12 Coolest Places to Eat

Raven’s Manor is a themed restaurant in Portland that takes the concept of dining and drinks to a spine-tingling level. Situated in the historic Henry Failing Building, this haunted mansion-themed cocktail lounge has quickly become a downtown favorite for both ghouls and guests alike.

Owners Jared Bradley and Rebecca Vega have transformed this space into an elegant, yet eerie, manor where the details matter—from the decor to the drinks. Imagine sipping on a cocktail that smokes, catches fire, or changes colors. Or how about diving into a “Grilled cheese of darkness” served on house-made black bread with bleeding cheese? It’s all part of the experience at Raven’s Manor.

Beyond the food and drinks, there’s an interactive elixir experience waiting for the adventurous. Guests can don a lab coat, head to Dr. Raven’s basement laboratory, and concoct their own custom cocktails. With decor largely built and thrifted by the owners themselves, every corner of Raven’s Manor offers a story and an invitation to explore.

Ever wondered what happens when Texas barbecue crashes a Thai dinner party? Eem in Portland is the answer. It’s a spot where the smoky goodness of Texas meats meets the bold, zesty flavors of Thai cuisine. Think of it as a culinary mash-up that’s music to your taste buds.

Here’s the scoop on Eem: it’s the brainchild of a trio who love to mix things up. We’ve got Earl, the Thai cuisine wizard; Eric, who knows his way around a cocktail bar; and Matt, a pitmaster who’s all about that barbecue life. Together, they’re serving up something truly special.

As one of the unique places to eat in Portland, Eem brings the heat with dishes like pork steak dripping in fish caramel and brisket that’s found its soulmate in spicy curry. This place is where barbecue is not just grilled, it’s smoked to perfection, adding a whole new level of flavor to the Thai food we all love.

Portland’s bakery scene just got sweeter with the opening of Kinnamon’s. Tucked into the Pearl District, this spot is all about taking cinnamon rolls to the next level. Imagine walking into a bakery where the humble cinnamon roll is the star of the show. That’s exactly what you get at Kinnamon’s.

The brainchild of local foodie heroes Micah Camden and Ndamukong Suh, Kinnamon’s is a cinnamon roll lover’s dream. From espresso to flavored coffee, they’ve got your drink needs covered, but let’s talk rolls. These aren’t your average rolls; they’re reimagined with local and seasonal twists like Oregon strawberries and innovative glazes including cookies and cream.

As one of the fun restaurants in Oregon, Kinnamon’s invites you to dive into a variety of flavors, each roll a mini masterpiece. Blueberry crumble, raspberry pistachio, and even tiramisu flavors await. And for those who love the classics, there’s a cream cheese glazed roll calling your name. Open daily from 8 am to 8 pm

Suckerpunch is shaking things up in Portland, making a splash as one of the coolest restaurants in Portland. This spot began its journey in 2020, originally crafting alcohol-free cocktail kits. Fast forward, and it’s transformed into the city’s first-ever zero-proof cocktail bar. The buzz around nonalcoholic drinks is growing nationwide, and Suckerpunch is leading the charge in Portland.

During the summer of 2022, while on the hunt for a permanent spot, Suckerpunch popped up in SE Portland at Goat Blocks. This “speakeasy” wasn’t your ordinary bar. It delivered a sneak peek of their booze-free wonders, blending creativity and mixology minus the alcohol.

Ingredients like verjus, tonic, and honeycomb cordials replace traditional spirits, crafting drinks that are both complex and delightful. Imagine sipping on a Light Rail Coyote, a concoction of verjus, pear, turmeric, sage, and aquafaba. It’s clear Suckerpunch is not just about drinks; it’s about an experience.

Adding a twist to the list of fun places to eat in Portland is Creepy’s. It’s a bar with a vibe you won’t forget, decked out in clowns and animatronics. Imagine sipping your drink while surrounded by vintage beer sweaters and hand-painted movie posters. It’s quirky, unique, and totally Portland.

Opened by the team behind the White Owl Social Club, Creepy’s fills its space with oddities from personal collections, including a portrait of John Quincy Adams whose eyes might just follow you around. They’ve got animatronics performing unexpected stunts, thanks to a bit of creative engineering.

What about the food and drinks? Creepy’s is serious about serving top-notch bar food, making sure there’s something for everyone while keeping sustainability in mind. No beef here, but loads of creativity in both the menu and the decor. Open daily from 3 p.m. until the wee hours, it’s a spot for late-night eats and intriguing sights. This restaurant will prove to you why Portland is among the best places to live in Oregon.

Doug Fir Lounge is a standout among the best places to eat in Portland, Oregon, offering a taste of the forest in the heart of the city. Tucked inside the Jupiter Hotel, this spot charms with its log cabin vibes and a touch of the ’70s. Imagine settling into a cozy booth or stepping out onto a spacious patio, all while being watched over by a Bigfoot totem.

It’s a place that serves breakfast in the morning and switches gears to serve vegan jackfruit tacos by night, against a backdrop of live rock music. The menu? It’s all about comfort with a twist. Picture digging into steak frites with waffle fries or savoring a spicy Harissa stew.

And for the drink enthusiasts, there’s a mix of classic cocktails, local wines, and crisp beers to choose from. Open from day to night, Doug Fir Lounge provides a unique experience that blends great food, drinks, and music, making it a perfect spot for things to do in Portland, Oregon at night.

Imagine a place where it’s all about celebrating women in sports. That’s The Sports Bra for you. The brainchild of Jenny Nguyen, it’s a bar where the game on TV is always women’s sports. Pretty neat, right?

Tucked among the best restaurants in Portland, The Sports Bra brings something different to the table. Their menu? It’s got all the pub classics but with a fun twist. Think mom’s secret recipe for ribs or wings that’ll remind you of Vietnam. And for folks looking for gluten-free or vegan options, they’ve got you covered. The drinks are all about lifting up women-owned brands, too.

But here’s the cool part: The Sports Bra isn’t just about watching the game. It’s a spot where everyone comes together. Whether it’s cheering on Serena Williams or just needing a place to hang out and feel understood, this bar’s got a vibe that’s all about community.

Step into the world of the Freakybuttrue Peculiarium, a spot that truly stands out among the unique restaurants in Portland, OR. Nestled in the charming Nob Hill neighborhood, this place is a wild mix of art gallery, museum, haunted house, and ice cream shop all rolled into one. Forget about the ordinary; this place dives deep into the quirky heart of Portland.

Don’t let the demon figurine at the door scare you off. Inside, it’s more about laughs and surprises than scares. The exhibits? They’re a riot, from myths like Krampus to the bizarre like spontaneous human combustion. And then there’s the ice cream.

Not just any ice cream, but bug sundaes. Yes, you heard that right. Imagine diving into a scoop of ice cream topped with caramel, chocolate, an ant cookie, and yes, real bug larvae. It’s the kind of daring treat that lands you in their hall of fame.

Daring, peculiar, and utterly unforgettable, the Freakybuttrue Peculiarium is a must-visit for anyone looking to taste the wild side of Portland.

Stepping into Never Coffee Lab is like entering a world where coffee is not just a drink; it’s an art form. This vibrant coffee shop lights up Portland with its bold colors and unique vibe. It’s the kind of place where the decor is minimalist but lively, inviting you into a space that’s as inspiring as it is cozy.

At Never Coffee Lab, it’s all about the coffee, and boy, do they get creative. Their specialty lattes are something out of a coffee lover’s dream. Take the ‘Holy Grail’ blend, for instance, a cup brimming with complex flavors, or the ‘Prince’, which is a sweet hug of clover honey and homemade hazelnut milk. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill coffee concoctions; they’re carefully crafted experiences.

The baristas here? They’re passionate coffee wizards, armed with the knowledge and love for their craft that turns every visit into something special. Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or just in need of a cozy corner and a warm cup, Never Coffee Lab promises an experience that’s anything but ordinary.

Dive into Voodoo Doughnut, a true original in the lineup of unique Portland restaurants. It’s a place where creativity in doughnut-making knows no bounds. Opened in 2003 by Kenneth “Cat Daddy” Pogson and Tres Shannon, Voodoo Doughnut started as a small shop in Old Town Portland. Now, it’s a doughnut empire with locations across seven states.

At the heart of Voodoo Doughnut is a spirit of fun and adventure. Picture doughnuts topped with cereal, bacon, or even Tang. They’ve even tried Tums (though health inspectors had something to say about that). Voodoo Doughnut is where you can satisfy your midnight doughnut cravings, thanks to its all-night hours. It’s become a Portland icon, drawing lines of night owls and early birds alike.

But Voodoo Doughnut isn’t just about the food. It’s about the experience. The shop’s founders are so into their theme, that they became ordained ministers to perform weddings in their stores. And let’s not forget, Portland declared the Voodoo Portland Cream doughnut the city’s official doughnut.

SteepleJack Brewing brings something totally unique to the table, or should we say, to the altar. Located in a century-old church in northeast Portland, it’s brewing up a storm, making it a must-visit among unique restaurants in Portland for dinner.

The place has history, character, and, of course, great beer. Imagine sipping on a craft beer under the glow of stained glass windows, surrounded by original woodworking and beams. It’s not just a brewery; it’s a piece of Portland’s history reborn.

The brewpub doesn’t skimp on quality, from the beer to the bites. With an all-women lead brewing team, SteepleJack is serving up fresh, innovative brews right from the heart of the church. And the food? It’s designed to please anyone and everyone, from casual drinkers to serious foodies.

SteepleJack is a community spot where everyone’s welcome. Whether you’re here for the brews, the cozy cafe service in the morning, or a hearty dinner, this place aims to make everyone feel right at home.

HunnyMilk makes enjoying cheap eats in Portland an absolute brunch delight. Here’s the scoop: It’s a weekend pop-up that spun out of a dream for an ice cream and doughnut shop. Instead, they’re serving up a playful brunch in Rose City Park. For 20 bucks, you get a savory course, a sweet course, and a drink. Sounds like a steal, right?

The dishes are as fun as they sound. Picture a deep-dish quiche that’s as fluffy as a cloud or a Scotch egg that’s just the right kind of indulgent. Then, there’s the dessert – think waffles with honey butter or a tiny Dutch baby pancake that’s out of this world.

Want a side? Toss in sweet potato hash browns or monkey bread for just four more dollars. Plus, the place has a cozy vibe with a blue-haired server who might just hand you a notebook for haiku or some crayons for coloring. Show up early to beat the rush and enjoy a quiet, quirky breakfast at HunnyMilk.

Frequently Asked Questions About these Unique Places to Eat in Portland

Here’s everything you need to know from our Portland, Oregon restaurant guide, packed with answers to all your burning questions.

Portland is famous for its food cart culture, offering everything from gourmet sandwiches to international delicacies. A must-try unique to Portland is the city’s twist on doughnuts. From classics with a twist to wild creations like those found at Voodoo Doughnut, they’re a staple of Portland’s best restaurants. Also, don’t miss out on the city’s farm-to-table dishes, showcasing the best local produce and meats in inventive ways.

Recently, a Portland eatery that made waves is Eem, blending Thai cuisine with Texas barbecue. It’s a prime example of the best food in Portland OR, showcasing how local chefs are mixing diverse culinary traditions to create something truly unique. This spot, along with others in the city, continues to earn national acclaim for innovation and quality.

Langbaan is the spot with a rep for being the toughest reservation to land. This place is a hidden gem in Oregon, literally tucked away inside Phuket Cafe. They serve up historic regional Thai dishes, some straight from ancient royalty’s cookbooks. The catch? It’s so sought after, you need to book a month in advance. If you’re into exclusive dining experiences, Langbaan is where it’s at in Portland.

Where can I find scenic places in Portland Oregon to eat?

For breathtaking views, head to restaurants along the Willamette River like the Portland City Grill. Here, you can enjoy some of the scenic places in Portland to eat while looking out over the city skyline and the river. Outdoor dining in Portland’s many parks and gardens also offers a scenic and serene dining experience, perfect for those warm summer evenings, inviting you to stay in Oregon.

What are some hidden gem restaurants in Portland?

Portland is full of hidden gems, from cozy cafés tucked away in the city’s vibrant neighborhoods to exclusive speakeasies that require a password for entry. For a truly unique experience, explore areas like the Alberta Arts District or Division Street. Here, places like hidden gem restaurants in Portland serve up incredible meals away from the bustling downtown crowds, offering intimate settings and innovative menus.

Consider what you’re craving, then dive into Portland’s diverse culinary scene. Want something uniquely Portland? Look for a food cart. In the mood for fine dining in Portland? The city’s array of upscale restaurants won’t disappoint. For the best experience, check out online reviews, ask locals for their recommendations, and don’t be afraid to try something new.

Absolutely. Portland is a melting pot of international cuisine, offering everything from authentic Thai, Vietnamese, and Japanese dishes to Italian, French, and Middle Eastern delicacies. Areas like the International District are great starting points, but you’ll find pockets of international flavors scattered throughout the city. It’s a testament to the best food in Portland, showcasing a world of flavors right here in the city, making it one of the top places to live and visit in the Pacific Northwest.

Portland’s food scene stands out for its commitment to sustainability, farm-to-table dining, and a community of creative chefs who aren’t afraid to experiment. The city’s food carts play a huge role, offering gourmet dining experiences on a budget. The embrace of hidden gem restaurants in Portland along with the support for local, seasonal ingredients, makes dining here a unique adventure set against Oregon’s beauty. Whether it’s fine dining or a quick bite from a food cart.

Portland is awesome for food lovers on a budget because so many of its best spots offer amazing food without a hefty price tag. Check out the food carts scattered throughout the city for some seriously tasty and affordable meals. Also, keep an eye out for happy hour deals at restaurants, where you can sample the best food in Portland without spending a lot. Plus, many unique places offer combos or tasting menus that give you a bang for your buck.

And that wraps up our journey through the culinary delights of the city! We hope our Portland, Oregon restaurant guide has sparked your appetite for adventure and given you a taste of what this vibrant city has to offer. From quirky doughnut shops to historic brewpubs inside churches, Portland is a place where food dreams come true. So, grab your forks and knives, and dive into the flavors waiting for you!

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