Portlanders aren’t typically a religious bunch, unless brunch is the topic of the hour – at which point we’re all devote and opinionated, ready to die on hills over the best eggs Benedict in town.
Narrowing down a list of the best brunch spots in Portland is a fool’s errand. The city often ranks as one of the best foodie cities in the country, and frankly, there’s too many restaurants to choose from. This is one local’s stab at the impossible. Let’s dive in!
Best Brunch in Portland, Oregon
(Click here for the table of contents)
Portland Brunch (Table of Contents)
- Best Brunch in Portland, Oregon
- Screen Door
- Olympia Provisions
- Bullard Tavern
- Proud Mary Cafe
- Cafe Rowan
- Flattop & Salamander
- Sweedeedee
- Jam on Hawthorne
- Fried Egg I’m in Love
- Maurice
- Pine State Biscuits
- Broder
- Little Griddle
- Podnah’s BBQ
- Kingsland Kitchen
- Cafe Olli
- Lauretta Jean’s
- Stepping Stone Cafe
- Mother’s Bistro
- Gravy
- HunnyMilk
- Off the Griddle
- Cheryl’s on 12th
- Besaw’s
- Best Portland Brunch (Post Summary)
Screen Door
Offering incredible southern-inspired dishes, Screen Door has perfected fried chicken and waffles. The proof is in the pudding, weekend wait times exceed an hour. To the untrained eye, it’s easy to assume the chicken and waffles are the only draw, but don’t make that mistake.
If you’re not dining solo, someone at the table should order the biscuits and grits or french toast. Everything on offer is bound to impress, but it’s the chicken and waffles that put Screen Door on the map, so it makes sense the dish makes a cameo at every table.
There’s two locations in town, the original is in the Kerns neighborhood, but I prefer the Pearl District locale (a block from Powell’s Books). Parking is hard to find at both locations, so heads up!
Olympia Provisions
Olympia Provisions is known nationwide for having some of the best cured meats in the country. Only fitting they would serve some of the best breakfast charcuterie boards in Portland, to boot!
The menu covers a range of breakfast classics. From breakfast sandwiches and egg dishes to pancakes and french toast, consider the Grand Brunch for Two if you’re having a hard time narrowing down the list of tantalizing options.
If you’re interesting in my recommendations, I think the charcuterie boards are great to split among friends while lingering over mimosas and coffee. Otherwise, the eggs Benedict (some of the best in the city) and pancakes always deliver.
Local’s Tip: If you’re visiting this iconic Portland brunch spot during the summer, don’t sleep on the BLT. The heirloom tomatoes coupled with thick slabs of bacon is the perfect combo. Seems simple, but nobody does it like Olympia Provisions.
Bullard Tavern
Let me preface this by disclosing a simple fact: I have no self-control around a good stack of pancakes, and the golden delights at Bullard Tavern are some of the most memorable in town.
My husband and I stumbled upon Bullard while wandering downtown in search of new restaurants. Billed as a meeting point between Texas hospitality and Oregon’s unquestionable bounty, the vibes couldn’t be cozier.
The setting is comfortable and chic, donning handsome leather boots and a well-stocked bar. This is more calculated than it seems, with filling dishes like Duck Confit and Flat Iron Steak, you’ll be staying a while.
For the brunch options, my husband went with the loaded hash browns, while I stayed loyal to the buttermilk pancakes. Within the first bite, we knew we hit a jackpot, Bullard is definitely serving some of the best brunch in Portland.
Proud Mary Cafe
Proud Mary hails from Melbourne, Australia where the cafe cultivated a cult-like following before deciding to test the American market. After some deliberation, they chose Portland for the cafe’s first American outpost (lucky us!).
The delicious dishes are colorful and fun, almost too pretty to eat. They clearly know their target audience (spoiler alert: millennials) and have the rave reviews to prove it. My personal favorite items include the avocado toast, potato hash and the cakey ricotta pancakes (which are unlike any pancakes I’ve had before).
With food this good (and beautiful), Proud Mary Cafe definitely deserves a spot on our list of the best brunch in Portland.
If you’re planning on visiting the area, make sure to read: Alberta Arts District Neighborhood Guide (10 Best Things to Do).
Cafe Rowan
Self-dubbed a “cafe for food lovers,” Cafe Rowan specializes in elevated classics made with locally-sourced seasonal ingredients.
I’m partial to the Jamon Eggs Benedict (hickory smoked carver ham, two poached eggs, fire roasted tomatoes, roasted patatas bravas, white truffle hollandaisde, cotija cheese, aleppo pepper, spring blossoms, toasted brioche), which is a fun twist on traditional eggs Benedict.
If breakfast sandwiches are more your speed, I suggest The Rowan (fried egg, thick cut pepper bacon, smoked cheddar and house-made blueberry jam) or The Dame (fried egg, house made breakfast sausage, aged manchego, gochujang + mama lil’s aioli) instead.
For those with an insatiable sweet tooth, don’t sleep on the Bananas Foster French Toast (thick cut brioche, sliced bananas, coffee maple syrup, miso caramel sauce, cinnamon sugar walnut crumble, whipped cream). The menu at this popular Portland brunch spot couldn’t be more exciting.
Flattop & Salamander
Flattop & Salamander reimagines beloved brunch classics on a daily basis: think chicken and waffles dressed with bacon butter, baked french toast (with a tantalizing maple creme anglaise) and Honduran baleadas (flour tortillas stuffed with beans, crema, queso duro, and scrambled eggs).
Beyond the food, you’ll find delicious brunch cocktails. I’m partial to the Traditional Bloody Mary and Piña Picante.
Sweedeedee
A quaint hole-in-the-wall restaurant serving up some of the best brunch in Portland, Sweedeedee is best known for creative dishes like cornmeal pancakes (part-pancake, part-cornbread) and breakfast sandwiches made on fresh-baked focaccia.
In addition to the cornmeal pancakes, I highly recommend the traditional breakfast plate. You can’t go wrong with either. Also, you should absolutely pick something up from the pasty case on your way out, the olive oil cake gets my vote.
Jam on Hawthorne
When it comes to iconic brunch spots in Portland, Jam on Hawthorne takes the cake. Offering a good balance of savory and sweet options, this local gem can please any palate.
Expect to find the usual suspects: from breakfast wraps and scrambled eggs to egg Benedicts and huevos rancheros, there’s something for everyone. My go-to order is a toss up between the french toast and lemon-ricotta pancakes (topped with housemade blueberry compote & lemon curd).
Vegetarians are not forgotten, there’s tons of options on offer. Ed’s Scramble (spinach, mushrooms, roasted garlic & cheddar, scrambled eggs) and the Tempeh Huevos Rancheros (house made smoked tempeh chorizo, black beans and ranchero sauce, corn tortillas) both hit the spot.
Plus, they have a great area for kids to play while adults drink mimosas and share workplace woes, what’s not to like?
Fried Egg I’m in Love
It’s hard to wander the streets of Portland without coming across Fried Egg I’m in Love. This food cart spread like wildfire across the city and has finally opened a full service Portland breakfast restaurant on Hawthorne.
As you may have guessed, the menu focuses on egg dishes (lots of them). Everything from filling egg sandwiches to creamy Benedicts. I’m a huge fan of their signature dish, the Yolko Ono (egg, homemade pesto, and a hand-pressed house sausage patty).
My husband disagrees and claims the best thing on the menu is the Egg Zeppelin (eggs, homemade sausage patties, cheddar, and holy aioli). I guess you’ll need to decide for yourself.
Maurice
Maurice is one of my personal favorite brunch spots in Portland. This quaint little restaurant feels like being transported to a charming European cafe for a brief afternoon.
Serving Nordic-French cuisine, you’ll get a blend of delicious seasonal fare alongside time-tested classics like open faced sandwiches on rye bread called smordbord. The restaurant is worth a stop for the rosemary scone alone, but if you’re in the mood of a meal, the quiche are my go-to.
What I love most about Maurice is the ability to enjoy Fika midday, a Swedish tradition that loosely translates to a relaxing “coffee and cake break.” Sign me up!
Pine State Biscuits
We can’t talk about the best brunch in Portland without mentioning Pine State Biscuits, the granddaddy of all biscuits. Pine State Biscuit is a perfect example of mastering one thing rather than focusing on a range of dishes.
It’s not uncommon for the line to wrap the block and a long wait is all but guaranteed during weekends. Try to get there at opening to avoid the wait, however, even if you find yourself in line, these biscuits are worth it. Don’t leave without trying the Reggie Deluxe, it’s my favorite breakfast sandwich in Portland.
Broder
Serving innovative Scandinavian cuisine, Broder is renowned for their Nord Bord (an excellent breakfast charcuterie board), airy beignets and smoked trout hash (my favorite). This is one of the best brunch spots in Portland to take out-of-town visitors because it’s hard to find Scandinavian food in America. Highly recommend!
Little Griddle
Relying on a well-curated menu of beloved breakfast staples, Little Griddle is a charming joint serving some of the best brunch in Portland. The food is as fresh as it gets, it’s evident that this restaurant prides itself on serving quality dishes in a welcoming setting.
My favorite dish changes depending on the season, but I really enjoy the shakshuka, curry hash and pork sausage biscuit with gravy.
Podnah’s BBQ
If you’re in the mood for a meaty Portland brunch, Podnah’s BBQ will fit the bill. A smokehouse moonlighting as a brunch joint on the weekends, smoked meats grace every dish at this counter-service restaurant.
Between the breakfast tacos and warm biscuits with juicy smoked meats, you’ll consider yourself a regular in no time. One dish that surprised me during my last visit was the Smoked Trout Hash (smoked trout, potatoes, poblano peppers, onions, & parsley. served with horseradish cream and 2 eggs). It was absolutely sublime!
My husband, on the other hand, can’t stop talking about the Smoked Brisket Hash (smoked brisket, potatoes, poblano peppers, onions, smoked tomatoes, parsley, & 2 eggs).
The generous portions make it easy to split a main course in the hopes of saving room for dessert, a true test in discipline but the pecan pie is otherworldly.
Kingsland Kitchen
Originally started as a food cart in 2015 before settling into a brick-and-mortar shop in 2017, Kingsland Kitchen is keen to let seasonal ingredients shine. We originally discovered this restaurant during a random lunch break, but were so impressed by the food we vowed to return for brunch as well.
The large breakfast menu plays host to omelettes, eggs Benedict, hashbrown casseroles, buttermilk pancakes and great breakfast burritos. If you’re overwhelmed by the options, consider the Full English Breakfast (eggs, bacon, blood sausage, baked beans, tomato and toast).
Cafe Olli
Opened at the tailend of 2021, Cafe Olli is the new kid on the block, but that doesn’t stop them from serving some of the best brunch in Portland. This employee-owned restaurant relies on locally-sourced seasonal ingredient to guide the brunch menu.
There’s two dishes worth writing home about, the whipped ricotta toast (seasonal berries dusted with bee pollen and mint) and savory porridge (cracked farro, braised greens, picked vegetables, parmigiano and poached egg). Pair either with a mimosa and watch the hours slip away.
Lauretta Jean’s
It’s no surprise that a bakery churning out the best pies in Portland would master brunch dishes too. I’m a sucker for good breakfast sandwiches and Lauretta Jean’s options never disappoint. A perfectly flaky biscuit acts as a canvas for strawberry jam, eggs and cheese. Don’t question this creation, it’s downright perfect.
Stepping Stone Cafe
Stepping Stone Cafe is a cozy, old-time diner serving some of the best brunch in Portland, but heads up: the line usually wraps the block before opening. The success of this restaurant can be attributed to fair prices and delicious fare. I can’t resist the banana nut french toast or famous mancakes (as big as your head!).
Mother’s Bistro
Mother’s Bistro is a Portland institution that has been around since 2000. Arguably the most popular Portland brunch spot, the large menu spans the gamut. From memorable Challah French Toast and salmon hash to creamy eggs Benedict and seasonal dishes you’d regret overlooking.
To keep things fun, the restaurant features recipes from a “Mother of the Month,” who sets the month’s rotating dishes based on her unique cultural fare and childhood meals. As a frequent visitor, I highly recommend ordering something from the Mother of the Month menu to split between the table.
Gravy
Perhaps the most iconic brunch spot in Portland, Gravy has been a hot-spot for years. You’ll need to arrive early if you plan to get a table without an hour-long wait. Once inside, spend time looking over the menu but make sure to order the restaurant’s staple dish — biscuits with homemade gravy.
The portions are large and the Bloody Mary is memorable. Also, I have no idea what they put in the oatmeal, but goodness, I can’t leave without ordering a bowl.
HunnyMilk
Originally started as a pop-up restaurant serving some of the best brunch in Portland, it took no time for the restaurant to find themselves in a brick-and-mortar to keep up with demand. There’s two ways to play here: à la carte or a two-course prix-fixe route.
If you opt for the prix fix menu, you’ll get one non-alcoholic drink, one savory dish and one sweet dish for $29. It’s a great deal.
The creative menu changes so frequently it’s hard to recommend dishes (unless the Japanese souffle pancakes are on the menu, those are non-negotiable), but I’ve yet to be disappointed by any of the dishes I’ve tried. If helpful, here’s the current menu at HunnyMilk.
Also, if the hot chocolate is on the menu, you must absolutely order it, trust me on this one!
Off the Griddle
Off the Griddle is the best vegan brunch in Portland, hands down. Hell, the vegan menu attracts non-vegans daily. Specializing in Benedicts, breakfast sandwiches, breakfast burritos and even chicken and waffles — the twist? All dishes are dairy and meat free.
If you simply can’t live without cheese (*raises hand) and eggs, the restaurant can substitute the real deal if you ask. If you’re willing to expand your comfort zone and try vegan cuisine, I recommend swinging by.
Cheryl’s on 12th
It’s hard to believe that such a beloved brunch spot in Portland has only been around since 2012. It feels like Cheryl’s has been serving some of the best brunch in Portland since as long as most of us can remember. The line is normally out the door but there’s a good reason for it. The food is delicious and the atmosphere is welcoming. The beignets are a must-order and the Portuguese fried rice scramble is excellent.
Besaw’s
Opened in 1903 as a beer parlor and gambling hall, Besaw’s is a one of the oldest restaurants in town. Boasting an expansive menu of comforting brunch dishes, I’m partial to the dream cakes but if you’re on the savory side of breakfast, grab the farmer’s hash.
I especially enjoy the creative seasonal brunch items, like the butternut squash french toast and seldom pass up the chance to revel in the chef’s creativity.
Best Portland Brunch (Post Summary)
In short, here’s a quick list of the best brunch spots in Portland.
- Pine State Biscuit
- The Screen Door
- Bullard Tavern
- Proud Mary Cafe
- Jam on Hawthorne
- Maurice
- Mother’s Bistro
- Gravy
- HunnyMilk
- Kingsland Kitchen
- Olympia Provisions
- Off the Griddle
- Broder
- Cheryl’s on 12th
- Redwood
- Flattop & Salamander
- Cafe Olli
- Stepping Stone Cafe
- Cafe Rowan
- Little Griddle
- Fried Egg I’m in Love
- Sweedeedee
- Tusk
- Podnah’s
- Besaw’s
Map of the best brunch in Portland
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Let me know if I missed anything or if you think any other Portland brunch restaurants should be added to the list!
Until next time,
Antonina
Fabulous advice; i’ve been in pdx for over 25 years but haven’t seen such a nice summary of places and things to do close to portland.
What about the Daily Feast it’s on 11th and Taylor. It’s amazing brunch diner with great staff and amazing food! It’s a must try! My family loves it!
What about Paiku in St Johns?