OX Restaurant

Located on Portland’s vibrant NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, OX Restaurant is a standout Argentinian-inspired eatery that masterfully blends traditional wood-fired cooking with inventive flavors and impeccable technique. Specializing in dishes that celebrate rich, smoky aromas from an open grill fueled by white oak, OX offers a dining experience that’s both elevated and deeply authentic—a haven for lovers of premium grilled meats and bold, thoughtfully composed flavors.

The heart of OX’s menu lies in its exceptional selection of grilled meats, where the Grilled Ribeye & Skirt Steak Chimichurri shines as a carnivore’s dream—expertly cooked and imbued with fresh, herbaceous chimichurri sauce that cuts through the richness with balance and vibrancy. For those seeking textural intrigue and culinary daring, the Spicy Braised Beef Tripe & Octopus with Mint Aioli and Fingerling Chips is an absolute revelation, with perfectly poached octopus delivering a tender yet firm bite alongside the boldness of slow-braised tripe. Seafood options like Oysters on the Half Shell, sourced locally from Washington, arrive shucked to perfection, revealing a clean, subtle ocean flavor that complements the smoky undertones running throughout the menu.

For starters, the Fresh Clam Chowder with Smoked Marrow Bone, Green Onion, and Jalapeño makes an unforgettable debut. This dish layers creamy, delicately smoky broth with a nuanced kick from jalapeño, offering a comforting yet complex bowl that one customer so vividly described as “a delicate potato chowder in the best way.” Savory bites like the Beef Empanadas and the Cheese Empanada showcase classic Argentinian flair, enhanced by house-made chimichurri bread and dips that elevate every mouthful.

Ending on a sweet note, OX does not disappoint. Their Warm Hazelnut Torte with Honey-Chamomile Ice Cream and Honeycomb Candy is a luscious, velvety dessert that perfectly balances nutty richness with floral and honeyed sweetness. Alternatively, the Vanilla Bean Tres Leches Cake with grilled apple and dulce de leche offers a creamy, lightly tangy finish, while the refreshing House Pineapple Sorbet with coconut tapioca and lime zest acts as a bright palate cleanser.

The atmosphere at OX Restaurant is both refined and inviting. With an open kitchen centered around the wood-fired grill, diners are treated not only to exceptional food but a multisensory experience—the crackle of the fire, the smoky warmth in the air, and the intimate glow of natural wood textures contribute to an ambiance perfectly suited for special occasions or a memorable evening out. Service here is consistently attentive and polished, as noted by many guests, ensuring that glasses are never empty and courses flow smoothly.

Reservations are highly recommended—especially if planning to visit with a group or during peak times—as the popularity of this spot means walk-ins may face lengthy waits. But the effort to secure a seat is well worth it, given the richly rewarding menu and the subtle artistry behind each dish. Whether you savor the smoky depth of the short ribs, revel in the freshness of the oysters, or indulge in the innovative seafood and meat pairings, OX Restaurant promises a culinary journey steeped in Argentinian tradition yet boldly contemporary.