack

    St. Jack is an ode to the bouchons — or esteemed cafés — of Lyon, France, and to chef Aaron Barnett’s take on the humble excellence of rustic French cuisine.

  • Bamboo Sushi – Northwest

    Bamboo Sushi was the world’s first certified sustainable sushi restaurant, and they collaborate with multiple organizations to uphold this standard. Guests can enjoy fresh food and conscious hospitality at one of several Portland locations.

North Portland

North Portland is home to some of the city’s coolest up-and-coming neighborhoods. This “Fifth Quadrant” also offers a burgeoning culinary scene, with great new restaurants popping up all the time. North Mississippi Avenue is home to many of them, making it a good choice for a dinner out (and an after-dinner drink to wash it down).

Eating Across North Portland

Be careful — trying one of these tempting spots may lead to a desire to try another, and another…

  • Miss Delta

    From chicken and waffles to shrimp and grits to crawfish etouffee, Miss Delta offers authentic, comforting Southern soul food complemented by a full bar.

  • ¿Por Qué No? Taqueria – Mississippi

    “Why not?” in Spanish, this cheery and bright taqueria offers tacos on homemade flour tortillas. Get a margarita or a beer to complement your meal, and enjoy it all on the spacious outdoor patio.

  • Gravy

    As the name suggests, this Portland breakfast joint specializes in biscuits and gravy. They also serve scrambles, hashes, bruleed oatmeal and more.

  • Interurban

    Interurban specializes in classic cocktails, local and international craft beer, and hearty pub fare that features a variety of roasted meats prepared on a spit rotisserie. They also offer happy hour and weekend brunch.

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