A new restaurant called Sabor del Rio Cafe will open in the Sunderland neighborhood out in one of the floating buildings on the Columbia River just west of NE 33rd. I often go up there in the summer to hang out at The Deck, so having yet another option there (Salty’s on the Columbia and The Sextant are also nearby) is also pretty exciting. I am sure the folks who live in the area are also happy to see this new development.
Location of Sabor del Rio
Located specifically in the Harbor One Marina, Sabor del Río—which translates to “Taste of the River,” very apt—is a family-run spot offering “a taste of Puerto Rico,” according to Louis Morales, one of the owners. He hails from Puerto Rico originally. His wife Monica is the other owner of this establishment.
He also said, “We’re excited to offer a cozy spot where you can relax and take in the beautiful Columbia River views.” I also understand from the people who run the marina that there is a floating dock for boats all around the restaurant, so arriving by boat is an option.
He also recognizes that for some, it’s a little bit of a walk from the parking lot alongside Marine Drive down to the restaurant. “Once the taste gets out people will for sure want more,” said Louis. “For them, we will focus on pickup orders and can meet folks at the top of the ramp.”
Food and Drink
As for food, they’ll offer both Puerto Rican and American food– a “small menu but sure to please a variety of tastes,” remarked Lous.
Look for things like tacos, sandwiches, pico de gallo and chips, arroz con gandules (rice with peas), as well as their Rio Summer Salad, made with fresh Romaine lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, olives, cucumbers, feta cheese, and balsamic dressing. They also have a burger planned, the Rio BBQ Burger. “The meat is infused with peppers, onions and BBQ. It comes topped with caramelized onions, lettuce, tomatoes, Swiss cheese, and an amazing sauce.”
They have applied for a limited on-premises liquor license, which means they’ll be able to offer beer, wine, and cider.
They will soft open on Tuesday April 1, and are planning a grand opening celebration the following weekend. That day they’ll have a live DJ, music, food, and drink.
Update April 1, 2025: Here is their menu (apologies for the low-res aspect). Click to enlarge.
Best of luck to Louis and Monica as they prepare to open Sabor del Río Café next month!
Sabor del Río Café [opening April 1, 2025]
3307 NE Marine Drive Galley, Portland
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Updated April 1, 2025.
Meg Cotner
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Yea! We love going to The Deck in the summer…nothing better than hanging out and eating and drinking at a restaurant on the river. So excited to have another option. Good luck and we will see you soon.