Portland's dining scene is more than just restaurants – it's a cultural movement where James Beard nominees rub shoulders with century-old institutions, and food carts evolve into culinary empires. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a local foodie, this curated guide covers everything from historic establishments to trendy newcomers.
Historic Portland Institutions
411 SW Third Ave | 503-228-5686
Since 1879, Portland's oldest restaurant has been serving their famous traditional turkey dinner. But it's their table side Spanish coffee preparation – a theatrical performance involving fire and flair. The Victorian-era mahogany paneling and stunning stained-glass skylights transport you to another era.
Amenities: Full Bar, Beer & Wine, Vegetarian Options, Kid's Menu, Delivery
Vibe: Historic, Classic, Warm, Inviting, Timeless
208 SW Ankeny St | 503-227-5906
A Portland institution since 1907, this family-owned gem is swimming in history. The walls are adorned with authentic nautical memorabilia collected over generations. Their locally-sourced oysters and seafood dishes maintain the high standards set over a century ago.
Amenities: Gluten-Free Options, Vegetarian Menu, Full Bar, Local Ingredients
Vibe: Eclectic, Historic, Cozy, Nautical, Family-Friendly
136 NW 9th Ave | 503-222-5608
Serving up authentic American breakfast and lunch since 1947, Fuller's is Portland's answer to the classic American diner. Known for generous portions and that perfect cup of diner coffee, it's where locals go for their comfort food fix.
Amenities: Breakfast, Lunch, Takeout, Kid-Friendly, Coffee
Vibe: Retro, Cozy, Family-Friendly, Classic, Casual
French-Inspired Excellence
738 E Burnside St | 503-546-8796
A crown jewel of Portland's culinary scene, Le Pigeon reimagines French cuisine through a Pacific Northwest lens. Their seasonal tasting menu is a bucket-list experience for serious food lovers.
Amenities: Full Bar, Wine Pairings, Outdoor Seating, Chef's Tasting Menu
Vibe: Romantic, Rustic, Upscale, Creative, French
734 E Burnside St | 971-279-2356
Le Pigeon's playful sibling offers creative French-inspired small plates that have earned national acclaim. Their steam burger and duck stack pancakes have achieved cult status.
Amenities: Full Bar, Small Plates, Vegetarian Options, Takeout
Vibe: Trendy, Innovative, Playful, Urban, French
1987 NW Kearney St | 503-295-6487
This charming French-inspired bistro brings Paris to Portland. Their heated patio is perfect for year-round brunch, and the cozy interior feels like a neighborhood bistro in the Marais.
Amenities: Full Bar, Brunch, Pet-Friendly, Outdoor Seating
Vibe: Cozy, Inviting, Friendly, Casual
Italian Gems
1022 SW Morrison St | 503-227-5521
House-made pasta and locally sourced ingredients shine in this rustic-elegant setting. Their contemporary take on Italian classics has earned them a devoted following.
Amenities: Full Bar, Outdoor Seating, Vegetarian Options, Gluten-Free Options
Vibe: Elegant, Rustic, Refined, Romantic, Italian
1026 SW Morrison St | 503-841-5062
Wood-fired pizzas with a Portland twist make this casual spot a local favorite. Their commitment to authentic techniques and local ingredients elevates every pie.
Amenities: Gluten-Free Pizza, Takeout, Family-Friendly, Beer & Wine
Vibe: Casual, Cozy, Family-Friendly, Authentic, Italian
3951 N Mississippi Ave | 503-477-8008
A neighborhood Italian restaurant that feels like it was transported from a small town in Tuscany. Their seasonal menu and house-made pasta have earned them a devoted following.
Amenities: Full Bar, Vegetarian Options, Outdoor Seating, Takeout
Vibe: Intimate, Cozy, Italian, Romantic, Artisan
Global Flavors
1201 NW 21st Ave | 503-248-9442
An immersive Moroccan dining experience complete with cushioned seating and ornate decor. Their five-course feasts are legendary, and the atmosphere transports you straight to North Africa.
Amenities: Vegetarian Options, Full Bar, Family-Friendly, Unique Experience
Vibe: Exotic, Authentic, Cultural, Cozy, Immersive
3808 N Williams Ave | 971-373-8904
Family recipes shine at this authentic Syrian and Lebanese restaurant. Their vegetarian and vegan options are so good, even carnivores order them.
Amenities: Vegetarian Options, Family-Friendly, Takeout
Vibe: Cozy, Family-Oriented, Mediterranean, Welcoming, Authentic
1101 NW Northrup St | 971-352-6991
A modern taqueria that elevates Mexican street food to an art form. Their house-made tortillas and creative margaritas have made them a neighborhood favorite.
Amenities: Vegetarian Options, Full Bar, Outdoor Seating, Takeout
Vibe: Colorful, Fun, Lively, Mexican, Casual
1131 NW Hoyt St | 503-894-9321
Farm-to-table Mexican cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. Their gluten-free menu and veggie-packed plates prove healthy Mexican food can be delicious.
Amenities: Vegetarian Options, Gluten-Free, Full Bar, Outdoor Seating
Vibe: Farm-To-Table, Fresh, Welcoming, Vibrant, Mexican
American Contemporary
808 SW Taylor St | 503-943-5844
Located in the Historic Paramount Hotel, this spot perfectly balances sophisticated dining with casual comfort. Their seasonal menu showcases the best of Pacific Northwest ingredients.
Amenities: Full Bar, Beer & Wine, Vegetarian Options, Outdoor Seating
Vibe: Casual, Comfortable, Urban, Sophisticated, Rustic
1021 NE Grand Ave. #600 | 503-963-3600
Perched atop Hotel Eastlund, this rooftop restaurant offers stunning city views alongside elevated American cuisine. Perfect for special occasions or impressive business dinners.
Amenities: Full Bar, Rooftop Seating, Vegetarian Options, Private Event Space
Vibe: Modern, Scenic, Upscale, Social, Elegant
1338 NW Hoyt St | 503-943-5995
A modern take on the classic American tavern. Their wood-fired pizzas and weekend brunch have earned them a loyal following.
Amenities: Full Bar, Happy Hour, Outdoor Seating, Sports Viewing, Family-Friendly
Vibe: Social, Casual, Lively, Sporty, Modern
Unique Experiences
1010 SW Naito Parkway | 503-224-3900
Combine dining with sightseeing on this river cruise experience. Enjoy seasonal American cuisine while taking in Portland's skyline from the Willamette River.
Amenities: Vegetarian Options, Gluten-Free Menu, Full Bar, Gift Cards, Accessible
Vibe: Scenic, Romantic, Unique, Memorable, Elegant
235 SW 1st Ave | 971-319-6182
A themed dining experience that feels like eating in a haunted mansion. Their craft cocktails and spooky ambiance create an unforgettable night out.
Amenities: Vegetarian Options, Gluten-Free, Full Bar, 21+
Vibe: Spooky, Unique, Theatrical, Mysterious, Engaging
2114 NW Glisan St | 503-242-1400
A modern take on fondue dining perfect for dates or group gatherings. Their cheese and chocolate fondues are perfect for Portland's rainy days.
Amenities: Vegetarian Options, Full Bar, Private Dining, Group-Friendly
Vibe: Intimate, Romantic, Chic, Upscale, Social
Casual Favorites
303 SW 12th Ave | 503-384-2500
A neighborhood café that elevates comfort food with an artisanal touch. Perfect for breakfast meetings or casual lunches.
Amenities: Breakfast, Lunch, Coffee, Outdoor Seating, Wi-Fi
Vibe: Casual, Relaxed, Cozy, Welcoming, Neighborhood
1204 NW 21st Ave | 971-383-5086
A breakfast lover's paradise famous for their house-specialty sweet bacon. Their creative takes on comfort food make them a brunch destination.
Amenities: Breakfast, Brunch, Takeout, Kid-Friendly, Wi-Fi
Vibe: Cozy, Family-Friendly, Relaxed, Fun, Casual
Pubs & Breweries
112 SW 2nd Ave | 503-227-4057
Portland's slice of Ireland offers authentic pub fare and a lively atmosphere. Their live music and genuine Irish hospitality make every visit memorable.
Amenities: Full Bar, Live Music, Vegetarian Options, Private Event Space
Vibe: Lively, Authentic, Friendly, Festive, Irish
210 NW 21st Ave | 503-719-7175
Where Irish tradition meets Pacific Northwest brewing culture. Their house-brewed beers pair perfectly with elevated pub fare.
Amenities: Craft Beer, Full Bar, Outdoor Seating, Live Music, Family-Friendly
Vibe: Lively, Casual, Community-Oriented, Authentic, Irish
Southern & Seafood
3950 N Mississippi Ave | 971-300-6555
Southern comfort food that feels like a hug on a plate. Their chicken and waffles are legendary.
Amenities: Full Bar, Happy Hour, Vegetarian Options, Kid-Friendly
Vibe: Casual, Southern Comfort
3808 N Williams Ave | 503-281-1222
New Orleans meets the Pacific Northwest at this lively spot. Their fresh oysters and Southern-inspired seafood dishes transport you to the Gulf Coast.
Amenities: Full Bar, Happy Hour, Outdoor Seating, Kid-Friendly
Vibe: Casual, Neighborhood, Creole, Relaxed, Fun
Wine Experiences
2621 NW 30th Ave | 503-224-5778
An urban winery showcasing Oregon's terroir through small-batch wines. Their tasting room offers an intimate look at winemaking.
Amenities: Wine Tasting, Outdoor Seating, Private Events, Local Wines
Vibe: Relaxed, Rustic, Welcoming, Wine-Centric, Artisanal
2112 NW Irving St | 971-255-1387
A sophisticated wine bar focusing on natural wines and seasonal small plates. Their curated wine list and intimate atmosphere make it perfect for date night.
Amenities: Wine Bar, Small Plates, Outdoor Seating, Reservations
Vibe: Stylish, Modern, Chic, Social, Relaxed
