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Portland › Portland › Al Hawr
Al HawrA-Worth Trying
3500 S River Pkwy, Portland, OR 97239
· Lebanese restaurant, Mediterranean restaurant
· 4.7/5 Google (971 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Excellent Lebanese flavors with standout hummus, grills, and desserts in a stylish South Waterfront room; pricing is premium and service can be inconsistent.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Al Hawr delivers exceptional food quality with signature dishes like silky hummus and perfectly charred lamb that earn consistent praise, supported by beautiful design in Portland's South Waterfront. However, recurring service delays during ordering and checkout, combined with premium pricing relative to comparable Mediterranean restaurants, prevent the restaurant from reaching grade A territory. Strong loyalty and family appeal position it as a reliable neighborhood destination worth visiting.
Restaurant Summary
Set in Portland’s South Waterfront, Al Hawr feels warm and polished without stiffness. Guests talk about pillowy pita, aromatic spices, and staff who are welcoming if occasionally stretched. One diner summed it up: “pricey but worth it” for the quality and portions. The cooking leans traditional Lebanese with a few showy touches—think silky hummus, lamb chops with a perfect char, and batata harra that disappears fast, plus a dry-ice baklava presentation for fun. Expect bright herbs, citrus, and grill smoke over heavy sauces; ideal for those who crave authentic flavors rather than fusion fireworks. Families do well here. Kids gravitate to hummus and fries, salmon or chicken skewers, and simple rice, while desserts like molten cake and rice pudding seal the deal. There is no explicit kids menu, but the familiar items make it easy for younger eaters.
At a Glance
- Exceptionally smooth hummus and well-executed grills
- Stylish, comfortable room near OHSU tram
- Generous portions with leftovers common
- Service pacing can be slow at times (ordering and checkout)
- Premium pricing compared to casual Mediterranean spots
What Sets It Apart
- house-made pita and dips
- premium lamb selections
- Lebanese wine list
- showpiece dessert presentation
What People Love
- Silky, beautifully presented hummus
- Tender lamb chops and mixed grill
- Warm hospitality from a family-run team
- Playful dessert presentation that feels special
- Consistent flavors across repeat visits
Points of Concern
- Service can lag for water, ordering, and checks during busy times
- Some reports of dry rice or tough kebabs on off nights
- Pricing is premium; expect $25+ mains and $10–15 cocktails
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$48-70 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Build a meal around one grill and two meze to balance cost and variety
- Cocktails are value-friendly relative to mains ($10–15)
Perfect For
- Sharing meze and grills with friends
- Relaxed date night near the river
- Pre- or post-OHSU tram meals
- Family dinners with varied appetites
Location Insights
Area: Modern riverside district with condos, tram access, and health campus traffic; polished and professional vibe.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, high foot traffic near residences and OHSU tram.
Nearby: Near OHSU aerial tram, riverfront paths, high-rise residences; draws hospital visitors and locals.
South WaterfrontThe South Waterfront neighborhood features a mix of upscale residential buildings and commercial spaces, attracting a demographic interested in contemporary urban living. Dining options here tend to be modern and diverse, catering to both residents and visitors, with a focus on convenience and quality.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday11:00–14:00, 16:00–22:00
Wednesday11:00–14:00, 16:00–22:00
Thursday11:00–14:00, 16:00–22:00
Friday11:00–14:00, 16:00–22:00
Saturday16:00–22:00
Sunday13:00–21:30
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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