The dynamic culinary landscape of Portland, Oregon, particularly its vibrant Portland Food Scene, is once again buzzing with activity, marked by significant relaunches, new openings, and the inevitable shifts that define a trending city’s food and bars scene. As October 2025 draws to a close, diners and drinkers can anticipate a fresh wave of experiences, from plant-based transformations and community-focused cafes to expansions and bittersweet farewells among beloved Portland restaurants.
Veggie Grill Ascends on Hawthorne: A New Era for the Portland Food Scene
The former Next Level Burger on SE Hawthorne Boulevard is set to embark on a new chapter as Next Level Veggie Grill. Following its acquisition of the national vegan chain Veggie Grill in 2024, the company is consolidating its brands. The SE Hawthorne location, a decade-long staple in the community, will be the first in Portland to rebrand, celebrating its grand relaunch on Saturday, October 25th, 2025. The event, scheduled from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., promises giveaways, samples, and a first look at an expanded menu that merges the strengths of both establishments. Patrons can expect a comprehensive vegan offering, featuring inventive burgers, hearty bowls, salads, burritos, and desserts, all under one roof. CEO Matt de Gruyter expressed enthusiasm for this evolution, positioning the company as the world’s largest wholly owned vegan restaurant entity, poised for greater global impact within the expanding Portland Food Scene.
Soulful Sips Brews Community on NE MLK
Adding a warm, community-centric vibe to NE Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard is Soulful Sips, a new Black-owned business offering a comforting array of coffee, teas, and refreshing beverages. The establishment, which held its soft opening in mid-September, aims to be more than just a café; it aspires to be a gathering place for small events, workshops, and meaningful connections. With a mission to “Restore Souls One Sip at a Time,” Soulful Sips is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., providing a welcoming space for the neighborhood and contributing to the rich tapestry of the Portland Food Scene.
Steeplejack Burgers & Beer Expands to the Oregon Coast
Steeplejack Burgers & Beer, a local favorite known for its approachable yet scratch-made food and craft brews, is extending its reach to the Oregon Coast. The company has acquired the former Neah-Kah-Nie Bistro space in Manzanita, with plans to open Steeplejack Burgers & Beer in Spring 2026. The new location will feature a menu focused on burgers and a special chicken sandwich, complemented by salads and desserts, all designed to capture the relaxed ambiance of the coastal town. A signature “Manzanita Lager” is also in development for the new outpost, showcasing the expanding reach of popular Portland Food Scene establishments.
Transitions and Farewells in Portland’s Dining Scene
This period also marks significant transitions for established names within the Portland Food Scene. Tiffin Asha, after 12 years of serving South Indian-inspired cuisine, is closing its doors as a restaurant. While its brick-and-mortar presence will cease, the beloved brand will continue its legacy as a specialty food maker, focusing on its highly regarded Indian pickles and condiments. Meanwhile, Cliff’s PDX, a beloved bar known for its Southern charm and Midwestern hospitality, faces an uncertain future. Its current location at 128 NE Russell Street is slated to close by the end of the year as landlords are not renewing the lease, prompting an active search for a new home. In the realm of nightlife, Misfits Bar & Lounge, an LGBTQ-friendly establishment on NE 82nd Avenue, officially closed its doors in May 2025. The space is slated to be taken over by Pickle Back Tavern, signaling a new chapter for the former Misfits location. Shake Shack is also offering a limited-time Halloween treat with a buy-one-get-one-free deal on Double ShackBurgers, valid through October 31st, 2025, with the promo code “SPOOKY.”
The Enduring Appeal of Portland Burger Joints
Amidst these changes, Portland’s reputation as a burger haven remains strong, a key component of the overall Portland Food Scene. Portland Burger continues to earn accolades, being featured among top burger joints in Oregon for its handcrafted patties and housemade sauces. From classic preparations to more inventive takes, the city’s dedication to the perfect burger is evident across its diverse array of carts and restaurants, solidifying its status as a prime destination for burger enthusiasts exploring the Portland Food Scene.
The continuous evolution of Portland’s restaurants and bars reflects a city that is always reinventing itself. While some establishments close or transform, new ventures emerge, offering fresh flavors and experiences that enrich the Portland Food Scene. This constant flux ensures that the culinary scene in Oregon remains vibrant, exciting, and a compelling draw for locals and visitors alike, highlighting the dynamic nature of the Portland Food Scene and its ongoing transformation.
