Portland's Top 3 Must-Try Restaurants — My Personal Favorites! 🍽️✨

Since one of my closest friends lives in Portland, I visit almost every year after graduation. Over many trips, I've discovered some unforgettable spots—here are my top three favorites that keep me coming back! 📍 Ox Restaurant An Argentine-inspired steakhouse with incredible depth of flavor. A must-order is their Fresh Clam Chowder with Smoked Bone Marrow—I regret not taking a photo, but trust me, it’s the richest, most flavorful chowder I’ve ever tasted! The smoked bone marrow adds a luxurious, savory finish that’s absolutely unforgettable. Their steaks are also exceptional—perfectly grilled, tender, and full of smoky, wood-fired goodness. A true carnivore’s paradise! 🥩🔥 📍 LeChon My personal #1 in Portland! This South American–style Spanish tapas spot never fails to impress. Every dish feels like a "wow" experience with creative, bold flavors. Highlights include the Kalbi Beef Ribs (fall-off-the-bone tender), Forged Mushrooms (earthy and savory), and the Clam Squid Ink Pasta (briny, rich, and beautifully balanced). Each tapa has its own unique twist—familiar yet excitingly different. 🍴💫 📍 Han Oak A long-standing local favorite serving innovative Korean cuisine. Surviving and thriving in Portland’s competitive food scene is no small feat—Han Oak does it with style. The atmosphere is a total vibe, with both indoor and outdoor seating in a thoughtfully designed, cozy-yet-chic space. They offer a seasonal set menu for $65 per person. During my visit, we started with an interactive spread of banchan to wrap in seaweed and rice—fun and delicious! The Crab Meat Steamed Egg was silky and savory, and the Kimchi Pork Ribs (from the entrée options) were the clear winner—tender, tangy, and deeply flavorful. Dessert was pleasant, though not the star. I’ve heard the same owner runs Jeju—already on my list for next time! 🥢🌿 Each of these restaurants brings something special to the table—whether it’s bold flavors, creative concepts, or pure comfort. If you’re planning a Portland food adventure, these three should definitely be on your list! #PortlandFood #Top3 #FoodieFavorites #OxPDX #LeChon #HanOak #KoreanFusion #Steakhouse #Tapas #MustTry #PDXEats