In a significant achievement for Portland's culinary landscape, two local restaurants have made it onto the New York Times' annual list of America's 50 best restaurants. L'Orange, a modern French eatery located on the second floor of a Victorian house, offers a seasonal menu that has garnered praise for its charm and creativity. Chef Joel Stocks, the founder and executive chef, brings years of experience and a global perspective to his dishes, including unique offerings like smoked and roasted sturgeon. Meanwhile, Yaowarat, which opened in October 2023, draws inspiration from Bangkok's Chinatown and serves a delightful array of Thai-Chinese dishes. Chef Akkapong Earl Ninsom, known for his award-winning restaurant Langbaan, has created a menu that features dishes like crispy egg noodles with pork gravy.

The NYT describes Yaowarat's atmosphere as reminiscent of a bustling night market. With both restaurants highly recommended for reservations, this recognition underlines Portland's growing reputation as a culinary hub. The inclusion of these eateries showcases the city's diverse gastronomic offerings and the talent of its chefs.