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Imperial Reviews List

Imperial

At Imperial, Chef/Owner Paley and Executive Chef Bettinger will re-imagine and re-present Pacific Northwest culinary pathways. Exemplifying Oregon’s own James Beard's culinary philosophy, Chef/Owner Paley and Executive Chef Bettinger will explore menu ideas that have historic significance while exploring cooking methods and ingredients from the diverse bounty of our region. The most prominent feature of Imperial's kitchen is an impressive wood fire grill and rotisserie that will incorporate the use of native hard and fruitwoods. Inspired by warm, primitive, burning campfires and the big open spaces of the Pacific Northwest, Imperial will concentrate on natural and uncomplicated preparations, serving the community by celebrating its past and providing a welcoming and generous place to eat.
See more Imperial details
192 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall 
4.2 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.2 / 5
(192 Reviews)
Open Ratings Snapshot
Rating Breakdown 192 reviews
5 stars
(80)
4 stars
(72)
3 stars
(31)
2 stars
(9)
1 star
(0)
Food 
4.2 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.2 / 5
Service 
4.1 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.1 / 5
Ambiance 
3.9 / 5
(Very Good) 3.9 / 5
Noise Level
2.4 / 3
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
  • fit for foodies(138)
  • hot spot(59)
  • special occasion(51)
  • good for groups(41)
  • great for lunch(36)
  • vibrant bar scene(36)
Imperial Reviews List
Review 1 for Imperial
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Long lunch

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/20/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We had a great lunch in here with both food and service being excellent. We had a reservation for noon and stayed thru 330pm with no one trying to rush us out which was great as we could catch up with friends. Two minor issues - one for the restaurant and one not their issue - the server brought the bill with out offering desert, not sure why no upswell as once we asked for desert the daily pie and ice cream was delicious. The other non restaurant issue is that we requested for a quiet table which they gave us in the back but AT&T service was not good at all back there - so if you are hooked on your smart phone and are on AT&T be aware!"
Dined on 5/20/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 2 for Imperial
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

And dessert was even better

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We brought our small group to the Imperial for the first time. We all enjoyed our meals including some amazing desserts. We had a nice bottle of wine from Domaine Droughin."
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 3 for Imperial
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Food great, service mixed

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/17/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"We especially liked the two appetizers we ordered--the grilled romaine and the kale salad. The chicken was tender and moist. We had to ask the server if the chicken was large enough to split. She was open about the fact we could, but we had to ask if we had too much food.
Initially the servers were very attentive, then they seemed to forget us. I wanted a second glass of wine and I was almost done with my entrée before I caught a waitperson's attention."
Dined on 5/17/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, hot spot
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Review 4 for Imperial
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

missed opporutnity

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/16/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Went for a business breakfast having really enjoyed dinner the prior week with my wife. Ordered the recommended Pastrami Hash. I know from prior experience that Paley makes a wonderful house-cured pastrami. The dish arrived instead made with beef belly. I would have changed my order had I known they were out of Pastrami. This is both a service point (I should have been informed) and a culinary point. The beef belly is not a good substitute for the pastrami. The flavor is far too heavy for this dish. Perhaps we can chalk this up to "still working out the kinks"."
Dined on 5/16/2013
0points
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Review 5 for Imperial
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Not as pretentious as Paley's

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/13/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"All in all, good solid food. Four of us went and we started with the roasted onion soup (amazing), the duck meatballs (one of their popular dishes that was good, but not worth it compared with other options), and the clams (great spicy broth and clams were cleaned and fresh). For entrees, we did the halibut (well cooked), fried rabbit (comes with a side of honey and a dropper bottle of aged hot sauce; best dish of the night), lamb (a bit rare for my taste) and the pork loin. All of the dishes had great flavor as you'd expect from a Paley restaurant, but the service and attention were much better than I've ever had at Paley's place. Dessert was also a plus with chocolate cream pie and brown butter beneigts. We'll go back."
Dined on 5/13/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot
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Review 6 for Imperial
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/04/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The favorable magazine (or was it a newspaper?) review and photo of this restaurant caused me to expect more. It is just a casual hotel restaurant serving three meals a day. It does a good job, and both the menu and decor have some interesting aspects, but the local competition offers better choices."
Dined on 5/04/2013
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Review 7 for Imperial
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

wonderful brunch

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We had a delicious brunch for a reasonable price. I had the chorizo sausage, scrambled eggs and fry bread. The breakfast potatoes were fabulous - and my daughter had wonderful french toast with strawberries. The manager came by to check on us and Vitaly Paley was there making sure everything was in order. I liked the ambiance of the place. I would like to go back and try more things. Definitely a great brunch place - and did I mention the bloody mary was nice and spicy?"
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, hot spot, special occasion, kid-friendly
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Review 8 for Imperial
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Breakfast - meh

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We went for Mothers Day brunch - the mimosa was lovely but otherwise food was mediocre. Quite a surprise given the credentials of this restaurant. Scrambled eggs were bland and flavorless; the breakfast potatoes came ast a triangular slab, crispy on the outside but otherwise plain. Only two options for toast - white and whole grain - but it probably didn't matter since it was cold on arrival. I expected far better presentation, taste and execution. Maybe happy hour and the bar is a better bet. I won't be back for breakfast."
Dined on 5/12/2013
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Review 9 for Imperial
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/10/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The Imperial was REALLY good. My wife had the halibut and I had the lamb. Both were delicious and were made with care for the ingredents, preparation and presentation. We both enjoyed ourselves and will be back, with friends."
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, neighborhood gem
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Review 10 for Imperial
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Fresh, healthy and exceptional

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
4 / 3
Energetic
"Wonderful food. Vitaley Paley has it nailed with this one. Terrific very fresh and expertly prepared dishes long on fresh local vegetable sides. My favorite way to eat."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for lunch
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Review 11 for Imperial
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/10/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Fabulous food, great room, painfully slow service!"
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: good for groups
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Review 12 for Imperial
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

challenging for a group

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 10/18/2012
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The food was excellent and service was attentive. However, it is really loud in there, and with a group of 7 at a round table, it was impossible to hear anyone except the people sitting right next to me."
Dined on 10/18/2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 13 for Imperial
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

40th Birthday Lunch

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 4/29/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I took a friend to the Imperial today for a birthday lunch. Everything was impeccable. The server was helpful, efficient and very friendly. The food selection was fantastic and they were great able accommodating some of my dietary restrictions. Would go back anytime."
Dined on 4/29/2013
Special Features: great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 14 for Imperial
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Excellent location in the

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Excellent location in the downtown area. Very vibrant atmosphere. Food selection rotates with the seasons."
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 15 for Imperial
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

The food and service were

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The food and service were fantastic! The restaurant was noisy, but not oppressively so."
Dined on 04/24/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 16 for Imperial
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

We went for brunch for our

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We went for brunch for our son's 28th birthday. We found the menu varied, but not overwhelming, good choices for a range of tastes, excellent coffee. Try the beignets, much better than New Orleans, great pastrami hash, french toast. Our service was very good. I did get a look of annoyance from the hostess when I asked the music be turned down slightly and they did comply. Really wish resturants in general would treat music as truly background noise which is barely noticeable, rather than something that you have to yell over to be heard. This is a general complaint, not specific to Imperial. We will be back for dinner at some point."
Dined on 04/21/2013
 2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 17 for Imperial
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Imperial is in our Top Five

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We have so enjoyed Imperial, both for lunch and dinner. Incredible food and excellent service. We will be back again for sure."
Dined on 04/23/2013
 2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 18 for Imperial
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Our group of four had a lovely

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Our group of four had a lovely time. The wait staff was very attentive without being overly hovering.
Our food choices were fine. We all enjoyed ourselves.
"
Dined on 04/18/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 19 for Imperial
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Very loud. Waited long time

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Very loud. Waited long time between app and entree. Otherwise, good food and great company to enjoy it with."
Dined on 04/20/2013
 2009
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Review 20 for Imperial
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great eat!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I highly recommend Imperial. The food is creative, wonderfully presented and delicious and the price was a good value. The service was great, which led for an enjoyable meal. I'm on the fence about Paley's Place, but Imperial by far a terrific restaurant. Highly recommend."
Dined on 04/12/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot
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Review 21 for Imperial
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

It was a special lunch for

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"It was a special lunch for a friend's birthday, and was exceptionally delicious."
Dined on 04/18/2013
 2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for lunch
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Review 22 for Imperial
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

I had heard good things about

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I had heard good things about the restaurant, and they proved they were worth all the praise. The food, along with everything else, was fantastic. We highly recommend it. A new favorite!"
Dined on 04/12/2013
 2007
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 23 for Imperial
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

2nd time there, this time

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"2nd time there, this time for business. I liked it the first time, but actually felt like the food was better this time. Standout items: duck meatballs, Parker rolls, grilled romaine salad and the planked pork secreto. Service was good, but not great; just a bit sloppy around the edges, but that seems pretty typical in Portland. I like the wine list, but feel like it could be bigger. Do we really need another long list of Oregon Pinots? I appreciate the local pride, but would have appreciated a broader selection of non-Oregon reds."
Dined on 04/15/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 24 for Imperial
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Blown away!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Always looking for a blow me away culinary experience, we try many new places.We are not often impressed,, but we had an amazing dinner at Imperial. If you appreciatecomplex flavor, beautiful presentation, great service surrounded by a hip, romantic ambiance, thenImperial will WOW you!One of our Fav dinners in all of PDX and we have tried many..."
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2006
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, romantic
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Review 25 for Imperial
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Our server forgot one of the

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Our server forgot one of the dishes we ordered. That's what happens when you don't write down our orders."
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch
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Review 26 for Imperial
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great food incorporating interestin

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Great food incorporating interesting blends of flavors -- definitely not the traditional fare. If you are interested in fun and interesting food, this is the place for you."
Dined on 04/11/2013
 2003
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 27 for Imperial
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

I like to judge my brunch

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I like to judge my brunch experience by how well a place can do the basics. Chef Paley and his crew get it right. My friend and I had the french toast and pancakes, along with sides of bacon. Perfect! Attentive staff came back twice to bring more real maple syrup, the catsup was house made, and, we were so impressed, the sides of bacon had about 6 slices per plate! Who does that? Imperial's take on a Moscow Mule cocktail had us asking for a quart of it ''to go''.(Not that we could, of course, but one can always hope). I was unabashedly slurping every last bit of moisture from the bottom of the mug.
Perfect everything..We drove up from McMinnville/ Salem, respectively, and worth the drive
"
Dined on 04/07/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 28 for Imperial
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Imperial Pastrami Hash was

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Imperial Pastrami Hash was wonderful--the pastrami itself was in moist, smoky/sweet chunks; poached egg perfect; other little extras like arugula (?) and tiny mushrooms mixed in with the potatoes. This was my second choice after I discovered (by ordering it, not by being advised in advance by the waiter!) that they were out of the Semolina Corn Cake. I'll try that next time, unless I succumb to the hash again."
Dined on 04/07/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch
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Review 29 for Imperial
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

we always sit at the bar with

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"we always sit at the bar with Brandon. He is fantastic and a huge asset to Imperial."
Dined on 04/05/2013
 2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 30 for Imperial
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

The food was great. Our only

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The food was great. Our only issue was that the food was brought out very quickly; appetizers before we had even gotten our wine. We felt a little rushed through the experience and felt like it would have been nicer to feel like we had a little more time to enjoy our romantic dinner."
Dined on 04/06/2013
 2013
Special Features: romantic
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Review 31 for Imperial
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

An excellent meal! On the

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"An excellent meal! On the suggestion of the chef Paley who stopped by our table, we ordered the duck meatballs and pork secreto. I'm still dreaming about that pork. So yummy!"
Dined on 04/05/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, special occasion
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Review 32 for Imperial
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Nice staff, the food was just

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Nice staff, the food was just okay though."
Dined on 04/02/2013
 2007
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Review 33 for Imperial
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

While the food was wonderful,

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"While the food was wonderful, the noise level inside the restaurant was awful - we were up against the wall at a quieter location, but with high ceilings, lots of metal and the added blaring music, we couldn't hear. My mom asked the waitress multiple questions and she had to repeat every one - we couldn't enjoy nice conversations."
Dined on 03/30/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 34 for Imperial
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Always a treat!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"For a Friday, end-of-the-week treat, Paley's Imperial Restaurant is perfect. Beautiful setting, excellent service and superb food."
Dined on 03/29/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 35 for Imperial
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Wonderful meal, but food was

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Wonderful meal, but food was served 5 minutes before wine arrived."
Dined on 03/30/2013
 2010
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, late-night find, great for lunch
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Review 36 for Imperial
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Mixed experience

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I was enthusiastic to try this new creation from chef Vitaly Paley. And, sadly I was mostly dissappointed. The Good: Ceviche an A+. Steak with mushrooms another A+. The Bad: I ordered the tails and trotters. I was told it was a house speciality and a big favorite. I could not have been more dissapointed. The flavor was over the top smokey. Just not good. It reminded me of the many BBQ joints I've eaten at in Houston, TX. (ie. Dickeys, Pappas BBQ) I could have ordered the same meal for a bout $20 less and not noticed the difference. Service was mixed. Our server was good, but hard to find. Never checked on us, never asked how our meal was, etc. I wouldn't tell you not to come here, but i certainly wouldn't recommend it."
Dined on 03/26/2013
 2012
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies
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Review 37 for Imperial
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Pretty Tasty

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We started with the Parker House rolls, which are absolutely worth ordering. Some of us had the kale salad and the others the grilled romaine; both got good reviews (particularly the croutons). The roasted cauliflower and chickpea stew got top marks and the steelhead was prepared well. (I particularly liked the spaetzel.) For dessert, we split the strawberry rhubarb pie with the coffee ice cream . . . really good. They have the crust down. For cocktails, I do recommend the "a radish walks into a bar"; super name and great taste."
Dined on 03/22/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot
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Review 38 for Imperial
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

great service. Great food.

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"great service. Great food. The hostess Amanda was very charming and helpful."
Dined on 03/21/2013
 2012
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Review 39 for Imperial
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Top recommendation for anyone

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Top recommendation for anyone to go to. A friend and I go to different restaurants every week, always high end so you can probably figure out the list. This was by far the best one in our opinions. The chefs are some of Portland's beas obviously and the food and service are incredible. Another thing we both noticed was that they have paid particular attention to the noise issue. Too many of the new hot spots are so noisy that we cannot talk. Imperial has taken steps to softened the hard surfaces and their efforts pay off really well."
Dined on 03/20/2013
 2012
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 40 for Imperial
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Dining at Chef Paley's counter

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Had the opportunity to sit at the Chef's Counter and met Vitaly Paley. The food was incredible and he couldn't have been more gracious. Dining alone I got to enjoy the meals being prepared in front of me and saw the love and attention that went into every dish. The Italian made wood fired grill is a work of art. I had grilled oysters with an excellent herb sauce for starters. Salad was an incredibly fresh and bright Kale salad with the perfect amount of dressing and a delicious sunflower brittle. I also had deliciously prepared and seasMain course was Secreto which is an uncommon cut of pork that is lean and perfectly done by being wood fire grilled. Match it all with a great Pinot and a magnificent Chef and it was a meal to remember"
Dined on 03/19/2013
 2002
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 41 for Imperial
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

In the restaurant business,

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"In the restaurant business, too many people focus on the business side of things and not enough on the food. That's not the case at Imperial, where it's clear that everyone there truly loves great food. We had the fried rabbit and pork shoulder, and both were fantastic. All the meats are expertly cured, smoked or otherwise prepared with extra care in-house. One of the best meals in a long time."
Dined on 03/17/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 42 for Imperial
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Dinner was great for our group

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Dinner was great for our group as we all have different tastes. Everyone enjoyed our meals."
Dined on 03/13/2013
 2010
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, hot spot
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Review 43 for Imperial
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Wonderful food, great service.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Wonderful food, great service. A little bit noisy which quieted down later in the evening.
Definitely a place to recommend and to return to in the future.
"
Dined on 03/13/2013
 2010
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, notable wine list, hot spot
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Review 44 for Imperial
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Food was outstanding, creativity

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Food was outstanding, creativity with proper execution. Best meal I had in Portland"
Dined on 03/12/2013
 2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
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Review 45 for Imperial
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Very cool restaurant with

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Very cool restaurant with delicious food! The spicy carrot soup was amazing!"
Dined on 03/12/2013
 2005
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 46 for Imperial
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

server was very friendly but

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"server was very friendly but not good. not all food came at one time. toast came when we were half done with the rest of brunch. Overall we were disappointed."
Dined on 03/10/2013
 2012
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Review 47 for Imperial
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

I was very excited to try

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I was very excited to try this new Paley-run restaurant, since I regularly visit the original Paley's during my many business trips to Portland. The food was very good, especially the innovative vegetable dishes. But the noise was excessive, so loud at times I could not hear the conversation of my partner across the table. The service, while very friendly, lagged and was not responsive. I cannot without qualification recommend Imperial at this time, but I do intend to visit it sometime in the future to see if it has improved."
Dined on 03/07/2013
 2005
Special Features: vibrant bar scene
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Review 48 for Imperial
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

The food was excellent and

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"The food was excellent and service impeccable. Everything was beautifully presented."
Dined on 03/04/2013
 2011
Special Features: neighborhood gem, special occasion, hot spot
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Review 49 for Imperial
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Nice Way to Celebrate Retirement!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I took two recently retired friends to the restaurant of their choice, which was Imperial. How right they were! We came early and had a leisurely 2-1/2 hour dinner with tasty and unusual hors d'oeuvres and nice after-dinner drinks. Everything in between, including service, was splendid."
Dined on 03/05/2013
 2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
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Review 50 for Imperial
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

It was a bit noisy, but the

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"It was a bit noisy, but the food was excellent and the staff was very attentive."
Dined on 02/05/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies
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