Alice Wolfe

Portland can feel like a West Coast haven—with a river running through it, flowering tree-lined neighborhoods, lush gardens and, maybe most importantly, some of the best restaurants in the world. Central to the farm-to-table movement and proud of our hyper-local, seasonal ingredients, the city’s food and beverage scene commands international attention. The city seems to overflow with first-rate restaurants per capita, so assembling a list of Portland’s best is a challenge. But after careful consideration, this ever-evolving lineup includes a wide range of top picks, from delicious Yucatecan cuisine in East Portland to Nordic-French breakfast downtown. June 2025: This update swaps out a couple of previous picks and highlights summer menus. Over the coming months, we plan to try more delis and diners around town, and the beloved Thai tasting menu at Langbaan. And just a reminder on our new star ratings system: three stars corresponds to “good,” four to “great” and five to “amazing.” For more on our policies, feel free to check out how we review at Time Out. Over the coming months, we’ll be trying more pizza (as Portland becomes increasingly well-known for our pizza game) along with James Beard Award-winning chef Gregory Gourdet’s Haitian restaurant kann. One of Portland’s best and oldest restaurants, Ringside (on our spring edition of this list) is temporarily closed due to a kitchen fire. We wish them the best in their reopening process and recommend grabbing a gift card in th

Portland is a fun, quirky and accessible city known for its first-rate food scene and natural beauty. There’s plenty to see and do here, from vintage shopping to bike rides, and its ever-growing popularity lends itself to fabulous restaurants, innovative museums and stunning hiking trails. You might be visiting for the Waterfront Blues Festival, for holiday shopping markets or to see the Japanese maples change color in the fall, but on either side, there are countless activities to fill your trip. Whether you like the sound of a winery or a rose garden, our list of the best things to do in Portland will see you through. June 2025: This seasonal update considers summer cultural events, warm weather food and drink ideas and recommendations for avoiding crowds during the city’s busiest season. Other additions include a brand new wine bar next to a Time Out fave restaurant (Bar Martina next to Luce on East Burnside) and a transporting vineyard in the Willamette Valley (Johan Vineyards). RECOMMENDED:🍽️ The best restaurants in Portland🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Portland🍔 The best food trucks in Portland🍻 The best breweries in Portland🍩 The best doughnuts in Portland

In 2024, what exactly makes a neighbourhood cool? Craft breweries, natty wine bars and street art are well and good, but the world’s best, most exciting and downright fun neighbourhoods are much more than identikit ‘hipster hubs’. They’re places that reflect the very best of their cities – its culture, community spirit, nightlife, food and drink – all condensed in one vibey, walkable district. To create our annual ranking, we went straight to the experts – our global team of on-the-ground writers and editors – and asked them what the coolest neighbourhood in their city is right now, and why. Then we narrowed down the selection and ranked the list using the insight and expertise of Time Out’s global editors, who vetted each neighbourhood against criteria including food, drink, arts, culture, street life, community and one-of-a-kind local flavour. The result? A list that celebrates the most unique and exciting pockets of our cities – and all their quirks. Yes, you’ll find some of those international hallmarks of ‘cool’. But in every neighbourhood on this list there’s something you won’t find anywhere else. Ever been to a photography museum that moonlights as a jazz club? Or a brewery with a library of Russian literature? How about a festival dedicated to fluff? When communities fiercely support and rally around their local businesses, even the most eccentric ideas can become a reality. And that, in our eyes, is what makes a neighbourhood truly cool. From formerly overlooked sub

What is it? A perfect neighborhood bistro, marrying French culinary roots and local ingredients. L’Échelle is one of many Portland establishments that the late Naomi Pomeroy left her brilliant mark on, and the city’s food community is eternally grateful.  Why we love it: Though they only opened in May, the L’Échelle team has been working on this concept for a few years, and it shows. The menu, brilliantly executed by head chef Mika Paredes, is exactly what we crave from a French bistro (steak au poivre, shrimp cocktail, a bright salad and flawless fries) but introduces other dishes that hit just as hard (the buttery, herb-covered carrots were a fave, as was the gnocchi with morels and pickled onions). Time Out tip: The wine list is fantastic and curated by Cutter Cascadia’s wine proprietor, and the bar program is run by an award-winning bartender, so don’t miss the drinks. Address: 4537 SE Division St, Portland, OR 97206 Hours: Wed–Sun 5–10pm, with plans to expand days and hours Expect to pay: About $50 per person, excluding drinks.

What is it? An Egyptian-influenced, summer-only patio restaurant and mezcal and wine bar. Food, hospitality and design expert Megan Sanchez develops pop-up restaurants on the back patio of Güero No. 1 Tortas alongside cocktail visionary Ben Skiba. Each iteration has been wonderful, but Farag’s is our favorite.  Why we love it: Farag’s hits every mark: warm service, a heavenly cocktail menu and mezcal/wine list, a beautiful, dreamy layout, and of course, incredible food. Each dish feels lovingly home-cooked and familial but is brilliantly and creatively assembled. Time Out tip: The food is meant to be shared—we recommend the lebneh served with toasted nigella seeds, grapes and shallots confit, a few pieces of Tabor Bread, and the melon served with manchego and olive oil. Keep an eye on their Instagram to catch live jazz and DJs throughout the summer. Address: 2821 NE Davis St, Portland, OR 97232 Hours: Thu–Sun 4–10pm, approximately June through October (weather dependent) Expect to pay: Between $30 and $50 per person.

What is it? A cozy restaurant serving “first generation American food,” pulling inspiration from family recipes, midnight snacks and hometown nostalgia.  Why we love it: We count on Xiao Ye for explosive flavor combinations, like Khao Soi radiatori and grilled branzino with a Chinese chimichurri. They serve inventive appetizers like mini madeleines with jalapeño powder and whipped butter, and orange and honey Kauai shrimp. The dining room is just as special as the menu with charming gingham curtains, sage green wood panels and exposed brick.  Time Out tip: We’ve yet to try their brunch, but it looks mouth-wateringly good (kaya toast with pandan butter and Taiwanese rice porridge caught our eye) and they take reservations.  Address: 3832 NE Sandy Blvd, Portland OR 97232 Hours: Mon–Thu 5–9pm; Fri 5–9:30pm; Sat 10am–2pm, 5–9:30pm; Sun 10am–2pm Expect to pay: About $50 per person, excluding drinks.

What is it? A Thai restaurant focused on affordable comfort food, particularly meals popular among students and working-class people in Thailand.  Why we love it: Khao Moo Dang primarily serves pork, both five spice pork loin and crispy pork belly, but their meatless options are just as delicious (they use local favorite Ota tofu). We love the pad ka-phrao, which includes minced pork shoulder stir-fried with basil over rice, served with a boiled egg and a side of bone broth.  Time Out tip: Though it’s a great spot for takeout, we love dining there for its comfortable patio right on bustling Hawthorne Boulevard.  Address: 3145 SE Hawthorne Blvd Portland, OR 97214 Hours: Sun–Thu 11am–9pm; Fri, Sat 11am–9:30pm Expect to pay: Between $15 and $20 per person.

What is it? Our favorite spot for breakfast in the city, Sweedeedee serves some of Portland’s best pastries and morning classics in an intimate, well-decorated dining room. Why we love it: While the menu at Sweedeedee changes often, you can always expect eggs in some form (right now, they have a Spanish tortilla and a breakfast sandwich), a sweet option (don’t miss the corncakes) and some fresh veggies to balance the meal (a winter green salad with radish and hazelnuts is on the current menu). Time Out tip: If you’re in the mood to shop, the restaurant offers some local goodies like Madre Linen napkins, tinned fish, wine and ceramics. Also, Mississippi Records is right next door, and has a wonderful collection of vintage vinyl.  Address: 5202 N Albina Ave, Portland, OR 97217 Hours: Daily 10am–3pm Expect to pay: Between $15 and $20 per person.

What is it? AKADI is a warm, vibrant restaurant in Southeast dedicated to West African cuisine, specifically from Côte d’Ivoire. Why we love it: Executive chef and owner Fatou Ouattara has put together both an incredible menu—think jollof rice, caramelized plantains, aromatic stews and crispy fried fish—and an inviting, colorful space with generous hospitality. Time Out tip: Don’t miss the “Attleke,” a fermented couscous made with cassava. Also, while you’re there, pick up their bottled sauce (mild or spicy), made with carrots, ginger, garlic, tomatoes and a range of African spices. (It’s also sold at Providore Fine Foods, House of Flavor and Wellspent Market, among other spots.) Address: 1001 SE Division St, Portland, OR 97202 Hours: Wed–Sun 4–9pm Expect to pay: About $30 per person, not including drinks.

What is it? A cozy neighborhood bar with delicious cocktails, a thoughtful wine and beer list, and a stellar food menu, all housed in the historic Thomas Graham Building, constructed in 1910.  Why we love it: Filled with dark wooden booths and candlelight on late nights, and a sprawling backyard patio for warm days, Bellwether offers a gorgeous space for dinner and drinks. Though they have some classic bar favorites, like a superb burger, crispy fries and a BBQ-flavored nut mix, they shine with their more bistro-forward options. Consider their herby farm greens, a coulotte steak and panna cotta for dessert.  Time Out tip: Order a bunch for the table, particularly the veggie-heavy dishes. Try the harissa-spiced cauliflower, chickpea panisse and burrata with citrus and pickled fennel. Address: 6031 SE Stark St, Portland, OR 97215 Hours: Mon–Thu 4–11pm, Fri–Sun noon–11pm Expect to pay: Between $20 and $30 per person for dinner. Cocktails for $15.

What is it? Duck House Chinese Restaurant in downtown PDX is adored for its Szechuan-focused menu offerings.  Why we love it: The casual haunt is known for its house-made soup dumplings, veggie egg rolls and pork wontons, plus comfort classics like sweet and sour chicken and honey-walnut shrimp. Close to Portland State University, it’s bustling and always packed.  Time Out tip: Try to score a circular table with a lazy Susan if you’re a big group—this spot is ideal for sharing a range of dishes. Address: 1968 SW 5th Ave, Portland, OR 97201 Hours: Mon 11am–2:30pm, 4–8pm; Wed–Fri 11am–2:30pm, 4–9pm; Sat, Sun 11am–9pm Expect to pay: Between $20 and $30 per person, not including drinks.

What is it? Originally a pop-up and farmers’ market stand, Burmese restaurant Rangoon Bistro now has two locations, both on the east side of the city. Why we love it: The range of flavors and textures at Rangoon is unmatched. We especially love their tea leaf salad, which utilizes Minto Island green tea leaves and shredded cabbage for its base; tomato, garlic oil and fish sauce for flavor; and peanuts, fried fava beans and chana dal for extra texture and complexity.  Time Out tip: Rangoon’s non-alcoholic drinks are particularly special—the sweet-and-salty coconut milk and Burmese tea are two favorites.  Address:2311 SE 50th Ave, Portland, OR 972153747 N Mississippi Ave, Portland, OR 97227 Hours: Mon–Thu 4–10pm, Fri–Sun noon–10pm Expect to pay: Between $20 and $30 per person.

What is it? Located in the city’s Clinton neighborhood, Jacqueline is best known for its oysters, all of which are sourced from the PNW, and harvested and delivered on the same day for peak freshness. Why we love it: In addition to oysters, diners can enjoy seafood-forward dishes like lobster BLTs, poached shrimp and Dungeness crab toast. Alternatively, order one of the vegetarian options like fried eggplant and a little gem Caesar. Keep in mind, their menu changes daily. Time Out tip: Pop in between 5 and 6pm to snag $1 oysters. Also, in the restaurant’s former space, a few blocks west, the same owners now offer coffee, baked goods and brunch under the name Fair Weather. Address: 2500 SE Clinton St, Portland, OR 97202 Hours: Mon–Sat 5–9pm Expect to pay: Dinner starts around $50 per person but can easily get closer to $100, particularly with wine or cocktails.

What is it? Luce is a perfect little Italian restaurant on East Burnside, known for their housemade pasta, simple and bright salads, $2 antipasti and a thorough wine list. Why we love it: The servers are total pros at recommending the right dish or glass, and no matter how busy it gets (very) they keep their warm, gracious attitude. The food itself is comforting yet light and fresh (opt for cappelletti in brodo when you’re under the weather, or a fennel, celery and dill salad on a hot afternoon).  Time Out tip: Order a bunch of antipasti to share, like sweet and sour peppers, marinated carrots, and a farro and parmesan pie, and don’t miss the radiatore pasta with saffron and lamb, or the herb-stuffed whole trout. Address: 2140 E Burnside St, Portland, OR 97214 Hours: Daily 4–10pm Expect to pay: The menu is very easily personalized due to their range of portion choices. Expect to pay between $25 and $50.

What is it? Owned by one of Portland’s most prolific and talented chefs, Earl Ninsom, Hat Yai captures home-cooked food from the southern region of Thailand that borders Malaysia, beautifully mixing Thai and Malaysian cuisine. Why we love it: They specialize in fried chicken with sticky rice, Malay-style curry and roti, a dish that is both hearty and balanced with intense flavors and varying textures. Hat Yai is a Portland go-to and a perfect balance of casual and refined. Time Out tip: Try the dessert roti, served with sweetened condensed milk. Address:1605 NE Killingsworth St Portland, OR 97211605 SE Belmont St. Portland, OR 97214 Hours: Sun–Thu 11:30am–3pm, 4–9pm; Fri, Sat 11:30am–3pm, 4–10pm Expect to pay: Between $15 and $25 per person, not including drinks.

In the Pacific Northwest, spring is so close right now that you can almost smell the wisteria. Cherry blossoms are about to burst, days are getting longer, and we’re waiting with bated breath for our favorite veggies at the farmers’ market. Yet, as Northwesterners know, there are many gloomy days ahead till we can reliably wear a T-shirt and shorts into the wee hours. Even for those of us eagerly awaiting this seasonal shift, might I suggest leaning into winter just a little longer? Though I’ve been in Portland for over a decade, I’m originally from Southern California and forever a summer devotee. (Did my waxing poetic about flowers and produce give me away?) In order to cope with the Northwest’s gloomy months, I’m always looking for activities that help pass the rainy season and get me outdoors. I’ve never liked skiing or snowboarding, but I love an excuse to bundle up, grab some hot chocolate and soak up a pastoral winter scene. Snowshoeing is the perfect activity for those of us who love a winter hike, but don’t necessarily have the skills (or bravery) to glide down a mountain at top speeds. On the first day of March, a shockingly warm and sunny day in Oregon, I ventured to the Tamanawas Falls trailhead with a friend. We strapped on some old MSR snowshoes she’s been holding onto and found ourselves waddling around a mostly muddy and icy trail, as hikers quickly passed us in more efficient—and admittedly more sleek and stylish—crampons. But about a half-mile into the hike,

Portland, Oregon, has been the butt of the joke for many years—from Portlandia-era harmless teasing about the city’s preoccupation with sustainable food, to more insidious critique from right-wing politicians. The city’s identity has been simplified to a meme, a calling card, a dog whistle. At its core, Portland is a much more varied, complex city than it’s been given credit for. It’s still young, still forming, and as it grows and diversifies, the city gets more exciting by the day.  RECOMMENDED: These are the coolest neighborhoods in the world right now Whether you come to the Northwest to backpack in the Gifford-Pinchot National Forest, enjoy a beach day on the dramatic, moody coast, visit vineyards in the Willamette Valley or Columbia Gorge, (favorites include No Clos Radio, Loop de Loop and Hiyu Wine Farm) or stay local to soak up Portland’s food and drink scene, visiting this special region of the United States is worth your while. While in the city, you can’t beat the Kerns neighborhood on the east side of Portland. While there are plenty of beautiful, restaurant-filled streets across the city, Kerns, the neighborhood that runs along East Burnside for 30 blocks, is supremely charming and walkable.  How to spend the perfect day in Kerns Kerns is filled with residential streets, perfect for wandering and lusting after craftsman homes, Spanish-style apartments, flower-filled gardens, and fruit trees. On Kerns’ southeast border, Laurelhurst Park hosts music, comedy, and ou