Why Locals Are OBSESSED With This Fire-Driven Waterfront Restaurant in Portland, OR

Name

Lechon

Address

113 SW Naito Pkwy, Portland, OR 97204

Hours

Mon-Thu 4 PM–9 PM, Fri-Sat 4 PM–10 PM, Sun Closed

Portland’s Lechon at 113 SW Naito Pkwy draws crowds with its South American fire-cooked magic.

Since opening in 2015, this waterfront gem has blended Argentine, Chilean, and Peruvian flavors into unforgettable meals.

Diners love the bold wood-fired dishes that transform simple ingredients into smoky masterpieces.

It’s the go-to for locals seeking warmth and excitement by the Willamette River.

How they won locals’ hearts

Lechon captured Portland hearts through its daily happy hour ritual from 4-5 PM, offering generous small plates at tempting prices that turned first-timers into regulars.

Smoke from the wood-fired grill wafted through the waterfront, luring passersby with irresistible aromas of charred meats and fresh seafood.

The rustic yet polished space fostered instant connections, where friends lingered over inventive cocktails and shared plates.

Chef-driven specials evolved with the seasons, keeping menus fresh while building a reputation for consistency that locals championed year after year.

Word-of-mouth turned Lechon into Portland’s beating South American soul.

Years of packed tables and glowing tales from food lovers solidified its status as a beloved staple.

Food Highlights

Grilled Octopus with chorizo, potatoes, preserved lemon, and salsa verde: Tender tentacles kissed by fire, bursting with smoky zest—a standout that diners rave keeps them dreaming.
28-day dry-aged rib eye with chimichurri: Intensely flavorful steak, grilled to perfection, delivering juicy bites locals call their ultimate craving.
Shrimp ceviche: Vibrant, citrus-marinated shrimp that refreshes the palate, a perennial favorite for its bright, addictive tang.
Peruvian fried chicken: Golden, spice-crusted pieces with crispy exteriors, hailed as a must for its bold, comforting crunch.
Pork belly baocitos: Melt-in-your-mouth pork in fluffy buns, prized for rich savoriness that hooks happy hour crowds.
Foraged mushrooms with farm egg, aged parmesan, & caramelized onion puree on toasted brioche: Earthy, luxurious veggie delight winning hearts with deep, satisfying layers.