5 Best New Restaurants in Gresham, Oregon that Locals Swear By

Gresham has been quietly stepping up its dining game.

What used to be mostly chains and old‑school standbys now includes modern taprooms, chef‑y brunch spots, and globally inspired kitchens that feel very Portland‑adjacent—but with easier parking and a more relaxed vibe.

These five relatively new or newly buzz‑worthy restaurants are great reasons to stay in Gresham for your next night out.

1. Boccelli’s Ristorante

Right in historic downtown Gresham, Boccelli’s brings cozy, classic Italian comfort with a slightly updated feel.

The brick walls, white tablecloths, and warm lighting make it just as good for date night as for a family celebration.

The menu leans traditional Italian‑American: think rich lasagna, chicken piccata, shrimp scampi, fettuccine Alfredo, and a good mix of pastas, steaks, and seafood. Sauces are hearty, portions are generous, and there’s usually a solid selection of local and Italian wines.

If you like classic pasta dishes done well in a warm, small‑town‑meets‑city setting, this is a strong pick.

2. The Hoppy Brewer

Part neighborhood bar, part bottle shop, part hangout, The Hoppy Brewer has become a downtown Gresham staple for craft beer lovers.

It’s casual and friendly inside, with taps rotating through local and regional brews and plenty of bottles and cans to go.

There isn’t a full kitchen, but it frequently partners with food trucks and nearby restaurants, so you can pair your IPA or stout with everything from street tacos to smash burgers depending on the day.

Come for the laid‑back vibe, live music nights, and the chance to try something new on draft every time you visit.

3. Local Cow

Local Cow is a burger‑focused spot with a distinctly Pacific Northwest sensibility—think quality ingredients, local sourcing where possible, and a comfortable, modern‑casual room.

It feels like a step up from a typical burger joint without trying too hard.

The core of the menu is burgers: juicy patties with creative toppings, from classic cheddar and bacon to bleu cheese, smoky sauces, and piles of grilled onions.

You’ll usually find hand‑cut fries, onion rings, and maybe a special or two, plus local beers on tap and milkshakes that can easily turn dinner into an indulgence. It’s an easy go‑to when you want something satisfying but not fussy.

4. Nicholas Restaurant (Gresham)

Nicholas, a long‑loved Lebanese and Middle Eastern name in the Portland area, extended its reach to Gresham with a bright, modern outpost that’s become a local favorite.

The space is casual but stylish, with a family‑friendly feel and plenty of room for groups.

The menu covers all the classics: pillowy pita, garlicky hummus, baba ghanoush, falafel, shawarma plates, kebabs, and mezze spreads big enough to share. Expect platters with grilled meats over rice, big salads topped with chicken or lamb, and plenty of vegetarian options.

It’s the kind of place where you can do a quick lunch or linger over a big shared dinner and leave completely full.

5. Black Rabbit Restaurant (at McMenamins Edgefield, nearby Troutdale)

Just a short drive from central Gresham, Black Rabbit at McMenamins Edgefield is close enough and popular enough with Gresham locals that it’s practically part of the scene. Set in a historic property with that signature McMenamins charm—art‑covered walls, cozy rooms, and a slightly whimsical vibe—it feels like a mini getaway.

The menu leans Northwest‑inspired New American: seasonal salads, steaks, seafood, house‑made soups, and comfort‑leaning mains, often with local produce and regional flavors. You’ll find McMenamins beers and wines, plus cocktails built around their own spirits. It’s a great spot when you want a “special night out” feeling without heading all the way into Portland.