Deschutes Brewery & Public House
210 N.W. 11th Ave.
Housed in a former auto body shop in the trendy Pearl District, Deschutes Brewery & Public House is a must-try if you want to dive into the local beer scene and are wondering where to eat in Portland. The brewpub boasts more than 20 beers on tap in addition to a full menu of refined pub grub. Good options include the elk burger topped with beer-brined pickles, an East Coast–style Dungeness crab roll, house-made sausages, and the beer-infused mac ‘n’ cheese. If the dining area is packed, you can grab a drink from the bar side, which also serves the full menu. One of the oldest restaurants in Portland is also one of its most beloved. Established in 1879, is known for its traditional turkey dinners served with mashed potatoes, baked yams, sage stuffing and cranberry sauce, as well as for its signature Spanish coffee, prepared tableside with rum, triple sec, Kahlúa, whipped cream and some dramatic pyrotechnics. In addition to traditional turkey dishes, the menu offers steaks, seafood, salads, clam chowder and other American fare. We recommend requesting a table or booth in the old bar area, outfitted with mahogany paneling, dim lighting and arched stained-glass skylights. Locals rave about the authentic Italian cuisine at , which has a casual, cozy atmosphere complete with soccer jerseys tacked to the ceiling and TVs tuned to international soccer games. You’ll most likely have a wait at this popular place—one of the best restaurants in Portland for Italian food—but it’s well worth it for freshly made pastas, bruschetta, baked lasagna, cheese plates and a large wine selection. If there is a wait, you can grab a drink and a snack at the restaurant’s bar located next door.