Best Upscale Korean Restaurants in Portland | Upscale Korean Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Korean Restaurants in Portland | Upscale Korean Food

• One Korean Cuisine — Korean · rated 5/5: One Korean Cuisine invites diners into a vibrant space where the rhythmic sizzle of tabletop grills and the enticing aroma of toasted sesame and fermented spices create an immediate sense of warmth and communal energy. Guests gather around bubbling stone pots of bibimbap and colorful arrays of banchan, each small plate offering a bright burst of pickled, spicy, or savory flavor that complements the rich depth of traditional stews. The experience celebrates the art of shared dining, blending bold, time-honored techniques with a welcoming atmosphere that turns every meal into a soulful exploration of Korean heritage.
• Matt's BBQ — American · rated 5/5: The intoxicating aroma of hardwood smoke draws crowds to this bustling barbecue haven, where glistening slabs of brisket and snappy jalapeño cheddar sausages are sliced to order and served atop traditional butcher paper. Rich, velvety queso mac and cheese and zesty pinto beans round out a soulful feast that celebrates the patient art of the pit, offering a sensory journey through the deep, peppery flavors of authentic craft barbecue.
• Phat Cart — Thai · rated 4/5: Phat Cart pulses with a vibrant energy, where the sizzle of the grill and the bold aromas of fermented kimchi and savory soy-glaze fill the air. Diners dive into artfully packed bento boxes and steaming bowls of Loco Moco, where traditional Japanese techniques meet the sun-drenched comfort of Hawaiian soul food. From the spicy kick of fire rice to the delicate slurp of chilled soba, every bite offers a playful, flavor-forward journey that transforms a simple meal into a spirited culinary escape.
• Koba Grill — Korean · rated 4/5: The air at Koba Grill hums with the rhythmic sizzle of the flame, carrying the irresistible scent of sweet soy marinades and charred, tender meats to every corner of the lively space. Diners are treated to a symphony of bold Korean flavors, from the melt-in-your-mouth richness of galbi short ribs to the vibrant heat of tangy spicy chicken and savory, wok-seared kimchi fried rice. It is a spirited gathering place where the art of the grill brings together smoky, caramelized textures and zesty spices for a truly soulful feast.
• Best Baguette — is Vietnamese. * · rated 4/5: The scent of warm, crackling baguettes lures guests into this bustling hub, where the art of the Vietnamese sandwich is celebrated through vibrant colors and bold, aromatic spices. Each hand-crafted roll is a study in contrasts, layering rich, savory pate and smoky grilled meats against the refreshing crunch of pickled vegetables and bright cilantro. Whether you choose the signature special or the tender BBQ pork, every bite delivers a harmonious blend of textures and traditional flavors that transports the palate straight to the heart of Saigon.
• Eastside Deli — American · rated 4/5: The air at Eastside Deli is thick with the savory perfume of slow-roasted meats and the sharp, vinegary tang of house-made giardiniera, drawing locals into a space where the humble sandwich is elevated to an art form. From the molten, cheese-draped comfort of a classic Meatball Parmesan to the briny, olive-rich layers of a traditional Muffaletta, every creation arrives piled high on crusty bread designed to soak up every drop of rich au jus or smoky barbecue sauce. Whether you’re tucking into a hearty plant-based BBQ stack or a thinly sliced roast beef classic, each bite offers a messy, soul-satisfying tribute to the timeless tradition of the neighborhood delicatessen.
• Ho Ho — Chinese · rated 4/5: Ho Ho welcomes guests into a vibrant, unpretentious space where the golden sizzle of the kitchen and the aroma of savory glazes promise a feast of comforting classics. The table quickly transforms into a colorful tapestry of textures, featuring everything from the delicate, garden-fresh crunch of hand-wrapped salad rolls to the succulent, smoky richness of traditional BBQ pork and pan-seared pot stickers. It is a neighborhood destination designed for shared indulgence, where every platter of crispy tofu or honey-glazed shrimp contributes to a lively atmosphere of simple, heartfelt satisfaction.
• An Xuyen Bakery — Vietnamese · rated 4/5: The aroma of golden, crackling baguettes and buttery pastries wafts through this bustling neighborhood staple, inviting guests into a world of vibrant Vietnamese flavors. Here, the iconic banh mi is elevated to an art form, layering tender BBQ pork, savory pâté, and crisp, pickled vegetables within bread that shatters perfectly with every bite. From the rich depth of traditional meatball sandwiches to the flaky indulgence of a Black Forest ham croissant, every offering delivers a harmonious blend of textures and spices that lingers long after the last crumb.
• Pine State Biscuits — American · rated 4/5: This bustling Southern-inspired haunt hums with the energy of a busy morning, where the irresistible scent of buttery, golden-brown biscuits fresh from the oven fills the air. Towering biscuit sandwiches like the legendary Reggie arrive piled high with crispy fried chicken and smothered in rich, peppery gravy, offering a decadent symphony of textures and savory flavors. Whether you are diving into a smoky BBQ biscuit or the sweet-and-salty harmony of the Chatfield, every bite captures the soul-warming comfort of a true down-home feast.
• Either/Or — Chinese · rated 4/5: This vibrant neighborhood haunt reimagines the morning routine with a rebellious spirit, where the air is thick with the scent of sizzling pork and maple-glazed indulgence. Guests tuck into creative plates like the punchy Kimchi Fried Rice or the savory-sweet Maple Bolo, each dish a colorful collision of global zest and classic comfort. It is a sun-drenched sanctuary for those seeking a bold start to the day, offering a lively atmosphere where every bite feels like a modern culinary discovery.
• The Big Legrowlski — Mexican · rated 3/5: Stepping into this spirited, cult-classic-inspired haunt feels like joining a perpetual house party where the air is thick with the savory aroma of sizzling lumpia and tangy kimchi-topped fries. The kitchen turns out playful comfort food ranging from crispy drumsticks to hearty vegan dogs, offering a laid-back sanctuary where guests can linger over golden baskets of tots in a space that celebrates the unpretentious art of taking it easy.
• Kkoki Korean BBQ — Korean · rated 3/5: The air at Kkoki Korean BBQ hums with vibrant energy as the savory scent of marinating meats caramelizing over tabletop grills invites guests into a spirited, communal feast. An endless procession of premium marbled cuts and a colorful mosaic of traditional banchan transform every table into a sensory playground, where the rhythmic hiss of the sear and the joy of shared plates create an unforgettable dining celebration.
• Rose and Thistle Public House — American · rated 3/5: Step into a spirited neighborhood sanctuary where the warmth of a traditional public house meets a vibrant, modern energy. The kitchen reimagines classic comfort with flair, serving up everything from golden-crusted Scotch eggs and pillowy soft pretzels to inventive, spice-kissed Korean BBQ cauliflower. It is a welcoming retreat designed for communal snacking and effortless camaraderie, where every shared plate feels like a celebration of the local spirit.
• Hotlips Pizza — Italian: Sunlight streams into this lively neighborhood haunt where the irresistible aroma of golden, blistered crusts and zesty tomato sauce fills the air. The kitchen transforms the humble slice into a gourmet canvas, layering everything from smoky BBQ chicken to the inventive, crisp crunch of apples and walnuts on their signature Waldorf pie. It is a vibrant space where the art of the pizza oven brings people together over steaming, cheese-laden masterpieces that are as bold as they are comforting.
• The Soop — Korean: The Soop offers a vibrant escape where the sizzle of kalbi short ribs and the comforting steam of bubbling soondu-bu jjigae create an inviting sanctuary of Korean flavors. Guests can dive into rainbow-hued bibimbap bowls topped with crisp microgreens or share plates of golden, honey-glazed fried chicken and chewy tteokbokki bathed in a spicy, silken sauce. Every dish, from the delicate tuna tataki to the hand-folded mandu, celebrates a harmonious balance of traditional soul and modern freshness, making each meal a soulful journey through the heart of Seoul.
• Virginia Cafe — American: Virginia Cafe serves as a quintessential neighborhood gathering spot where the inviting aroma of tangy BBQ wings and the satisfying crunch of golden-fried favorites set the stage for a relaxed afternoon. Friends huddle over shared baskets of beer-battered onion rings and zesty chips and salsa, eventually giving way to the simple, honest pleasure of a perfectly seared burger or a crisp, chilled salad.
• Golden Horse Seafood — Chinese: Golden Horse Seafood welcomes guests into a lively atmosphere where the enticing aroma of honey-glazed BBQ pork and the rhythmic sizzle of the fryer set the stage for a communal feast. Tables overflow with a tapestry of textures, ranging from the shatteringly crisp shells of golden wontons and bean curd to the bold, vinegar-laced tang of traditional chicken feet and chilled jellyfish. It is a vibrant culinary destination where classic comfort meets adventurous spirit, inviting diners to linger over plates of savory pot stickers and salt-kissed fried shrimp.
• Soro Soro — Korean: This minimalist, light-filled sanctuary transforms the art of the pastry into a playful gallery of edible characters, where whimsical bear-shaped cakes and velvety sponges rest within a serene, white-walled space. Each visit offers a charming escape into the world of modern Korean-inspired sweets, pairing fragrant Earl Grey lattes with meticulously crafted treats that are as delightful to look at as they are to savor.
• Jojo — French: Jojo celebrates the art of the perfect crunch, where golden-brown fried chicken fillets are nestled into toasted buns and elevated by everything from zesty BBQ glazes to cool, creamy ranch. The air hums with the savory aroma of sizzling cheeseburgers and crispy fish, creating an inviting atmosphere where indulgent comfort food is crafted with a playful, modern spirit.
• Bistro Elysium — French: Bistro Elysium offers a sanctuary of bold textures and aromatic heat, where the satisfying crunch of golden-fried appetizers and delicate, hand-folded potstickers sets a playful tone for the meal. The kitchen transforms simple grains into vibrant masterpieces, tossing woks with fragrant basil, tangy kimchi, and savory meats to create a symphony of fried rice dishes that celebrate the soulful depth of Asian-inspired comfort.
• Crisp — Korean: Bathed in natural light and modern energy, this vibrant eatery hums with the satisfying crunch of perfectly golden textures and the snap of farm-fresh greens. Every plate is a study in contrast, where heat-blistered crusts and succulent interiors meet zesty, herb-forward accents that dance across the palate. It is a refreshing destination where bold, clean flavors and masterful techniques transform simple ingredients into an exhilarating sensory experience.
• Podnah's BBQ Pit — American
• Produce Row Café — American: Steeped in the industrial soul of its historic neighborhood, this lively destination blends rustic charm with a modern pulse, offering a welcoming space where craft beer culture and elevated comfort food collide. The kitchen reimagines the art of the shareable plate through bold, global flavors, from the spicy crunch of Korean tots and charred shishito peppers to the smoky depth of roasted Chinese eggplant dip. It is a place where the clink of glasses harmonizes with the warmth of a spirited crowd, inviting guests to settle in for an evening of shared discovery and effortless urban charm.
• Phat Cart — Thai: This vibrant fusion hub reimagines the morning meal through a playful lens, where the comforting weight of Hawaiian Loco Moco meets the disciplined artistry of Japanese bento boxes. Sizzling pans of kimchi fire rice and hearty, crusty sandwiches packed with bold flavors create a high-energy atmosphere that transforms a simple breakfast or lunch into a savory, cross-cultural celebration.
• Pine State Biscuits — American: Golden, flaky biscuits take center stage at this high-energy eatery, where the comforting aroma of fresh-baked dough and sizzling fried chicken draws a hungry crowd. Towering creations like the legendary Reggie stack crispy fried chicken, melted cheese, and velvety gravy between buttery, hand-pressed layers, delivering a decadent symphony of textures and Southern-inspired flavors. Whether you're diving into a tangy BBQ biscuit or a sweet, apple-butter-slathered treat, the experience is one of pure, unadulterated comfort served in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
• Crisp — Korean: Crisp is a sun-drenched sanctuary of freshness where the rhythmic sound of chopping and the bright aroma of citrus-infused dressings create an atmosphere of wholesome vitality. Diners navigate a kaleidoscope of textures, from the satisfying crunch of golden-brown chicken to the zesty, herb-forward notes of the San Pancho bowl and the fragrant warmth of Thai Yum Curry soup. This vibrant destination elevates the art of the salad, inviting guests to savor thoughtfully curated combinations that transform seasonal ingredients into a vivid, sensory celebration.
• Happy Bibimbap House 2 — Korean: This lively neighborhood gem invites diners into a bright, welcoming space where the air is thick with the savory scent of toasted sesame and the rhythmic sizzle of hot stone bowls. Each signature dish arrives as a vibrant kaleidoscope of crisp vegetables and tender proteins, crowned with a golden egg and a dollop of spicy-sweet gochujang that transforms every bite into a harmonious, soul-warming feast. The experience culminates in the satisfying crunch of scorched rice at the bottom of the pot, offering a masterclass in Korean comfort that leaves guests feeling both nourished and genuinely happy.
• Best Friend — Korean: A vibrant sanctuary of wellness where a kaleidoscope of cold-pressed hues glows behind the glass, inviting guests to recharge with a concentrated burst of liquid vitality. The space hums with an energizing spirit as visitors discover everything from the deep, earthy sweetness of the Bijou Beet to the electric, tropical allure of the Blue Mana. Each bottle, from the crisp Mean Green to the smooth Frank Ocean, serves as a refreshing companion for the modern lifestyle, blending pure ingredients into a sensory celebration of health and flavor.
• Botto's BBQ — American: The air at Botto's BBQ hangs heavy with the intoxicating perfume of slow-smoldering wood and savory spice, drawing guests into a world where the art of the pit is celebrated on every overflowing tray. Glistening slices of tender, bark-crusted brisket and snap-skinned sausages share space with decadent mounds of creamy mac and cheese and tangy slaw, offering a soulful, hands-on feast that honors the deep traditions of smokehouse cooking.
• Chimcking — Korean: The air hums with the irresistible aroma of double-fried poultry and savory glazes, drawing diners into a vibrant space where the crunch of golden, crackling skin takes center stage. Each piece is tossed in signature sauces ranging from sweet soy to fiery chili, creating a symphony of heat and honey that pairs perfectly with a frosty glass of beer. It is a high-energy destination where the communal joy of sharing a basket of wings transforms a simple meal into a spirited celebration of Korean street food culture.