Trendy Hip Restaurants

Meliora Winter Pop-Up Series 4 Course Prix-Fixe Menu highlighting seasonal Pacific Northwest ingredients. Vegetarian options available. $59/person New Years Eve Dinners (12/30 and 12/31) $74/person Learn More »

Biwa, a Japanese restaurant located in southeast Portland, has a social awareness that will leave diners feeling good about eating here. Open until midnight, this restaurant features a special “late night” menu, offering up traditional Japanese dishes such as gyoza and specialty ramen. Biwa donates to local foundations such as the Newspace Scholarship Fund in addition to supporting global causes, such as tsunami relief. Add this to the fact that Biwa strives to use fresh, local ingredients, and it is easy to see why so many diners appreciate this refreshing take on dining. Learn More »

Le Pigeon’s burgeoning chef Gabriel Rucker has a knack for turning the ordinary into the extraordinary. Having flown the coop from Gotham Building Tavern a few years back to open this small and unfussy eatery, he’s met with nothing but success ever since. His nose-to-tail philosophy of cooking has produced specialties such as Duck-Duck-Pigeon, a pan-roasted squab with duck confit, and Poussin (a young, small chicken) with shell beans, corn, and chanterelles. With his desserts, Rucker veers away from traditional sugar-laden concoctions and opts for savory treats; Apricot Cornbread with Bacon and Maple Ice Cream is one option. With a … Learn More »

Restaurateur Bruce Carey’s Bluehour, named for that ethereal time between day and night, is a sophisticated take on Northwest-inspired Mediterranean cuisine. The sleek, contemporary dining room is a harmony of dramatic high ceilings and austere décor. With an intimate private dining space with a wall back-lit with 3,000 wine bottles, this is the ideal gathering place for a group of up to 100 people. Executive Chef Kenny Giambalvo’s fresh menu changes with the seasons but fear not, his signature dishes are as constant as the blue hour that the restaurant is name for. Learn More »

This tavern-style restaurant adjacent to the Ace Hotel offers a unique ambiance highlighted by creative and thoughtful fare by Chef Jason Barwikowski. With a culinary philosophy that incorporates foreign and domestic styles of cooking with local ingredients, one can expect foodie delights such as Foie Gras Torchon with rose sorbet and brioche croutons or Beef Tongue with seared scallops, beets and tomato jam. The space itself has a no frills minimalist décor boasting an open kitchen, zinc-topped bar, and long communal tables ideal for mingling with old and new friends alike. Learn More »

Pazzo Ristorante is the place to go for timelessly enjoyable Italian food and drinks. Pasta dishes, pizzas, salads, seafood, meats, breads, baked goods and desserts are prepared fresh daily by Chef John Eisenhart. A full bar featuring classic beverages and unique creations, an extensive wine list, a variety of American and Italian sodas, and coffees and teas accompanies Pazzo’s vibrant and flavorful menu selections. The chic, yet warm lighting and wood floors bring an intimate vibe to this otherwise busy street-corner location. Whether it’s a group brunch, romantic dinner, quick snack, or a round of drinks you’re looking for, Pazzo … Learn More »

Saucebox prides itself in serving pan Asian and Pacific Island cuisine that has never been so “sexy, delicious and swanky.” Restaurant not only serves high quality, authentic, yet inventive cuisine full of flavor, and original cocktails, but also provides a club venue atmosphere. Music is as much a part of this eatery as what comes on the plates, and resident DJ, Mr. MuMu makes sure the music leaves its mark with diners, whether it’s a soft background melody or the pulsing beat of one of their dance parties! Learn More »

Putting a modern spin on traditional Japanese foods is nothing new for this restaurant in downtown Portland. This Locally owned and family operated restaurant has been creating some inimitable dishes since 2004. Masu prides itself on its variety, service, and ability to accommodate both small and large parties with space for up to 175 people; guests can even take advantage of a private room for smaller parties. With its second story view, beautiful wood paneling, and a lounge area, Masu sushi’s chic and modern style makes it a great place to grab a drink or even sit down for a … Learn More »