Sometimes the best food around is among the most affordable. Oregonian restaurant critic Michael Russell shared his list of the most exciting new restaurants, from most affordable to least. They start start with his official pick for best new restaurant of 2023:
When hunting for the best of the best last year, it wasn’t an established restaurant group’s newest offering that wowed the critic.
Instead: “This little mom-and-pop Mayan restaurant on 82nd was serving dishes you really can't find many places on the West Coast. And not only that, they were doing them better than anywhere else I've had them,” says Russell.
Tip: Try panuchos with cochinita pibil, relleno negro, or relleno blanco.
L’Orange 🍷
“Think old school Mediterranean, very French-influenced food, with execution at a very high level — but affordable,” says Russell. “A lot of the dishes there are under $20.”
Tip: if you want the more upscale model, there’s also a reservation-only tasting menu available.
Yaowarat 🥢
This restaurant was inspired by Bangkok’s Chinatown (and named for the main street there). “It's a good vibes place, and the dishes are delicious there too,” says Russell.
Tip: Try the deep-fried chive cakes, any of their noodle dishes, and the custard buns (for dessert).
What are your favorite new places around Portland right now? Please share your picks with me by email.
