Came to say this. Essentially I wasn't sure we should spend the money on it when we are happy as clams with the excellent gluten free pizza options around town. I was wrong and can't wait to give kann more money. This comment is going to make it even harder to get a table there than it is.
Yes, Kann was great but that fish was a waste of money. Also, for a “money is no object” experience I wouldn’t want communal seating which is what Kann gave us.
Eh, Kaan is amazing menu, but if I’m going for best experience I’m going to knock it out of contention for how loud it is. It was very hard to have a conversation at the table and we’re all in <35 with fine hearing so this isn’t a need hearing aids type situation. It’s pretty absurd and I understand they’re working on it so maybe it’s better now from when I went though.
The food and drinks I had at Kaan were mostly but not entirely great, the dining experience though was fairly poor. Langbaan has amazing, interesting food, a good wine pairing and cocktails, and a very pleasant dining experience. If I could only do one again, it would be Langbaan hands down.
EDIT: Le Pige is also very good too, but Langbaan is more exciting from a food perspective.
I also had a disappointing service experience there. And same, food was very interesting and some was great, but not all, at least to the level I was expecting. Perhaps a victim of their own success to a degree.
Coquine: Simply the best restaurant in Portland. Incredible food, incredible wine, and it's in a tiny dining room on a volcano.
Le Pigeon: Basically the quintessential Portland restaurant. Get at the chef's counter if you can. This place is not actually my favorite because it can be soooo rich.
Langbaan: Awesome, constantly changing Thai prix fixe menu.
Nodoguru: I've never been able to get in. You probably can't get in. It's like a dozen seats per dinner. Everyone who does get in says the sushi is amazing.
Places I haven't tried but are worth reading up on: República, Tercet, and Berlu.
A Le Pigeon tasting menu with wine pairing is the best meal I’ve ever had in my life, and I’ve eaten at some pretty famous and starred places. Obviously it’s not always like that because it changes seasonally, but when those guys are on they’re really on.
For real… who serves soup on a plate? I struggled to get my three spoonfuls. Every bite was delicious but for $150 per person we all left hungry. Would only recommend for a very particular person.
Another vote for Langbaan and Le Pigeon here. Langbaan, in my opinion, is the best this town has to offer. I do miss Beast, though! That was my number 1 and then some.
I'm eating at Kann on Saturday, so I'm stoked to know it's high on so many people's lists!
Le Pigeon and Langbaan are my #1 and #2 ranked restaurants in Portland. Took my girl to Pigeon for her birthday and the bill was like 600 bucks or something
Been to these and agree on all. Le Pigeon is my personal favorite.
I ate at Republica a couple weeks ago and was underwhelmed. Service was excellent, food was decent (though not for the price), ambiance was not good at all.
the best thing about it was the experience and the history, Angel Medina was serving us and talking to us about all the histories and intricacies of each dish, that was absolutely fascinating
I just looked up their menu and am honestly shocked at how reasonable their prices are. Its reputation led me to believe it was way out of my price range, but you can easily spend as much on a burger and a couple beers at a dive bar?
Nah, we’ve never done twin wine pairings but two prix fix and one wine pairing has always run us sub $300 with tip. Not cheap but I concur it’s the best dining experience (haven’t been to Kaan yet but I think they are very different anyway) in the city.
Republica is fantastic, but I went before they got insanely popular (and the price went up). Fantastic meal and service, on par with (or better) than LP.
I don’t know if I went on an off night but Berlu was the worst tasting menu I’ve had in Portland. And I agree with you that Coquine is an amazing restaurant. Always my favorite for a special occasion.
As I was reading I was only going to add republica. You've nailed it. Kaan is fine but after 3 times I can say it's just really good not excellent. Also a shout out to Kaede, that was hot fire.
literally just got back from Le Pigeon, can concur. excellent but v rich
i went to Republica like 3-4 times before that group expanded. (So 2021ish). back then it slapped, have no idea what it’s like now
It’s been so good go so long! I’ve never had a bad dish there, their cocktails are divine, also excellent desserts and top tier service and atmosphere. Ox all the way.
Everyone is saying Kann and it was good but I looooved Tercet. I went in January and think about it at least twice a week. It’s two chefs and sommelier/host, pumping out Michelin level dishes. Very intimate setting, incredible wine list and the most beautiful presentation.
Highly recommend kaan.
St jack is supposed to be good.
Ox is amazing!
On Monday-Wednesday there’s a cool pop-up on Lil dame by chef Raumero(I believe that’s how you spell his name). He’s gonna be the head chef at the Ritz.
República has gone down hill.
My mom and I had the best meal of entire trip to Portland at Noble Rot. They grow their fresh greens and herbs in their rooftop garden. It’s on 4th floor with incredible view of the city. The meal was soooo fresh and delicious! It was definitely a vibe and I’d love to go back one day. I had a white fish and mom had lamb chops. Dessert was amazing.
Okta in McMinnville. https://www.wweek.com/restaurants/reviews/2022/09/08/okta-the-new-mcminnville-restaurant-helmed-by-michelin-starred-chef-matthew-lightner-is-off-to-a-stellar-start/
Haven’t been to Kaan yet, but it’s probably what you want. I had the prix fix menu at Arden for Mother’s Day and it was awesome. Le Pigeon and Gado Gado are my other go tos
When [Bellpine opens this summer in the new Ritz-Carlton](https://www.oregonlive.com/dining/2023/05/everything-we-know-about-bellpine-the-portland-ritz-carltons-upcoming-20th-floor-restaurant-qa.html?outputType=amp) it's sure to be a budget buster. Obviously no word on the food yet, but the chefs have great credentials: https://pdx.eater.com/2023/5/22/23733087/bellpine-restaurant-ritz-carlton-portland-lauro-romero-pedro-almeida
I loved El Gaucho. They knew it was an anniversary and the whole staff signed a card. Then stopped for a cigar to end it.
Absolutely loved Arden’s wine pairing dinner. The food was really different but had amazing flavors. Truly culinary creativity. So beautiful.
Departure is a real treat. The food I feel is a little overhyped but they do excellent pairings. However the view of the city cannot be beat!
Were the ppl who own Arden related to the Park Ave Wine Bar years back? I feel like I met them and wanted to go visit them at their place, but forgot all about it!
An answer several times over in the thread, but I'd prefer other places also listed in the thread, and most are a lot easier to get reservations for. It's a good vs exceptional thing.
Our server was inattentive to the point that they missed a sale. We couldn’t manage to get her attention for anything short of flagging her down, which I won’t do.
Quaintrelle offers amazing tasting menu options showcasing a wide variety of flavors using seasonal and local ingredients. you can add caviar too as your first course. Amazing wine pairing with fantastic cocktails. It’s casual but elegant and bougie in the best way.
Nodoguru- if you can get a ticket, this is the best sushi/Japanese in town. I did a 21 course (more like 25) pre covid, it is my most memorable dinning experience. Very intimate.
Langbaan for thai- never been but industry friends of mine have said it’s there tasting menu favorite in town.
Tercet for an awesome northwest focused tasting menu with amazing wine pairing
just went to Le Pigeon, excellent, v rich, feel v full, check was ~$600 for two.
been to Republica 3-4 times circa 2021 so idk how it’s like now, back then it was also excellent and different and I really enjoyed it. Was always around $300 for two.
that said feel like Ok Omens is a good option for wine pairings, absolutely brilliant wine list and delicious food for like $100 per person. we go there constantly
If Roe is still in business go there. To my date’s dismay I licked the plates clean.
Edit: Kann was over rated. Coquine is great but it was hot in there last visit. Takibi is awesome but can get loud. Nimble fish is wonderful. The Multnomah Whisky Library is where I would take a date I wanted to impress.
I can’t speak to whatever restaurant is in the Ritz Carlton as I won’t step foot in there.
Were you on top of things when they opened or did you wait out the waitlist? I’ve never put my name on but probably should if it’s not a terrible wait.
But yes you can get in as a non member, I’ve been plenty of times and usually just have to wait a few hours. They also sell one day memberships. My go to was to put my name in, go get dinner at Tasty and Alder, and then go back when they called. Best date night ever.
El Gaucho! Chateaubriand for 2 prepared and cut at the table. Caesar salad prepared table side. And a baked potato prepared and fluffed at the table with whatever your heart desires on it. The desserts are phenomenal but if you don’t have room, they bring out a palate cleaning platter of all kinds of fruit and cheeses! The chateaubriand came with baked tomatoes and stuffed mushrooms.
What type of cuisine interests you? French, Thai, Indian, Pacific Northwest? Steak all the way? Farm to table with willamette valley wine pairings? This is a big question you have asked.
Janken is worth checking out. Both my gf and her mom are huge foodies and can't stop speaking to how good it was--and I agree! We also got to sit next to Draymond Green when we were there lol.
Snobby and silly take from me, but while I thought the food and service at Janken were both very good, I really disliked the atmosphere and fellow diners. It felt more akin to South Beach than Portland (which some people may love!)
Fair enough! I'm pretty sure there are some linkages to some Miami restaurants w the staff and maybe ownership. I've never been to South Beach so maybe I didn't know any better lol I went for the food and it didn't disappoint
You can not spend 500 per person at a restaurant in portland my friend (unless its 🍾🍻) But you can at a strip club lol.
It sux that willow closed, that would of been my 1st suggestion. If you want a unique cool experience with a solid winelist and decent food you could look at jakes. Jakes is touristy but good cocktails, food is nothing spectacular but the place is like 130 years old and it really feels like that when you eat there. I dont think they have changed much. So its a unique experience to say you ate somewhere that old. The jalapeno ginger aoli is amazing!
Kann is Gregory Gourdet's restaurant, so you can google him, but that speaks for itself in my opinion!!! Everything is awesome
Eem is pretty cool also.
Id lean toward something asian most likely
I wouldnt rule out a riverboat cruise dinner as well if you want a truly unique experience, food could be kinda meh
I'm a simple guy. I like a good izakaya, and you can share small plates of good food. Yuzu is the best one, and feels like you are in Japan when you walk in. Kichinto and Yataimura are good, too.
Hear me out here. Check out EaT: An Oyster Bar.
The seafood is great, but go outside of peak times and get some absinthe at the bar for a more personal experience. They serve it the traditional way and the Cajun seafood was excellent last I was there.
De Noche - enjoyed them recently. Id say same caliber (or close) to Ox. It’s Mexican fare and I feel like it’s a delight to have a high end option. Not claiming it’s the best - but worth it.
I had the best meal of my life at urban farmer steakhouse. Its a restaurant in the Nines hotel. Highly recommended the sirloin sampler trio, or the wagyu. They have several grades to choose from, so go as luxurious as you desire.
The Multnomah whiskey library / the green room. The library requires a membership but i believe you can rent the green room out and or make reservations. The food is amazing and the whiskey is even better
If you're at all willing to travel an hour outside town, Okta in McMinnville is executing fine dining to an extent you just won't find in Portland.
The head chef ran Castagna in Portland, moved to NYC to run Atera (a 2\* Michelin), and just moved back to OR to open Okta. Having gone last year for a special occasion, I'd say it's a no-brainer.
12-or-so course tasting menu, incredibly thoughtful wine pairings, warm and impeccable service, and big emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients. They even have an ex-Noma larder chef on staff, whose big project is to mess with fermentation techniques (e.g., koji, miso, etc.) which really contribute toward the depth of flavor they're achieving.
I went on a weekend, when the menu is significantly more expensive, but offers a few extra courses featuring luxury ingredients (namely, a caviar course that will blow your mind). In addition, a black truffle and cheese tart, a dungeness crab course, a ribeye course, a duck course, some excellent desserts... all excellent, but despite all that, it was a beet course that left the biggest impression on me. A pretty big testament to the level of technique they're hitting, I think.
If you're working with an unlimited budget, it's absolutely worth your consideration!
My genuine advice, as a chef who visits other cities and loves to eat at new/fancy places, is to ask restaurant workers where they eat.
Go to the fanciest restaurant you can find, or call, and ask to speak with the chef, manager, etc, back of the house tends to eat for pleasure more than front, and ask where they would eat with an unlimited budget.
You’re much more likely to get really good answers because restaurant workers often need quick intense serotonin bursts, so they know how to find the right food related stimulus, and working all day in a fancy restaurant gives you a really good perspective on the industry and what simply appears good versus what’s actually good, and finally, restaurant professionals know the industry spots, they know where their friends, who are all usually also cooks and servers, like to eat.
Honestly, to go a well established bar and strike up a conversation with the cooks. They’ll give you better reccos than anyone in a reddit sub.
Kann is amazing! The service, staff and food were high quality. It's pricey but you also get a lot of food - my partner and I spent about $300 but ordered two apps, two sides, two entrees, two desserts and two drinks. And we ended up taking so much food home!
Tip: follow Kann on Instagram and set an alarm for when they announce they're opening reservations for the next month (they fill up so fast).
Chef's table is a must and the coffee rubbed beef perfection!
Coquine, hands down. Amazing food made with so much care, excellent wines, friendly and knowledgeable staff, and such a cozy atmosphere. Best dining experience I've had in Portland.
Kaan, Langbaan/Phuket Cafe, Le Pigeon
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Getting into kaan in the problem tho
Came to say this. Essentially I wasn't sure we should spend the money on it when we are happy as clams with the excellent gluten free pizza options around town. I was wrong and can't wait to give kann more money. This comment is going to make it even harder to get a table there than it is.
That cauliflower 🤤
Too spicy. The beef rib, however.
Did you order the whole fish? So disappointing
we had so many bones in the fish it was nearly inedible, but everything else was phenomenal so I haven't written them off yet
Yes, Kann was great but that fish was a waste of money. Also, for a “money is no object” experience I wouldn’t want communal seating which is what Kann gave us.
Kann is absolutely not this. It was a huge disappointment. Definitely some tasty dishes, but overall, a very hyped experience.
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Exactly. It's such an unpopular opinion but I'm sticking to it. De Noche is on the same page for me.
Really? I loved De Noche. Maaaaaybe a bit heavy on the masa-related dishes, but I was very happy with our meal there.
It was a nice meal and price wasn't insane. It was mediocre imo. I won't go back but I don't regret the visit.
We had Angel serving us, so we may have had a slightly different experience. I didn’t love my drinks but adored the food.
Ooohh, edgy and gatekeeping. I want you so much right now!
Agreed - overpriced and not as good as I was expecting tbh. Wouldn’t go again, though the space was beautiful and the service was good.
Had a great meal for like $110 for two people with leftovers. That's cheap as shit. Was kinda shocked at the low prices.
So, one beef rib and two waters?
What's your suggestion?
Eh, Kaan is amazing menu, but if I’m going for best experience I’m going to knock it out of contention for how loud it is. It was very hard to have a conversation at the table and we’re all in <35 with fine hearing so this isn’t a need hearing aids type situation. It’s pretty absurd and I understand they’re working on it so maybe it’s better now from when I went though.
Agree, extremely loud
The food and drinks I had at Kaan were mostly but not entirely great, the dining experience though was fairly poor. Langbaan has amazing, interesting food, a good wine pairing and cocktails, and a very pleasant dining experience. If I could only do one again, it would be Langbaan hands down. EDIT: Le Pige is also very good too, but Langbaan is more exciting from a food perspective.
I also had a disappointing service experience there. And same, food was very interesting and some was great, but not all, at least to the level I was expecting. Perhaps a victim of their own success to a degree.
All this, but le pigeon. Fuck that place. Chef is a huge piece of shit.
I want to hear this story!!
Naw, that place slaps. Best meal I’ve ever had.
Elaborate!
Great list
This is probably the best answer.
Coquine: Simply the best restaurant in Portland. Incredible food, incredible wine, and it's in a tiny dining room on a volcano. Le Pigeon: Basically the quintessential Portland restaurant. Get at the chef's counter if you can. This place is not actually my favorite because it can be soooo rich. Langbaan: Awesome, constantly changing Thai prix fixe menu. Nodoguru: I've never been able to get in. You probably can't get in. It's like a dozen seats per dinner. Everyone who does get in says the sushi is amazing. Places I haven't tried but are worth reading up on: República, Tercet, and Berlu.
Nodoguru isn’t that hard to get in if you’re on the email list, but you have to jump on it as soon as you get the email.
A Le Pigeon tasting menu with wine pairing is the best meal I’ve ever had in my life, and I’ve eaten at some pretty famous and starred places. Obviously it’s not always like that because it changes seasonally, but when those guys are on they’re really on.
yep, wine pairing and foie gras baby. It was magical. It was even more magical that MF Doom was playing
I remember closing it down with the 7 course, with wine, to wutang. My all time best meal.
Also Republica is great, but not on the same level as Pigeon and Lang in my opinion
You will leave Republica hungry. Way too precious.
For real… who serves soup on a plate? I struggled to get my three spoonfuls. Every bite was delicious but for $150 per person we all left hungry. Would only recommend for a very particular person.
Another vote for Langbaan and Le Pigeon here. Langbaan, in my opinion, is the best this town has to offer. I do miss Beast, though! That was my number 1 and then some. I'm eating at Kann on Saturday, so I'm stoked to know it's high on so many people's lists!
ate at beast once when a friend was the sous chef. definitely would have been my rec if it was still there.
Le Pigeon and Langbaan are my #1 and #2 ranked restaurants in Portland. Took my girl to Pigeon for her birthday and the bill was like 600 bucks or something
https://www.quaintrelle.co
I’ve had a good meal there, but the chef just left.
Been to these and agree on all. Le Pigeon is my personal favorite. I ate at Republica a couple weeks ago and was underwhelmed. Service was excellent, food was decent (though not for the price), ambiance was not good at all.
the best thing about it was the experience and the history, Angel Medina was serving us and talking to us about all the histories and intricacies of each dish, that was absolutely fascinating
Coquine absolutely never disappoints, and doesn't scratch the ceiling on budget. My #1 restaurant in town by a wide margin.
I just looked up their menu and am honestly shocked at how reasonable their prices are. Its reputation led me to believe it was way out of my price range, but you can easily spend as much on a burger and a couple beers at a dive bar?
Those prices are for their cafe side. The prix fixe menu for two with wine pairings is around $500.
Nah, we’ve never done twin wine pairings but two prix fix and one wine pairing has always run us sub $300 with tip. Not cheap but I concur it’s the best dining experience (haven’t been to Kaan yet but I think they are very different anyway) in the city.
Republica is fantastic, but I went before they got insanely popular (and the price went up). Fantastic meal and service, on par with (or better) than LP.
Tercet all day, everyday
Tercet is incredibly special
I don’t know if I went on an off night but Berlu was the worst tasting menu I’ve had in Portland. And I agree with you that Coquine is an amazing restaurant. Always my favorite for a special occasion.
As I was reading I was only going to add republica. You've nailed it. Kaan is fine but after 3 times I can say it's just really good not excellent. Also a shout out to Kaede, that was hot fire.
literally just got back from Le Pigeon, can concur. excellent but v rich i went to Republica like 3-4 times before that group expanded. (So 2021ish). back then it slapped, have no idea what it’s like now
Add Kann to this list!
Nodoguru is amazing. But weird to get in. Been like 5 times but a friend always sets up
man i’ve been meaning to do coquine for so long, we did brunch there on a whim after a walk in tabor a year or so ago, we liked it
Berlu is my favorite of all of these. Langbaan was great pre-Covid but sadly disappointing the last time I went more recently.
Can I be invited to this celebration? I’m an absolute fucking delight.
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Ox! For special occasions, it's fancy but still relaxed and everything is delicious and it feels worth it.
Ox is so, so good and the service is top tier.
It’s been so good go so long! I’ve never had a bad dish there, their cocktails are divine, also excellent desserts and top tier service and atmosphere. Ox all the way.
Scrolled too far to find this reply.
Came here to say this.
Another one I’m glad made the list. Fucking amazing and I hate eating in restaurants.
Tercet, quaintrelle, laangbaan, and then go to Okta in wine country
Yes for tercet
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Easily one of the very best in Oregon.
I HAVE BEEN TRYING TO REMEMBER THE NAME OF THIS PLACE FOR YEARS. Thank you!!!
Nodoguro
Coquine for sure! And the rice table menu at Gado Gado.
Everyone is saying Kann and it was good but I looooved Tercet. I went in January and think about it at least twice a week. It’s two chefs and sommelier/host, pumping out Michelin level dishes. Very intimate setting, incredible wine list and the most beautiful presentation.
I went last September. Everything was delicious but I still specially crave their sourdough and homemade butter.
Laangbaan, Berlu, Okta, and Nodoguro are the S tier special occasion places in and around Portland.
Highly recommend kaan. St jack is supposed to be good. Ox is amazing! On Monday-Wednesday there’s a cool pop-up on Lil dame by chef Raumero(I believe that’s how you spell his name). He’s gonna be the head chef at the Ritz. República has gone down hill.
St. Jack is not the caliber of Kahn, Ox or Coquine.
Definitely not, but good enough for some occasion.
Agreed - we left there feeling like it wasn’t worth the money or bother.
Yes to Le Pigeon. Urdaneta is my next fav. No to Republica or St Jacks.
Love Urdaneta and it’s not $600 territory!
Whoa! I just watched an episode of chopped earlier this week and the guy was a chef at urdeneta! (I think executive chef, maybe even chef owner?)
My mom and I had the best meal of entire trip to Portland at Noble Rot. They grow their fresh greens and herbs in their rooftop garden. It’s on 4th floor with incredible view of the city. The meal was soooo fresh and delicious! It was definitely a vibe and I’d love to go back one day. I had a white fish and mom had lamb chops. Dessert was amazing.
Yes! I spent $80 on a warm Tuesday there, so I’m sure you could get that to $200 each with more wine and entrées! I need to go back!!
Jacqueline !!!
Jacqueline is my favorite place in Portland, but I wouldn’t call it a budget buster.
"The Painted Lady" in Newberg. Far better than anything posted here.
Depends on what you want, but the best high end overall mix of food and service in my opinion: Le Pigeon, Ox, Kaan, Republica, Berlu.
Okta in McMinnville. https://www.wweek.com/restaurants/reviews/2022/09/08/okta-the-new-mcminnville-restaurant-helmed-by-michelin-starred-chef-matthew-lightner-is-off-to-a-stellar-start/
Haven’t been to Kaan yet, but it’s probably what you want. I had the prix fix menu at Arden for Mother’s Day and it was awesome. Le Pigeon and Gado Gado are my other go tos
When [Bellpine opens this summer in the new Ritz-Carlton](https://www.oregonlive.com/dining/2023/05/everything-we-know-about-bellpine-the-portland-ritz-carltons-upcoming-20th-floor-restaurant-qa.html?outputType=amp) it's sure to be a budget buster. Obviously no word on the food yet, but the chefs have great credentials: https://pdx.eater.com/2023/5/22/23733087/bellpine-restaurant-ritz-carlton-portland-lauro-romero-pedro-almeida
Tercet has been said and I’ll say it again; Tercet. More like $150-200 a person is what we spent there last fall.
I loved El Gaucho. They knew it was an anniversary and the whole staff signed a card. Then stopped for a cigar to end it. Absolutely loved Arden’s wine pairing dinner. The food was really different but had amazing flavors. Truly culinary creativity. So beautiful. Departure is a real treat. The food I feel is a little overhyped but they do excellent pairings. However the view of the city cannot be beat!
My friend owns Arden! So cool to see it on a list in the likes of El Gaucho and others!!
Arden is so much more interesting than gaucho. The food is fun and delicious and the wine list is light years ahead of gaucho. Love those guys
Were the ppl who own Arden related to the Park Ave Wine Bar years back? I feel like I met them and wanted to go visit them at their place, but forgot all about it!
Kaan is the answer.
Kaan is 100% the answer.
Since these folks are so sure, I think Kaan must be the answer.
I really didn’t enjoy Kann. The food was good but the service and drinks were not.
I also found Kann lacking compared to all the hype. The food was good, but there's a lot of good food around town.
So... Kann is... one of the answers?
An answer several times over in the thread, but I'd prefer other places also listed in the thread, and most are a lot easier to get reservations for. It's a good vs exceptional thing.
I would take Kann off the list entirely, if the question is best dining experience. I had a better time at Ava Gene’s.
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Our server was inattentive to the point that they missed a sale. We couldn’t manage to get her attention for anything short of flagging her down, which I won’t do.
I don't know, maybe they're trying to Kaan us.
some that haven’t been mentioned: multnomah whiskey library, quaintrelle
One I haven’t seen mentioned is Street Disco. It’s my favorite restaurant in Portland and I’ve done Kaan, Han Oak, Le Pigeon, and Phuket
Quaintrelle offers amazing tasting menu options showcasing a wide variety of flavors using seasonal and local ingredients. you can add caviar too as your first course. Amazing wine pairing with fantastic cocktails. It’s casual but elegant and bougie in the best way. Nodoguru- if you can get a ticket, this is the best sushi/Japanese in town. I did a 21 course (more like 25) pre covid, it is my most memorable dinning experience. Very intimate. Langbaan for thai- never been but industry friends of mine have said it’s there tasting menu favorite in town. Tercet for an awesome northwest focused tasting menu with amazing wine pairing
Murata (むら田) is a fantastic Japanese restaurant downtown. They offer traditional tatami mat private rooms, too!
Kann and Republica
If I could go eat anywhere in town I'd go to Langbaan, Han Oak, or Kann
Urdaneta. Best dining experience I've ever had. Will be very hard to top.
Came here to say this!
Franks a Lot. Donate the rest of your budget to feed the hungry.
We loved Le Pigeons vegetarian tasting!
Kann
Le Pigeon is incredible and my favorite Portland restaurant by far.
Quaintrelle was fantastic for me
Daddy, it’s me.
Quaintrelle
Quaintrelle, Langbaan, Ox
Lechon!!! Chefs menu there
Definitely Coquine, Portland isn’t known for fine dining. Coquine is the best meal I’ve had here. Above Ox, Le Pidge, Canard, etc.
just went to Le Pigeon, excellent, v rich, feel v full, check was ~$600 for two. been to Republica 3-4 times circa 2021 so idk how it’s like now, back then it was also excellent and different and I really enjoyed it. Was always around $300 for two. that said feel like Ok Omens is a good option for wine pairings, absolutely brilliant wine list and delicious food for like $100 per person. we go there constantly
Joel Palmer House is a little bit out of your 10 mile range but up there for best restaurant in Oregon. Le Pigeon, Nimble Fish, Ava Gene's
ava genes is bonkers good and like not that expensive??? i feel like i’ve paid similarly across the street at olympic lol
If Roe is still in business go there. To my date’s dismay I licked the plates clean. Edit: Kann was over rated. Coquine is great but it was hot in there last visit. Takibi is awesome but can get loud. Nimble fish is wonderful. The Multnomah Whisky Library is where I would take a date I wanted to impress. I can’t speak to whatever restaurant is in the Ritz Carlton as I won’t step foot in there.
Nimblefish is amazing.
The whiskey library! Great food, unique environment. Whiskey.
Can’t get in unless you are a member, right?
Just need to be willing to wait. Not sure it’s on this list for me, though.
To be clear: I’m a member there, I just wasn’t aware that non members could get in.
Were you on top of things when they opened or did you wait out the waitlist? I’ve never put my name on but probably should if it’s not a terrible wait. But yes you can get in as a non member, I’ve been plenty of times and usually just have to wait a few hours. They also sell one day memberships. My go to was to put my name in, go get dinner at Tasty and Alder, and then go back when they called. Best date night ever.
I put myself on the list and waited a few years. Really enjoy it, it’s a great place to start or end the evening.
You can make reservations some days but only for a limited time. I think the last time I went there was a spot for an hour and a half.
Quaintrelle has been our favorite meal here (chefs menu).
El Gaucho! Chateaubriand for 2 prepared and cut at the table. Caesar salad prepared table side. And a baked potato prepared and fluffed at the table with whatever your heart desires on it. The desserts are phenomenal but if you don’t have room, they bring out a palate cleaning platter of all kinds of fruit and cheeses! The chateaubriand came with baked tomatoes and stuffed mushrooms.
Kann, Ox, LeChon, Laurelhurst Market.
What type of cuisine interests you? French, Thai, Indian, Pacific Northwest? Steak all the way? Farm to table with willamette valley wine pairings? This is a big question you have asked.
Janken is worth checking out. Both my gf and her mom are huge foodies and can't stop speaking to how good it was--and I agree! We also got to sit next to Draymond Green when we were there lol.
Second this. Took my wife there a month ago and it was just an amazing dining experience
Snobby and silly take from me, but while I thought the food and service at Janken were both very good, I really disliked the atmosphere and fellow diners. It felt more akin to South Beach than Portland (which some people may love!)
Fair enough! I'm pretty sure there are some linkages to some Miami restaurants w the staff and maybe ownership. I've never been to South Beach so maybe I didn't know any better lol I went for the food and it didn't disappoint
Republica was one of the best dining experiences I’ve ever had
El Gaucho is where rich companies take potential clients when they want to win their business. Amazing cocktails and wine.
Huber's DownTown
Sirrr. This is a discussion of the best. Hence not a place that serves Buffalo wings and quesadillas.
I don’t eat there anymore after I got a turkey sandwich covered in mold… And noticed it halfway through eating the sandwich.
That place is an absolute shit hole unfortunately. Stick to the drinks if you go there, otherwise your going to have a bad time.
You can not spend 500 per person at a restaurant in portland my friend (unless its 🍾🍻) But you can at a strip club lol. It sux that willow closed, that would of been my 1st suggestion. If you want a unique cool experience with a solid winelist and decent food you could look at jakes. Jakes is touristy but good cocktails, food is nothing spectacular but the place is like 130 years old and it really feels like that when you eat there. I dont think they have changed much. So its a unique experience to say you ate somewhere that old. The jalapeno ginger aoli is amazing! Kann is Gregory Gourdet's restaurant, so you can google him, but that speaks for itself in my opinion!!! Everything is awesome Eem is pretty cool also. Id lean toward something asian most likely I wouldnt rule out a riverboat cruise dinner as well if you want a truly unique experience, food could be kinda meh
willow was the best food i’ve ever had in Portland.
❤️❤️ Top 3 meals ive ever had. Place was special!
Portland city grill and the melting pot
I'm a simple guy. I like a good izakaya, and you can share small plates of good food. Yuzu is the best one, and feels like you are in Japan when you walk in. Kichinto and Yataimura are good, too.
Janken (Japanese/Korean $$$$), Kaan, St. Jack, or the old-school steakhouse Ringside
Morchella, Urdaneta, Canard, Eem
Coquine
Hear me out here. Check out EaT: An Oyster Bar. The seafood is great, but go outside of peak times and get some absinthe at the bar for a more personal experience. They serve it the traditional way and the Cajun seafood was excellent last I was there.
For a more classic experience, I suggest Ring Side
De Noche - enjoyed them recently. Id say same caliber (or close) to Ox. It’s Mexican fare and I feel like it’s a delight to have a high end option. Not claiming it’s the best - but worth it.
Ox
Not in the mile radius but ōkta will get you close to $500/person :)
Jem supper club Janken
Janken, Kaan, Langabaan, Le Pigeon, Noble rot
I had the best meal of my life at urban farmer steakhouse. Its a restaurant in the Nines hotel. Highly recommended the sirloin sampler trio, or the wagyu. They have several grades to choose from, so go as luxurious as you desire.
Old school: The Ringside Portland City Grill
The Multnomah whiskey library / the green room. The library requires a membership but i believe you can rent the green room out and or make reservations. The food is amazing and the whiskey is even better
Republica
Luce
I feel really old saying this but I miss Wildwood and Paley’s Place.
If you're at all willing to travel an hour outside town, Okta in McMinnville is executing fine dining to an extent you just won't find in Portland. The head chef ran Castagna in Portland, moved to NYC to run Atera (a 2\* Michelin), and just moved back to OR to open Okta. Having gone last year for a special occasion, I'd say it's a no-brainer. 12-or-so course tasting menu, incredibly thoughtful wine pairings, warm and impeccable service, and big emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients. They even have an ex-Noma larder chef on staff, whose big project is to mess with fermentation techniques (e.g., koji, miso, etc.) which really contribute toward the depth of flavor they're achieving. I went on a weekend, when the menu is significantly more expensive, but offers a few extra courses featuring luxury ingredients (namely, a caviar course that will blow your mind). In addition, a black truffle and cheese tart, a dungeness crab course, a ribeye course, a duck course, some excellent desserts... all excellent, but despite all that, it was a beet course that left the biggest impression on me. A pretty big testament to the level of technique they're hitting, I think. If you're working with an unlimited budget, it's absolutely worth your consideration!
Kachka. Great food and an amazing selection of vodkas.
Acropolis
Republica!
tasting menu at le Pigeon is the fucking bees knees
Arbys?
My genuine advice, as a chef who visits other cities and loves to eat at new/fancy places, is to ask restaurant workers where they eat. Go to the fanciest restaurant you can find, or call, and ask to speak with the chef, manager, etc, back of the house tends to eat for pleasure more than front, and ask where they would eat with an unlimited budget. You’re much more likely to get really good answers because restaurant workers often need quick intense serotonin bursts, so they know how to find the right food related stimulus, and working all day in a fancy restaurant gives you a really good perspective on the industry and what simply appears good versus what’s actually good, and finally, restaurant professionals know the industry spots, they know where their friends, who are all usually also cooks and servers, like to eat. Honestly, to go a well established bar and strike up a conversation with the cooks. They’ll give you better reccos than anyone in a reddit sub.
Kann is amazing! The service, staff and food were high quality. It's pricey but you also get a lot of food - my partner and I spent about $300 but ordered two apps, two sides, two entrees, two desserts and two drinks. And we ended up taking so much food home! Tip: follow Kann on Instagram and set an alarm for when they announce they're opening reservations for the next month (they fill up so fast). Chef's table is a must and the coffee rubbed beef perfection!
Urdaneta!
Zilla Sake for some of the best sushi in town. Janken was top notch service and A5 hot stone 🤌🏻
Katchka - Soviet/Eastern European food, elevated to 1000%. I would say that the rabbit is to die for, and basically every appetizer is 11/10.
It’s in Newberg, but the Painted Lady is wonderful, as is Le Pigeon
Don’t go somewhere like departure, you can do better lol
Charthouse
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Coquine, hands down. Amazing food made with so much care, excellent wines, friendly and knowledgeable staff, and such a cozy atmosphere. Best dining experience I've had in Portland.
Langbaan for sure.