Best Casual Restaurants in Southwest Portland

I had heard good things about Shalom y’all and it exceeded my expectations! Everything we ate was absolutely delicious! From the hummus to the cabbage skewers to the sweet potatoes, etc. It was all Michelin star worthy. I can’t wait to go back! 

It was Valentines night, so they were well booked up and busy. However, I thought it would cause them to get folks in and out even quicker to accommodate the many bookings they had. We had a 2 hour dining experience with only three courses. Our cocktails took quite a while. The first course got to us before our cocktails and one of the managers brought us sparkling wine because he noticed we didn’t have our cocktails yet. That was a nice gesture. Ironically, our cocktails were delivered immediately after he gave us the free bubbly.

I always leave Kachka feeling like my trip was worth it! Last night was no exception. The flavors are always exciting and unique, but there is still an overarching theme of the food being very comforting. I also cannot compliment their vodka selection enough. We got a vodka flight, and every shot was delicious and surprising. The staff were very friendly and attentive, adding to the charm. PS: If you can go during happy hour, I recommend their little combo plate w/ the cabbage roll and borscht! See my photo.

We had a really memorable dinner with our 12 year old daughter who loved the pizza. The menu variety offered something for everyone. The preparation of the gnocchi (2 large rather than the smaller finger-sized) was a neat and delicious twist and the skirt steak was cooked perfectly. Our server had spot-on wine recommendations that paired nicely with our meals. Excited for a return visit.

The food at Yalla was all delicious, the hummus with burnt ends and radicchio salad to start were so incredibly flavorful. The short ribs, skewers and delicate squash were all wonderful. Cocktails were well made and good wine as well. This place does not disappoint, so lucky to have it so close to home!!!