I’ve been visiting Portland OR and Vancouver WA for the past 3 years – at least 1 trip per quarter.  As a result, I’ve had a chance to visit some very nice restaurants here.  Here are my recommendations

Tommy O’s – Hawaiian-esque cuisine, great sushi and Ahi Tuna.  Desserts are tasty!  I’ve been downtown and at a location in Vancouver (Washington, not British Columbia).

Elephant’s Deli – And don’t forget their PDX airport location, Flying Elephants.  Great lunch – I highly recommend the Kale salad, any of the sandwiches, Mac & Cheese (best I’ve ever had), the chocolate mousse and anything from the bakery.  The staff are friendly, and you’ll see a lot of great Pacific NW beards here.

Red Onion – Great place for quick Thai at lunch.

Toast & Pho – A quick hole in the wall Vietnamese restaurant, family owned.

Mother’s Bistro – We stumbled on this when we went for walk around the city.  You can get half sized portions of their main entrees so you can try multiple dishes.  Admittedly, despite being half the size of their portions, it’s still quite a bit of food.  Still, if you’re diet conscious, go for a half portion and you’re set.  Try the spiced plum tea – it’s awesome.

Beaches Restraurant – The only restaurant I’m mentioning that’s located in Vancouver WA.  You can get a beautiful river view table.  The fish and desserts are awesome, and the staff are friendly.