Portland has many golf courses throughout the city, but many of the nicest are in Northeast Portland, along the river. Heron Lakes Golf Course, Columbia Edgewater, Portland Meadows, Broadmoor, and Colwood National all make use of the river's proximity to keep their greens lush and verdant year-round. And while it may be the downtown on the west side of the river that is best known for its eateries, be assured there are many spectacular vegetarian restaurants in northeast as well. Like most of Portland's dining scene, even critically acclaimed vegetarian restaurants tend to be on the casual side, so they are ideal for a meal immediately after a round of golf.
Traiel's Food for the Soul
Traiel's Food for the Soul is a Southern and Cajun-inspired menu, serving up both meat and an extensive vegetarian selection. In addition to traditional barbecue, Traiel's also offers vegetarian soul food, making them a rarity even in Oregon. Vegetarian hush puppies, collared greens, gumbo, and entrées are featured alongside local beers and wines. The focus of Traiel's is on local, natural ingredients, so nearly everything comes from within the Portland foodshed. And community events are regularly held, showcasing some areas of local cuisine.
Traiel's Food for the Soul
300 North Killingsworth St.
Portland, OR 97217
(503) 286-1339
Arabian Breeze
Arabian Breeze is a traditional Middle Eastern restaurant with a large selection of vegetarian and vegan options. While meat eaters will find plenty to enjoy on this menu, it is the vegetarian dishes that really distinguish the menu. Vegan kibbah, kebabs and pizzas make for some of the most distinctive vegetarian entrées in town. The menu is rounded out by a wide range of vegetarian Be Riz and Middle Eastern standbys, such as sambousik, baba, hummus and zahtar. Dining is casual, but the restaurant is popular, so reservations are recommended on weekend evenings.
Arabian Breeze
3223 Northeast Broadway
Portland, OR 97232
(503) 445-4700
arabianbreezeportland.com
Vita Café
Vita Café is a primarily vegetarian restaurant, with many vegan options available. A handful of free-range, hormone-free meat dishes are available as well. The food here is of the comfort-food variety, making it ideal for lunch between rounds of golf. Seitan cheese steaks, veggie burgers, vegan nachos, vegan mac and cheese, and a handful of Thai-inspired dishes make this a great place for anyone looking for simple vegetarian cuisine. The restaurant also features a full bar with many unique, garden-fresh cocktails, and an extended list of local wines and beers.
Vita Café
3023 N.E. Alberta St.
Portland, OR 97211
(503) 335-8233
vita-cafe.com
About The Author
Situated on the beautiful Mendocino Coast in Northern California, Brendan McGuigan has been writing professionally since 2003. His articles have appeared in "Pology," "San Francisco Restaurant Review," 1001 Beautiful Sights, and Visual Travel Tours. He studied linguistics and phonoly at Goddard College.
