31 Best Places for a Birthday Dinner in Portland in 2024

Looking for the perfect place to enjoy a birthday dinner in Portland?  This Pacific Northwest city has a wealth of culture, including panoramic natural vistas and world-class food offerings in a bustling but laid-back urban enclave. From premium steakhouses to chill vegan hotspots, Portland has a number of eateries perfect for celebrating one more year around the sun.

Looking for great birthday date ideas in Portland? Or struggling to find things to do in Portland? We’ve rounded up a few favorites among Portland birthday dinner options, perfect for celebrations of all sizes, from intimate romantic birthday dates to family dinners and raucous nights out with a large group. You’re sure to find the perfect option embracing all manner of local cuisines and flavors, many with a heavy emphasis on Pacific Coast seafood and locally sourced ingredients.  

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• 31 Best Birthday Restaurants in Portland
• Other Foodie Experiences in Portland

31 Best Birthday Restaurants in Portland

1. Marrakesh

This trendy Moroccan restaurant is perfect for a birthday dinner in Portland, providing both entertainment from belly dancers and a phenomenal tasting menu of Moroccan favorites. Warm colors, cultural accents and a tented ceiling at Marrakesh make you feel like you are in Morocco while you enjoy meals that include a whole roasted lamb, various meat tagines and meat pies, including a dessert cinnamon and sugar b’stilla.

Marrakesh | 1201 NW 21st Ave., Portland or 97209 | $$

2. St. Jack

If you’re looking for a luxe spot to celebrate a birthday dinner in Portland, this French eatery is filled with elegance and style. A chic bistro-feel welcomes diners while they enjoy items like classic steak frites, caviar, pâté en croûte, escargot and decadent French desserts. St. Jack is perfect for more romantic and one-on-one celebrations held over ample champagne but can accommodate larger parties and will book for larger events. 

St. Jack | 1610 NW 23rd St., Portland or 97210 | $$$

3. Queen Mama's Kitchen

If you’re looking for a perfect birthday dinner in Portland with an exotic and romantic flair, Queen Mama’s Kitchen is a colorfully hued and inviting eatery serving Saudi Arabian cuisine plated as beautifully as the restaurant’s interior would suggest. This hotspot started out as a catering operation and food truck whose popularity propelled them into a brick-and-mortar location. Enjoy the rice dish, silken saleeg or smoked lamb shank. Start off with an order of mezze, a variety of stuffed grape leaves. Desserts include sauce-covered cakes served with Arabic coffee. 

Queen Mama’s Kitchen | 406 SW Oak St., Portland or 97204 | $$

4. Kachka

If you’re seeking a Portland birthday dinner with a celebratory vibe and a unique twist, look no further than Kachka. Representing dishes from the former Soviet Union through a Pacific Northwest lens, Kachka will enchant you with its vodka flights and vibrant Soviet décor. Amidst this ambiance, indulge in Russian favorites like pelmeni and vareniki dumplings or whole grilled trout or rabbit in a clay pot. For a fun and memorable birthday idea in Portland, consider opting for the Russkie Zakuski Experience, featuring small plates of cured fish, tartare and other appetizer delights.

Kachka | 960 SE 11th Ave., Portland or 97214 | $$$

5. Pizza Jerk

This nostalgia-steeped pizza parlor is the perfect place for big groups of the young and young at heart, making it an ideal spot for a birthday dinner in Portland. Taking its inspiration from 1980s pizza joints, including their red checkered tablecloths and vinyl booths, Pizza Jerk has a fun, casual vibe perfect for larger groups. Thin-crust pizza prevails, with many options ranging from classic combos to more experimental takes, like their eggplant-parm pizza. 

Pizza Jerk | 5028 NE 42nd Ave., Portland or 97218 | $$

6. Ringside Steakhouse

For a classic steakhouse take on a birthday dinner in Portland, look no further than Ringside Steakhouse, which specializes in dry-aged beef enjoyed in a romantic interior amid a huge wine cellar that wraps the interior. Look for classics like French onion soups, crab cakes and prawn cocktails, along with wedge salads and bone marrow. Enjoy entrées and sides like ribeye filet mignon and lobster mashed potatoes..This steakhouse is perfect for a fun birthday dinner in Portland that has a celebratory or intimate romantic date feel.

Ringside Steakhouse | 2165 W Burnside St., Portland or 97210 | $$$$

7. Janken

This pan-Asian favorite makes a perfect destination for a birthday dinner in Portland. The inviting interior of Janken boasts a huge artificial cherry tree at the center of the bright white and expansive dining room. This elevated but festive vibe translates into the menu, where you can try classics like Peking duck, smoked wagyu nigiri and various signature sushi rolls. They are also famous for their desserts like strawberry bingsu and a decadent dark chocolate cake, perfect for adding candles and birthday fanfare. 

Janken | 250 NW 13th Ave., Portland or 97209 | $$$$

8. Higgins

With an emphasis on local and seasonal ingredients, this fun and fresh restaurant is perfect for a birthday dinner in Portland, with both a more formal cozy dining room and an adjoining casual vibe bar. For your celebration at Higgins try the whole pig plate with sausage, ribs and pork belly or opt for one of the vegetarian options like zucchini fritters or tofu tzatziki. Desserts abound, including an almond custard tart with plum sorbet and butterscotch pots de crème. 

Higgins | 1239 SW Broadway, Portland or 97205 | $$$

9. Happy Lamb Hot Pot

This Beaverton location of this natural chain is a great casual but tasty option for a birthday dinner in Portland if you love the fun group experience of Mongolian-style hot pot, Happy Lamb is perfect for groups, where you can share slices of lamp, rib eye and wagyu beef over simmering broth. The interior is crisp and contemporary and perfect for larger celebrations but make sure to plan ahead since you may have to wait longer on weekends to get a table. 

Happy Lamb Hot Pot | 3861 SW 117th Ave., Ste A Beaverton or 97005| $$$

10. The Painted Lady

Located in a Victorian house in a beautiful historic neighborhood, this quiet and romantic restaurant offers a multi-course tasting menu highlighting local ingredients and flavors, perfect for a memorable birthday dinner in Portland. Indulge in everything from Pacific seafood like Dungeness crab and potato-wrapped prawns or favorites like short ribs and veal sweetbreads. Menus change weekly, sometimes themed around concepts including beer, aphrodisiac, from-the-sea and whole pig. The Painted Lady is perfect for one one-on-one celebrations, tucked amidst the well-appointed rooms of this old mansion or in the lovely and relaxing outdoor areas. The ambiance alone makes this one of the best birthday restaurants in Portland.

The Painted Lady | 201 S College St., Newberg or 97132 | $$$$

11. Langbaan

This local Thai favorite brings Pacific fresh seafood to its rustic and stylish interior, Langbaan takes good food to the next level in presentation and great service. Start with the Hokkaido scallop rice cups with shrimp, then try the local wagyu with tea-smoked oysters or the short rib curry. They also have an extensive wine list with a sommelier on staff, making it perfect for an impeccably designed food and wine experience for your next birthday dinner in Portland. 

Langbaan | 1818 NW 23rd Pl., Portland or 97214 | $$$$ 

12. Kann

This in-demand eatery demands a little planning ahead due to popularity but it is more than worth it to score the perfect birthday dinner in Portland for Haitian-inspired cuisine. Kann’s works with local ingredients to recreate island-steeped flavors for dishes like glazed duck with pineapple and tamarind and Haitian coffee-rubbed rib-eye. Larger parties can be hard to accommodate in the limited space, so this may be a better option for smaller celebrations.

Kann |  548 SE Ash St., Portland or 97214 | $$$ 

13. Le Pigeon

Another spot for a French birthday dinner in Portland, Le Pigeon has all the French bistro favorites with an extensive wine list great for celebrating unique and special occasions. Its antique-laden and eclectic interior brings to mind Parisian street life and flea markets. Dishes include foie gras profiteroles, beef bourguignon and Nantucket Bay scallops. They also have a distinctive chef-chosen tasting menu with multiple courses in both a meat-loving and vegetarian option for $135. 

Le Pigeon | 738 E Burnside St., Portland or 97214 | $$$

14. Han Oak

Clean and modernly designed, with an open kitchen and festive atmosphere, Korean Han Oak is the perfect spot for a casual yet delicious birthday dinner in Portland. It's particularly great for larger or medium-sized groups, who can enjoy the smaller dining room or a spot on the large outdoor patio. The feel is communal and community-shaped, offering a dining experience where guests can enjoy dishes like pork and chive dumplings and koji-baked pork, along with a great selection of their famous kimchi to accent any dish.

Han Oak | 511 NE 24th Ave., Portland or 97232 | $$$

15. Gado Gado

This bright and colorful spot is perfect for a birthday dinner in Portland, where they serve up a variety of Indian fare amid funky and unusual art and décor. The highlight of Gado Gado is the rice table, designed for large groups and a celebratory experience of chef-chosen grilled meat, curries and clove-scented rice. 

Gado Gado | 1801 NE Cesar E Chavez Blvd., Portland or 97212 | $$

16. Jake’s Famous Crawfish

This elegant restaurant makes a great destination for a special birthday dinner in Portland, complete with wood and stained glass accents and cozy booths. In business since the 1920s, Jake’s Famous Crawfish feels both elevated and accessible. Start with their famous original sourdough bread for every table, then move on to their extensive seafood menu for dishes like Dungeness crab bisque, sea bass and pan-fried oysters. For dessert, try their three-berry cobbler or sourdough bread pudding soaked in Irish whiskey custard.

 Jakes Famous Crawfish | 401 SW 12th Ave., Portland or 97205 | $$$

17. Clyde's Prime Rib Restaurant and Bar

Clyde’s Prime Rib Restaurant and Bar is another perfect eatery for a steakhouse-style birthday dinner in Portland, this nostalgic throwback to the 1960s is perfect for enjoying gin martinis and classic steakhouse fare amid cozy red booths and live music. Try the prime rib it's named for, of course, with sides like creamed spinach, wedge salads and shrimp cocktail.

Clyde’s Prime Rib Restaurant and Bar | 5474 NE Sandy Blvd., Portland or 97213 | $$

18. Excellent Cuisine 

This popular dim sum spot is perfect for a large group birthday dinner in Portland, with large tables and huge selections of dumplings, buns and other delicacies. Peking duck and clay pot dishes are also served amid an elevated yet casual dining room that is quite large and spacious. Elevated Cuisine is great for larger parties as they also have private rooms with dim sum service. 

Excellent Cuisine | 8733 SE Division St., Ste 101 Portland or 97266 | $$

19. The Melting Pot

For a unique and memorable experience, this fondue restaurant is a perfect stop for a birthday dinner in Portland. With an emphasis on special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries, they feature special packages that include roses, balloons and teddy bears for a fun experience. At The Melting Pot, different fondue varieties await you for a memorable birthday dinner in Portland. Indulge in a great selection of meats, bread, fruits or vegetables to dip, including their famous dessert, the Flaming Turtle. Vegetarian options are also available.

The Melting Pot | 1050 SW 6th Ave., Ste 100, Portland or 97204| $$$ 

20. Castagna

With white tablecloths and an emphasis on artistic arrangement, this unique prix fixe menu restaurant makes a lovely elevated option for a birthday dinner in Portland. At the modern and sleek Castagna, you can choose from a $65 prix fixe menu or the more elaborate 10-course tasting menu for a $100 more that includes unique flavors culled from a number of cultures, including rib eye with Basque pepper, roasted crab and brined halibut. 

Castagna | 1752 SE Hawthorne Blvd., Portland or 97214 | $$$$

21. Clarklewis

With a space that feels both modern and industrial, this favorite spot for birthday dinners in Portland offers a seasonal changing menu curated by their chefs. Their tasting menu is priced at only $50 per person and features dishes like Dungeness crab spaghetti, New York strip steak and grilled trout with Niçoise olives and lemon verbena. Clarklewis also boasts a great wine selection and desserts like their decadent chocolate coconut pecan torte, making it an excellent choice for a birthday dinner in Portland. The spacious dining room easily accommodates larger parties and celebrations. 

Clarklewis | 1001 SE Water Ave., Portland or 97214 | $$$

22. El Gaucho

Part of a popular Northwest chain, this steakhouse makes a cozy spot for a birthday dinner in Portland on the fancier end with tux-wearing waitstaff and white tablecloth service. Generous portions of steak and classic steakhouse sides like a baked potato and Caesar salad are served up amid the low-lit interior of El Gaucho. Try their bananas foster and if inclined, a cigar from their extensive cigar menu. 

El Gaucho |  319 SW Broadway, Portland or 97205 | $$$$

23. Jory

Located in the Allison Inn and Spa, this restaurant is perfect for a relaxing and calm experience for a birthday dinner in Portland, wood-grilled seafood, meat and veggies prevail with a chef’s table view of the kitchen action. They serve three meals a day amid their stylish modern wood-lined interior. At Jory, the wine selection boasts over 800 varieties, perfectly complementing their seasonally changing menu rich in dishes like Chinook salmon with quinoa, Muscovy duck with lentils, smoked albacore tuna and a rotisserie lamb sandwich—an ideal choice for a birthday dinner in Portland. 

Jory | 2525 Allison Ln., Newberg or 97132 | $$$

24  Blossoming Lotus Portland

This vegan eatery makes a great daytime locale for an earlier evening birthday dinner in Portland (or brunch or lunch celebration.) Offering seasonal menu items that change daily, the emphasis is on wraps, salads and bowls using plant-based and raw or “live” ingredients. The interior of Blossoming Lotus feels elevated yet casual with a lively atmosphere. It’s the perfect birthday restaurant in Portland for those with dietary restrictions.

Blossoming Lotus | 1713 NE 15th Ave., Portland or 97212 | $$

25. Salty’s On The Columbia River

One of the best places in Portland for waterfront views, Salty’s has been in business for four decades, offering seasonally changing seafood menu options perfect for a birthday dinner in Portland. The interior is many-windowed and bright during the day or softly lit at night, providing a view of the river and stars. Indulge in dishes like smoked Columbia steelhead, Dungeness crab, crab cakes and their world-renowned seafood chowder—a delicious choice for a memorable birthday dinner in Portland.

Salty’s on the Columbia River | 3839 NE Marine Dr., Portland or 97211| $$$

26. Q Restaurant & Bar

Equally a great spot for a romantic date or large family gathering, this place is a perfect venue for a birthday dinner in Portland. The interior is filled with cozy booths and stained glass accents. The menu boasts a number of influences, including regional favorites like Pacific seafood and local produce. Order Q’s Restaurant's famous duck confit or osso bucco for a tasty birthday dinner in Portland.

Q Restaurant and Bar | 828 SW 2nd Ave., Portland or 97204| $$$ 

27. Caffe Mingo

An Italian restaurant with an emphasis on locally sourced seafood and ingredients, Caffe Mingio has an elevated feel and eclectic interior. But it’s also budget-friendly with a casual vibe, making it perfect for a Portland birthday dinner for both large and small groups. Dishes include classic Italian fare like risotto, sugo di carne and caprese salad. Follow it up with celebratory tiramisu for a birthday dessert. 

Caffe Mingo | 807 NW 21st Ave., Portland or 97209 | $$

28. Arden

Named after Shakespeare's famous forest, this eatery specializes in seasonally changing local ingredients, offering à la carte options or a four-course prix fixe menu with wine pairings—ideal for a birthday dinner in Portland. Arden’s interior is rustic yet contemporary, with a lively atmosphere that suits celebrations of just two to three people or larger groups. Indulge in dishes like red trout crudo, foie gras torchon and duck breast—a luxurious choice for an unforgettable birthday dinner in Portland.

Arden | 417 NW 10th Ave., Portland or 97209 | $$$

29. Republica

Offering Mexican cuisine experiences through a lens of storytelling, Republica is a perfect spot for a fancy birthday dinner in Portland. Republica offers a seven course tasting menu or a more elaborate 10-course version, with an emphasis on the history and legacy of each dish. The dining room is elegant and filled with sleek modern and industrial touches and Mexican cultural accents.

Republica | 100 NW 10th Ave., Portland or 97209 | $$$

30. Wilf’s Restaurant and Jazz Bar

If you're looking for a birthday dinner in Portland that combines world-class food with entertainment, Wilfs, located at Unions Station, is a mid-century modern inspired stylish lounge, that offers some of the best jazz in the city, Local and regional dishes focused around beef and seafood prevail with classic steakhouse fare like Caesar salads and French onion soup. 

Wilf's Restaurant and Jazz Bar | 800 NW 6th Ave., Portland or 97209 | $$

31. MomoYama

Known for high-quality sushi, MomoYama is a great spot for a birthday dinner in Portland that is both elevated and accessible even for the sushi novice. Sushi classics abound, including signature rolls and nigiri imported from Japan. They also have a kitchen menu that includes dishes like Wagyu beef and squid ink pasta. With great service, they welcome celebrations both large and small. 

MomoYama | 1022 NW Johnson St., Portland or 97209 | $$$

Other Foodie Experiences in Portland

While eating out at Portland’s best restaurants may be a fun birthday idea, you may also be looking to enjoy some of the best Portland food in the comfort of your own home during your birthday dinner in Portland. Try taking a cooking class in Portland to learn new skills and how to source and use local ingredients for your birthday dinner in Portland. Or, consider hiring a private chef for your next gathering or special occasion to elevate your birthday dinner in Portland. Food tours in Portland make excellent birthday outings and can help acquaint you with places that may become your new favorite eatery for your birthday dinner in Portland.

Whether you're looking to celebrate your birthday solo or with a raucous group of people, Portland has much to offer in food culture and nightlife, making it a perfect city to celebrate your birthday in with a birthday dinner in Portland. For even more ways to explore Portland and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal for your birthday dinner in Portland.