Seasonal French-inspired restaurant in the heart of St. John’s in Portland, Oregon. Our restaurant is a space where warm hospitality, thoughtful presentation, and intentional sourcing come together to create a dining experience that is refined yet deeply satisfying.
Kellen McInerny
Must try restaurant for those who live in St Johns and those who do not. This is a French inspired menu that features incredibly delicious seasonal fine dining. However, the prices aren’t as spendy as fine dining places you’ll find in downtown Portland. The Entrees are $30-40 and shareable. There are great appetizers and vegetable dishes to share. The desserts are delicious.
This place is perfect for celebrating an occasion with your significant other or just having a nice date night that’s a little more spendy but not break the bank. We were also welcomed by an excellent server and welcome cocktails. The dark, classy, but warm atmosphere made for a memorable meal.
I am excited for when their menu changes so I can go back and try more of their dishes.
… moreJ B
This place is a gem! We went here on a Monday night to celebrate my friend’s birthday. The staff, manager, and chef/owner were all so lovely. The ambiance is pretty and very French, but also casual like a bistro. They had happy hour all night on Monday. I didn’t get a picture of every dish we had, but they were all amazing! The flavors were thoughtful and the ingredients were responsibly sourced locally. The food was both elegant and comforting like your mom or grandma cooked it with love. It’s also reasonably priced (thankfully in this economy). We paid the same as I had at a restaurant downtown the night before, but got twice as much food and a better all around experience. We can’t wait to come back to try more from the menu. I love their approach to both the food and sourcing from our community. Absolutely go!
… moreJasmine
This place is fantastic! The staff, the service, the food, the drinks…everything and everyone is so intentional and it shows. The food is excellent, some of the best I’ve ever had in my life. And on top of that, they’ve clearly worked hard to create an incredibly special space. The lighting and ambiance and even the chairs, everything is so cozy!
Besides the experience of the space and food itself, we also appreciate the easy going approach. We’ve been lucky to enjoy meals at a few fine dining spots here in PDX and other parts of the U.S., but this place is very different in that it feels genuinely open to everyone. We’ve seen families with kids, older folks celebrating birthdays, date nights, solo diners, groups of girlfriends, and everyone in between. If you’ve ever been to a higher-end restaurant and have experienced that dreaded sense of “I feel like I’m not allowed to be here” anxiety, don’t worry that at Bar Nouveau – this dinner party open to all!
PS: I also love the text-to-reserve a table approach. In a world increasingly filled with all things artificial, it’s a breath of fresh air to have a completely human experience from start to finish. Cheers!
… morekatherine wong
We stayed in Portland for 3 nights and this was by far the best restaurant we dined at and it was actually one of the best meals I’ve ever had, even compared to places in San Francisco where I currently live. Staff was very friendly and attentive. Food was cooked to perfection and every element of every blended very well together. Portions were very generous for the price. I literally had the best deviled egg, chicken, and bouillabaisse I’ve ever had. Will definitely go back the next time I’m in town.
… moreEvan H
I’m always down for a foodie adventure so when my friend suggested we meet at this new French Inspired restaurant I was immediately in. The first step to this adventure was getting a seating. Walk ins are welcome but reservations are really a must. It is done by text that has a touch of warmth. It didn’t feel automated and it was like I was being invited to dinner which made it all that more special getting a seating.
Parking is along the street and I didn’t have any trouble finding a spot nearby. Stepping into this cozy and chic restaurant was a treat. The space is very inviting, and I was cordially welcomed when I entered and was whisked away to my table.
Side note, make sure to take a trip to the wash room. There is only one so you can’t miss it. Not only is it good hygiene to wash your hands before eating but the WC is beautifully decorated. What I really liked were the paper towels to dry your hands. Each paper towl had a pretty flower printed on it. I kind of didn’t want to waste the towel since they looked so nice- plz go see for yourself.
The food and service was wonderful. I could tell the servers enjoy and are excited to share the food they have created here. The presentation is excellent but all the dishes were unique and flavorful.
Overall my friend and I had a wonderful dinner experience at Bar Noveau. It was the perfect place to dine and catch up on a Friday night. I will definitely be back.
… moreOwen Gail
I just had an amazing meal at Bar Nouveau. We got the rolls, cabbage and roast chicken. Every bite was delicious.
The roast chicken had the best crispy seasoned skin, moist skin, and delectable garlic confit. I can’t wait to try the other dishes on their menu.
… moreMich Nelson
Took myself out for an inspiring date-night worthy dinner at Portland’s newest dining sensation, @barnouveau in St. Johns. The details in this place are unreal. From the decor, the colors, the light fixtures…to the innovative wine list, the thoughtful service, and the best deviled eggs I’ve ever had (yes, I said that!). Congratulations to the entire crew for creating an experience that feels elevated, yet entirely comfortable.
… moreAaron Sanson
I had the pleasure of dining at this new French restaurant that just opened two days ago, and I was thoroughly impressed. Despite being newly launched, everything was well-organized — from the warm welcome at the door to the prompt and attentive service throughout the meal.
The food was absolutely delicious — beautifully presented, rich in flavor, and authentically French. Each dish felt thoughtfully prepared, and you could tell the kitchen takes real pride in their craft.
Highly recommended — a wonderful new addition to the local dining scene. I’ll definitely be coming back soon!
… moreDylan Muhlberg
Absolute home run for every aspect of the experience. The staff treats you like old friends. The menu is a tantalizing tastebud adventure with every dish thoughtful. Made for a fabulously special anniversary dinner. We feel like our special St Johns just got even more special with Bar Nouveau. Perhaps the best service I can remember here in Portland. Can’t wait to come back and try the rest of the menu. (and the decedent deserts).
… moreTaylor Mathes
Here’s the deal, Bar nouveau does not need this 5 star review, and I think they know that . . . And that’s the best part. Our experience was lovely and I want everyone to know. When you go, get the chicken liver mousse, get the mushrooms, get a cocktail, I recommend the Old fashioned (it will be best you’ve ever had) and enjoy what I can only describe as a a passion project designed by professionals. Bar nouveau means business and it delivers. The staff felt prepared and professional, they never tried to sell us anything and only made recommendations based on our interests. I felt welcomed as a friend and not just a customer. I appreciated the energy the whole staff brought and they worked as a team to deliver a wonderful experience. I am a fan of bar nouveau and I think you should be too. Go here, try the food, experience the space, then . .. thank me and this review later.
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