Food with a View

Portland can be a very pretty, if not interesting city to gaze at, and a little elevation never hurts. With it as hot as it’s been these days, getting up high might also put you in the breeze. But sometimes the quality of the food gets sacrificed for location, or visa versa. That’s not the case here in this curated list of rooftop/high-window eateries that also bring tasty fare. Enjoy!

The rooftop garden at Noble Rot where so many of its local ingredients source from. Talk about local…a sprig of mint here travels maybe 26 feet! image Noble Rot

  1. Salty's on the Columbia River: Indulge in a blend of American and seafood creations while enjoying magnificent waterfront sunsets at Salty's on the Columbia. Located on the southern bank of the water, this upscale restaurant offers unobstructed views of the river and the great northern city of Vancouver. Find local oysters, Dungeness crab, and other consistently good seafood selections on the menu. If you want to indulge, Salty's provides a great dining experience. Location: 3839 NE Marine Dr, Portland, OR 97211 Phone: (503) 288-4444 Website: Salty's on the Columbia River

  2. Portland City Grill: Situated on the 30th floor of the “Big Pink” U.S. Bancorp Tower, Portland City Grill offers sweeping views of the city skyline, Mount Hood, and the Cascades. This sophisticated restaurant serves American steakhouse classics and craft cocktails, making it an ideal spot for special occasions or a fun evening out. There’s often a piano player jamming, and the happy hour menu is delicious. Of course, with good food and an unmatched-in-elevation-view, if you’re looking for a happy hour seat, arrive early! Location: 111 SW 5th Ave 30th Floor, Portland, OR 97204 Phone: (503) 450-0030 Website: Portland City Grill

  3. Departure Restaurant + Lounge: Located on the rooftop of The Nines Hotel, Departure Restaurant + Lounge offers some of the best open-air views in Portland. With two outdoor decks overlooking Pioneer Courthouse Square and the Willamette River, this futuristically designed restaurant serves a pan-Asian menu featuring standout dishes like barbecue rib buns, Wagyu strip steak, and Dungeness crab fried rice. The sleek atmosphere and breathtaking views add a touch of elegance to any dining experience. Location: 525 SW Morrison St, 15th Floor, Portland, OR 97204 Phone: (503) 802-5370 Website: Departure Restaurant + Lounge

  4. Noble Rot: Experience a tranquil rooftop escape at Noble Rot, where the panoramic views of downtown PDX further enchant. Known for its focus on sustainability and its rooftop garden, Noble Rot offers an American menu complemented by an extensive wine selection. Whether you choose to dine on the outdoor deck or in the stylish indoor dining area, the stunning vistas and culinary delights make for an unforgettable visit. Location: 1111 East Burnside Street, Fourth Floor, Portland, OR 97214 Phone: (503) 233-1999 Website: Noble Rot

  5. Chart House: Perched high in the West Hills along Terwilliger Boulevard, Chart House provides an unrivaled panoramic dining experience. The restaurant specializes in prime rib, steaks, and fresh seafood, offering a diverse menu to suit even the most demanding. As you indulge in delicious plates from the kitchen, enjoy the great views of the Willamette, East Portland, and the Cascades in the distance. Location: 5700 SW Terwilliger Blvd, Portland, OR 97239 Phone: (503) 246-6963 Website: Chart House

  6. The Deck: Situated at McCuddy's Marina on the Columbia River, The Deck is an open-air restaurant that offers picturesque riverfront dining. Feast on a cool selection of American dishes, including seafood, sandwiches, and burgers, while checking the view and doing a little boat-watching. Location: 2901 NE Marine Dr, Portland, OR 97211 Phone: (503) 283-6444 Website: The Deck

  7. Radio Room: With its rooftop dining area overlooking the vibrant Alberta neighborhood, Radio Room offers a unique perspective of the city. As you enjoy brunch, lunch, or dinner, you'll be treated to views of the surrounding historic buildings and treetops. The menu features a variety of dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, and craft cocktails, ensuring a satisfying experience. Location: 1101 NE Alberta St, Portland, OR 97211 Phone: (503) 287-2346 Website: Radio Room

  8. Amaterra Winery: Escape to the scenic beauty of Amaterra Winery, nestled on Swede Hill with sweeping views of West Haven-Sylvan and the surrounding forests. This winery and restaurant offer an idyllic setting for wine tastings and pairings. Savor the flavors of Oregon and Washington wines while taking in the gorgeous surroundings. This is a very relaxing place. Location: 8150 SW Swede Hill Dr, Portland, OR 97225 Phone: (503) 961-6057 Website: Amaterra Winery

  9. Tope: Situated on the rooftop of the Hoxton Hotel, Tope provides a trendy atmosphere and great views of downtown Portland. With its emphasis on tequila and mezcal-based cocktails, natural wine, and delicious tacos, Tope mixes up a vibrant dining experience with a stunning urban backdrop. Whether seated indoors or on the outdoor patio, guests can enjoy the cityscape and soak in the lively ambiance. Location: 15 NW 4th Ave, Portland, OR 97209 Phone: (503) 770-0500 Website: Tope

  10. Il Terrazzo: Located on the South Hawthorne Waterfront Park, Il Terrazzo offers sidewalk seating with excellent views of the river and the Hawthorne Bridge. This Italian restaurant serves seasonal and mainstay Italian dishes, allowing guests to enjoy both the flavors of Italy amidst the feeling of being “where it’s at” in Portland, on the waterfront. Take a nice walk through the park after your meal. Location: On The Esplanade Overlooking The Harbor 315 S, SW Montgomery St, suite 340, Portland, OR 97201 Phone: (971) 302-6691 Website: Il Terrazzo

  11. Aquavaria: Immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of Aquavaria, nestled on the banks of the Willamette River. This riverside restaurant offers picturesque views and a menu that showcases Pacific Northwest cuisine with a modern twist. Enjoy fresh seafood, locally sourced ingredients, and an extensive wine list while taking in the natural beauty of the river. Location: 0435 SW Hamilton Ct, Portland, OR 97239 Phone: (503) 443-9787 Website: Aquavaria

  12. Island Cafe: Nestled on Tomahawk Island, just east of where the Willamette River meets the big Columbia, Island Cafe offers a unique waterfront dining experience in Portland. Located on the banks of the Columbia, this charming cafe provides a rustic and laid-back atmosphere where you can enjoy a meal fit perfectly for Jimmy Buffet. This is an “It’s five o’clock somewhere” destination if you know what I mean. As you dine on the outdoor patio, perhaps on a nice burgher or fish n’ chips, you’ll be immersed in boats, yachts, and people on SUPs. It’s a cool vibe and you can even drive up and park your boat out front and dine! Location: 250 NE Tomahawk Island Dr, Portland, OR 97217 Phone: (503) 283-0362 Website: Island Cafe

Dan Meyers