Where We’re Eating Around Portland
The Brightspace team's passion for Portland extends beyond homes and neighborhoods to the city's vibrant and eclectic restaurant scene. Each team member has their own favorite spot that captures the essence of Portland's diverse food culture. From cozy neighborhood gems to innovative eateries, their picks reflect the team's appreciation for local flavors and atmospheres. It’s hard to stop any of us from sharing our favorite go-to recommendations for clients and we love the opportuinty to shout out these fantastic businesses. Join us as we explore the personal favorites that have won our hearts (and stomachs), showcasing why Portland is a true food lover's paradise.
Laurie loves G Love
“They had excellent cocktails and a very good meal. I had the Moscow cocktail with carrot juice, bell pepper juice and mole, which sounds bizarre but it was delicious. We split a bunch of the starters, and then they served us an off-menu bird nest cheesecake. It was their five-year anniversary and unknown to us each server got to choose one party to comp their meal and he comped ours! G Love also has the best bathrooms in town; one is totally decorated with greenery on every surface and one is a disco bathroom with glitter and party supplies hanging from the ceiling. They’ve got a great bar, outdoor seating, and lots of GF, vegetarian and vegan options.”
Emily adores No Saint
“My favorite restaurant lately is No Saint because I just can't deny myself their pizza. It's so perfectly wood-fired with a variety of flavors and vegetarian options. Don't sleep on their pasta and salads though! Everything is super seasonal and their menu is constantly changing to reflect the best ingredients. The vibe inside caters to everyone, it's a cozy and friendly neighborhood place inviting you to stay a while and order a second glass of wine.”
Joe can’t get enough of Phuket Cafe
“I ate lunch at Phuket Cafe a few weeks ago and the food blew my mind. I had the Mon Tod (crispy potato) and Massaman Curry (rich flavor, balanced heat) but no matter what you pick you can’t go wrong. The aesthetic is a vibe (like their pastel pink and green outdoor dining area) and they have an entertaining Instagram you can salivate over while you wait for your real food.”
Charity recommends Mediterranean Exploration Company
“MEC has a great vibe, awesome service, delicious food and bonus: it’s easy to bring along friends with food allergies. The space is just loud enough to drown out your table neighbors conversations without making it so you have to scream to your dinner companions. I always leave here in a great mood!”
Laura Says Terminal Gravity is Worth the Trip!
“My favorite restaurant is five and half hours away but it’s worth the trip. Terminal Gravity in Enterprise, Oregon really is in the middle of nowhere but the center of the universe. The food is good (I recommend the beet Reuban or the locally raised bison burger for the meat eaters), the beer delicious and the view fabulous. Eat outside next to a babbling stream, with fairy lights strung in the trees, a local musician playing on the stage and the gorgeous Wallowa Mountains as your backdrop. Magical.”
Shannon’s go-to is Nostrana
“It's my absolute favorite spot for Italian food in Portland and their wine list is exceptional. I love everything about the menu - you almost can’t go wrong with anything on it! I like to end every meal there with an Amaro Nonino. Ask for it with a big cube of ice and an orange peel. My hot tip is, if you can snag a spot at the bar you can get in on one of the best Happy Hours in Portland.”
We hope you enjoy our recommendations and share yours in the comments below!