Portland’s brunch culture has exploded in recent years, with diverse offerings that range from the health-conscious to the indulgently traditional. Tiny brunch hot spot Bastion on SE Milwaukie pushes the boundaries of wellness culture while still appealing to the discerning palate. Owned by a chef and a nutritionist, it serves up hearty quinoa bowls and sweet potato waffles, accompanied by flavorful fried chicken and cashew-based pimento cheese. Stylish zoomers queue up to experience dishes that taste as good as they look, showcasing fresh ingredients in a vibrant atmosphere.
Bertie Lou’s offers a different, yet equally vibrant brunch experience for those who prefer traditional diner fare. On busy weekends, the small diner becomes a bustling hub where families enjoy a range of dishes, from cinnamon roll French toast to massive breakfast burritos. With nearly 90 years in operation, Bertie Lou’s stands out for its satisfaction-driven menu and a nostalgic ambiance created by the framed napkin art left by past diners.
Broder, the transformative Scandinavian café that opened in 2007, has played a pivotal role in shaping Portland’s brunch scene. The café wows patrons with unique items such as baked eggs in cast-iron pans and Swedish meatballs with an exquisite sherry cream sauce. Not to mention their famous æbleskivers paired with lingonberry jam, adding a fun twist to the traditional brunch options. Today, Broder has expanded into a micro-chain, yet the charm and culinary integrity of the original remain untouched.
Cafe Olli showcases the versatility of brunch dining with a hyper-local, farm-to-table philosophy. This worker-owned café serves everything from romantic dinners to family brunches, offering delectable experiences with ingredients sourced from local gardens. Their breakfast is decidedly modern, featuring dishes like fluffy frittatas and irresistible toast topped with housemade preserves that cater to a range of tastes.
As Portland embraces its dim sum scene, Excellent Cuisine emerges as a strong contender, boasting an impressive lineup of traditional and modern options. Their dim sum carts serve up large siu mai and har gow, and a red rice shrimp roll that’s a must-try on weekends. The delightful environment suits families and food enthusiasts alike, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.
Fuller’s stands as an enduring option for those seeking a true classic diner experience. Dotted with vintage charm, it caters to everyone from downtown workers to families, serving up timeless staples, including buttermilk pancakes and French toast. Unlike many diners, Fuller’s also provides mimosas and Bloody Marys, enhancing the brunch experience for all.
The café Mémoire Cà Phê showcases a creative twist on Vietnamese fast food and American breakfast staples, combining inspiration from various cuisines. Their menu features scallion and shrimp omelets, purple-hued ube waffles, and breakfast sandwiches that incorporate unique flavors. Co-founder Kim Dam brings her signature coffee drinks, complementing the brunch offerings and ensuring a trendy yet flavorful dining experience.
Navarre brings European bistro vibes to brunch with a well-curated menu that promotes communal dining through small plates. Opened in 2001, this foundational establishment identified the importance of simplicity in menu selection and wine pairing. Their weekend brunch service encourages diners to select from seasonal vegetables, exquisite egg preparations, and diverse bread offerings, making it a fantastic choice for groups looking to share a meal.
Off the Griddle fills a niche in Portland’s brunch landscape with its entirely vegan menu. This cheerful café provides hearty dishes such as breakfast burritos and waffles stuffed with veggie sausage, ensuring meat-free diners have delicious options. The layout is fun and inviting, with a focus on comfort and taste without compromising dietary preferences.
When it comes to Vietnamese cuisine, the Vuong-Luu family’s restaurants serve up some of the finest broths in the city. Offering a strong lineup of dishes, Rose VL focuses on delivering exceptional quality and flavor. Their curry and cao lầu are just a couple of highlights that illustrate the family’s dedication to authentic Vietnamese cooking, making every breakfast memorable.
Sweedeedee delivers an artistic approach to brunch, creating Instagram-worthy presentations while maintaining exceptional taste. The café offers everything from corn cakes to classic tortilla Española, ensuring guests savor every bite while enjoying a warm atmosphere complemented by great music. Desserts and pastries adorn the menu, encouraging guests to indulge after a satisfying meal.
As Portland’s brunch scene continues to thrive, each of these establishments plays a vital role in defining the city’s culinary identity. From health-focused cafés to vintage diners, the variety is astonishing, making brunch an essential weekend activity for locals and visitors alike.
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