Portlands Finest

Portland, Oregon, is a city with culinary creativity and beautiful flavors. Just a short hour and a half drive from Eugene, Oregon, the vibrant streets fill with a taste of the world. It only seemed fitting to start my food blog about the wonders of Portland restaurants. With such a vibrant food scene, the city is a perfect backdrop for exploring global cuisines. The truth is, The New York Times highlights Portland’s best and represents where local ingredients meet global inspiration. Whether you have a hankering for sushi from Japan, tacos from Mexico or classic Italian pizza, Portland delivers authentic flavors with unique twists. The New York Times has allowed us to explore the 25 best restaurants in Portland. 

A taste of Japan comes alive when you walk into Kaede’s doors. Many may argue that there is better sushi in Portland—and there is more expensive, more boujee sushi—but the 16-seat spot in Sellwood is hard to beat. The experience at Kaede is a do-it-yourself experience that most omakase restaurants do not offer. If you order the omakase, your adventure will indulge you in an eight-piece course for $60. Compared to other omakase restaurants, this price is very reasonable for the quality of nigiri you are getting. Executive chef and owner Izumi Uehara has traveled to Europe, Japan, and San Francisco to find the perfect recipe. Izumi has mastered the skill and taste to perfection from the bluefin tuna marinated in jalapeno soy and Hokkaido uni. In the realm of sushi and omakase, this homey-feel restaurant is perfect for oceanic offerings. 

The limey sensation everyone craves in a taco awaits your arrival at Matt’s BBQ Tacos in Mount Tabor. Who doesn’t love a mouth-watering street taco with a unique barbecue twist? Matt Vicedomini started in 2015 with food truck tacos. Now, the pillowy homemade tortillas, filled with the mastery of smoked meat, are incredibly rated. Exceeding the fun to everyone, vegetarians can enjoy the mushroom fajita tacos with poblanos and cream. It doesn’t just stop there; if you pop by early, the breakfast tacos will excite any taste buds. Matt’s BBQ Tacos is not a place to pass by, and The New York Times raves about these folded delights. 

Cafe Olli has it for you, whether you like your cheesy pizza with ranch or pineapple. In The New York Times, Nikita Richardson raves about the Neapolitan-style pies with every topping one can imagine. Cafe Olli isn’t just committed to a sustainable future but also employee owned. From the chef in the back to the hostess at the front, there is a buy-in from everyone involved that makes your plate just taste a little bit better. Down in King Portland, enjoy a slice and relaxation. 

Portland’s restaurant scene isn’t just a reflection of happiness but also the city’s love for food, culture and community. A place where everyone and anyone can enjoy authentic dishes from around the world while experiencing the city’s uniqueness. As The New York Times emphasizes the diversity of the food and what makes Portland a true foodie destination. Each restaurant brings its own story representing what this blog is all about. Whether Portland is your last travel destination or next in line, make sure these restaurants are at the top of your list!