A longtime favorite in the industrial-cool Pearl District, Andina brought authentic Peruvian cooking to Portland when it opened in 2003, and the eatery remains a favorite for a fun night out. With live music every night, the boisterous, two-story eatery celebrates its owner’s Andean roots with elevated South American cuisine, including such traditional dishes as lomo saltado (wok-fried beef with onions, tomatoes and oyster sauce) and a variety of ceviches. Everything on the exotic menu pairs well with the restaurant’s signature cocktail, a pisco sour.

Opened by James Beard Award–winner Gabriel Rucker in 2006 (when the chef was just 25), Le Pigeon has grown into one of Portland’s classic establishments. Groundbreaking when it opened, the modern French bistro revolutionized the dining scene with a daring, meat-focused menu that included such innovative dishes as beef cheek bourguignon with creamy cheddar, beef tongue spätzle and, for dessert, foie gras profiteroles (still a staple on the menu today). The snug eatery features exposed brick walls, communal seating and a copper oven vent that anchors the open kitchen, all of which combine to create a cozy ambiance, perfect for enjoying indulgent French cuisine. Le Pigeon offers set menus as well as an à la carte selection, and while the dishes appeal to the adventurous, patrons can also expect some accessible items like a burger and butternut squash agnolotti with black truffle whipped ricotta.