American food is a diverse cuisine that includes a wide range of dishes and flavors from various regions and cultural influences. It is often characterized by hearty, filling dishes and generous portions.

In an American restaurant, you can expect to find classic dishes like burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, and fried chicken, as well as popular comfort foods like mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, and meatloaf. Other popular dishes include barbecue ribs, steak, and seafood, which can be prepared in a variety of ways.

American cuisine is also known for its fast food chains, such as McDonald’s and KFC, which serve quick, convenient meals like hamburgers, fried chicken, and fries. There are also casual dining chains like Applebee’s, Chili’s, and TGI Fridays, which serve a wide range of classic American dishes in a family-friendly atmosphere.

In recent years, American cuisine has seen a resurgence of interest in farm-to-table dining and locally sourced ingredients, with many restaurants focusing on using fresh, seasonal produce and sustainably sourced meats.

Overall, dining at an American restaurant can offer a wide range of options and flavors, from casual fast food to upscale dining experiences, and can provide a taste of the diverse flavors and influences that make up American cuisine. And here in Portland, boy do we have some tremendous American restaurants! Here are my top picks.

The Original

The Original is a classic diner-style restaurant in downtown Portland. They serve classic American dishes like burgers, sandwiches, salads, and breakfast items like omelets and pancakes. The decor is retro and the vibe is casual, making it a great spot for a quick, satisfying meal.

Address: 300 SW 6th Ave, Portland, OR 97204

Tasty n Sons

Tasty n Sons is a popular brunch spot in North Portland that serves classic American breakfast items with a modern twist. The menu includes dishes like eggs benedict, chicken and waffles, and a variety of creative scrambles. The portions are large and meant for sharing, making it a fun spot to go with friends or family.

Address: 4537 SE Division St, Portland, OR 97206

Screen Door

Screen Door is a Southern-style restaurant in East Portland that serves classic American dishes with a focus on Cajun and Creole cuisine. The menu includes items like fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and jambalaya. They also have a popular brunch menu on weekends.

Address: 1131 NW Couch Portland, OR 97209

Jake’s Famous Crawfish

Jake’s Famous Crawfish is a historic seafood restaurant in downtown Portland that has been around since 1892. They serve classic American dishes like clam chowder, crab cakes, and fish and chips. The decor is elegant and the atmosphere is formal, making it a great spot for a special occasion or a fancy night out.

Address: 401 SW 12th Ave, Portland, OR 97205

Huber’s Cafe

Huber’s Cafe is another historic restaurant in downtown Portland that has been around since 1879. They are known for their turkey dinners, which come with all the fixings like stuffing, cranberry sauce, and mashed potatoes. They also have a popular Spanish coffee that they prepare tableside.

Address: 411 SW 3rd Ave, Portland, OR 97204

The Country Cat

The Country Cat is a farm-to-table restaurant in Southeast Portland that serves classic American dishes with a focus on Southern cuisine. The menu includes items like fried chicken, pot roast, and biscuits and gravy. They use locally sourced ingredients whenever possible and have a cozy, rustic atmosphere.

Address: 7000 NE Airport Way, Portland, OR 97218

Le Bistro Montage

Le Bistro Montage is a Cajun-style restaurant in Southeast Portland that serves classic American dishes with a focus on New Orleans-style cuisine. The menu includes items like mac and cheese, po’ boys, and gumbo. They are also known for their giant, shareable bowls of mac and cheese.

Address: 1080 SE Madison St, Portland, OR 97214

Doug Fir Lounge

The Doug Fir Lounge is a music venue in Southeast Portland that has a restaurant attached. The restaurant serves classic American dishes like burgers, sandwiches, and fries. They have a large outdoor patio that’s perfect for a summer evening.

Address: 830 E Burnside St, Portland, OR 97214

Holman’s Bar and Grill

Holman’s Bar and Grill is a dive bar in Southeast Portland that serves classic American pub food like burgers, chicken wings, and nachos. They have a casual, laid-back atmosphere and a great selection of beers on tap.

Address: 15 SE 28th Ave, Portland, OR 97214

The Observatory

The Observatory is a pub in North Portland that serves classic American dishes like burgers, sandwiches, and pizza. They also have a great selection of beer and cocktails, making it a fun spot to go for drinks with friends.

Address: 8115 SE Stark St, Portland, OR 97215

Overall, these restaurants offer a great range of classic American dishes, from diner-style burgers and fries to upscale seafood and Southern cuisine. No matter what you’re in the mood for, you’re sure to find something on this list that hits the spot.