Best Seafood in Portland Oregon: Top Picks for Fresh and Delicious Catch

Are you a seafood lover looking for the best seafood in Portland, Oregon? Look no further! Portland is home to some of the most delicious seafood restaurants in the Pacific Northwest. Whether you're in the mood for fresh oysters, succulent crab cakes, or perfectly grilled salmon, Portland has it all.

In this article, we'll take you on a culinary tour of the top seafood restaurants in Portland. We'll also highlight some of the must-try seafood dishes and sustainable seafood practices in the city. So, get ready to indulge in some of the freshest and most delicious seafood you've ever tasted.

Key Takeaways

• Portland, Oregon is home to some of the best seafood restaurants in the Pacific Northwest.
• Some of the top seafood dishes to try include fresh oysters, crab cakes, and grilled salmon.
• Portland is committed to sustainable seafood practices, ensuring that the seafood you eat is both delicious and environmentally responsible.

Top Seafood Restaurants in Portland

If you're looking for the best seafood in Portland, you're in luck. This city is home to some of the finest seafood restaurants in the country. Whether you're in the mood for fresh oysters, succulent crab legs, or perfectly cooked salmon, you'll find it all here. In this section, we'll take a look at the top seafood restaurants in Portland, divided into three categories: award-winning eateries, local favourites, and hidden gems.

Award-Winning Eateries

If you're looking for the crème de la crème of seafood restaurants in Portland, these award-winning eateries are sure to satisfy your cravings. These restaurants have been recognised for their exceptional food, service, and atmosphere.

• Portland City Grill - This restaurant offers stunning views of the city and an extensive menu of seafood dishes. Try the Dungeness crab cakes or the cedar plank salmon for a truly memorable meal.

• Higgins Restaurant and Bar - This upscale eatery focuses on sustainable, locally sourced ingredients. The seafood dishes are a standout, with options like the Oregon shrimp and scallop risotto and the grilled Alaskan halibut.

Local Favourites

For a more laid-back dining experience, check out these local favourites. These restaurants are beloved by Portland residents for their delicious seafood dishes and friendly service.

• Southpark Seafood - This downtown eatery offers a wide range of seafood dishes, from classic fish and chips to more exotic options like the Spanish octopus. The oyster bar is a must-visit.

• Jake's Famous Crawfish - This historic restaurant has been serving up seafood since 1892. Try the crab cakes or the pan-seared scallops for a taste of Portland history.

Hidden Gems

If you're looking for a unique dining experience, these hidden gems are worth checking out. These restaurants may not have the name recognition of some of the bigger seafood spots in town, but they more than make up for it with their delicious food and charming atmosphere.

• Flying Fish Company - This fish market and restaurant serves up some of the freshest seafood in town. Try the fish and chips or the grilled salmon sandwich for a casual yet delicious meal.

• NORMANDIE - This French-inspired seafood restaurant offers a unique twist on classic dishes. Try the bouillabaisse or the seafood paella for a taste of the Mediterranean in the Pacific Northwest.

No matter which of these top seafood restaurants in Portland you choose, you're sure to have a memorable dining experience.

Seafood Dishes You Must Try

Portland, Oregon is a seafood lover's paradise. With an abundance of fresh seafood available, there's no shortage of delicious dishes to try. Here are a few must-try seafood dishes that you simply can't miss:

1. Fish and Chips

Fish and chips is a classic dish that's popular all over the world, and Portland is no exception. You'll find plenty of restaurants serving up this British favourite, but if you want the best of the best, head to Dan & Louis Oyster Bar. Their fish and chips are made with fresh, locally caught fish and served with crispy fries and homemade tartar sauce.

2. Dungeness Crab

Dungeness crab is a Pacific Northwest delicacy, and Portland is the perfect place to try it. Head to Jake's Famous Crawfish for their famous crab cakes, made with fresh Dungeness crab meat and served with a spicy remoulade sauce.

3. Seafood Chowder

A warm bowl of seafood chowder is the perfect comfort food on a chilly Portland day. For the best seafood chowder in town, head to Southpark Seafood. Their chowder is made with fresh clams, shrimp, and salmon, and is served with crusty bread for dipping.

4. Grilled Octopus

If you're feeling adventurous, give grilled octopus a try. The Kracked Crab serves up some of the best grilled octopus in town, marinated in a spicy garlic and herb sauce and grilled to perfection.

5. Oysters

No seafood list would be complete without oysters, and Portland has some of the best. Head to Dan & Louis Oyster Bar for their famous oyster stew, or The Parish for a plate of fresh, briny oysters on the half shell.

Whether you're a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, Portland has something for everyone. These must-try dishes are just the beginning of the delicious seafood options available in this city.

Sustainable Seafood Practices in Portland

Portland is known for its sustainable and environmentally friendly practices, and the seafood industry is no exception. Many seafood restaurants and markets in Portland are dedicated to sourcing their seafood locally and sustainably. This means that the seafood is caught or farmed in a way that minimizes harm to the environment and ensures the long-term health of the fish populations.

One way that Portland seafood restaurants ensure sustainability is by sourcing their seafood from local fishermen who use sustainable fishing practices. This means that the fish are caught in a way that minimizes bycatch, which is the unintentional catching of other fish or marine animals. Bycatch can be harmful to the environment and can lead to the depletion of fish populations.

Another way that Portland seafood restaurants promote sustainability is by serving seafood that is in season. This means that the seafood is caught at a time when it is abundant and can be caught in a way that minimizes harm to the environment. For example, some seafood restaurants in Portland only serve oysters during months that have an "R" in the name, which is when oysters are at their peak.

In addition to sustainable fishing practices, many seafood restaurants in Portland are committed to reducing waste and using environmentally friendly practices. For example, some restaurants use compostable or biodegradable packaging for takeout orders, and others use reusable plates and utensils to reduce waste.

Overall, Portland's commitment to sustainable seafood practices is a testament to the city's dedication to environmental stewardship. By supporting seafood restaurants and markets that prioritize sustainability, you can enjoy delicious seafood while also doing your part to protect the environment.

Planning Your Seafood Adventure

If you are planning a trip to Portland, Oregon, and you love seafood, you are in for a treat. Portland is known for its fresh, sustainable seafood, and there are plenty of restaurants and food carts to choose from. Here are some tips to help you plan your seafood adventure.

Best Times to Visit

Portland is a great place to visit year-round, but if you want to experience the best seafood, you should plan your trip for the summer months. This is when the local fishermen bring in their catch, and many restaurants feature seasonal seafood dishes on their menus. If you can't visit during the summer, don't worry. Portland restaurants serve fresh seafood all year round, and there are always new and exciting dishes to try.

Seafood Festivals and Events

If you want to experience the best of Portland's seafood scene, you should plan your trip around one of the city's seafood festivals or events. The Portland Seafood and Wine Festival is held annually in February and features over 50 seafood dishes from local restaurants and wineries. The Astoria Seafood and Wine Festival is another popular event, held in April, that showcases the best seafood and wine from the Pacific Northwest.

In addition to these festivals, there are many other seafood events throughout the year, such as the Tuna Classic Fishing Tournament in August and the Newport Seafood and Wine Festival in February. Check the local events calendar to see what's happening during your visit.

Overall, planning your seafood adventure in Portland is easy and exciting. With so many great restaurants and events to choose from, you are sure to have a memorable culinary experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the iconic seafood dishes that Portland, Oregon is famous for?

Portland, Oregon is famous for its fresh, succulent seafood dishes. Some of the iconic seafood dishes that Portland is known for include Dungeness crab, oysters, salmon, and shrimp. These dishes are prepared in various ways, including grilling, smoking, and frying.

Are there any acclaimed seafood markets in Portland where I can buy fresh, local produce?

Yes, Portland is home to several acclaimed seafood markets where you can purchase fresh, locally sourced seafood. Some of the best seafood markets in Portland include Flying Fish Company, Newman's Fish Company, and City Fish Market. These markets offer a wide variety of seafood, including crab, shrimp, salmon, and oysters.

What distinguishes Oregon's seafood selection compared to other coastal regions?

Oregon's seafood selection is unique in that it is sustainably sourced and harvested. The state has strict regulations in place to ensure that seafood is caught and harvested in an environmentally friendly and ethical manner. Additionally, Oregon's seafood is known for its freshness and quality, as it is often caught and delivered to markets and restaurants on the same day. This ensures that you get the best possible seafood experience when dining in Portland.