It’s hot, and there’s only one place to be – on the water! Portland is blessed with two converging rivers, the Willamette and the Columbia, yet finding a spot to dine or enjoy happy hour on the water can feel like a treasure hunt. We’ve got the lowdown on the best floating restaurants where you can soak up the sun, savor delicious bites, and live your best waterfront life. If you’re one of the lucky ones, ourselves included in this distinguished and debaucherous bunch, to be the captain of your own vessel – you may be looking for restaurants you can drive up to on the water and enjoy great food and drinks. This PDX Floating Dining & Drinking Guide is your ticket to all the places where you can make the most of your excursions on the river.
We’ve rounded up three fantastic floating restaurants in Portland, each offering a unique experience. Get ready to plan your next waterside adventure!
Good to Know Before You Go: All of these gems are seasonal, dog-friendly, and operate on a no-reservations basis. On those glorious sunny days, they get packed, so arriving early is always a smart move to snag your spot!
The Deck
Nestled on the Columbia River at McCuddy’s Marina, The Deck is a seasonal hotspot offering an unparalleled dining experience with stunning scenic views. It’s your go-to for fresh seafood and classic American dishes served with a side of sunshine.
Location: 2901 NE Marine Dr, Portland, OR 97211
Hours: Monday-Friday: 11 AM – 8 PM, Saturday & Sunday: 9 AM – 8 PM
Highlights:
- Epic Happy Hour: Unwind with discounted drinks and bites.
- Vegan Options: Plant-based pals rejoice!
- Weekend Brunch: Start your weekend right with a waterside brunch.
Connect with The Deck:
- Website: https://thedeckpdx.com/
- Instagram: @thedeck.pdx
- Facebook: The Deck PDX
Island Cafe
Intro: Escape to a tropical paradise right here in North Portland! Island Cafe, located on Hayden Island in the North Portland Harbor, is famed for its laid-back, island-inspired atmosphere. Think classic comfort food like fish and chips and hearty sandwiches, all with a breezy waterfront vibe.
Location: 250 NE Tomahawk Island Dr #22, Portland, OR 97217
Hours: Daily: 11 AM – 9 PM
Highlights:
- Tropical Vibe: Feel like you’re on vacation without leaving the city.
- Laid-back Atmosphere: Perfect for a relaxed meal with friends or family.
Connect with Island Cafe:
- Website: https://islandcafepdx.com/
- Instagram: @islandcafepdx
- Facebook: Island Cafe PDX
Sabor Del Río Café
Get ready for a taste of Puerto Rico right on the Columbia River! Portland’s newest culinary sensation, Sabor Del Río Café, is perched by the water at Harbor One Marina. Prepare your taste buds for authentic Puerto Rican street tacos and mouthwatering Cubano sandwiches – this place is a must-try!
Location: 3307 NE Marine Dr, Portland, OR 97211
Hours: Daily: 11 AM – 8 PM
Highlights:
- Authentic Puerto Rican Cuisine: A unique culinary experience in Portland.
- Latino-Owned: Support and enjoy incredible food.
- Buzzworthy New Spot: Featured on Oregon Live – check out the video: Portland’s new floating restaurant on the Columbia River is making a big splash
Connect with Sabor Del Río Café:
- Instagram: @sabordelriocafe
- Facebook: Sabor del Río Café
Plan Your Waterfront Feast!
To make your adventure even easier, we’ve put together a handy map of these fantastic floating restaurants. Plot your course and get ready to enjoy the best of Portland’s waterside dining!
View these restaurants on the map: Portland Floating Restaurants Map—–Other Waterfront Wonders
While the above are true floating restaurants, Portland offers other amazing spots with incredible river views that deserve a shout-out:
- Pal’s at Tomahawk Bay Marina: A local favorite with fantastic vibes. (https://www.palswithus.com/). Featured In: The Oregonian, Eater Portland, and KOIN 6.
- Salty’s on the Columbia: A Portland institution for upscale waterfront dining. (https://maps.app.goo.gl/jf5XroeeGsD58Wcv7)
- Sextant Bar & Galley: A cozy spot for drinks and bites by the water. (https://maps.app.goo.gl/ELtpp7ScYdUncm4j9)
- Portland Spirit: For an entirely different and elevated floating experience, consider dining aboard the Portland Spirit. It’s a whole other ballgame in terms of planning, price, and execution, but an unforgettable way to see the city from the water! (https://www.portlandspirit.com/)
Get out there and enjoy the water, Portland!
