One of Portland, Oregon’s most notable strengths is its vibrant food scene. Growing up just 30 minutes north of the city and spending the last 5 years living and working here, I’ve certainly had my fair share of great food in Portland.
I can assure you that there’s no shortage of amazing restaurants to try. Whether you’re in the mood for brunch spots, cozy dinner joints, or unique food carts, this list of ten local favorites will guide you through a delicious adventure. Get ready to indulge in the best of Portland’s vibrant dining scene!
I’m excited to share my top 10 must-try restaurants, though this list is constantly growing! Whether you’re a local or visiting for the first time, I’m confident you’ll love these spots as much as I do!
Table of contents
Dirty Pretty
outdoor patio, cocktail bar, tacos
Dirty Pretty is a must for summer hangs. Their cocktail list is tropical and delicious and bites are incredible. We definitely recommend their XL Gordita Crunch and Pork Belly Tacos.
Address: 638 E Burnside St, Portland, OR 97214
Matador
mexican food, margaritas, 21+
When I lived in Northwest Portland, Matador was the place to be. Their food is amazing, they have a great late night happy hour and their margaritas are a fan favorite, plus they have 3 locations in Portland. If you’re looking for a restaurant or bar with a great atmosphere – come here!!
Address: 1438 NW 23rd Ave, Portland, OR 97210
Yama Sushi
sushi, sake, pearl district
Yama Sushi is one of my favorite sushi spots in all of Portland. They have the best specialty rolls and fresh sashimi. With their warm ambiance to the sake list to the daily specials, Yama is a must try!
Address: 926 NW 10th Ave, Portland, OR 97209
The Star Portland
pizza, patio seating
The Star has become my favorite pizza place in Portland. They offer deep dish, thin crust, and detroit style – do youreself a favor and try the detroit style! The dining room has an open air feel with their huge windows. They also have a great patio.
Address: 1309 NW Hoyt St, Portland, OR 97209
Prost!
pub, german food, great patio
Prost! is a cozy pub on Mississippi serving draft beers, cocktails, and german cuisine. Their covered outdoor patio with fire places are just as cozy as the pub’s interior.
Address: 4237 N Mississippi Ave, Portland, OR 97217
Silk Road
craft cocktails, chinese tapas, live music
Silk Road is a trendy cocktail bar in north west. A fun place to catch up with a girlfriend or great stop on a happy hour bar hopping adventure. Make sure to save room for their small but incredible menu featuring chinese sharable plates.
Address: 1230 NW Hoyt St B, Portland, OR 97209
Bamboo Sushi
sushi, cocktails, trendy
Bamboo is another one of my absolute favorite sushi restaurants in the area. There are 7 locations to choose from in the greater Portland area. Grab a cocktail, some fresh sushi, and definitely try their crispy rice!
Address: 836 NW 23rd Ave, Portland, OR 97210
Papi Chulo’s
mexican food, counter service, great outdoor patio
Papi Chulo’s is a small Mexican food restaurant in the pearl district serving up the best tacos and margaritas. Order at the counter, then head to their outdoor patio on a sunny day! And for sure try the birria tacos!
Address: 611 NW 13th Ave, Portland, OR 97209
Ringside Steakhouse
steakhouse, upscale, date night
Ringside Steakhouse is famous in Portland for being one of the best steakhouses out here! It’s definitely on the pricier side but the dim ambient dining room, great service, and incredible steaks make it well worth it. Perfect for a special occasion or date night. Pro tip: get the famous onion rings!
Address: 2165 W Burnside St, Portland, OR 97210
AFURI Ramen and Dumpling
ramen, dumplings, trendy
Afuri is my go-to ramen spot in the city and for good reason. They offer sushi, dumplings and rice bowls, but I recommend grabbing one of their signature cocktails and a bowl of ramen for the perfect dinner.
Address: 1620 NW 21st Ave, Portland, OR 97209
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