I didn’t mean to fall for Portland’s food scene – it just happened. What started as research for my blog turned into a two-year culinary obsession. As a blogger, I’ve eaten my way through dozens of cities, but discovering the best places to eat in Portland changed me forever.
Portland surprised me at every turn. Food carts serve dishes that would be highlights at fancy restaurants elsewhere.
Chefs collaborate instead of competing. And vegetarian food isn’t an afterthought – it’s often why people line up around the block.
These 23 spots are where I kept returning, where servers knew my order, where I took all my visiting fellow bloggers.
Not comprehensive – that would require a book deal and liver transplant after all that research – just my personal favorites.
Grab a napkin. You’ll need it.
Best Places to Eat in Portland for Breakfast
Pine State Biscuits
Where: 2204 NE Alberta, Portland, OR 97211
Damage to your wallet: $7-38
I still remember my first bite of Pine State’s Reggie sandwich—a ridiculous (in the best way possible) combination of fried chicken, bacon, and cheese sauce piled high on a buttermilk biscuit.
I’d planned on exploring Alberta Street that morning but ended up in a blissful food coma instead.
Their biscuits somehow manage to be both pillow-soft and sturdy enough to hold up to hearty toppings. Beyond the Reggie, try their BBQ Biscuit loaded with smoked pulled pork or the McIsley with chicken, pickles, mustard, and local honey.
My vegetarian friend swears by their meat-free Reggie with tofu and vegan sausage topped with shiitake mushroom sauce.
Fair warning: these sandwiches are FILLING. Schedule naptime accordingly.
Best Places to Eat in Portland for Lunch
Norah
Where: 3801 SE Belmont St, Portland, OR 97214
Damage to your wallet: $3-18
I stumbled into Norah during a particularly nasty rainstorm, just looking for shelter. What I found instead was some of the best vegan Thai food I’ve ever had.
Their Pad Thai with tofu, vegan egg, bean sprouts, chives, cilantro, and peanuts converted even my “where’s the meat?” dining companion.
But the dish that keeps pulling me back is their Spicy Holy Basil—a beautiful mess of tofu, soy curls, and tempeh swimming in a spicy basil-garlic sauce.
Finish with their mango sticky rice and thank me later. The rice comes warm, the mango cool and sweet, and the combination is pure comfort.
Their Thai iced tea is worth the trip alone, and I’ve been known to schedule “meetings” near Belmont just to grab one.
The Ranch
Where: 2239 SE 11th Ave, Portland, OR 97214
Damage to your wallet: $7.50-31.50
You know how sometimes you just need a thick, cheesy slice of pizza? The Ranch is my go-to spot for exactly that craving.
They serve Sicilian-style pizza—thick, square slices with a chewy yet airy crust that somehow manages to stay crisp despite the mountain of toppings.
Their Veggie Pie changes seasonally and has turned me on to vegetable combinations I never would have tried otherwise.
The classic Pepperoni Pie has the perfect ratio of spicy meat to cheese, and sometimes I just go for the Cheese Pie because simplicity can be beautiful.
At $7.50 per slice, it’s not the cheapest lunch option, but one slice is genuinely enough for most appetites. Split a whole pie ($31.50) with friends, and you’ll be arguing over the corner pieces like kids fighting over the last cookie.
Grassa
Where: 1506 NW 23rd Ave, Portland, OR 97210
Damage to your wallet: $6-18
Grassa is my happy place when I’m craving pasta but don’t want the fuss of a formal Italian restaurant. Their homemade pasta comes in generous portions that have occasionally become both my lunch AND dinner (hello, midnight fridge raid).
Their menu walks the line between traditional Italian and creative American variations. The carbonara with Italian pancetta is authentic enough to please purists, while their Texan-style stroganoff shows their willingness to experiment.
My personal favorite is their ricotta-mozzarella-pepperoni ravioli, which is essentially pizza in pasta form—and yes, it’s as good as it sounds.
The no-reservations policy means you might wait during peak times, but the line moves quickly, and people-watching on 23rd Avenue helps pass the time.
Village Kitchen
Where: 1855 NW 23rd Pl, Portland, OR 97210
Damage to your wallet: $9-15
I couldn’t create a Portland guide without mentioning this hidden gem food truck tucked away in the Nob Hill Cart Pod.
Village Kitchen is a place I discovered while strolling along the famous 23rd Avenue, looking for something beyond typical burgers or fish and chips.
Their Village Eggplant Curry is a true vegan masterpiece – eggplant in a spicy tamarind-tomato sauce with coconut cream.
Each bite evokes authentic Burmese cuisine with a modern twist. Equally delightful is the Village Curry with tofu, which I ordered every time I needed a culinary hug.
What sets Village Kitchen apart is not just the impeccable presentation of dishes (which puts many upscale restaurants to shame), but also the reasonable prices.
For less than $15, you get a complete meal that is both satisfying and beautifully served. The owners put a piece of their culinary heritage into every dish, and their passion is evident in every bite.
The Soop
Where: 1902 W Burnside St, Portland, OR 97209
Damage to your wallet: $8-27
The concept behind The Soop fascinated me before I even tasted the food—they grow some ingredients right inside the restaurant.
It doesn’t get more farm-to-table than watching your microgreens being snipped minutes before they land on your plate.
Their Dolsot Bibimbap comes in a sizzling stone bowl that continues cooking the rice to crispy perfection while you eat.
Their fried chicken sandwich has no business being as good as it is—juicy, perfectly seasoned, and topped with house pickles that I would absolutely buy by the jar if they sold them.
Don’t skip their Microgreen Salad. It sounds boring, but the freshness and variety of flavors make it anything but.
Every time I eat here, I leave promising myself I’ll finally attempt growing herbs on my apartment windowsill. (Spoiler: never happens.)
DesiPDX
Where: 4233 N Mississippi Ave, Portland, OR 97217
Damage to your wallet: $5-26
I’m from a city with excellent Indian food, so I was skeptical about a food truck serving Indian cuisine. DesiPDX proved me wrong within one bite.
Their Tandoori Tempeh Plate presents tender, charred tempeh pieces that somehow capture that tandoor flavor without compromising texture.
The Veggie Thali Platter offers a perfect sampling of their vegetarian options—the seasonal dhalem (lentil dish) is never the same twice but always delicious.
For meat eaters, the Kalonji Kale Keema Plate features ground lamb and kale in a tomato-pumpkin sauce that I’ve tried (and failed) to recreate at home.
The Methi Mirchi Shrimp Plate serves up plump shrimp marinated in fenugreek and fried with pumpkin seeds, curry leaves, and chili.
The price range ($5-26) makes it possible to sample widely without breaking the bank. Just be prepared for a bit of a wait during peak lunch hours—Mississippi Avenue gets busy.
Flying Fish
Where: 3004 E Burnside St, Portland, OR 97214
Damage to your wallet: $14-22
During my two years in Portland, I became practically addicted to the fish and chips at Flying Fish. This sustainable seafood market-restaurant on East Burnside serves some of the most ethical seafood you’ll find anywhere in the city.
Their wild Pacific rockfish fish and chips feature a light, crispy batter that doesn’t overwhelm the delicate fish. The dish comes with house made tartar sauce and what might be the best jojos (potato wedges) in Portland.
What really makes Flying Fish special is their unwavering commitment to sustainability—they source directly from responsible fisheries and even run a nonprofit arm focused on food education.
Beyond fish and chips, their fresh–shucked oysters are a major draw, and their poke bowls showcase the pristine quality of their seafood.
The restaurant offers year-round indoor and outdoor seating, including a covered patio with a fire pit that’s perfect for Portland’s cooler months.
If you’re a seafood lover with a conscience, Flying Fish delivers both exceptional flavor and peace of mind.
¿Por Qué No?
Where: 3524 N Mississippi Ave, Portland, OR 97227
Damage to your wallet: $5-18
The first time I walked into ¿Por Qué No?, I felt transported. The colorful décor, the music, the smells—it was like stepping into a little slice of Mexico in the middle of Portland.
Their guacamole is prepared fresh throughout the day, and you can taste the difference. The tacos come on house-made tortillas with fillings ranging from traditional carnitas to creative seasonal specials.
My standing order is one Bryan’s Bowls (with whatever meat looks good that day) and a side of chips and guacamole.
Their house margaritas strike the perfect balance between tart and sweet, and they make a mean horchata too. At $5-18, you can eat well without spending a fortune.
The only downside? The secret’s out, and the place gets packed, especially during happy hour.
Kinara Thai
Where: 1126 SW 18th Ave, Portland, OR 97205
Damage to your wallet: $6-17
Kinara Thai has saved many of my workdays with their quick, delicious to-go options. Their Tom Yum soup has nursed me through two Portland winters, and their green curry might be the most consistent comfort food in my rotation.
What sets Kinara apart is their commitment to fresh ingredients. Their stir-fried dishes arrive still sizzling, with vegetables that retain their crunch.
Vegetarians should try the Pad Kabocha Squash—Asian squash stir-fried with egg and Thai basil that’s somehow both delicate and deeply satisfying.
Portions are generous enough that one entrée can easily feed two moderate appetites. Prices range from $6 for appetizers like dumplings and crispy rolls to $17 for specialty dishes like their incredible crab fried rice.
Jade Rabbit
Where: 2117 NE Oregon St Suite 202, Portland, OR 97232
Damage to your wallet: $8-20
I discovered Jade Rabbit by complete accident during a bike ride when a sudden downpour forced me to seek shelter. Best rainstorm ever.
Their vegan dim sum dumplings are works of art—literally. Some are shaped like rabbits, with details so perfect I almost felt bad eating them. Almost.
The flavor matches the presentation, with fillings that are complex and satisfyingeven for this occasional carnivore.
Beyond dumplings, their noodle dishes and flavor-packed bowls keep me coming back. Pair your meal with their fragrant Ulung tea or one of their creative cocktails.
Everything is reasonably priced ($8-20) and served with genuine warmth that makes you feel like a regular, even on your first visit.
Best Places to Eat in Portland for Dinner
Han Oak
Where: 511 NE 24th Ave, Portland, OR 97232
Damage to your wallet: $65 tasting menu
Hidden behind an unassuming exterior, Han Oak feels like Portland’s best-kept secret (though the James Beard nominations have certainly put it on the map).
The restaurant opens into a casual garden space that somehow manages to feel both intimate and communal.
Their Korean cuisine goes beyond the usual suspects.
Yes, there are amazing mandu dumplings, but you’ll also find unexpected dishes like their crispy-skinned Korean fried chicken and seasonal vegetable dishes that could convert the most dedicated meat-eater.
The three-course tasting menu ($65) offers the perfect introduction to their approach. Reservations are essential, especially on weekends, but absolutely worth planning ahead for.
Lovely’s Fifty Fifty
Where: 4039 N Mississippi Ave, Portland, OR 97217
Damage to your wallet: $17-33
I first heard about Lovely’s Fifty Fifty from a Netflix documentary, but experiencing Chef Sarah Minnick’s creations firsthand puts screen time to shame.
Her approach to pizza is unlike anything I’ve encountered—seasonal ingredients, unexpected combinations, and a crust that’s somehow both substantial and delicate.
On my last visit, my pizza featured edible flowers, kale, and fermented tomatoes. I would have never ordered this combination myself, but it worked so perfectly I’m still thinking about it months later.
Pizzas range from $17-33, which might seem steep until you taste the quality of ingredients and the craftsmanship involved.
Save room for their homemade ice cream—the flavors change regularly, but they’re always interesting and meticulously balanced.
Mis Tacones
Where: 1670 NE Killingsworth St, Portland, OR 97211
Damage to your wallet: $4-19
If you had told me that some of the best tacos I’d ever eat would be vegan, I’d have laughed. Then I tried Mis Tacones, and now I’m a believer.
Their Al Pastor Taco with marinated seitan and onions captures that classic taco truck flavor without any animal products. The Cilantro Lime Taco featuring plant-based “chicken” and cilantro has converted several of my skeptical friends.
Beyond tacos, their nachos, burritos, and quesadillas satisfy even the most demanding comfort food cravings. Prices range from $4 for a single taco to $19 for larger combination plates.
There’s often a line, but the wait gives you time to strategize your order—because trust me, you’ll want to try everything.
Hat Yai
Where: 1605 NE Killingsworth St, Portland, OR 97211
Damage to your wallet: $4-52
Hat Yai specializes in Southern Thai cuisine, and they do it with such authenticity that my Thai friend claims it’s better than what she gets back home (high praise indeed).
Their namesake Hat Yai Fried Chicken deserves its reputation—juicy on the inside, shatteringly crisp on the outside, and served with sticky rice to soak up every bit of flavor.
For the full experience, go for the Malaysian-style set with roti (flatbread) and aromatic curry.
Prices range from $4 for appetizers to $52 for a four-person set that lets you sample broadly across the menu. The restaurant doesn’t take reservations, so go early or be prepared to wait—especially on weekends.
Ken’s Artisan Pizza
Where: 304 SE 28th Ave, Portland, OR 97214
Damage to your wallet: $18-25
Ask Portland locals about pizza, and Ken’s will inevitably come up. After my first visit, I understood why.
Their dough is fermented longer than most, resulting in a complex flavor and a crust that’s bubbly, charred in spots, and impossibly light despite its substantial structure.
The Margherita ($18) showcases their approach to simplicity—handcrafted mozzarella and authentic Italian tomatoes on that magical crust.
Splurge on versions with fresh burrata ($25) for a creamy indulgence that elevates the experience even further.
The small, warm space fills up quickly and they don’t take reservations, so go early or be prepared to put your name on the list and explore the neighborhood while you wait.
Top Burmese
Where: 413 NW 21st Ave, Portland, OR 97209
Damage to your wallet: $4-99
Before visiting Top Burmese, I couldn’t have told you much about Burmese cuisine. Now, I’m slightly obsessed.
This restaurant brings the flavors of Myanmar to Portland with dishes that balance spicy, sour, and savory elements in harmony.
Their All-Star Okra Curry transformed my relationship with a vegetable I previously tolerated at best. The Coconut Noodle Soup with tofu noodles in a rich coconut broth has become my rainy-day comfort food.
Prices range from $4 for appetizers to $99 for their impressive “Tour of Burma” set featuring five different curries—perfect for a group wanting to explore broadly.
Their cocktail menu features drinks as colorful as the food, making this a fun spot for gathering with friends.
ASTERA
Where: 1407 SE Belmont St, Portland, OR 97214
Damage to your wallet: $100 tasting menu
Some dining experiences transcend mere eating, and ASTERA delivers exactly that kind of transformative meal.
This intimate venue with just eighteen seats offers one of Portland’s most captivating tasting menus, with thoughtful options for vegans too.
Chef Aaron Adams is passionate about fermentation, and this enthusiasm shines through in dishes that layer flavor upon flavor. ASTERA is a culinary love poem to Oregon’s local ingredients – farmed, foraged, and fermented.
The tasting menu changes with the seasons, showcasing the best of the Pacific Northwest.
At $100 for a six-course tasting menu, it’s not an everyday dining option for most of us. But for a special occasion or when you want to experience the creative heights of Portland’s food scene, ASTERA delivers an unforgettable experience.
Their non-alcoholic pairings based on fermented beverages are just as impressive as the main courses. The restaurant is open Thursday through Sunday, and reservations are essential.
Luc Lac Vietnamese Kitchen
Where: 835 SW 2nd Ave, Portland, OR 97204
Damage to your wallet: $9-26
Located in downtown Portland, Luc Lac has won numerous awards for their pho—and for good reason. Their broth develops flavor over many hours, resulting in a depth that puts most other versions to shame.
You can choose from beef, chicken, or tofu variations, each served with fresh rice noodles, Thai basil, lime, and jalapeño peppers. Beyond pho, don’t miss the chef’s specialty: wok-seared beef tenderloin, which arrives still sizzling at your table.
Their cocktail program deserves special mention, with creative drinks that incorporate Vietnamese flavors in unexpected ways.
Prices range from $9 for smaller dishes to $26 for specialties. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends when downtown fills with visitors.
Best Places to Eat in Portland for Dessert
Blue Star Donuts
Where: 1701 SW Jefferson St, Portland, OR 97201
Damage to your wallet: $5-7
Yes, Voodoo Doughnut gets all the tourist attention, but locals know that Blue Star is where the real magic happens. Their brioche-based donuts have a density and texture that puts ordinary donuts to shame.
The flavor combinations are both creative and carefully balanced. The Cointreau Crème Brûlée comes with a pipette of orange liqueur that you inject yourself.
Their Passion Fruit Cocoa Nib donut balances sweet–tart fruit glaze with bitter cocoa, while the Blueberry Bourbon Basil incorporates three distinct flavors that somehow work perfectly together.
At $5-7 per donut, they’re not cheap, but the quality justifies the price. I’ve been known to buy extras “for later” that mysteriously disappear before I get back to my apartment.
Kate’s Ice Cream
Where: 3713 N Mississippi Ave, Portland, OR 97227
Damage to your wallet: $6-15
I approached Kate’s Ice Cream with skepticism—vegan ice cream had always seemed like a poor substitute for the real thing in my previous experiences. Kate’s completely changed my mind.
Made from organic coconut milk, their ice creams are impossibly creamy and rich. Flavors range from Oregon’s signature Marionberry Cobbler to the playful Cookie Monster loaded with vegan cookie dough chunks.
The Rose Water Cardamom Almond might be the most sophisticated ice cream I’ve ever tasted, while their take on Moose Tracks satisfies classic ice cream cravings.
A single scoop runs $6, two scoops $11, and three scoops $15, with waffle cones priced separately. The Mississippi Avenue location has limited seating, but there’s a nice park a few blocks away perfect for enjoying your scoops on nice days.
Eb & Bean
Where: 645 NW 21st Ave, Portland, OR 97209
Damage to your wallet: $3-10
On hot Portland summer days, Eb & Bean’s frozen yogurt is my go-to refreshment. They offer both dairy and plant–based options, with flavors that change with the seasons.
Their Vanilla Bean forms the perfect base for toppings, while specialties like Valrhona Chocolate and Coconut Lime stand beautifully on their own.
What sets Eb & Bean apart is their toppings bar—house–made sauces and creative add-ins that go way beyond the usual sprinkles and cookie chunks.
Prices run from $3 for a small to around $10 for a loaded large with multiple toppings. The 21st Avenue location offers some sidewalk seating perfect for people-watching while you enjoy your frozen treat.
Saint Cupcake & Poplandia Artisan Popcorn
Where: 1138 SW Morrison St, Portland, OR 97205
Damage to your wallet: $2.25-4.50
The last gem on my list is Saint Cupcake, where the visual appeal of their treats is matched only by their fantastic flavors. Their cupcakes manage to be both beautiful and substantive—not just pretty frosting on mediocre cake.
Flavor options range from classic chocolate with vanilla cream cheese frosting to more adventurous combinations like caramel cream topped with sea salt.
They offer excellent vegan varieties, and their vanilla with toffee and toasted coconut converted this chocolate-or-nothing dessert eater.
Don’t overlook their artisanal popcorn—the perfect salty counterpoint if you’re in the mood for both sweet and savory. Cupcakes run $2.25-4.50 each, making this an affordable indulgence in downtown Portland.
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Final Thoughts on Good Places to Eat in Portland
Portland’s food scene lives up to its reputation and then some. What makes it special isn’t just the quality—though that’s consistently high—but the creativity and passion behind these restaurants.
Portland chefs seem unbound by convention, resulting in a food landscape that surprises and delights at every turn.
From incredible vegan ice cream to pizza topped with flowers to some of the best Thai food outside of Thailand, Portland offers a global culinary tour without ever leaving city limits.
The hardest part of eating in Portland isn’t finding good food—it’s narrowing down your choices and saving room for the next meal.
So which spots caught your eye? Are you a breakfast person excited about Pine State Biscuits, or are you already planning your dinner at Han Oak?
Let me know which Portland food adventures you embark on—I’m always looking for dining companions on my next visit!
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