Hillsboro has quietly grown into one of the Portland metro area’s most interesting suburban dining hubs.
Alongside breweries and classic pubs, newer chef‑driven spots and globally inspired kitchens have arrived, giving locals a lot more to choose from than just chain standbys.
These five restaurants show how far Hillsboro’s food scene has come.
1. Copper River Restaurant & Bar
Copper River feels like a polished Northwest grill that still leans casual enough for weeknight dinners.
The space is warm and inviting, with lots of wood, big booths, and a comfortable bar area.
The menu is Pacific Northwest‑meets‑American comfort: alder‑plank salmon, hearty burgers, steaks, big salads, and seasonal specials that pull in local produce.
Portions are generous without feeling over the top, and there’s usually a strong lineup of local beers and easy‑drinking cocktails.
2. Syun Izakaya
Syun is tucked into the historic library building in downtown Hillsboro and has become a destination for Japanese food lovers across the metro area.
Inside, it feels cozy, intimate, and just a little bit hidden.
The kitchen leans traditional izakaya, with an excellent sushi and sashimi program alongside small plates like karaage, grilled skewers, and creative specials.
The sake list is a real draw, with a range of styles and knowledgeable staff to guide you.
3. Insomnia Coffee & Breakfast
Insomnia started as a coffee staple and has evolved into a proper all‑day café in Hillsboro.
The interiors are bright and modern but still relaxed, with lots of laptop‑friendly tables and a community feel.
Breakfast and brunch plates go beyond basics: loaded toasts, hearty scrambles, burritos, and baked goods that are clearly made with care.
The coffee program is serious—well‑pulled espresso, thoughtfully sourced beans, and seasonal drinks that tend to be creative without going overboard.
4. Amelia’s Mexican Food
Amelia’s brings homestyle Mexican cooking to a bright, welcoming dining room downtown. It’s the kind of place that works equally well for a quick lunch, family dinner, or lingering weekend meal.
Expect classic plates—enchiladas, fajitas, tacos, and combination platters—along with house specialties that lean a bit more regional.
Fresh‑tasting salsas, warm tortillas, and rich sauces are the stars, and margaritas and aguas frescas round things out.
5. ABV Public House
ABV Public House is a craft‑beer lover’s dream paired with a surprisingly ambitious kitchen.
The room is casual, with long tables, a wall of taps, and shelves of bottles, but the food has clearly been thought through.
The menu focuses on elevated pub fare: burgers, poutine, sandwiches, hearty salads, and rotating specials.
Dishes are designed to pair well with the extensive beer list, which regularly features both Oregon favorites and hard‑to‑find regional brews.
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