{"id":684285,"date":"2025-08-18T20:15:35","date_gmt":"2025-08-18T19:15:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/?p=684285"},"modified":"2025-11-05T08:20:03","modified_gmt":"2025-11-05T08:20:03","slug":"cool-and-unusual-restaurants-in-portland","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/globalgrasshopper.com\/destinations\/north-america\/cool-and-unusual-restaurants-in-portland\/","title":{"rendered":"17 Cool and Unusual Restaurants in Portland"},"content":{"rendered":"

If you\u2019re craving something different for dinner, Portland<\/a> has no shortage of standout spots. After many evenings exploring the city, I\u2019ve uncovered some gems \u2014 from trendy Middle Eastern to hip Asian fusion and playful American comfort food with a twist. Here are the spots that really won me over…<\/p>\n

1. Tusk – best for Middle Eastern<\/h2>\n

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I was a big fan of this chic, now-iconic Buckman District restaurant where airy minimalist design, geometric accents, and lush greenery made the perfect backdrop for creative Middle Eastern plates. The mezze spread and falafel were standouts, but I was especially impressed by their vegetable-driven dishes \u2014 everything was seasonal, farm-fresh, and very beautifully presented!<\/p>\n

I sampled the freshly made Quinoa Tabouleh and Chanterelle Skewers with shishito peppers, green harissa, and honey, which were packed with flavor.<\/p>\n

There were also excellent meat and fish options such as the popular albacore skewer, as well as a great wine list and creative Mediterranean-inspired cocktails. I have to add though that the seating was limited, so the space did feel crowded during peak hours.<\/p>\n