Portland’s Newest Restaurant Openings, Now on Resy

Ya Hala has long been known for its homey Lebanese and Middle Eastern menu and bustling, cavernous space. But for something unique, check out what’s going on in the intimate 32-seat Fairuz Room. There, an ever-evolving prix-fixe spread, filled with things like asparagus moussaka, beef shank with Swiss chard-stuffed kibbeh dumplings, and baklava made with Oregon hazelnuts, is meant to feel like a homespun dinner party.

Another hit from the team behind República, this evening-only restaurant within a restaurant serves the kind of regional Mexican dishes with modern flourishes that kicked off the group’s rise to fame. The menu changes frequently, but you might see things like the veg-forward pink mole (beets are just one of the almost 20 components) with potatoes, squash, rapini, and radish. Grab a drink at the dimly lit Comala bar ahead of time.

The former Dame pop-up is now a brick-and-mortar, bringing big flavors and shareable plates to Southeast. While it’s perfect for date night, it’s even more fun with a group, so you can order everything. The focaccia and tuna tartare are a good place to start, but don’t skip the whole branzino or richly braised lamb neck. Globetrot through the well curated wine list, too.

Chef Juan Gomez, who helped República garner best new restaurant nods from Bon Appétit and James Beard, is taking a more personal approach to PNW cuisine. Named for his grandmother, dishes like pork collar and potato with masa lean on his Mexican-American roots while showcasing seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. The airy and unpretentious space befits the South Waterfront vibe.

Matthew Lightner won plaudits at Portland’s Castagna, then decamped to New York where he promptly earned two Michelin stars at Atera. Now he’s back in Oregon, serving sophisticated, resolutely local and seasonal fare at this 26-seat tasting-menu destination in McMinnville’s boutique Tributary Hotel.