What is it? A perfect neighborhood bistro, marrying French culinary roots and local ingredients. L’Échelle is one of many Portland establishments that the late Naomi Pomeroy left her brilliant mark on, and the city’s food community is eternally grateful.
Why we love it: Though they only opened in May, the L’Échelle team has been working on this concept for a few years, and it shows. The menu, brilliantly executed by head chef Mika Paredes, is exactly what we crave from a French bistro (steak au poivre, shrimp cocktail, a bright salad and flawless fries) but introduces other dishes that hit just as hard (the buttery, herb-covered carrots were a fave, as was the gnocchi with morels and pickled onions).
Time Out tip: The wine list is fantastic and curated by Cutter Cascadia’s wine proprietor, and the bar program is run by an award-winning bartender, so don’t miss the drinks.
Address: 4537 SE Division St, Portland, OR 97206
Hours: Wed–Sun 5–10pm, with plans to expand days and hours
Expect to pay: About $50 per person, excluding drinks.