Lechon brings polished South American small plates to Portland

The public verdict

With a 4.7 Google rating from roughly 2,450 reviews, Lechon has maintained an unusually strong result across a large pool of feedback. Diners often describe polished cooking without the inaccessible prices that can come with it. A few compare the food quality to fine dining, yet still consider the restaurant a favorable value.

Small plates shape the meal here. One reviewer was advised to order two to three dishes per person, and several groups mention getting five or six plates for the table. That setup lets diners try a wider spread instead of sticking to individual entrees.

What diners recommend

Grilled octopus comes up most often. One table called it amazing, along with the bone marrow, chicken bites, chorizo potato rice and shrimp and brisket empanadas. Another reviewer found the octopus well executed. Empanadas receive repeat praise as well, including a piquillo version described as delicious.

The positive mentions do not stop there. Diners have also liked the squid ink pasta, mushroom baocita and vermicelli dumplings. Dessert gets specific credit: one reviewer highlighted the pistachio mousse and the way its tangy guava sauce cut through the richness.

Cocktails are part of the draw. One guest sampled several mixed drinks and responded enthusiastically, making Lechon sound suited to a full evening out, not just a plate-sharing dinner. Reviews also note the attractive dining room and kind, polite staff. It has an occasion-friendly feel.

Where experiences vary

Some plates miss. One reviewer considered the steak merely adequate and came away disappointed by a mushroom dish and the elote, despite praising the squid ink pasta, octopus and dessert. At a small-plates restaurant, that inconsistency can matter because the bill climbs with every additional order.

Portions deserve attention, too. The dishes are meant to be shared, but at least one diner found some of them small. Parties should plan on ordering several items. Although the price level is moderate, drinks and enough plates can push the total beyond a typical dinner. Even then, reviewers commonly say the meal is worth the added expense.

Dietary options and planning

Public feedback suggests Lechon works particularly well for mixed-diet groups. One review reports a separate vegan and vegetarian menu, with vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free choices clearly marked. For a table sharing several dishes, that takes away much of the usual guesswork.

Reservations make sense, particularly when seating matters. One visitor had booked outdoors but, because of the weather, was accommodated at the bar. Another diner arrived without a booking and reported a relatively short wait. Across the reviews, service is presented as considerate and flexible.

Taken together, the ratings and public reviews describe a lively, polished Portland restaurant that works best for a group ready to order broadly. The clearest approach is to start with the repeatedly praised octopus and empanadas, then branch out.