American Food Portland is a blog written by a Portland native that explores the nuances of American food culture.
In this introductory post, I’ll explore the history of American food culture and how Portland has become such a hub for great American fare.
The 25 Best New American Food Portland Restaurants
1. Elephant’s Deli
Elephant’s Deli was named by Food & Wine Magazine as a great new Portland institution. This casual restaurant offers gourmet sandwiches and salads with a California twist. Try the mac and cheese with chive, bacon, and gruyere!
939 NW Hoyt Street
Portland, OR 97209
2. Stormbreaker Brewing Company
A family-friendly brewpub focused on local ingredients. Combines New American cuisine (wild-caught seafood) with traditional European-inspired dishes.
2313 NW Kearney Street
Portland, OR 97210
3. Red Water Tavern
Located inside a 1907 Tudor building, this is one of the best restaurants in Portland. The atmosphere is charming and relaxed while the food is Michelin star quality.
Red Water Tavern serves up the finest aged steaks and fresh seafood that are locally sourced. They also offer gluten-free options. An excellent choice for a special occasion!
2425 NW Thurman St
Portland, OR 97210
4. Bollywood Theater
Bollywood Theater is a casual Indian restaurant with great service. Try the butter chicken and the samosas!
316 NE Russell St
Portland, OR 97232
5. Nong’s Khao Man Gai Curry Cookery
This cozy Thai restaurant serves authentic cuisine at street-level prices—the warm and welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff, and a great menu. Try the pad Thai and chicken fried rice!
1192 SE Division St
Portland, OR 97202
6. Ken’s Artisan Pizza
Ken’s Artisan Pizza is a family-friendly restaurant with a great menu that includes traditional Italian dishes, brick oven pizzas, and a great selection of artisan beers. You can’t go wrong with Ken’s; everything is cooked to order! 1139 NW Johnson Street Portland, OR 97209
7. Evening Star Cafe
A cozy restaurant and cafe serving up traditional American food and breakfast 24/7! The breakfast menu is incredible! Enjoy a Bloody Mary or a mimosa with your huevos rancheros.
2930 NE Broadway Street
Portland, OR 97232
8. Pok Pok
One of the most famous restaurants in Portland, serving authentic regional Thai cuisine. Order the snow pea leaf, pork belly, and spicy papaya salad! 3226 SE Division Street Portland, OR 97202
9. Screen Door
Screen Door is a restaurant that pays homage to the South with a fresh twist. The fried chicken is cooked over an open pit oak fire, and the grits are made from scratch. At Screen Door, you’ll get excellent Southern food served fast! 122 SW 3rd Avenue Portland, OR 97204 10. Tasty n Alder
This Michelin star restaurant serves contemporary American cuisine in a bright and modern setting. Tasty n Alder is an excellent choice for a special occasion! 422 SW Alder Street Portland, OR 97205
11. Et Voila! Bistro
An intimate restaurant that serves contemporary French cuisine. The three-course prix fixe menu is great if you’re on a budget and have an extensive wine list. Highly recommended! 3621 SE Hawthorne Boulevard Portland, OR 97214
12. Imperial
An excellent choice for dinner, the Imperial offers contemporary American cuisine with a refined atmosphere. The seasonal menu changes daily, so you’ll never get bored! 410 SW Broadway Portland, OR 97205
13. Kachka
One of the best Russian restaurants in town! Kachka serves traditional cuisine with updated flavor profiles. This restaurant is great if you prefer something more sophisticated than the typical burger and fries. 2308 NW Glisan Street Portland, OR 97209
14. St. Jack
St. Jack offers an innovative menu that pays homage to traditional worldwide cuisine. Try the lamb sausage, black-eyed peas, and braised greens! 422 SW 10th Avenue Portland, OR 97205 15.
15. Le Bistro Montage
Le Bistro Montage is a restaurant inside the Hyatt Hotel that serves French cuisine at affordable prices. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the service is top-notch! 111 SW Fifth Avenue Portland, OR 97204
16. Out The Door Deli
This is one of the best delis in Portland. Start with a Pommes Frites and end with a salted caramel cookie. You won’t regret it! 1510 SW Stark Street Portland, OR 97201
17. Kachka Cucina Rusticana
This restaurant serves authentic Italian cuisine, including pasta, meats, and vegetables from all over Italy. The service is superb, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting. 701 SE Morrison Street Portland, OR 97214
18. Lardo
Lardo is a brand new restaurant with an innovative menu that celebrates local products like bread, coffee, and cheeses, as well as organic meats from pigs raised on nearby George Washington farms. It’s a great restaurant for breakfast or lunch! 410 NW 14th Ave Portland, OR 97209
19. Paley’s Place
Paley’s Place serves traditional American cuisine in an upscale setting. Try the chicken and waffles and a glass of Johnnie Walker Blue! 1319 NW Glisan Street Portland, OR 97209
20. St. Jack Deli & Pub
St. Jack Deli & Pub is a classic neighborhood deli that serves amazing sandwiches with fresh produce from local farmers. The wine list is extensive, and they even have a Sunday Brunch! 3377 SE Division Street
Portland, OR 97202
21. Higgins Restaurant & Bar
Higgins Restaurant & Bar is an elegant lounge with a wide selection of meats from the Northwest. Try their signature Pacific Northwest Old Fashioned! 401 SW Washington Street Portland, OR 97205
22. Nel Centro
Nel Centro is an upscale Italian restaurant with authentic cuisine in a lively environment. The service is excellent, and the food is incredible! 2308 SE Clinton Street Portland, OR 97202
23. Pok Pok Noi
Pok Pok Noi serves authentic Thai cuisine at affordable prices. Try the pork belly learn and tofu curry! 738 SE Division Street Portland, OR 97214
24. Nostrana
An intimate Italian restaurant that specializes in regional recipes from the North of Italy. The food is excellent, and the service is friendly. Highly recommended! 535 SW Washington St Portland, OR 97205
25. Lardo
This restaurant serves traditional New York Italian favorites. The menu changes frequently, but you’re guaranteed to find something delicious every time! 410 NW 14th Avenue Portland, OR 97209
Conclusion
American Food Portland is one of the best lists of restaurants in Portland I’ve ever seen. There are so many amazing restaurants in Portland offering something special. I
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