Portland doesn’t offer a lot of opportunities to bask in the sunlight. Sure, it may be one of the greenest cities on the planet thanks to abundant annual rainfall, but a lot of nature lovers simply have to slog through the wet weather in order to enjoy outdoor living.
So when the weather is accommodating, Portlanders make the most of it. They exit their Portland modern homes and hit the city and surrounding areas en masse to hike, bike, and enjoy outdoor dining at a number of incredible restaurants. Here are a few you should add to your must-list.
Meriweather’s Skyline Farm
This might be a bit of a hike for anyone in Eastside Portland neighborhoods with access to the many delicious eateries in the Hawthorne and Woodstock districts. However, a menu stocked with items fresh off this restaurant’s five-acre farm are worthy of a taste.
On sunny days, you won’t be sorry you popped in. Their patio is covered for use in sun or rain, but translucent panels let plenty of rays shine through this otherwise open-air setting, and lush greenery, white tablecloths, and wrought-iron chairs will make you feel like you’re dining in your own secret garden.
Produce Row
It can be hard to nab outdoor seating at some of Portland’s most popular restaurants (or any seating at all). Produce Row accommodates with ample tables and benches in a large outdoor patio covered with a clear canopy.
Guests will enjoy not only sunlight and abundant seating, but also a variety of craft beers on tap and cocktails to pair with American comfort foods like sandwiches, burgers, and beer mac and cheese. Pop in Mondays for all night happy hour.
Departure
You’ll be impressed by the cocktails, the Asian fusion cuisine (courtesy of famed chef Gregory Gourdet), and the beautiful people that populate this hip downtown hotspot. However, nothing compares to the upscale, retro aesthetic and stunning views from Departure’s rooftop patio. If you and your friends want to flee your Portland lofts for a fancy night on the town, Departure is the place to be.
Aquariva Restaurant
You might prefer cozy Portland condos when it’s cold and dreary outside, but the minute the sun peeks through you should head to this riverside restaurant located in the River’s Edge Hotel. Their patio overlooking the Willamette River provides a beautiful setting in which to sample delicious standards with a twist. Try the hazelnut French toast for breakfast or the steak frites-wagyu top sirloin later in the day.