Last Updated on August 9, 2023 by Kristin

Photo credit: Rontoms

With its location on the banks of Oregon’s Willamette River and abundance of outdoorsy attractions, Portland is at nature’s doorstep. While the weather can often be gray, locals savor sunny days and live the patio life to the fullest. The city is known for its hipster vibe, in addition to its ecclectic variety of restaurants that cater to every taste. Here are some of the best outdoor dining in Portland.

Departure Portland (525 SW Morrison St.; 503-802-5370) Downtown

Departure Portland on top of the Nines Hotel attracts visitors and locals alike for its views of downtown Portland from two 15th-floor decks. Portland Monthly raves about its “Vegas-style decks and unparalleled views of the city” and “creative, ambitious” Asian-inspired cuisine. With an inventive pan-Pacific menu crafted by Top Chef finalist Gregory Gourdet, the food is just as stunning as the view. OpenTable users love the “excellent service and view of Portland,” and swoon over the sushi. “Best sushi I’ve had in my life,” says one user. Diners also appreciated the attentive staff in this gem of outdoor dining in Portland. “Service was surprisingly exceptional,” says a Google reviewer.

Noble Rot (1111 East Burnside St.; 503-233-1999) Lower Burnside

While Portland’s weather is not always ideal, Noble Rot ensures that visitors can enjoy outdoor seating all year long. “The rooftop patio is essential, offering unparalleled views of downtown Portland, even in the chill of winter,” Portland Monthly says of its Editor’s Pick. With an ever-changing menu that marries inventive protein dishes with gorgeous homegrown vegetables, Noble Rot attracts diners time and time again. “Although a short walk from the city center, Noble Rot is well worth a visit if not for the magnificent views of Portland’s skyline,” one Tripadvisor reviewer says. It’s hard to find a restaurant where the food is as good as the view, but diners say this place has it all. “The food is stellar and the views are amazing,” says a Yelp reviewer.

10 Barrel Brewing (1411 NW Flanders St.;  503-224-1700) Pearl District

Lazing about on a patio drinking local craft beer and enjoying light bites is about as Portland as it gets. And 10 Barrel Brewing’s convenient Pearl District rooftop provides all that plus a killer view of the city. There’s no better place to grab a pint and a bite after a day at the Portland Art Museum. “The rooftop is what drew us in and the atmosphere is great,” one Yelp reviewer says. In addition to a wide selection of beers ranging from sours to IPAs, 10 Barrel offers a full menu of fancy pub food like steak and gorgonzola nachos, truffle parmesan fries and a variety of burgers. “Their rooftop is why I dined there, but their food made it even more worth it,” a Google reviewer says.

Havana Café (910 NW 14th Ave.; 541-604-8042) Pearl District

Havana Café opened during the pandemic to offer outdoor dining. It’s the first restaurant to join a new open-air concept recently opened by the bar Botanist, Eater Portland reports, and appears to be winning over diners with its huge, centrally-located rooftop patio that one Google user describes as a “refreshing hidden gem downtown getaway.” Reviewers rave about the menu of Cuban sandwiches and sides like fried plantains. “The food is absolutely delicious and the service is outstanding!” says one Yelp user. 

Rontoms (600 East Burnside St.; 503-236-4536) Buckman

No list of the best outdoor dining in Portland is complete without Rontoms. A hipster haunt loved by locals, Rontoms’ huge covered patio combines the homey vibe of a wooden lodge with a moderately-priced menu spanning the globe with offerings like elote, ceviche, squid and ahi tuna. There’s also an expansive outdoor seating area with picnic tables to enjoy during warmer months. “Rontoms has one of the best patios in Portland, cocktail menu is great and the food is delicious,” says one Yelper. One of the best parts is that al fresco dining is available year-round. “Nice patio and fireplaces to keep warm,” adds a Google reviewer.

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