Best Upscale High Protein Restaurants in Hawthorne | Upscale & High Protein

30 restaurants in Best Upscale High Protein Restaurants in Hawthorne | Upscale & High Protein

• Caseus Diem — Italian · rated 5/5: Caseus Diem invites diners into a world of artisanal curation, where the rustic charm of perfectly aged cheeses meets the delicate saltiness of premium charcuterie. Each meticulously assembled box and snack plate serves as a canvas of textures and flavors, balancing creamy wedges with the crunch of Marcona almonds, the brine of plump olives, and the sweet whisper of honey-drizzled crackers. Whether shared among friends or enjoyed as a solitary indulgence, the experience is a celebration of the slow, sensory pleasure found in every savory slice and thoughtful pairing.
• Reel M Inn — American · rated 5/5: This storied neighborhood haunt wraps guests in a nostalgic embrace of dim lighting and worn wood, where the rhythmic sizzle of the deep fryer and the aroma of seasoned flour signal a masterclass in unpretentious comfort. Baskets of pressure-fried chicken arrive with a shatteringly crisp, golden crust and succulent interior, offering a soulful, greasy-fingered ritual that rewards the patient wait of every hungry patron.
• Waffle Window — American · rated 4/5: This whimsical walk-up destination fills the air with the irresistible scent of caramelizing pearl sugar as golden, Liege-style waffles are pressed to order. Velvety Nutella swirls, mountains of fresh berries, and decadent dollops of cheesecake transform these crisp, buttery canvases into edible art that bridges the gap between a morning treat and a midnight indulgence. Whether enjoyed as a fruit-topped breakfast or a chocolate-dipped delight, every bite offers a playful explosion of textures designed for wandering the city streets with a sweet prize in hand.
• The Side Street Tavern — American · rated 4/5: Tucked away from the bustle, this inviting neighborhood haunt wraps guests in the warm, nostalgic glow of a classic tavern where the intoxicating aroma of bubbling cheese and toasted crust fills the air. The kitchen turns out playfully named, artisanal pizzas like the garden-fresh Vegetable Crossing and the bold Heart’s Content, each striking a perfect harmony between crispy, golden edges and inventive toppings. This vibrant social hub pairs a laid-back charm with a creative spirit, making every meal feel like a well-kept local secret.
• Wellspent Market — Mediterranean · rated 4/5: This bustling neighborhood pantry invites guests into a world of artisanal discovery, where the counters are lined with vibrant seasonal salads and the air carries the savory perfume of premium charcuterie. Masterfully composed sandwiches take center stage, from the salty-sweet harmony of brie and apple to the bold, layered richness of the Morty-d Mostrazzo and classic Muffaletta. It is a sun-drenched sanctuary for the hungry soul, blending the charm of a European larder with the hearty, soulful spirit of a modern gourmet deli.
• Portland Cider House — American · rated 4/5: Brimming with the convivial energy of a neighborhood hub, this vibrant taproom invites guests to settle in amidst the crisp, orchard-fresh aromas of rotating local ciders. The kitchen turns out elevated comfort classics designed for sharing, from golden Scotch eggs to pillowy soft pretzels that find their perfect match in a rich, cider-infused fondue. Whether tucked into a bubbling, thin-crust pizza or a plate of salt-dusted fries, diners find a relaxed sanctuary where every bite celebrates the simple joy of good company and craft-driven flavors.
• New Cascadia Traditional — American · rated 4/5: This inviting artisanal hub hums with the comforting scent of toasted bagels and savory cheddar-chive biscuits, creating a warm sanctuary for breakfast lovers and pizza enthusiasts alike. Sunlight dances across tables where guests enjoy vibrant seasonal salads and personal pizzas topped with bubbling cheeses and herb-flecked crusts, all crafted with a soulful dedication to traditional baking. It is a welcoming neighborhood gem where the simple joy of a perfectly golden crust meets a modern, inclusive approach to classic comfort food.
• PDX Sliders — American · rated 4/5: This vibrant neighborhood hub captures the eclectic spirit of Portland, inviting guests into a bustling space where the sizzle of the grill harmonizes with the city’s laid-back energy. Artisanal buns cradle perfectly seared patties in a menu named after iconic local landmarks, offering a flavorful tribute to the Rose City that ranges from delicate, snack-sized sliders to indulgent, full-scale burgers.
• Eb & Bean SE — American · rated 3/5: This vibrant neighborhood gem reimagines the frozen yogurt experience, swirling together organic bases with sophisticated, chef-driven flavors like fragrant honey pistachio and velvety Valrhona chocolate. Every visit offers a playful exploration of texture and taste, from nostalgic frozen yogurt sandwiches to decadent bowls layered with house-made cherry pie crumbles and rich chocolate hazelnut pudding. It is a modern sanctuary for the sweet-toothed, where artisanal craft transforms a simple cold treat into a multisensory celebration of high-quality ingredients.
• Ken's Artisan Pizza — Italian: The air inside this rustic sanctuary is thick with the comforting scent of toasted grain and wood-fired warmth, where shelves groan under the weight of dark-crusted boules and flour-dusted ciabatta. Every bite reveals a mastery of fermentation and fire, from the shatteringly crisp exterior of a hand-shaped baguette to the delicate, buttery layers of a perfectly golden croissant.
• Bar Loon — American: Bar Loon invites guests into an intimate, moody sanctuary where the clinking of glasses sets the stage for a menu of elevated, snackable plates designed for lingering. Golden-fried artichokes and crisp potato wedges provide a salty, satisfying crunch alongside seasonal treasures like charred cabbage and creamy autumn burrata paired with rustic rye toast. It is a vibrant neighborhood haunt where simple, high-quality ingredients and savory ribbons of shaved coppa transform a casual drink into a sophisticated, sensory feast.
• Old Pal — American: Old Pal captures the essence of a spirited neighborhood hangout, where the warm glow of the dining room sets the stage for a convivial evening of shared bites and spirited conversation. The table transforms into a vibrant tapestry of flavors, featuring everything from airy gougères and crusty Ken’s bread to the playful "Old Pal Pickle Situation" and piquant sardines steeped in piri piri oil. It is a place where the simple pleasure of herbed fries and a daily selection of artisanal cheeses invites guests to slow down and savor the art of the perfect snack.
• India Oven — Indian: Step into a vibrant sanctuary where the intoxicating aroma of toasted cumin and coriander heralds a feast of bold, traditional flavors. Golden-hued vegetable pakoras and crisp lamb samosas offer a satisfying crunch that transitions into the fiery, crimson heat of Chicken 65 or the tangy, cooling layers of a classic aloo tikki chaat. The experience is anchored by a sense of deep warmth, whether you are finding comfort in a steaming bowl of earthy daal soup or the bright, garden-fresh snap of a zesty kachumber salad.
• Harlow — American: Harlow serves as a sun-drenched sanctuary for the health-conscious soul, where the air hums with the warmth of griddled banana walnut pancakes and the vibrant colors of garden-fresh scrambles. The kitchen masterfully balances nourishment and indulgence, layering smoky chipotle chili and creamy avocado onto hearty, nutrient-dense bowls that celebrate the seasons. It is a space where every meal feels like a restorative ritual, inviting guests to linger over artful chia parfaits in an atmosphere of effortless, modern vitality.
• Mirisata — Sri Lankan: Mirisata transports guests to the vibrant streets of Sri Lanka, where the air hums with the intoxicating aroma of toasted spices and rich, simmering coconut milk. Golden, crispy "short eats" offer a satisfying crunch that yields to layers of heat and herb-infused fillings, while deep, velvety black curries and tangy eggplant moju showcase a masterful balance of sweet, sour, and spice. This soulful destination celebrates the island’s bold culinary heritage through an inventive lens, inviting diners to linger over plates that are as visually stunning as they are intensely flavorful.
• Crema — Mexican: Sunlight dances across this airy neighborhood haunt, where the comforting aroma of buttery, golden-crust quiches and toasted focaccia invites a lingering moment of calm. The kitchen transforms fresh ingredients into elevated café classics, from crisp garden salads and savory turnovers to warm, pressed paninis that pair perfectly with a steaming bowl of the day’s featured soup.
• Mai Thai Restaurant — Thai: Step into a vibrant sanctuary where the aromatic perfume of lemongrass and sizzling chicken satay mingles with the sophisticated richness of velvet-smooth lobster bisque. The kitchen masterfully balances traditional Thai soul with contemporary flair, crafting plates that range from the smoky, wok-fired depth of authentic pad se ew to the tropical brightness of Hawaiian fried rice.
• 3 Doors Down Café — Italian: This intimate neighborhood sanctuary invites guests into a space where the air is rich with the aroma of slow-simmered Bolognese and the briny perfume of garlic-scented steamer clams. The kitchen celebrates rustic European elegance, pairing velvety chicken liver pâté and crisp brandade croquettes with soul-warming pastas and tender, salt-cured duck confit. It is a quintessential local gem where sophisticated flavors meet a relaxed, convivial spirit, making every meal feel like a cherished homecoming.
• Cibo — Italian: This lively Italian haunt invites guests to linger over wooden boards piled high with crispy polenta fries, golden gamberi fritti, and pillows of warm, savory coccoli. The air hums with spirited conversation as diners tear into crusty housemade bread and savor the nostalgic, earthy sweetness of "Mom’s carrots," capturing the soulful essence of a sun-drenched Mediterranean afternoon shared among friends.
• Harlow — American: Harlow serves as a sun-drenched sanctuary where the aroma of griddled banana walnut pancakes and savory spices invites guests into a space dedicated to vibrant, wholesome nourishment. Hearty grain bowls bursting with seasonal colors share the table with protein-packed scrambles and velvety chia parfaits, creating a revitalizing dining experience that feels both indulgent and deeply restorative.
• Laughing Planet — Mexican: This vibrant, high-energy haunt invites diners into a world of fresh, global flavors where the crunch of golden chips meets the creamy richness of house-made guacamole and zesty, small-batch salsas. Nutrient-packed greens take center stage in inventive bowls like the sumac-dusted salads and the "Highway to Kale," while steaming portions of hearty vegan chili provide a comforting, soul-warming anchor to the experience. It is a playful sanctuary for the health-conscious, blending wholesome ingredients with a spirited atmosphere that makes every nourishing bite feel like a celebration of vitality.
• Little Big Burger — American: This vibrant neighborhood spot reimagines the classic burger joint with a minimalist flair, where the sizzle of the grill and the intoxicating fragrance of truffle-dusted fries create an immediate sense of craving. Guests can customize their perfectly charred sliders with extra cheese and smoky bacon before washing it all down with a crisp local beer or a decadent, frothy root beer float that bridges the gap between childhood treat and adult indulgence.
• Hoda's Middle Eastern Cuisine — Middle Eastern: This vibrant sanctuary of Levantine flavors welcomes guests with the enticing aroma of toasted spices and golden, crispy falafel. Communal tables come alive with colorful mezze platters featuring silky hummus, smoky baba ghanouj, and the salty char of grilled halloumi, all designed for lingering over shared bites and warm conversation. From the earthy crunch of fried cauliflower to the delicate, hand-rolled perfection of stuffed grape leaves, every dish offers a soulful journey through the rich culinary traditions of the Middle East.
• Artigiano — Italian: Artigiano pulses with the vibrant energy of a modern workshop, where the scent of toasted flour and savory herbs drifts through an elegantly rustic dining room. The kitchen elevates traditional Italian dining into a sensory journey, guiding guests from delicate, shareable starters to soul-warming pastas and masterfully prepared proteins paired with exceptional regional wines. Every detail, from the textured decor to the carefully paced courses, reflects a deep devotion to the craft of authentic, heartfelt hospitality.
• Straight From New York Pizza — Italian: The air is thick with the irresistible scent of bubbling mozzarella and tangy tomato sauce, capturing the high-energy soul of a classic Manhattan slice shop. Golden, thin-crust pies emerge from the oven with a signature char, boasting vibrant toppings that range from the simple elegance of a Margherita to the hearty, savory layers of the Meat Lovers. Every oversized 18-inch creation delivers that iconic, foldable crunch, inviting diners to savor an authentic, no-nonsense taste of the Big Apple in every bite.
• SeaSweets Poke — Japanese: This vibrant coastal escape invites diners to dive into bowls of jewel-toned sashimi, where the ocean’s freshest catch is transformed through bold, aromatic infusions. Earthy truffle oil, fragrant lemongrass, and zesty cumin lime elevate traditional Hawaiian poke into a sophisticated sensory experience, perfectly balanced by the comforting warmth of savory miso soup. It is a bright, modern sanctuary where every customizable creation celebrates the clean, bright flavors of the Pacific.
• Tight Tacos — Mexican: This high-energy haunt pulses with the irresistible aroma of seared meats and griddled cheese, drawing diners into a world of bold, unapologetic street food. The kitchen turns out everything from the molten, crispy-edged perfection of quesatacos to the legendary heft of the HELLARITO, ensuring every bite is a vibrant explosion of spice and texture. Whether you are sharing a mountain of loaded Zipper Nachos or diving into a hearty BCR Burrito, the experience is an effortlessly cool celebration of deep, crave-worthy flavors.
• Rovente Pizzeria — Italian: The air at Rovente Pizzeria is thick with the savory perfume of bubbling cheese and charred crust, drawing guests into a vibrant space where classic comfort meets bold, fiery inspiration. Artisanal pies range from the meat-heavy Carnivore Delite to the zesty kick of the Red Hot Messico, each arriving with a perfect balance of crispy edges and molten toppings. Crisp, vibrant salads like the spinach and cranberry provide a refreshing, garden-fresh counterpoint to the indulgent, oven-fired pizzas, creating a balanced and hearty neighborhood dining experience.
• Xocotl — Mexican: Xocotl serves as a vibrant sanctuary of wellness, where the air is perfumed with the zesty brightness of hand-pressed citrus and the crisp, earthy scent of garden-fresh greens. A kaleidoscope of nutrient-rich elixirs awaits, ranging from the deep emerald glow of the Green Go to the sun-drenched radiance of papaya and orange blends designed to invigorate the senses. This modern juice bar transforms raw, seasonal botanicals into a liquid spectrum of vitality, offering a refreshing escape that nourishes the body with every chilled, revitalizing sip.
• Rukdiew Cafe — Thai: This lively neighborhood gem hums with energy, serving up a symphony of textures that range from the shatteringly crisp skin of golden pork belly to the cool, refreshing snap of herb-filled fresh rolls. Every plate arrives as a vibrant mosaic of color and flavor, where succulent coconut prawns and savory, hand-pleated pot stickers invite guests to linger over a tapestry of shared bites and soulful, aromatic comfort.