Oh, boy! If your taste buds are anything like mine, they live for the glory that is brunch! And guess what? I just found our taste buds’ nirvana.
It’s Portland, Oregon, my fellow foodie pals! Known for its bridges, bicycles, and brews, this delightful city is so much more. Think of Portland as that quirky aunt who knows how to cook up a storm.
Now, let’s talk about Portland’s brunch scene – it’s legendary! You know how they say, “Too many cooks spoil the broth”? Well, they were dead wrong.

In this culinary wonderland, talented chefs are as common as raindrops, and they have brought the brunch game to a whole new level.
Whether you’re craving stacks of fluffy pancakes, a classic eggs benedict with a twist, or even a vegan brunch feast, Portland’s got you covered.
Hold on to your forks, my friends, because we’re about to embark on a brunch adventure that’s as vibrant and diverse as the city itself!
Stay tuned, and let me be your guide to the best brunch spots in Portland. Dig in!
Table of Contents
Top Three Picks of The Best Places For Brunch In Portland
Restaurant | Top Pick | Our Rating |
Besaws | Monte Carlo Sandwich | 5/5 |
Mother’s Bistro & Bar | Eggs Benedict | 4.5/5 |
HunnyMilk | Crispy Pork Ribs | 4.5/5 |
The 6 Best Places For Brunch In Portland
Huber’s Cafe
411 SW 3rd Ave, Portland, OR 97204, United States // +15038500382
Oh, Huber’s Cafe! If I could write a love song for a restaurant, this one would be my muse. Let me tell you about my experience at this venerable Portland establishment.
As soon as I stepped into Huber’s Cafe, which has been serving up good times since 1879 (yes, you read that right, 1879!), I was immediately enveloped in a sense of history. This isn’t your average brunch spot, my friends.
The joint is all class and charm, from its stained glass ceiling to the tastefully attired waitstaff that brings an air of bygone elegance to your dining experience. The restaurant was spotlessly clean, making me feel right at home.
You might think an establishment like this would serve up nostalgia as its main course. But oh no, Huber’s is about so much more.
Their specialty is turkey and spiral-cut ham – done the old-school way. It’s not every day you find a place that can make your taste buds do a happy dance like that!
I couldn’t resist trying their “Half and Half” – a generous portion of turkey and ham. I mean, why choose when you can have both? The turkey, stuffing, potatoes, gravy, and steamed broccoli made for a hearty, satisfying meal.
The bread was just the perfect sidekick! The leftover ham made for a delicious breakfast treat the next morning.
And let’s not forget the beverages – Huber’s Cafe doesn’t hold back on their drink selection. The Lavender Lemonade was a highlight for me – a refreshing blend with a touch of mystery alcohol that added a nice kick.
So, if you’re roaming around Portland, seeking a brunch spot that serves a side of history with a delicious meal, make a beeline for Huber’s Cafe. I guarantee you won’t be disappointed.
HunnyMilk
1981 W Burnside St, Portland, OR 97209, United States // +15037197349
Ah, Hunnymilk, how you’ve captured my brunch-loving heart! This place, my dear friends, is like that adorable, modest genius in your high school class – it doesn’t scream for attention, but once you discover it, you’re hooked.
Hunnymilk started out as a humble pop-up brunch at La Buca on 28th Street, which, if you didn’t know, is basically the culinary yellow brick road of Portland.
It’s no surprise, then, that Hunnymilk quickly found its fanbase. And guess what? It’s now standing tall and proud with its very own brick-and-mortar spot between Goose Hollow and the Alphabet District.
The folks at Hunnymilk clearly know how to treat their customers. Have to wait for a table? Fret not! More often than not, they’ll come around with a tray of nibbles. (You guys, this is basically the red carpet treatment of the brunch in Portland.)
Now let’s talk about the star of the show: the food. With their fixed-order concept, you get a drink, a savory dish, and a sweet dish at a super reasonable price.
I mean, where else do you get Crispy Pork Ribs with cheesy garlic grits, soft egg, avocado, and parsley-hazelnut pesto on the same plate? Divine!
And don’t even get me started on the Buttermilk Biscuits with chorizo gravy, sunny fried egg, spicy maple syrup, and bacon fat wilted spinach. It’s like a hug for your soul.
And for my sweet tooth companions, the Fortune Cookie Waffle with honey butter, vanilla bean mascarpone mousse, raspberry, banana, and strawberry puree is a game changer.
There’s also the Poppy Seed Crêpe with key lime curd that makes your taste buds sing.
What’s more, the menu changes with the seasons and the chef’s inspirations, so there’s always something new to try.
In conclusion, my brunch warriors, your next mission is Hunnymilk. You can thank me later.
Besaws
1545 NW 21st Ave, Portland, OR 97209, United States // +15032282619
Oh Besaw’s, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways! Nestled on NW 21st Ave, Besaw’s is like that wise old friend who’s been around since 1903 and knows exactly what you need – a hearty, soul-satisfying brunch in Portland.
Stepping into Besaw’s is a treat in itself. They’ve recently moved from an old building to a new space that’s the perfect blend of industrial cool and warm charm.
The high ceilings, inviting décor, and that smell – oh, the smell of freshly-cooked comfort food wafting through the air.
Now, let’s get down to business – the food. If your belly’s rumbling and your taste buds are itching for a brunch-time fiesta, look no further. I gathered up my brunch squad, and we ventured into this Portland treasure.
What did we order, you ask? Well, an array of delights! The burger breakfast was a crowd-pleaser, with its juicy patty and perfect accompaniments.
But, let me tell you, the farmer’s hash was the star. I might have shed a tear of joy; it was THAT good.
Then there were the huevos rancheros and the Monte Cristo sandwich, each dish creating a symphony of flavors in my mouth.
And what’s brunch without cocktails? Besaw’s has that department covered with flair.
A word to the wise – the place gets packed. We were six in our group, and the wait was over an hour.
Besaw’s is so loved that you might have to wait, especially if you’re with a bigger group. So, bring your patience along with your appetite.
So, if you want to experience a slice of Portland’s history served up with impeccable food in a cozy setting,
Besaw’s should be at the top of your brunch bucket list. Just remember, good things come to those who wait! Highly recommend this as one of the best brunch in Portland.
Mother’s Bistro & Bar
121 SW 3rd Ave, Portland, OR 97204, United States // +15034641122
There’s a place in Portland, a magical spot called Mother’s Bistro & Bar, where every visit feels like coming home. Here’s why it has the best brunch in Portland.
Mother’s has been wrapping Portlanders in its warm embrace since 2000 and, let me tell you, it’s pure love.
The first thing that’ll catch your eye at Mother’s is the menu – it’s brimming with comfort food that goes straight to the heart.
From the fluffy Challah French Toast to the unforgettable salmon hash, the dishes are like love letters to your taste buds.
But wait, there’s more! Mother’s has this incredible concept – the “Mother of the Month.” And no, it’s not a competition; it’s a beautiful way to keep the menu exciting and diverse.
Each month, they feature recipes from a different mother based on her cultural heritage and beloved family meals. I mean, how cool is that? You get to travel the world through the eyes and taste buds of moms!
During my visit, our server was the epitome of hospitality. Friendly and attentive, he even brought over a complimentary cinnamon roll because our order took a smidge longer than expected.
A cinnamon roll, people! And this wasn’t just any cinnamon roll; it was a cloud of cinnamon goodness.
As for the rest of the feast – Macadamia Nuts Pancakes, Biscuit & Gravy, Eggs Benedict, Salmon Hash – every dish was like a high-five to flavor town. The Eggs Benedict and Salmon Hash, in particular, were revelations.
A pro tip for you, my fellow brunch seekers: don’t shy away from the seasonal menu. It’s like a treasure chest of culinary gems, and you never know what deliciousness awaits.
So, next time you find yourself in Portland with a brunch-shaped hole in your day, head to Mother’s Bistro & Bar. It’s like getting a hug from Mom in the form of tasty food.
Jam On Hawthorne
2239 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, OR 97214, United States // +15032344790
Next up I had an amazing brunch experience at Jam on Hawthorne that felt like a big, warm bear hug, and I’ve got to spill the beans.
As you step into Jam on Hawthorne, it’s like you’ve time-traveled to the good old days. This gem in Portland is serving up nostalgia on a plate, with all the American breakfast classics that make your heart sing – think eggs, crispy bacon, golden hash-browns, and toast that taste like a cloud.
Hold the phone, my vegetarian friends! You’re in for a treat, too. On my brunch escapade, I gave Ed’s Plate scramble a whirl, and let me tell you, my taste buds did a happy dance.
But, the pièce de résistance was the coconut French toast. I’d wager it’s what dreams are made of – it’s that divine.
The beauty of Jam on Hawthorne is how elegantly they’ve orchestrated their menu. It’s got this perfect harmony of sweet and savory, and it’s practically a standing ovation for your mouth.
It’s no surprise that the wait time often dances past the one-hour mark, but patience is a virtue, my friends, and it pays off here.
And the icing on the cake? A delightful play area for the little munchkins. So, if you’ve got kiddos tagging along, they can frolic around while you sip on mimosas and exchange the latest adulting adventures.
So, if your soul is craving that feel-good classic brunch experience, get yourself to Jam on Hawthorne. It’s definitely one of the best brunch in Portland.
The Hazel Room
3279 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, OR 97214, United States // +15037567125
The last place on the list is a place where I stumbled upon a quaint sanctuary called The Hazel Room.
It was like walking into a treasure trove adorned with local art and vintage charm, and let me tell you, this teahouse is not just about tea.
First things first, the ambiance is as cozy as your favorite sweater. And the servers? They’re like the encyclopedia of brunch, brimming with knowledge and friendliness.
You feel like you’re amongst friends here, and that, my pals, is a sign of a great brunch spot.
Now, let’s talk food. My taste buds are still reminiscing about those divine mochas. But the poutine, oh the poutine! It was like a little parcel of joy, even though I secretly wished the portion was larger. The mushroom gravy – oh-so-rich – was doing a tango with my palate.
But here’s the star of the show: the cheese scallion biscuits. Hear me out; they were a tad denser than the southern biscuits I’m used to, but in a good way. They’re like the biscuits’ cooler cousin that you can’t help but adore.
And for the grand finale, the French Toast with tea-infused compote was, dare I say, life-changing.
It was as if a thousand little fairies decided to throw a party in my mouth. The Hazel Room brews the tea blend in-house, and oh, how I yearned to take some home!
A heads-up, though: parking is your typical downtown street parking roulette. But consider it a treasure hunt because what awaits is gold.
In summary, The Hazel Room is like that hidden book in the library that turns out to be a spellbinding story.
So, if you’re looking for a brunch that’s both a feast and an experience, make your way to The Hazel Room. It’s a love letter to brunch, sealed with a teacup. Definitely one of the best brunch in Portland.
Foodies Also Ask
Why does Portland seem to have a brunch line culture?
Ah, the famous lines! Yes, folks in Portland don’t mind queuing up for a heavenly plate of brunch. It’s like a community bonding ritual.
And with the scrumptious delights being dished up, who wouldn’t wait? It’s a testament to the quality and creativity of the brunch scene here. Plus, it’s a great time to catch up on social media or make some new friends in line!
Are there any must-try brunch dishes unique to Portland?
Portland has some quirky signature brunch dishes. For instance, the Monte Cristo Sandwich is a city favorite, and if you haven’t tried a locally sourced Dungeness Crab Omelette, are you even brunching?
Also, keep an eye out for artisanal donuts – they’ve pretty much reached celebrity status in PDX.
What’s the deal with brunch cocktails in Portland?
Portlanders take their brunch cocktails as seriously as their coffee! From classic Bloody Marys to Mimosas with a twist, the cocktail game is strong.
Some places even infuse their cocktails with tea and coffee. The mixologists here aren’t afraid to get creative, and it’s like Christmas morning in a glass.
Wrapping Up: The 6 Best Places For The Best Brunch In Portland
And there you have it, brunch enthusiasts – our splendid escapade through the kaleidoscope of flavors that make up Portland’s crème de la crème of brunch spots!
Our journey was nothing short of a brunch lover’s dream with each stop offering its own unique flair.
From chic coffee nooks that serve heavenly pastries, to bustling eateries where breakfast classics were reinvented with a twist, Portland sure knows how to elevate your brunch game.
Let’s not forget the sheer vibrancy and charm this city brings to the table, quite literally. It’s as if the spirit of Portland is infused in each bite, with local ingredients taking center stage, and the creative genius of the chefs shining through.
Whether you’re a sweet-tooth aficionado or a savory connoisseur, Portland embraces you with open arms and an array of enticing plates.
But wait! Don’t roll up your napkins just yet. The city is like a bottomless mimosa, constantly refreshing its offerings.
So, my fellow brunch devotees, keep your forks at the ready and your taste buds alert. For the magic of Portland’s brunch scene is an ever-evolving symphony of flavors.
As we part ways on this brunch odyssey, I encourage you to venture out and unearth your own hidden gems.
Let the scent of freshly brewed coffee and the allure of maple syrup guide your steps. Here’s to countless more brunch escapades in the enchanting city of Portland!
Visiting other destinations in Oregon? Check out our other guides:
- The Best Places to Eat in Troutdale, Oregon
- 13 Best Things To Do In Sisters Oregon
- The 10 Best Restaurants In Bend Oregon
Igor Jovanovski is an aspiring digital nomad, travel blogger and graphic designer who really loves food. He also has a creative side, and he works as a freelance graphic designer in his spare time. He has traveled across Europe quite a few times since he was young and recently started his mission to visit every country in the world! Igor’s favorite thing about traveling is the way he gets to know new people, food, places and cultures.
This exciting experience helps him create his own stories and make memories that will last forever