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Portland › Portland › Nicholas Restaurant Lebanese and Mediterranean Cuisine
Nicholas Restaurant Lebanese and Mediterranean CuisineBWorth Trying
3223 NE Broadway, Portland, OR 97232
· Lebanese restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (1387 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Generous portions of classic Lebanese staples, standout fresh pita, and mixed consistency; good value for groups if you order well, but expect occasional service and quality swings.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Nicholas Restaurant delivers solid neighborhood Lebanese dining anchored by exceptional fresh pita and well-executed lamb kabobs that earn devoted regulars. However, quality and service show notable variation across visits—seasoning lapses, portion inconsistencies, and occasional service delays prevent the reliability expected of higher-rated establishments. The warm, bustling atmosphere and generous portions make it worth visiting, but inconsistency keeps it from competing with the area's most dependable dining destinations.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling in a friendly neighborhood way, with servers dropping giant, just-baked pita that perfumes the table. Diners rave about tender lamb and creamy hummus, while a few note hit-or-miss pacing and seasoning. A guest summed it up: "That first bite of warm bread set the tone for a comforting meal." The cooking leans classic Lebanese with generous portions—mezze to share, kabobs over saffron rice, shawarma plates, plus a few manakish-style pizzas. It is more soulful than showy, dialing in familiar flavors like toum and tahini rather than culinary theatrics. Order lamb kabobs, zaatar fries, and a dip trio for a reliable spread. Families do well here thanks to the giant fresh pita, simple kabobs, and clearly labeled vegetarian and gluten-free options. There is no formal kids menu, but chicken kabobs, rice, fries, hummus, and spinach pie suit most young eaters; be mindful that wraps may not be gluten-free.
At a Glance
- Fresh, oversized pita and dips are a standout
- Lamb kabobs and shawarma plates draw repeat fans
- Quality and service can be inconsistent across visits
- Music near speakers can be loud for some tables
- Portions are large; consider sharing to maximize value
What Sets It Apart
- giant_fresh_pita_service
- broad_vegan_and_gluten_free_labels
- neighborhood_mainstay_reputation
What People Love
- That first warm pita hit
- Tender lamb kabobs and shawarma
- Plentiful portions with leftovers
- Welcoming, family-friendly vibe
- Clear vegetarian and gluten-free choices
Points of Concern
- Hit-or-miss execution reported on minced lamb over hummus and some wraps
- Occasional order errors or missing items with takeout
- Noise can be loud near speakers; request seating away if sensitive
- A few isolated cleanliness and upset-stomach reports amid many normal visits
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$34-48 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Build a shareable meal: Arabian Breeze Mezza + Lamb Kabob Plate + fries
- Vegetarian path: Baba ghanoush, falafel wrap, and spinach pie
- Gluten-free: Many plates and mezza labeled GF; avoid gyro and breaded items
Perfect For
- Sharing mezze with friends
- Casual family dinners
- Group celebrations without formality
- Comforting weeknight takeout
Location Insights
Area: NE Broadway commercial corridor with neighborhood retail and eateries; draws locals and small groups.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked corridor; typical urban conditions after dark.
Nearby: Near Lloyd/Irvington areas, shops and services along NE Broadway; residential streets just off the strip.
Hollywood DistrictThe Hollywood District is a lively neighborhood centered around the historic Hollywood Theatre and the Broadway corridor. It features a variety of dining options ranging from casual eateries to ethnic restaurants, attracting locals who appreciate diverse culinary experiences in a walkable, community-oriented setting.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–20:00
Tuesday11:00–20:00
Wednesday11:00–20:00
Thursday11:00–20:00
Friday11:00–20:00
Saturday11:00–20:00
Sunday12:00–20:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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