When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Dick's Primal Kitchen
Why Dick's Primal Kitchen is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Dick's Primal Kitchen, originally founded by Richard Satnick in Portland, Oregon, offers a unique dining experience centered around health, sustainability, and simple eating principles. The restaurant emphasizes a predominantly paleo diet that minimizes processed foods, sugars, and industrial oils, aiming to promote both personal health and environmental well-being. This focus on clean, nutrient-rich ingredients makes it an excellent spot for health-conscious individuals and groups looking to enjoy flavorful, nutrient-dense meals together. The menu features a range of paleo-friendly options including burgers and sandwiches, many crafted with locally sourced meats such as those from Carmen Ranch in Wallowa, Oregon. The ambiance includes a charming outdoor eating area, enhancing the casual yet thoughtful dining experience. While the restaurant has a sustainable and health-focused ethos, it is also accessible enough for those unfamiliar with paleo diets to explore cleaner eating choices. Whether meeting for lunch or dinner, friends can appreciate the carefully curated dishes that balance taste, conscience, and nutrition at Dick's Primal Kitchen.
Here's what people think of Dick's Primal Kitchen
As of recent, Dick's Primal Kitchen holds a 4.3-star rating based on 1309 reviews.
Reviews for Dick's Primal Kitchen generally reflect appreciation for its commitment to clean, healthy ingredients and the quality of its menu offerings. Positive reviews highlight the great taste of items like the Dick's Primal Burger, as well as the welcoming service and pleasant outdoor seating area, making it a recommended place for people who value sustainability and wholesome foods. Many reviewers also commend the thoughtful approach to dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free and paleo options, which cater well to various lifestyles. On the downside, some customers mention that prices can be on the higher end, which may deter some from frequent visits. A few reviews note strong or unexpected aftertastes in certain products and find some flavors overpowering. Despite these critiques, the overall consensus appreciates the brand’s dedication to health-conscious food and sustainable sourcing. In summary, while not the cheapest option in Portland, Dick's Primal Kitchen stands out for those seeking flavorful, mindful eating experiences that support both personal wellness and environmental sustainability.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Melanie Sullivan
I had the gluten-free chicken and waffles and it was delicious. It didn't taste gf at all. My daughter had the goat cheese, mushroom scramble and she sad hers was delicious, too. The prices were reasonable, the quality was great, and the staff was awesome. My daughter said it was one of the best breakfasts she has had in Portland. They also have a room you can rent for free (just no outside food or beverage). The restaurant can accommodate a wheelchair, they have gluten-free and vegan options, and they source locally. Highly recommend. We were there 4/12/25 at 10-10:30 am.
Kurt Abe
Honestly one of the best things about Dick’s is that they are dog friendly. They are even welcomed allowed inside! Any burger can be substituted with a Beyond Burger patty. Interestingly this is the only place I’ve ever been asked how I wanted my veggie patty prepared, aka medium or well done. 🍔😋
Emma Zirkler
We’ve dined in many times because we love how kid friendly the restaurant is. Unfortunately our dine out experience is almost always negative, consistently having missing meals and we have to officially stop ordering as yesterday our kid’s hot dog we discovered was moldy.
Caleb Q
Excellent food! My wife got a gluten free/dairy free burger which tasted like “the real thing” and I got a normal burger. Fries were crispy and salted to perfection. We also tried the parfait (bar form now) and salted Carmel shake. The desserts weren’t amazing, but the rest of the food was top notch. We went at 11:45am on a Thursday. Definitely will come back!
Ashley Grunwald
Absolutely amazing food! The burger was awesome the fries were on point. The chicken tenders were a little over cooked but lots of variety for gluten free options. The Marionberry lemonade is on point! I will definitely be back. Delicious food and great service! They even have an outdoor eating area.
How to reach Dick's Primal Kitchen
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Why Dick's Primal Kitchen may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Dick’s Primal Kitchen with your friends? Dick’s Primal Kitchen offers an inviting atmosphere that strikes the perfect balance between casual comfort and culinary excitement, making it an ideal spot to gather with friends or family. With a solid rating of 4.3 from over 1300 reviews, it demonstrates consistent guest satisfaction in both food quality and service. The restaurant’s focus on organic, health-conscious ingredients paired with creative American-style fare means that everyone in your group can find something that suits their tastes, from paleo and gluten-free options to vegan choices. The menu's customization options allow diners to tailor dishes to their preferences, creating a shared experience that is both personal and inclusive. Moreover, its welcoming seating includes outdoor tables that foster a lively and relaxed setting ideal for socializing. The blend of great food, a friendly environment, and thoughtful accommodations makes Dick’s Primal Kitchen a compelling choice for friends seeking a fun and memorable meet-up location where good vibes and quality flavors unite.
What kind of food and drink can you expect at Dick’s Primal Kitchen? The restaurant boasts an exciting menu revolving around burgers made from a variety of proteins such as beef, water buffalo, and plant-based options like Beyond Burger or tempeh patties. This wide range ensures the group can easily find options that meet diverse dietary preferences, including meat-eaters, vegetarians, and vegans. Toppings are inventive and fresh, featuring kimchi, avocado, pickled red onions, and vegan cheese, which add unique flavors and textures to the meals. Besides burgers, guests can enjoy made-to-order bowls packed with vibrant ingredients and a variety of sides including crispy fries, Brussels sprouts, and salads. For those looking for a relaxed drink with their food, the kitchen offers beer and wine selections, enhancing the meetup experience by complementing the bold flavors of the dishes. Vegan milkshakes are another specialty worth trying, providing a sweet treat that even dairy-free guests can enjoy. This combination of wholesome, creative eats and beverage options makes eating at Dick’s Primal Kitchen a pleasure for a group.
What makes Dick’s Primal Kitchen’s atmosphere perfect for a group meetup? The restaurant’s layout includes both indoor and outdoor seating, with outdoor tables particularly praised for creating a vibrant ambiance suitable for small to medium-sized groups. The outdoor area lets guests enjoy Portland’s pleasant weather while engaging in conversation and sharing food, which adds a casual yet festive touch to gatherings. Plus, the establishment is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that celebrations or meetups can include everyone comfortably. Free Wi-Fi is available, which is convenient for groups who might want to coordinate plans, share photos, or stream entertainment during their visit. The environment does not feel rushed, allowing for leisurely meals where friends can catch up and savor quality time. All these elements combine to foster a welcoming, unpretentious backdrop that encourages connection and enjoyment.
What activities can groups do while visiting Dick’s Primal Kitchen? While primarily a dining destination, Dick’s Primal Kitchen encourages interaction through its food experience, with the ability to customize burgers and bowls creating a fun and engaging way for groups to explore flavors together. Sharing different dishes and sides can turn the meal into a communal tasting adventure. The casual vibe of the spot supports lively conversation and even celebratory occasions like birthdays or casual reunions. Its conveniently timed hours, from 8 AM on weekends and 11 AM on weekdays until 9 PM every day, provide flexibility for brunch, lunch, dinner, or even late-afternoon meetups, accommodating different schedules during the day. While it’s not a venue for live entertainment or games, the joy of gathering over thoughtfully prepared food and drinks in a friendly setting is itself a richly rewarding activity. Moreover, the staff’s reputation for great service ensures that groups receive attentive care, adding to the ease and pleasure of the meetup.
Why is Dick’s Primal Kitchen a smart choice for health-conscious groups? From its origins, Dick’s Primal Kitchen has emphasized health and sustainability, reflecting founder Richard Satnick’s dedication to sharing nourishing, responsibly sourced food options. The restaurant offers paleo-friendly, gluten-free, and vegan dishes that meet the dietary needs of many health-conscious diners. By focusing on organic ingredients and avoiding highly processed components, the kitchen supports guests’ well-being without sacrificing taste or variety. This makes it especially appealing for groups with mixed dietary restrictions who want to enjoy a meal together without compromise. The transparency and care taken in food preparation build trust among patrons that their health preferences will be respected. Such dedication also aligns with trends toward sustainable and mindful eating, making the meetup not only enjoyable but also conscientious.
How accessible and convenient is Dick’s Primal Kitchen for group gatherings? Located on SE Woodstock Boulevard in Portland, the restaurant benefits from a central location that is easy to reach by car or public transport. Ample parking and wheelchair accessible facilities make it accessible for guests of all mobility levels. The option to take out or even enjoy delivery adds a layer of convenience for groups who might want to gather elsewhere but still relish the kitchen’s offerings. The acceptance of credit cards and availability of free Wi-Fi further simplify logistics, allowing guests to coordinate payments smoothly and stay connected. Hours extending from early morning on weekends to evening daily accommodate various types of meetups, whether early breakfasts with friends or dinner celebrations. This convenience, paired with customer-oriented services, ensures that group plans are simple to execute without hassle.
What do reviewers say about the group experience at Dick’s Primal Kitchen? Feedback from visitors often highlights the great food quality and the personalized, casual vibe that makes Dick’s Primal Kitchen feel like a neighborhood favorite. While some note that the outdoor seating area is cozy rather than expansive—making it better suited for smaller groups—many appreciate the opportunity to enjoy fresh, made-to-order meals in a relaxed setting. A few reviews mention the aroma from cooking meat, which could be a consideration for those sensitive to smells, but overall the dining environment is praised as friendly and welcoming. Guests enjoy the menu’s variety, especially the fusion touches like kimchi toppings which add an adventurous dimension to classic burgers. The good service and approachable pricing complete the positive group dining picture, reinforcing the spot as a reliable choice for a memorable meetup.
How can you make the most of your visit to Dick’s Primal Kitchen with your friends? To optimize the experience, consider arriving early or making group plans during less busy hours to secure preferred seating, especially if you want to enjoy the outdoor space. Explore the menu ahead of time online to identify dishes that cater to everyone’s dietary tastes, enabling faster ordering and more shared tasting. Sharing a variety of sides and custom burgers can turn your meal into a collective tasting event that sparks conversation. Pairing your food with craft beers or vegan milkshakes can further elevate the flavor experience. Make use of free Wi-Fi to share moments instantly on social media or coordinate your group’s after-meal activities. Finally, embrace the relaxed vibe and sustainability ethos by appreciating both the food and company in this thoughtfully curated dining environment. The result is a meetup where good eating and quality social time come together seamlessly.
Dick’s Primal Kitchen strikes a compelling balance between health-conscious, flavorful food and a welcoming, flexible space perfect for groups. Whether meeting for casual brunch, celebratory dinners, or weekend catch-ups, this Portland gem offers an inviting environment where friends and families can enjoy great food, share stories, and make lasting memories. Its approachable menu, accommodating atmosphere, and attention to guest needs make it a standout destination for gatherings in the city.