10 Places Where Locals Love to Eat in Portland

Screen Door is a beloved Portland eatery known for its mouthwatering Southern-inspired brunch and dinner menus, and welcoming atmosphere. Located in the Kerns neighbourhood, this restaurant offers comfort food with a gourmet twist that keeps locals coming back for more.

Menu highlights include the famous buttermilk Southern fried chicken, which is juicy and tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. The signature praline bacon perfectly balances sweet and salty flavours, making it a must-try. The weekend brunch at Screen Door is particularly popular, so arrive early to secure your spot without a wait, as the restaurant is primarily walk-in with limited reservations.

Grassa is a no-frills Italian restaurant that’s known for its large eagle motif painted on its dining walls. There's little happening on the menu besides fresh handmade pasta, but it manages to capture the hearts of the locals in Portland.

The restaurant’s atmosphere is very casual, with communal tables laid out so you could share a meal and maybe strike up a conversation. Queues at Grassa move quickly, so no reservations are needed; you won’t have to wait for long before you get seated.

Kachka is a Russian restaurant loved for its selection of zakuski, small sharing plates of snacks, and an extensive list of vodkas. Its signature dish is called the Herring Under a Fur Coat. It’s actually a traditional Russian salad, made of potatoes, herring, carrots, beets, and onions, and topped with hard-boiled eggs, which makes for a great Instagram picture.

If you’re in a hurry, Kachka also offers an array of grab-and-go items available through lunch. You can find them at the Lavka Deli, located above the main restaurant.

OK Omens is a gastrobar set in the heart of Downtown Portland. They feature a long list of wines and spirits varying in prices, with playful names such as Explosively Salty Tropical White and Epic Oregon Chardonnay, just to name a few.

The menu at OK Omens blends modern American cuisine with a touch of European flair. Try the Albacore Tartare with sungold tomatoes and charred padron pepper puree or the succulent Grilled Pork Rib Chop paired with marinated gigante beans.

Nimblefish is a Japanese spot that has become a local favourite since 2017. The small, 12-seat restaurant specializes in fresh sushi and handrolls. While prices are quite steep, the high-quality ingredients and service make it a worthwhile experience.

If you’re feeling adventurous, indulge in the omakase courses and let the chef surprise you with a curated selection of dishes. The thoughtfully curated wine, spirits and sake list perfectly complements the menu, making it a must-try experience. Whether you’re a seasoned sushi lover or a curious newcomer, Nimblefish promises an unforgettable culinary journey.

Nong’s Khao Man Gai in downtown Portland is known for its namesake khao man gai (Thai-style chicken rice). Owned by a Thai chef, this establishment originated from a food cart selling only a single dish before moving into the brick-and-mortar store it is today.

While there are more dishes on the menu, many locals still order the flavourful khao man gai for their main dish. At the end of your meal, remember to also bring home a bottled sauce as a nice souvenir for your friends and family.

Master Kong is a beloved spot where Portland locals flock for Chinese comfort food, particularly on weekends. Known for its generous portions perfect for sharing and freshly cooked-to-order dishes, the menu features dishes such as congee, dumplings and jianbing, a crepe-like snack that is a must-try.

Due to its popularity, tables are usually snapped up quickly, especially on weekends. To avoid a long wait, it's advisable to arrive earlier in the day. Whether you're craving a hearty bowl of congee or a plate of savory dumplings, Master Kong is worth the visit.

Doe Donuts is a locally owned donut store serving fresh vegan donuts and artisanal ice-creams. Long queues form outside this wooden-clad store every day. Its menu is graced by flavours such as Salted Vanilla Bean and Portland Fog, made from organic earl grey glaze, fresh whipped cream and vanilla bean. Can’t make up your mind? Order the Baker’s Choice in-store and the staff will pick their favourite flavours for you.

Doe Donuts also specializes in custom orders, including unique alphabet shaped doughnuts, ideal for birthdays or if you’re looking to pop the question in a delicious way.

Eb & Bean is Portland's first frozen yoghurt store, run by a passionate home baker who was inspired by her children. Flavours at Eb & Bean rotate regularly, with sauces such as Cold Brew Bourbon and Citrus Curds making frequent appearances on the menu.

You could also opt for an array of toppings, such as organic toasted nuts, fresh fruits and crumbles sourced from local pastry chefs. Eb & Bean also has seasonal flavours made with almond and coconut milk, welcoming those looking for vegan and lactose-free options.

Salt & Straw will serve you well if you’re a fan of sweet treats. It’s one of Portland’s most popular dessert spots, with locals and visitors lining up for a scoop of ice-cream even when it’s raining out.

Salt & Straw serves over 36 rotating flavours on any given day, adding new flavours to the menu every month. A must-try is honey lavender or pear and blue cheese, all handmade with fresh cream from a local dairy farm in small batches for quality control.