Discovering the Charm of City State Diner And Bakery
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Portland, Oregon, the City State Diner And Bakery stands as a beloved local institution, offering a comforting blend of classic American diner fare and artisanal baked goods. Located specifically at 128 NE 28th Ave, Portland, OR 97232, United States, this establishment has carved out a unique niche in the city’s diverse culinary landscape. It’s more than just a place to grab a quick bite; it’s a community hub where quality ingredients meet heartfelt preparation, creating an atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly contemporary. For residents and visitors alike exploring the eclectic neighborhoods of Northeast Portland, the Diner and Bakery represents a reliable destination for satisfying meals served with genuine warmth.
The essence of City State lies in its commitment to elevating everyday dining experiences. While the term "diner" often conjures images of simple, no-frills service, City State infuses its menu with thoughtful execution and a dedication to sourcing that resonates with Portland’s ethos. Whether you are seeking a hearty breakfast to kickstart your day, a satisfying lunch break, or perhaps just a perfectly crafted pastry and coffee, the establishment manages to cater to diverse palates while maintaining a consistent standard of excellence. This dedication to quality across both savory and sweet offerings is what truly sets it apart in a competitive food city.
Exploring the offerings here reveals a menu built on familiar foundations but executed with a modern sensibility. The savory side often features robust interpretations of diner staples, utilizing fresh, local produce whenever possible. Simultaneously, the bakery section showcases the skill of their pastry chefs, turning out breads, cakes, and morning treats that are as visually appealing as they are delicious. This duality—the robust diner experience paired with refined baking artistry—is central to the City State identity.
Key Highlights of the City State Experience
To truly appreciate what makes the City State Diner And Bakery a neighborhood favorite, several key aspects stand out:
Artisanal Baking Excellence: Beyond the standard diner fare, the bakery component is a significant draw. Patrons frequently praise the fresh, daily-made selection of breads, muffins, and specialty pastries. This focus on scratch baking elevates the entire dining experience, offering perfect accompaniments to any meal or a delightful standalone treat.
Comfort Food Elevated: The diner menu successfully balances tradition with quality. Expect classic dishes—from pancakes to sandwiches—prepared with attention to detail and superior ingredients. This commitment ensures that even the simplest order feels thoughtfully constructed and deeply satisfying, appealing to those seeking authentic, comforting flavors.
Community-Centric Atmosphere: Situated in a bustling part of Portland, the location fosters a genuine sense of local connection. The environment is typically welcoming and unpretentious, making it an ideal spot for casual meetings, family outings, or solo contemplation over a cup of coffee. It embodies the friendly, neighborhood spirit Portland is known for.
Versatility Across Meal Times: Whether one arrives early for a substantial morning meal or stops by later for an afternoon pastry and coffee, the establishment caters effectively to various schedules and cravings. This flexibility solidifies its role as a reliable, all-day dining option within the local community structure.
The location itself, easily accessible in Northeast Portland, contributes to its popularity. It serves as a convenient waypoint for those traversing the area, offering a dependable haven from the hustle and bustle outside. The consistent quality across both the diner and bakery sections ensures that repeat visits are always met with the same high standard.
A Consistent Culinary Anchor in Portland
In summary, the City State Diner And Bakery at 128 NE 28th Ave is more than just a point on a map; it is a significant culinary anchor in its Portland neighborhood. It successfully navigates the space between casual, satisfying diner food and high-quality, handcrafted bakery items. For anyone seeking an authentic taste of Portland’s approachable yet high-quality food scene, this location offers a compelling proposition. The combination of expertly prepared savory dishes and exceptional baked goods, all served within a warm, community-focused setting, guarantees a memorable and enjoyable visit, solidifying its reputation as a cherished local gem.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Outdoor seating
On-site services
Takeaway
Dine-in
Highlights
Fast service
Great cocktails
Great coffee
Great tea selection
Serves local specialty
Popular for
Breakfast
Solo dining
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Comfort food
Organic dishes
Quick bite
Spirits
Vegetarian options
Dining options
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Amenities
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Crowd
Family friendly
Groups
Locals
Tourists
University students
Planning
Usually a wait
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Somewhat difficult to find a space
Pets
Dogs allowed outside
Menus
BREAKFAST IS SERVED ALL DAY
CHEESEUS$12.50
HAM AND CHEESEUS$14.00
BACON BRIEUS$15.00
SALMONUS$16.00
UTOPIAUS$15.00
THE GEORGEUS$16.00
TOFUUS$14.00
PROSCIUTTOUS$14.00
FOREST MUSHROOMUS$13.50
CARAMELIZED ONIONUS$13.50
THE FREDDIEUS$15.00
SPANISHUS$15.00
MILE HIGHUS$15.00
HENNY PENNYUS$16.00
HAMUS$14.00
HOUSE SMOKED TOFUUS$14.00
CRISPY PROSCIUTTOUS$14.00
SMOKED SALMONUS$16.00
PORK BELLYUS$16.00
CRAB CAKEUS$16.00
VEGGIE SAUSAGEUS$14.00
FLORENTINEUS$13.00
BACON AVOCADOUS$16.00
AVOCADOUS$13.00
BISCUITS AND GRAVYUS$14.50
COUNTRY FRIED STEAKUS$16.00
LOUISIANA CRAB HASHUS$18.00
BREAKFAST MEATLOAF DELUXEUS$16.00
LOUKANIKO & EGGSUS$15.00
HUEVOS RANCHEROSUS$16.00
BEST OF BOTH WORLDSUS$16.00
EGGUS$6.50
BACONUS$8.50
HAMUS$8.50
HOUSE SAUSAGEUS$8.50
GRILLED TOFUUS$7.50
SCONESUS$4.00
COOKIESUS$3.00
COFFEE CAKEUS$5.00
KARMIC TOASTUS$7.50
HOUSE MADE GRANOLAUS$5.50
FRESH FRUIT PLATEUS$8.00
LITTLE FRUITUS$4.50
YOGURT SUNDAEUS$7.00
GRILLED CHEESEUS$7.00
HAZELNUT CHALLAH FRENCH TOASTUS$7.00
ONE EGGUS$2.00
ADD AVOCADOUS$2.00
SAUTEED VEGETABLESUS$6.00
SAUSAGE PATTYUS$4.50
BACONUS$4.50
LOUKANIKOUS$5.00
CHICKEN APPLE SAUSAGEUS$5.00
GRILLED TOFUUS$4.00
CRAB CAKESUS$7.00
POTATOESUS$4.00
SEARED GRITSUS$4.00
BISCUITUS$3.50
BISCUITS & GRAVYUS$7.00
TOASTUS$2.00
SIDE FRIESUS$6.00
LUNCH SERVED ALL DAY, TOO
SMOKED SALMONUS$15.00
BACON BLUEUS$16.00
ROASTED BEETUS$13.00
CRAB CAKE SALADUS$15.00
SIDE HOUSEUS$8.00
Photos
Reviews City State Diner And Bakery
Kaelen Olson
04-12-2025
This is one of my favorite breakfast places. Their eggs benedict with crispy prosciutto was delicious, and I had to come back for the hazelnut challah french toast. Yum!! It tasted as good as it looks. Adding bananas was an extra treat.
The staff is always super friendly and welcoming. I do suggest getting there before 9 am for breakfast or at least be prepared to wait for seating. It's worth the wait!
I look forward to many more visits and trying their bloody Mary. It looks like a meal in itself 😄
If you're a breakfast junkie like me, I can't recommend a better place on this side of town to grab an amazing morning meal!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Breakfast
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 4
Recommended dishes
Hazelnut Challah French Toast, Crispy Prosciutto
Parking space
Somewhat difficult to find parking
Parking options
Free street parking
Remy Chamberlin
03-12-2025
I have been to this diner a billion times and it is super consistent in terms of both deliciousness and service. Everyone is always attentive and welcoming no matter how busy it is! I wanted to give a shout out to Zoe who mentioned she just started. I think she will be a great addition to your team - she offered the same level of service I’ve grown to expect from the lovely staff at this diner. Everything I’ve had there is amazing, but I highly recommend the Challah French Toast or any of their scrambles. You can’t go wrong!
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Victoria
05-10-2025
It’s so fast
Everything is good here (but would skip the biscuit gravy)
Super affordable
The fried grits were new for me and fun
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Oren Tanay
29-09-2025
It turns out that I'm a little bit of a meatloaf fan, and I've ordered it here twice; First time was traditional style, the second was dressed up like a burger. The pancakes are not out of control, but if you're not a big eater I'd start with one, and order another if you need it, they can come out of the kitchen pretty quickly.
I can also recommend the huevos ranchero with crispy corn tortillas. It was filling, and had that perfect balance of ingredients that so many restaurants seem to get wrong.
My better half vouches for the crab cake eggs Benedict, but I find it too rich for my taste.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Brunch
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Huevos Rancheros, Crab Cake
Recommendation for vegetarians
Somewhat recommend
Vegetarian offerings
Clearly labeled vegetarian dishes
Vegetarian options
There seems to be 2-3 vegetation options, which for a breakfast joint is pretty common.
Bassline Pixie
21-09-2025
Cute spot with decent food and nice service.
We couldn’t decide, so got a little bit of everything.
We got lattes, the bacon avocado Benedict, the biscuits and gravy, fried grits and the French toast.
The good:
Server was super friendly.
The bacon on the Benedict outshined everything.
The bad:
The lattes were cold.
The French toast was underwhelming.
The biscuit needed more gravy.
Overall, everything was fine but I wouldn’t make a point to come back. There are too many delicious brunch spots in Portland to try.
If you’re in the neighborhood, give it a whirl.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Brunch
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 4
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 4
Isabella Perez (Bella)
18-08-2025
We sat outside which was a nice area. Service was pretty poor. The food was good, but it didn’t wow us. Would have appreciated more potatoes and more of the apricot jam on the benedict. The pork belly was okay but not the best I’ve had. I would recommend trying someplace else for brunch food since Portland has many great options.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Brunch
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 4
Service: 3
Atmosphere: 3
Laine
06-08-2025
Been meaning to try this spot for a while now! We went on a weekend so there was quite a wait for brunch. However, since we opted for outdoor seating with our dog, we were able to get seated faster than those wanting to dine indoors. Overall the service was fast and friendly! The food came out fast, which is always a plus. They have your typical diner fare of pancakes, eggs benedict, toasts, and scrambled as well as lunch options (burgers and sandwiches). I got the Eggs Benny with Pork Belly. Delicious but I wish the portions were a bit bigger especially for the side of potatoes!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Brunch
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 4
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Vegetarian offerings
Vegetarian menu or section
Yuri Vantowski
08-07-2025
This had to be one of the best eggs benny I’ve had. Definitely top 5. I got the Benny Florentine with biscuit substitute and ham added and it was incredible. The atmosphere is a chill diner vibe and good seating. I’m sure the other food is good, but the Benny along with the potatoes were amazing.
Meal type
Breakfast
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Basic Business Info
25-06-2025
Pork belly Benedict, chicken fried steak, Thai bloody Mary and house margarita with a side of Pacifico lager. The one critique was that the pork belly could be slow cooked. Sous vide or smoker maybe could be good options. Thai Bloody was good. Servers and staff were very friendly, overall a good option for breakfast.
Meal type
Breakfast
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 3
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Group size
2 people, 3-4 people
Seating type
Indoor dining area, Outdoor patio / terrace
Michelle Lively
26-05-2025
This place has solid aspects- tasty food, vegan options, friendly servers. My fresh glass of water had sludgy food remnants on it and I asked to have it replaced and the server said “it looks like something from the window dropped in it.” I thought this was an odd thing to say, given that we were seated inside and it was clearly a dirty glass, but I started looking around the restaurant. The top of the windows are covered in spiderwebs and I saw 4 dead flies in the windowsill by my seat, the glasses are covered in a splotchy residue that scratches off. I ate my food and tipped well but really left questioning the lack of attention to cleanliness. If the owner reads this, a little spring cleaning would go a long way and if you polish your clean glasses with a coffee filter it gets rid of the film.
Meal type
Brunch
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 2
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
Wait time
No wait
Recommendation for vegetarians
Somewhat recommend
Vegetarian offerings
Clearly labeled vegetarian dishes
Parking space
Difficult to find parking
Parking options
Free street parking
Nathan Berres
21-03-2025
City State Diner was a really good diner restaurant to get a yummy meal at. We got a scramble and eggs Benedict with crab cake. I got my crab cake with a biscuit and honestly I would have gone with the muffin if I had a redo. The biscuit didn't provide the type of flavor I like from my biscuit, I've tried many better in Portland.
The highlight of both dishes has to be the potatoes which are amazingly seasoned and cooked. The best part of both plates for us. The scrambled eggs were good but they were not a standout, must go here to have them sort of deal.
In conclusion, I think City State Diner and Bakery is definitely worth a visit, especially if you live in the area I wouldn't blame you for being a regular here. I loved all the options for the egg Benedict which makes this place a standout amongst other breakfast establishments in Portland.
The decor of the inside was amazing and I always gotta give props for the plentiful outside seating they provide in the place of car parking - the 20 people you can sit will provide much more economic value than the 2 cars you can park in that space instead! I recommend a visit here and I doubt you'll be disappointed!
Price per person
$10–20
Food: 4
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 5
Dean Fearing
07-03-2025
Had the breakfast meatloaf and opted for the biscuit. Dang was it amazing. The meatloaf is rich and flavorful. The biscuit was one of the best I’ve had hands down. Can’t wait to come back and next time it will be with a few extra biscuits!
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Durran Champie (DLIC)
24-02-2025
Better than most, but not a shining star. Worth trying to be sure.
My critiques are more to do with technique in cooking but not with flavor. I'll skip them for now.
Service was fast and the staff were friendly and happy to help.
Slightly unorthodox ordering system, but not impossible to figure out. The app would not work on my phone, so I had to order at the counter anyway.
I will say that I 100% disagree with the review that said this was great coffee. It is serviceable coffee, but not amazing.
Overall, they deserve the positive vibes and love they get, and I'll be coming back again.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Brunch
Price per person
$30–50
Kylia
22-02-2025
Such a nice spot, walked here and ate outside for a bit before the bees wanted in on the action. Our waitress was so gracious and helpful, she volunteered to transfer all of our food inside so we could eat without fighting the bees! I got the salmon scramble and cranberry mimosa. The scramble could’ve used more seasoning and the mimosa was more bitter than I expected (I’m used to sweeter mimosas and drinks) but it was still really good and they had really good chili sauce. I would definitely recommend this diner!
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Breakfast
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 4
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Eunice Cheah
15-02-2025
I don’t live in the states, but everytime I am in Portland, I will always have breakfast at city state. I would have it for each day I am in town, because they have the best bennies I’ve ever had. The sauce is to die for, and their grits is sooo good. Good menu variety, portions can be more but we usually leave full, great customer service. I like the big patio area so you can bring your dogs and still eat at the restaurant. I like the self serve water option as well.
Meal type
Brunch
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Group size
2 people, 3-4 people
Seating type
Indoor dining area, Outdoor patio / terrace, Counter seating
P Sanae (Miss P)
20-01-2025
My new go-to
Haven't been impressed with breakfast in Portland last few years...all looks good but lacks flavor or beyond the new "normal" expensive. This is perfect.
Meal type
Breakfast
Price per person
$30–50
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Wait time
No wait
Seating type
Indoor dining area, Outdoor patio / terrace
Recommendation for vegetarians
Not sure
Resolute Media
16-01-2025
This place rocks. Fast service good food. The biscuits were fluffy, the gravy was so damn good and the eggs Benedict was a slam dunk.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Kelsey Gavin
12-01-2025
One of our favorite brunch/breakfast places in Portland. The Benedicts and Louisiana hash are always killer. Service is fast and friendly. They have a great outdoor seating area. It can get busy but worth the wait.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Breakfast
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Parking space
Somewhat difficult to find parking
Parking options
Free street parking, Paid street parking
Alexander Pekar
09-01-2025
I’ve been coming to this little gem of a breakfast spot for quite a while now and I must say, they had a little rough patch in the middle years there. But nowadays, the last 3 times I’ve been here, it’s been a great experience. Just like when I first started coming back in like 2010. The food is great, I always would get my go to…the deluxe breakfast, which was usually what did the job. But this time I had the country fried steak and was pleasantly surprised. Gravy and the steak was delicious. Last time I had their breakfast meatloaf and it was so damn good. And their Bloody Mary’s are wonderful!! I love getting to sit at the bar, makes me feel like I’m back home in New England. The staff is always great, very friendly. I really enjoy coming here, I recommend it for sure.
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Breakfast
Price per person
$20–30
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Potatoes, Country Fried Steak
Yulily
06-01-2025
As we walked in, we were greeted by a spacious and cozy atmosphere with counter seating at the entrance and booths and tables further inside. We ordered the Mile High Scramble ($17) and the Mushroom Scramble ($16), and we also added a two-piece French toast ($7) to share. To go with our meal, we enjoyed a Breakside IPA ($7x2) and a coffee ($3.50x2). Despite the rainy day, we had a wonderful time. There’s also outdoor seating along the roadside, which looks like a great spot to relax and enjoy a meal on a sunny day.😊✨
Service
Dine in
Meal type
Lunch
Price per person
$20–30
Reviews City State Diner And Bakery