Portland has always held a special place in our hearts. Andrew and I both lived there at different points in our lives, so when we found ourselves visiting family on the Oregon Coast, it felt like the perfect opportunity to spend a few days exploring one of our favorite cities together—with our toddler in tow. Portland’s restaurant and coffee scene remains unmatched, and this quick trip reminded us exactly why we love it so much. From unforgettable fine dining to some of the best coffee we’ve ever had, every stop was memorable in its own way.

Arden

Our first night in Portland set the bar incredibly high. Dinner at Arden ended up being our favorite restaurant experience of the entire trip. As a chef and former restaurant industry professional, Andrew is always paying close attention to the details, and he was genuinely impressed by both the food and the team. Every dish felt thoughtful and beautifully executed, and the service struck that perfect balance of professionalism and warmth. From start to finish, the experience felt special without being pretentious. If we could only recommend one restaurant from our trip, Arden would be it.

Coava Coffee

The next morning, we started our day with coffee and pastries at Coava Coffee Roasters. This has long been one of my favorite coffee shops in Portland, and their honey latte remains one of my favorite coffee drinks anywhere. Beyond the coffee itself, I love the atmosphere. The industrial space feels distinctly Portland—modern, creative, and effortlessly cool. It was the perfect place to ease into our first full day in the city before heading out to explore.

Terra Mae

That evening, we had dinner at Terra Mae, and the restaurant was absolutely stunning. The interior design immediately caught our attention, with lush plants and beautiful details creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. The concept is equally impressive: a woman-led team serving a creative blend of Portuguese and Japanese cuisine. Every dish felt unique and thoughtfully crafted, showcasing flavors and combinations we hadn’t experienced before. Terra Mae manages to feel both elegant and approachable, making it a standout dining destination in Portland.

Upper Left Roasters

On our final morning, we headed to Upper Left Roasters for brunch before leaving the city. This was Andrew’s favorite coffee of the trip, and it’s easy to see why. The coffee was excellent, but the food was equally memorable—especially their incredible toasts. The café has a lively energy, filled with people working remotely, catching up with friends, or simply enjoying a great cup of coffee and breakfast. It’s the kind of neighborhood spot that makes you wish you lived nearby.

Every visit to Portland reminds us why we love coming back. The city continues to evolve while maintaining the creativity, hospitality, and incredible food culture that make it so special. Whether we’re revisiting old favorites or discovering new restaurants and coffee shops, Portland never disappoints. This trip was short, but sharing it together as a family—and introducing our toddler to a city that means so much to both of us—made it one we’ll always remember.

XOXO