Portland’s food scene is full of surprises, mixing casual comfort with creativity on every corner.
You’ll find everything from food truck gems to world-class restaurants to vegan bakeries that actually nail it.
The city’s vibe is chill but obsessed with fresh, local products—think Willamette Valley veggies, Pacific seafood, endless coffee, and doughnuts everywhere.
If you’re hungry for places with real personality and big flavors, Portland’s the trip.
What to Eat in Portland
Voodoo Doughnut’s Bacon Maple Bar
This doughnut legend pairs sweet maple glaze with crispy bacon strips and has become a Portland icon.
It’s indulgent, a little weird, and totally worth the hype—find it at Voodoo Doughnut shops all over town.
Your donut expectations may never recover, honestly.
Nong’s Khao Man Gai
This Thai chicken and rice dish started as a food cart and is now a Portland staple.
Simple, soul-warming, and served with a punchy sauce you’ll crave for days.
You’ll see locals lining up for a reason—don’t skip it.
Marionberry Pie
Oregon’s marionberries are like blackberries, but juicier and more flavorful—the classic pie is a summer must.
Bakeries and diners citywide make it, but look for it at farmers’ markets for the freshest slice.
One bite and you’ll get why locals are so obsessed.
Totchos
Tater tots meet nachos in this very Portland bar snack—melty cheese, pickled jalapeños, and all sorts of toppings.
Usually found at pub-style spots and food trucks. They’re crispy, over-the-top, and perfect for sharing (but you’ll want them all to yourself).
Coquine’s Chocolate Chip Cookies
This bakery in the Mount Tabor area is famous for its salty-sweet chocolate chip cookies, stuffed with locally-sourced chocolate.
Order ahead or risk missing out—they’re that popular.
Foodie Neighbourhoods in Portland
Alberta Arts District
This neighborhood is bursting with funky street art, independent coffee shops, food trucks, and restaurants dishing up everything from Southern comfort food to vegan burgers.
Stroll Alberta Street, sample the food cart pods, and check out vibrant galleries between bites.
Downtown
You’ve got everything in the city center—trendy brunch spots, classic diners, food carts, big hotels, and hidden cocktail nooks.
It’s super walkable and easy to hop between casual eats and splurge dinners.
Southeast Division
Southeast Division is loaded with hip restaurants, top coffee shops, and some killer Asian and Latin American food.
Start at 30th Avenue and go east to find the sweet spot for casual and upscale bites.
Mississippi Avenue
Laid-back Mississippi Ave is full of patios, food carts, breweries, plus everything from ramen to BBQ and vegan tacos.
Great for a relaxed afternoon eating and exploring quirky shops.
Pearl District
Pearl District is fancier, with lots of converted warehouses, high-end bakeries, chic restaurants, and taprooms.
Perfect to treat yourself or for a night out—but you’ll still find good pizza slices and coffee for daytime meandering.
Budget Restaurants in Portland
Grassa
Handmade pasta in a lively, modern spot downtown. Portions are generous and the vibe’s always upbeat.
Tried-and-true picks: cacio e pepe and pork belly mac and cheese.
Du’s Grill
Local favorite for Korean-style teriyaki plates—order the chicken or bulgogi for under $15.
No frills, just great food and fast service.
Basilisk
Legendary fried chicken sandwiches with a serious kick, plus crisp fries and cool retro decor.
It’s fast-casual, great for a quick lunch or late-night snack after bar hopping.
Friendship Kitchen
Vietnamese comfort food, from bánh mì to lemongrass beef skewers and really good cocktails, at honest prices.
Cozy up on a rainy day or go for a group dinner that won’t break the bank.
Akadi PDX
West African flavors rule here—try the fried plantains and suya chicken for big flavor on a budget.
The folks are super welcoming and happy to explain the menu to newcomers.
Mid-Range Restaurants in Portland
Gilda’s Italian Restaurant
Welcoming Italian spot with classic pastas, pizzas, and comfy booth seating in Goose Hollow.
Great for groups, date night, or loading up on carbs pre-hike.
Afuri Izakaya
Japanese ramen and izakaya plates in a sleek space—go for yuzu shio ramen and pork buns.
Nice for lunch, dinner, or late-night noodle cravings.
Pastini
House-made pastas, salads, and classic desserts like tiramisu—always reliable, fast, and fairly priced with a casual bistro vibe.
Perfect for a no-pressure meal with friends or family.
Andina
This lively Pearl District hotspot brings Peruvian flavors—try their ceviche, lomo saltado, or anything from the small plates menu.
Upscale but not stuffy, Andina is fun for a celebration dinner or special occasion that isn’t crazy expensive.
Lechon
Latin American-inspired small plates and wood-grilled meats—killer happy hour and cocktails.
Views of Tom McCall Waterfront Park mean you’ll want a seat by the window if you can swing it.
Luxury Restaurants in Portland
Mucca Osteria
Intimate, romantic Italian spot—think handmade pastas, local seafood, and a knockout wine list.
Perfect for anniversaries, birthdays, or impressing someone big time.
Ox Restaurant
Argentine-inspired steakhouse with wood-fired meats, creative sides, and a cozy, bustling feel.
Their bone marrow and chimichurri are next level.
Le Pigeon
Avant-garde French American tasting menus in a quirky, candlelit space—expect surprises with every dish.
You’ll want to book reservations early—this is a true Portland culinary icon.
Janken
A Japanese-Korean fusion destination with sleek decor and inventive small plates.
It’s a splurge but totally worth it for the modern creative flavors and presentation.
Best Coffee Shops in Portland
Puff Coffee
Small batch roaster with a funky, welcoming shop in Southeast Portland.
Bags of beans to go and some of the freshest pour-overs in the city.
Carnelian Coffee
Neighborhood spot in North Portland with friendly baristas, great baked goods, and strong WiFi.
Chill out here, or pick up beans and pastries to go for your day’s exploring.
Stumptown Coffee Roasters
The city’s original third-wave roaster—iconic coffee, cool industrial shops, and truly great cold brew.
Perfect for people-watching and a taste of what made Portland a coffee capital.
Coava Coffee Roasters
Known for single-origin beans and modern wood-filled cafes.
Go for pour-overs, chill vibes, and a rotating selection of specialty pastries.
Either/Or
Colorful local favorite, offering creative espresso drinks and solid breakfast options (vegan choices too).
North Williams location has a fun cocktail bar at night—awesome day-to-night hangout.
Markets in Portland
Portland Farmers Market at PSU
The city’s biggest farmers market—go for fresh berries, flowers, coffee, and hot food stalls every Saturday morning year-round.
Awesome place to see local food culture in action and grab picnic gear for your adventures.
King Farmers Market
This North Portland favorite runs Sundays from spring through fall and is full of neighborhood character.
Vendors offer veggies, pastries, food trucks, and locally made treats. Chill and super friendly.
Hawthorne Farmers Market
SE Hawthorne’s market is all about small-batch veggies, jams, artisan cheese, and family vibes.
Operates every Tuesday in summer and always draws a crowd of locals and visitors.
Hillsdale Farmers Market
Located in SW Portland, open Sundays and bi-weekly in winter, with a wide range of produce and baked goods.
It’s walkable, laid back, and a good spot for fresh, local groceries and snacks.
Budget Accommodation in Portland
Portland Pensione
One of the city’s top wallet-friendly hostels, offering dorm beds and private rooms.
It’s in the Hollywood District—great transit, food nearby, and an easy launchpad for exploring.
HI Portland Northwest Hostel
Chill, social vibe, lots of communal areas, and free breakfast in the heart of the Northwest District.
Great for solo travelers, groups, and those wanting a friendly, walkable neighborhood.
KEX Portland
Trendy hostel/hotel hybrid with bunk rooms and private suites, plus a rooftop bar and cool Scandi decor.
Close to the Lloyd Center and easy streetcar access downtown.
Courtyard by Marriott Portland East
Consistently reliable, with free parking, comfy rooms, and quick access to downtown and attractions.
Rates often under $150 if you book ahead.
McMenamins Crystal Hotel
Vintage vibes with live music and a soaking pool—located right by Powell’s Books and the downtown action.
Quirky, fun, and often under $150 with advance deals.
Mid-Range Accommodation in Portland
Jupiter NEXT
Boutique hotel in Central Eastside—super modern, floor-to-ceiling windows, and great nightlife steps away.
Expect comfortable beds, quick access to everywhere, and fun Portland art throughout.
The Woodlark
Downtown spot known for its restored historic building and top-notch coffee bar in the lobby.
Rooms are stylish, with comfortable beds and a great walk-to-everything location.
Hotel Eastlund
Found in the Lloyd District, with a rooftop restaurant and city views, close to the convention center and public transit.
Modern style and restaurant/bar downstairs.
Residence Inn by Marriott Portland Downtown
Perfect if you want a bit more space and a kitchenette.
Free breakfast, right in the center of the action, and always spotlessly clean.
Hotel Lucia
Chic, artistic downtown hotel known for its cozy rooms and Portland photography collection.
Friendly staff and often good off-season deals around $200/night.
Luxury Accommodation in Portland
The Nines
High rise, grand style, and right on Pioneer Square. Luxe rooms, two restaurants, and top-level service.
Great for people-watching and shopping sprees in the city center.
The Hi-Lo Hotel
Trendy, modern, and super central—part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection.
Spacious, light-filled rooms, impressive dining, and an easy walk to everything.
Kimpton RiverPlace Hotel
Riverside luxury, perfect for a getaway with a view.
This spot puts you right on the Willamette with plush rooms, friendly staff, and marina views.
Hotel Eastlund
Modern, stylish, rooftop bar—ideal if you want something plush in the Lloyd District.
Quick walk to MODA Center for concerts and games.
The Woodlark
Upscale, central, and design-forward—boutique rooms with a Portland feel and a gorgeous lobby cafe.
Ideal if you like luxury that still feels local and welcoming.
