The Timeless Oregon Restaurant Everyone Needs To Visit At Least Once
By Catherine Armstrong|Published January 07, 2019
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Catherine Armstrong
Author
Writer, editor and researcher with a passion for exploring new places. Catherine loves local bookstores, independent films, and spending time with her family, including Gus the golden retriever, who is a very good boy.
There’s never any need to dine at a boring, run-of-the-mill restaurant when you live in Oregon – the Beaver State is full of wonderful restaurants located in historic buildings. Here’s one of the most historic.
Huber's Cafe has a long, rich history as one of Oregon's oldest restaurants. Originally established as The Bureau Saloon in 1879, today it still stands as a timeless restaurant that every Oregonian should visit at least once.
You'll find Huber's at 411 SW 3rd Ave., Portland, OR 97204.
Frank Huber worked as a bartender at the Bureau Saloon, and he bought the place and moved it to its current historic location at on SW 3rd and Stark in 1910.
Jim Louie worked as a cook at the restaurant, and the Louie family eventually bought the restaurant after Frank Huber's death. Today, it's still owned and managed by the Louie family.
The most iconic menu item here is the roast young tom turkey. It's served family-style, and it celebrates the long history of the restaurant. Back in the 1890s, Huber's offered a free turkey sandwich when you bought a drink. During Prohibition, instead of closing the bar, it stayed open as a restaurant, featuring the family-style turkey dinner.
The delicious turkey dinner includes sage dressing, mashed potatoes or baked yams, vegetables, fresh-baked bread, and turkey or mushroom gravy. If you only visit Huber's once in your lifetime, this is the meal to order.
Another unique menu item is the Spanish coffee, developed by owner James Louie. It includes Bacardi 151 rum, Bols Triple Sec, Kahlua, and coffee, then is topped with fresh whipped cream and a dusting of nutmeg.
When you order this confection, it's made tableside, and they set it on fire! This drink definitely makes an impression, and it's as tasty as it is showy. Huber's uses more Kahlua than any other independent restaurant in the country, thanks to its loyal following of Spanish coffee lovers.
Dessert is a celebrated affair at Huber's, so don't you dare skip it! The baked bread custard pudding is legendary, and diners also love the homemade pumpkin pie.
Whether you're a longtime Portland resident, or just visiting the city from another part of the state, a visit to Huber's is a must. It's open seven days a week for lunch and dinner.
Learn more about the history of Huber’s and see the full menu on the restaurant’s website. Do you have a favorite menu item at Huber’s? Tell us in the comments!
