It may be a stereotype, but it’s also true: Portland is pretty wacky. We wear our abnormality like a badge of honor, and more often than not, we accept and celebrate each other for it. The restaurant scene in Portland is hardly different. There are scores of fun, unique restaurants in Portland. Some have crazy themes and wild decor, while others give the old adage “dinner and a show” an upscale twist. Though it’s changing all the time, here are seven of the most unique restaurants in Portland.
Seven of the most unique restaurants in Portland
Hale Pele
This atmospheric Tiki bar is named after the fiery volcano goddess Pele. Quality rum and house-made syrups are at the front of Hale Pele’s cocktail menu. Their signature Volcano Bowl cocktail is garnished with flowers, tropical species, and massive flames. Regularly named one of the best tiki bars in the country, it’s easy to see why the local favorite is celebrating 10 years in business this year. Perhaps on a particularly rainy PNW day, the perfectly executed cabana-style decor will make you never want to leave.
EastBurn Public House
Located on East Burnside–bet you can’t guess where the name comes from–this outpost is a brunch staple in Portland. Serving traditional American fare and an exemplary cocktail selection, this neighborhood favorite also hosts regular open mic and comedy nights. What makes the EastBurn so unique is its floating wicker chairs and iconic mimosa flights. Pro-tip, ask to be seated on the back patio if you can.
Raven’s Manor
Legend has it that just off of the Willamette River, the curse of Dr. Raven still hangs heavy in his manor. These days, his haunted mansion is a themed cocktail lounge and restaurant with a truly one-of-a-kind mixology experience. If you’re looking for a spooky good time, try an eerie elixir like the Demon’s Bite or the Grave Water. Feeling peckish? Try the Raven’s Burger, Lentil Meatballs, or the decadent beignets shaped like adorable screaming ghosts.
Living Room Theaters
While the Living Room Theaters is a bit tamer than a haunted mansion, it’s still a fun dining experience! Trade in your TV trays for a comfy recliner and your stale Netflix queue for a host of fresh indie films. At the Living Room Theaters, you can order drinks and food before the film, and have it delivered right to your seat. You can choose from classic “movie food” like pizza and popcorn, or try the Cajun chicken sandwich or shareable Mediterranean plates.
Departure Lounge
Feeling less cozy and more chic? Departure Lounge may be your speed. This upscale Asian-fusion restaurant sits high above Portland’s downtown. Settle into your seat in the uber-cool and elegant lounge, or claim your perch on the panoramic deck next to the fire. Wherever you are, you must try the chef’s signature exploration of Pan-American cuisine. Plus, the 75-ish coconut-tinged cocktail is to die for.
Moloko
Moloko proudly calls itself “Portland’s only coral reef cocktail bar.” Located on Mississippi Avenue, the first thing you notice about Moloko is the light…or…lack thereof. This eatery is bathed in blacklight, allowing the eight massive saltwater aquarium tanks to truly shine. Grab a cocktail and let your inner child ogle at the marlins and pufferfish. They also have a killer happy hour menu. Every day until 6 pm you can score $7 cocktails and a full-size margarita pizza for only $4.
The Picnic House
Who says you can’t picnic inside? Located in downtown Portland, The Picnic House is inspired by the PNW’s love of the outdoors and eating outside. With charcuterie boards and crostini, small bites like house nuts and deviled eggs, and entrees like artisan mac and cheese and meatballs and marinara, there is something for everyone. Set in old-world splendor, The Picnic House sits in the nearly century-old lobby of the Heathman Hotel. It even retains the original hand-tiled floor and fluted wood columns.
