Best Restaurants for Brunch in Northeast Portland, OR

The one place in the United States I always find myself returning to is Portland, and for one reason only: the food! Portland has an incredible food scene that I try to visit at least once a year so I can eat my weight in yams and french toast. Portland is one of the few cities where I deliberately base myself outside of the downtown area because I’ve discovered so many amazing restaurants in the northeast and couldn’t bear the thought of staying anywhere else.

Are you planning a trip to Northeast Portland? Here’s where you need to eat your brunches—arguably the best meal of the day.

Tasty N Sons

The greatest restaurant experience in Portland, and a staple when I have to entertain visitors. Tasty N Sons has some of the most incredible food I’ve tasted and it’s impossible to have a bad meal there. Brunch is one of my favourite meals to have there, and the yams and french toast I mentioned above are life-changing. Head there with a few friends and pick five or six dishes from the menu—I promise you you’ll have one of the best meals of your life.

Tasty N Sons is one of the more popular restaurants in the city, so make sure to arrive early to get a table. Tip: weekdays aren’t as busy as weekends.

Kenny & Zuke’s Delicatessen

Another great option for brunch, Kenny & Zuke’s has some delicious bagel and smoked meat options. I usually go for the bagel with their homemade whitefish spread and opt for a bottle of cream soda to wash it down. Another favourite of mine is the smoked pastrami sandwich, which is juicy, tender, and full of flavour. This place is a great back-up option if Tasty N Sons is too busy.

Helser’s on Alberta

I didn’t discover Helser’s until my most recent visit to Portland, but I immediately made sure to make up for lost time. Located on bustling Alberta Street, you’re best to visit on a weekday unless you like queuing for over an hour for your brunch, but either way you’ll leave satisfied. I’m a big fan of the smoked salmon Eggs Benedict, and they do a fantastic scotch egg, too.

Ristretto Roasters

The perfect coffee shop for getting some work done and having a quick breakfast while you do so. Ristretto Roasters have great coffee, a friendly atmosphere, and absolutely delicious donuts! I’m a huge fan, especially when I’m craving something light.

Gravy

Feeling hungry? Gravy, on Mississippi Avenue, is famous for its large portions of tasty comfort food. For breakfast, you’ll be handed a large plate piled high with your order, and you won’t want to eat for the rest of the day. Some of my favourite dishes include the corned beef hash, the French toast, and the big stack of pancakes!

Hopefully I’ve been able to convince you that a trip to Northeast Portland is an absolute necessity—and that when you do visit, brunch is a must!