Swiss Hibiscus

"Well into its second decade in the neighborhood, Swiss Hibiscus is easy to miss — even for longtime Alberta residents. Discreetly tucked away down 14th Avenue behind a ZoomCare is a tiny outpost of the Alps in Portland. Transplanted from the unlikely origin of Honolulu, the Hibiscus team lovingly prepares Swiss classics like emince Zurichoise, pork in a mushroom cream sauce, and spaghetti Ticinese, Switzerland’s answer to Italy’s famous pasta dish. Other central European staples like wienerschnitzel and goulash also make appearances on the menu. Entrees come with rösti, vegan rösti, or spätzli. And of course, where better to indulge in cheesy fondue and a glass of wine on a cold Portland evening?" - Rebecca Roland, Brooke Jackson-Glidden, Nathan Williams

"This Alberta district restaurant is one of the only places in Portland to get a full-on Swiss meal. Along with traditional entrees like emince Zurichoise, many of the starters are a veritable cheese-fest: fondue, spätzli, and rösti can all come with a heavy dose of Emmentaler. The Alpine restaurant also borrows from its western neighbor and proudly serves a so-called Swiss onion soup as one of its rotating soups of the day. It’s best to call ahead to make sure it’s available." - Krista Garcia

"Of course Portland’s primary Swiss restaurant is going to offer some version of this quintessential Alpine dish. Alberta’s Swiss Hibiscus bolsters its traditional fondue with the requisite Kirsch, a central European brandy, which gives it a lovely sweetness; it arrives at the table with cubes of French bread, though those interested can add vegetables for a touch of something fresh. Pro tip: Order a bratwurst or wienerschnitzel with the fondue for some exceptionally decadent dipping." - Brooke Jackson-Glidden

"Even though this Alberta restaurant’s most popular items are definitely not vegan, there are a couple excellent options for both vegans and particularly vegetarians to enjoy here—like the sautéed mushrooms appetizer, or the restaurant’s vegan version of rösti, a Swiss hash brown pancake. The restaurant’s savory vegan lentil stew includes a complex medley of herbs, vegetables, and spices. Plus, the restaurant will make versions of its traditional, pork-centric dishes with tofu; that includes the restaurant’s killer paprika schnitzel, served in a mushroom cream sauce. Takeout order instructions appear on the restaurant’s website." - Jenni Moore