It is easy to recognize Pine State Biscuits from the street because of the long queue that often forms outside the restaurant. While the wait may be exasperating, the large crowd is a testimony to the popularity of the unusual biscuits and sandwiches at this joint. Try the signature Creamtop Buttermilk Biscuits with rich textures and flavors. Guests can also order biscuits spread with Pimento cheese, locally-sourced honey, marionberry jam or apple butter. Certain dishes like Biscuits and Gravy blend sweet and savory tastes, while sandwiches such as Steak Club and The Wedgie have classic Southern flavors. If you can't bag a seat within the restaurant, takeaway is your best bet.
With the aim of addressing the stark absence of quality restaurants offering home-style food in the area, chef and owner Lisa Schroeder has taken the experience gained at the likes of Le Cirque to create wonderfully fresh, bistro-style cuisine in the light and airy ambiance of this old Irish bank building. Breakfast and lunch menus at Mother's Bistro & Bar offer an excellent array of Northwestern specialties prepared to the highest standards. There is more variation in the dinner menu, with everything from salads to pot roast and vegetable couscous. The excellent wine list offers choices by the bottle or glass. The restaurant interiors sport an excellent play of natural light with huge windows and soft white curtains creating an airy and cozy atmosphere. Ornate chandeliers add to the charm. The bar has a refined atmosphere with exposed-brick walls and vivid decor creating an elegant vibe. With the food consistently garnering critical acclaim, it's no wonder that Mother's has become one of the city's favorites.
Andina
Grab the opportunity to visit Andina - it serves Peruvian food and isn't caught in that grey area which occupies fusion food. Using only the freshest ingredients, it guarantees authentic Peruvian cuisine. The first up on the order should be the Cebiches which has been labeled as 'Peru's Flagship Dish' comprising of raw foods cooked with a host of ingredients, such as key lime and hot pepper. For the main course, visitors have the option of choosing from traditional Peruvian dishes— Ceco a la Norteña which is lamb shank and garlic rice or the Conchas del Señor de Sipán that is a beautiful medley of scallops and crabmeat. For dessert, try the Chocolate Andino or indulge in Helado de Lucuma, a luscious frozen dessert. To add to the delicious menu, the restaurant has live music sessions too.
Luc Lac
The colorful and lively atmosphere, and the boisterous crowd inside Luc Lac is always a welcome delight, especially when all you're looking for, is some form of food at an unearthly hour well past midnight. But then, Luc Lac has always a late night fixture thanks to the comforting food perfect, for the hour and an atmosphere that spells fun. The well-lit restaurant is done up in a vibrant palette with the bright hanging umbrellas being the highlight of the decor. Asian-inspired artwork and murals adorn the walls. The restaurant boasts of some of the best pho in the city and not trying it here would be criminal. Apart from this, the menu has good variety from small plates to fire up your appetite to the banh mi and vermicelli bowls. A selection of wines and beer accompany the food well. The bar offers a killer selection of Vietnam-inspired cocktails. Is it any wonder then, that it's as crowded at night as it is during daytime.
An in house bakery makes fabulous pastries, the marketplace features gourmet imports, local artisan foods, cheese, charcuterie, wine and custom gift baskets and the kitchen prepares fine foods for dine in, take out and catering events of all kinds.
Lechon
Flavors of South American countries like Argentina and Chile are brought together under one roof at the Lechon restaurant. Executive Chef Jaco blends these with his personal styles, creating delicious plates like spicy Manilla clams and Bavette steak. Careful attention is given not only during preparations but also while plating which is visible from their artful presentation of every dish. The place offers a relaxed and rustic atmosphere to enjoy their diverse delectable brunch, lunch and dinner menu.
Perched on the 30th floor of the U.S. Bancorp Tower, Portland City Grill is renowned for its amazing city views, happy hours and scrumptious food since it opened in 2002. Its intimate settings make it an ideal romantic restaurant as well. You can also grab a light dinner at the bar itself after a few drinks if you make it for happy hour. Savor their succulent steaks or contemporary seafood fare. You will know why they are still at the top of their game.
Without the air of a high-end restaurant, the mood in Le Pigeon is lively and interactive with communal tables and an open kitchen where you can see your food being prepared. The ingredients are fresh and directly sourced from farms. The staff is attentive and recommends good wines to go with your order and service is swift. Try the crème brulee or foie profiteroles, although the seven-course tasting menu is the best choice for a little taste of the chef's very best. The menu changes often, making the best of what is in season, so check before you stop by to see what they're serving on any given day.
