New York Times Updated Portland Dining Guide
The latest edition of the guide added two popular local eateries while removing a downtown brunch spot.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Comfort Food
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The New York Times has updated its Portland dining recommendations, adding OK Chicken and Khao Soi and The Paper Bridge to the prestigious list. Simultaneously, the publication removed República from the same guide.
Why it matters
Regular updates to regional dining guides provide diners with refreshed insights into the local food landscape, reflecting the shifting popularity and status of restaurants in major cities.
OK Chicken and Khao Soi is located at 3226 SE Division St., while The Paper Bridge operates at 828 SE Ash St. and features homemade rice noodles.
The players
OK Chicken and Khao Soi
This restaurant is located at 3226 SE Division St. and is known for its inclusion on national top 50 restaurant lists.
The Paper Bridge
Located at 828 SE Ash St., this establishment produces its own homemade rice noodles for various dishes.
República
This restaurant is situated at 100 NW 10th Ave. and previously provided brunch service from Thursday to Sunday.
The details
The Paper Bridge previously gained recognition on a 2025 restaurants list and received a starred review, while OK Chicken and Khao Soi was featured on a list of the top 50 restaurants in the U.S. in September 2026. The outgoing restaurant, República, is located at 100 NW 10th Ave. and historically served brunch service from Thursday through Sunday.
Timeline
The Paper Bridge was recognized on a national list in 2025.
OK Chicken and Khao Soi made a top 50 U.S. restaurant list in September 2026.
The New York Times refreshed the Portland guide on October 1, 2026.
Culture Shift
This move highlights the ongoing evolution of local dining scenes curated by national media outlets. The industry standard set by The New York Times Where to Eat Right Now series serves as a bellwether for consumer interest in regional culinary destinations.
Diners planning to visit the newly listed establishments should expect potential increases in wait times as national exposure often drives higher foot traffic. Residents looking to visit these spots can find OK Chicken and Khao Soi on Division St. or The Paper Bridge on Ash St.
The takeaway
Diners should note that national recognition often correlates with busier evenings and longer wait times for prime seating. Staying updated on guide changes helps locals avoid crowded spots while discovering high-quality new favorites.
Further reading
For more on the local food scene, browse the latest Comfort Food recommendations.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KOIN 6 Portland.
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