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Best Fancy Restaurants in Portland for a Gourmet Experience
We’ve all been there—planning a special night out, only to find ourselves scrolling endlessly through restaurant reviews, trying to figure out which spot is actually worth the splurge.
Whether for a milestone celebration or a treat, finding the perfect fancy restaurant can be daunting. Luckily, Portland is filled with upscale dining gems to simplify your choice.
In this guide, we’ll highlight the best fancy restaurants in town where you can indulge in a true gourmet experience. These restaurants will leave you with nothing but memorable meals and sophisticated vibes.
1. Salty’s on the Columbia River
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Website: https://www.saltys.com/portland/
Address: 3839 NE Marine Drive
Contact details: (503)288-4444
Operating hours:
- Monday: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Tuesday -Thursday:12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Friday: 12:00 PM – 8:30 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 8:30 PM
- Sunday Buffet: 9:00 AM– 1:30 PM, 4:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Remarkable waterfront vistas and top-notch Pacific Northwest cuisine can be found at Salty’s on the Columbia River.
Whether you’re here for a casual meal or celebrating a special occasion, the Oysters Rockefeller and Dungeness Crab are standout dishes. They’re rich, buttery, and bursting with that fresh seafood flavor.
Their halibut is also a popular choice—perfectly seared and flakey. It wonderfully complements the fresh, seasonal sides they serve. It also pairs nicely with the wine list that’s earned praises from Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence.
The overall interior is elegant yet inviting, with large windows showcasing the Columbia River and Mount Hood. The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring your experience is as wonderful as the breathtaking views surrounding you.
Pro tip:
Check out their daily specials! They often feature fresh, seasonal dishes that aren’t on the regular menu.
2. Nostrana
Media credits: nostranapdx
Website: https://nostrana.com/
Address: 1401 SE Morrison St. Ste. 101
Contact details: (503) 234-2427
Operating hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Friday – Sunday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Nostrana has become an Italian fine dining staple in Portland since 2005. Known for its rustic charm and vibrant atmosphere, it offers a delightful menu of wood-fired pizzas, handmade pasta, and seasonal ingredients.
Among their dishes, the Diavola Pizza is our favorite. Its combination of spicy sausage and Mama Lil’s peppers provides a moderate kick without overwhelming the palate.
They also have Insalata Nostrana– a savory radicchio salad with crisp croutons drizzled with Caesar dressing, giving it an acidic balance.
Additionally, the restaurant offers a variety of wines and cocktails. Their negroni is one of the best in the city. It’s perfectly crafted for both enthusiasts and newcomers to the classic drink.
Pro tip:
Nostrana offers a fantastic happy hour with discounted drinks and small plates. It’s a great way to sample their offerings at lower prices.
3. Andina
Media credits: andinapdx
Website: https://www.andinarestaurant.com/
Address: 1314 NW Glisan St
Contact details: (503) 228-9535
Operating hours:
- Happy Hour (Patio & Lounge ONLY): Tuesday – Saturday: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Dining (Indoors & Patio): Friday – Saturday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday – Monday: Closed
Renowned for blending traditional Peruvian ingredients with contemporary techniques, Andina creates a dining experience that celebrates both the culture and flavors of Peru.
From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted with a warm ambiance and authentic displays that pay homage to Peru.
Try having the Seco a La Norteña, a Northern Peruvian lamb shank dish. It’s simmered in cilantro, black beer, and aromatics, giving it a deep earthy flavor with herbal notes and a hint of sweetness.
To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing the dish with a Pisco Sour, a classic Peruvian cocktail crafted from Caravedo quebranta. The lime in the juice cuts through the lamb’s richness, while the egg white adds a refreshing balance.
Pro tip:
Feel free to ask the staff for recommendations based on your preferences. Andina also offers gluten-free and vegetarian options, so there’s food even for those with dietary requirements.
4. Le Pigeon
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Website: https://www.lepigeon.com/
Address: 738 E Burnside St.
Contact details: (503) 546-8796
Operating hours:
- Monday – Saturday: 10:30 AM – 11:30 PM
- Dining hours: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Le Pigeon is an intimate dining haven that’s well-known for its inventive and elevated French-inspired cooking.
The pigeon breast is one of Le Pigeon’s best dishes. It’s served with perfectly roasted vegetables and a tasty sauce. Each slice of the meat is tender and cooked to perfection, offering a gamey and refined taste.
For dessert, the Foie Gras Profiteroles is a playful and unconventional ending to your meal. It features éclair-like pastries filled with rich foie gras ice cream.
The best part? You don’t have to worry about picking a good wine because their attentive staff knows exactly which bottle will pair well with your meal.
Pro tip:
Take a seat at the chef’s counter. This spot lets you watch the kitchen in action and interact with the chefs, providing an immersive dining experience.
5. Coquine
Media credits: coquinepdx
Website: https://www.coquinepdx.com/
Address: 6839 SE Belmont St
Contact details: (503) 384-2483
Operating hours: Patio Dining & Dinner in the Market Cafe: Tuesday – Saturday: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Coquine is hailed as a culinary treasure that skillfully combines sophisticated fine dining with laid-back neighborhood charm.
The restaurant is famous for its seasonal and locally sourced food. It’s led by Chef Katy Millard, who brings her knowledge from Michelin-starred kitchens in France to create imaginative yet approachable meals.
A carefully crafted tasting menu is available for patrons to savor. It highlights the kitchen’s focus on bright tastes and thoughtful presentation. Among the dishes served include halibut, earthy morels, and a delicate puree.
The private dining experience is complemented by a carefully selected wine list that contains both local and foreign alternatives, elevating the dishes even more.
Pro tip:
It’s wise to make a reservation in advance to secure your spot, especially if you want to experience the curated tasting menu.
6. Lechon
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Website: https://www.lechonpdx.com/
Address: 113 SW Naito Pkwy
Contact details: (503) 219-9000
Operating hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Friday – Saturday: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Happy hour: Monday – Saturday: 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Lechon is a notable eating venue that presents an exciting range of South American flavors, mainly from Argentine and Chilean cuisines.
The restaurant is well-known for its delectable food. Its menu showcases Executive Chef Jaco Smith’s creative cooking approach with dishes like grilled octopus and shrimp ceviche.
They also have an equally impressive cocktail list. It features a diverse selection that complements its menu, making it ideal for both casual outings and special occasions.
The place has a historic charm with contemporary decor, offering a relaxed yet upscale dining experience. Plus, the exceptional service provided by the attentive and courteous staff enhances the overall experience.
Pro tip:
Feel free to ask the staff for wine pairings. Their friendly team can suggest excellent options from their South American wine list to enhance your meal.
7. Ringside Steakhouse
Media credits: ringsidesteakhouse
Website: https://www.ringsidesteakhouse.com/
Address: 2165 W. Burnside
Contact details: (503) 223-1513
Operating hours:
- Thursday: 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM
- Friday: 4:30 PM – 9:30 PM
- Saturday: 4:00 PM – 9:30 PM
- Sunday: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Noted for its authentic steakhouse vibe and excellent food selection, Ringside Steakhouse is a must-visit fancy restaurant in Portland. Founded in 1944, this family-run restaurant is famous for its classic American cuisine and historical elegance.
The menu offers prime cuts like USDA Certified Angus Beef. It also features a 12-ounce New York strip and a 24-ounce Porterhouse, both cooked to perfection and served sizzling.
Guests can also enjoy sides. Among the must-tries is their signature Walla Walla onion rings, which boast a crispy texture and sweet flavor.
The restaurant’s refined space and professional service are complemented by its vintage furnishings and warm fireplace. It’s the ideal spot for business meals, special celebrations, or a fun night out.
Pro tip:
Consider ordering one of the prime or dry-aged steaks. Regular patrons often recommend the bone-in rib-eye, cooked to medium-rare for the best flavor and texture.
8. Ox
Media credits: oxpdx
Website: https://oxpdx.com/
Address: 2225 NE Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Contact details: (503) 284-3366
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Ox Restaurant is an Argentinian steakhouse known for its creative menu and wood-fired grills. Since its 2012 launch, Ox has garnered avid customers and awards, such as The Oregonian’s 2013 Restaurant of the Year award.
Their Bone Marrow Clam Chowder is a must-try meal. It wows guests with its unusual combination of creamy and smokey flavors.
They also have Asado Argentino, which is a robust platter of buttery skirt steak, tender bone-in short ribs, and savory chorizo. It’s served with a delicious side of fried potatoes and refreshing salads.
Pro tip:
For your main course, opt for the maple-brined pork chop. Pair it with sides like Brussels sprouts or papas bravas to create a well-rounded meal.
9. Swiss Hibiscus
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Website: https://swisshibiscus.com/
Address: 4950 NE 14th Avenue
Contact details: (503) 477-9224
Operating hours: Thursday – Sunday: 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM
With a menu full of traditional dishes made by Swiss Chef Martin Wyss, Swiss Hibiscus is a hidden dining gem. It provides a genuine taste of Swiss and European cuisine.
The star dish on this menu is the Emincé Zurichoise–slivered pork in a thick mushroom sauce. It’s both savory and creamy in flavor and goes well with their hand-pressed spaetzle.
They also serve cheese fondue. It’s intricately prepared with kirsch, enhancing its sweetness and richness.
To finish your meal, you can choose from Swiss Apple Pie or Chocolate Mousse, two of the restaurant’s outstanding desserts.
Pro tip:
If your party consists of six or more, it’s best to contact the restaurant directly to check on availability.
10. Departure Restaurant and Lounge
Media credits: departurepdx
Website: https://www.departureportland.com/
Address: 525 SW Morrison Street
Contact details: (503) 802-5370
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Departure Restaurant and Lounge is a posh spot known for its inventive Pan-Asian cuisine and stunning city views. Designed by Chef Gregory Gourdet, it showcases a range of Asian flavors with modern cooking techniques.
Their signature dishes include the smoked salmon rolls that are composed of yuzu kosho, miso-sesame, and crisp cucumber. It delivers a refreshing yet rich flavor profile, making it one of the fan-favorites on the menu.
They also serve beautifully presented sushi rolls and dumplings. Plus, they boast a diverse sake list and a cocktail menu that pairs perfectly with the Asian-inspired dishes.
Pro tip:
The menu is designed for sharing, so order several small plates to sample a variety of flavors. Dishes like Yakitori and assorted sushi rolls are perfect for this.
