You won’t be disappointed with the growing food scene in Portland Oregon. I tried, and enjoyed, the following:
Andina: A local’s favorite in the Pearle District, known for its Peruvian specialties. Here you will find cebiches (ceviches), anticuchos or skewers, causitas or whipped Peruvian potatoes with various toppings, Peruvian style sashimi, and traditional Peruvian dishes and other fish entrees. It is a great spot to eat while you are exploring the First Thursdays Art Walk in the Pearl District. 1314 NW Gilsen.
Ava Genes: At 3377 SE Division, this is a really wonderful restaurant featuring a Roman inspired menu with an emphasis on local produce and meats grown and raised by Pacific Northwest farmers and ranchers. It also features a regional Italian wine list. The Pane were outstanding. Try the one with eggplant, mint and ricotta as well as the roasted cherry tomatoes with whipped ricotta served on a hearty bread. The Chinook salmon with cauliflower, grapes, and a zucchini custard was also wonderful and the Tre Scelete Dai Giardini (or three salad choices) were a big hit. In September 2013, it was named by Bon Appetit Magazine as the #5 Best New Restaurant in the US in 2013. I can definitely see why!
Though his downtown bistro Little Bird has closed, Chef Gabriel Rucker who received the 2013 James Beard Foundation Award for Best Chef Northwest, still has his brick-walled first and popular Eastside restaurant/bistro, Le Pigeon. It opened in 2006 near the Jupiter Hotel at 738 E Burnside.
Other restaurants that come highly recommended include:
Olympic Provisions: Known for its charcuterie and cheeses, you can find other starters and entrees from oysters and shrimp to tuna and lamb. The Northwest location in in a warehouse district, at 1632 NW Thurman, and is in a contemporary, industrial looking space. There is also a second location at 107 SE Washington.
Others receiving great press include Ox Restaurant and Lardo.