Readers Respond: We like to dine al fresco at these Oregon restaurants

Published 12:00 pm Thursday, April 24, 2025

We asked readers where and when they like to eat outdoors in Oregon.

Of more than 60 responders, about 69% said they like to eat al fresco multiple times per year during nice weather seasons. About 26% said many times all year round, while 5% said they eat outdoors one or twice per year. No readers said they never eat al fresco in Oregon.

As for types, 36% of readers said they prefer to eat al fresco in garden courtyards; 24% said waterfront seating; 20% said sidewalk cafés; 10% said rooftop patios; and 5% each said park picnic areas and street food or food cart areas.

As for ambiance, about 42% of respondents said they prefer scenic with a view; 20% said quiet and secluded; 17% said lively and bustling; 17% said rustic and natural; and 5% said trendy and modern.

As for meals, about 43% of readers said they prefer to dine al fresco for lunch; 27% said dinner; 17% said happy hour; 12% said brunch or brunch; and 2% said dessert. Nobody chose breakfast, snacks, or late-night meals.

About 69% of respondents said they would be willing to travel 15-30 minutes for a great outdoor dining experience. About 16% said up to an hours; 10% said anywhere for the vibes; and 5% said walking distance.

About 54% of readers said food quality is the highest matter of importance when dining al fresco; 22% said atmosphere; 14% said weather protected with umbrellas or heaters; 5% said the view and scenery; and 5% said crowd and vibes. Nobody said service is the most important.

  • Sandlandia World Cuisine food cart pod in Sandy
  • Lake Theater & Cafe in Lake Oswego
  • Ratskeller, Government Camp
  • Nicoletta’s Table and Marketplace in Lake Oswego
  • La Provence in Lake Oswego, Beaverton, Hillsboro and Cedar Hills
  • Wow Cow in Tigard
  • Stone Cliff Inn in Carver
  • Papa Haydn in Sellwood
  • Persimmon Grille in Gresham
  • Park and Main in Carlton
  • Five Spice Seafood & Wine Bar in Lake Oswego 
  • Grain Station Brew Works in McMinnville
  • Wild Hare Saloon in Canby
  • Tamale Boy in Portland
  • Pizzario in Hillsboro
  • Pizzario sul Lago in Lake Oswego
  • Gubanc’s Restaurant in Lake Oswego
  • Serato in Portland
  • Phuket Cafe in Portland
  • Duke’s Public House in Lake Oswego
  • Mann’s on the Lake in Lake Oswego
  • The Rendezvous Grill in Welches
  • Renner’s Grill in Multnomah Village
  • Top Burmese Bistro Royale in Beaverton
  • Pelican Brewing Company, Pacific City
  • Avanti Restaurant & Bar, West Linn
  • Riccardo’s Ristorante Lake Oswego 
  • Twenty First Ave Kitchen & Bar, Portland
  • McMenamins Rock Creek Tavern in Hillsboro
  • Lolo’s Boss Pizza, Troutdale
  • Amelia’s Rustic Mexican Restaurant in Hillsboro
  • The Lodge food carts in Scappoose
  • Orchards Grill, Woodburn
  • Spinellas in Gresham
  • Mingo in beaverton