This Oregon Seafood Buffet Serves Crab Just The Way Pacific Northwest Diners Swear By
Portland’s dining scene has a hidden gem that seafood lovers can’t stop raving about. Salty’s on the Columbia River has perfected the art of serving Dungeness crab the way Pacific Northwest locals have enjoyed it for generations.
Whether you’re a lifelong Oregonian or just visiting, this waterfront buffet delivers an unforgettable feast that combines fresh catches with stunning river views.
Chilled Dungeness Crab Legs Take Center Stage
Nothing says Pacific Northwest quite like a pile of fresh Dungeness crab legs waiting on ice. Salty’s Sunday brunch makes these shellfish superstars the main attraction, served cold and ready to crack open.
Locals know that chilled preparation lets the sweet, delicate meat shine without any fuss. The buffet keeps them stocked throughout service, so you can grab seconds without worry.
Forget fancy sauces or complicated cooking methods. Sometimes the best flavors need zero interference, just a little lemon and maybe some melted butter on the side.
Freshly Shucked Oysters And Prime Rib Round Out The Feast
Raw oysters sit glistening on beds of crushed ice, shucked moments before you arrive at the buffet line. Their briny ocean taste pairs surprisingly well with the savory prime rib being carved fresh at the neighboring station.
Most buffets pick one protein and call it a day. Salty’s decided that wasn’t enough, so they added both surf and turf to keep every appetite happy.
My uncle once ate seventeen oysters here before moving on to the crab. He regretted nothing, though his stomach had a different opinion later that afternoon.
Made To Order Stations Let You Customize Your Plate
Buffets usually mean grabbing what’s already made and hoping for the best. Here, chefs stand ready at omelet, scramble, and pasta stations to whip up whatever combination you’re craving.
Pick your fillings, watch them cook, and get a hot plate that’s actually tailored to your taste. No more settling for someone else’s idea of the perfect breakfast scramble.
Kids love this setup because they finally get to skip the mushrooms. Adults appreciate it because sometimes you need extra cheese and nobody should judge that decision.
Chocolate Fountain Becomes The Sweet Grand Finale
After loading up on seafood and savory dishes, you’ll spot the dessert area with its towering chocolate fountain. Strawberries, cookies, and marshmallows sit arranged around the flowing cascade, practically begging to be dipped.
There’s something oddly satisfying about watching melted chocolate tumble down multiple tiers. Maybe it’s the hypnotic flow, or maybe it’s just knowing you’re about to eat fruit covered in chocolate.
Pro tip: stack a marshmallow on your skewer with a strawberry for the ultimate sweet combo. You’re welcome for that life hack.
Columbia River Views Include Mount Hood On Clear Days
Floor to ceiling windows frame the Columbia River as it stretches toward the horizon. When Portland’s famous clouds take a break, Mount Hood appears in the distance like a postcard come to life.
Scoring a window table feels like winning the brunch lottery. The scenery turns a great meal into an experience worth posting about, and trust me, everyone does.
Even on overcast days, watching boats glide past while you crack crab legs adds something special. Nature provides the entertainment between your third and fourth buffet trips.
Social Media Buzz Makes Finding Photos Easy
Thousands of diners have snapped photos of their plates, the river views, and that famous chocolate fountain. A quick search online reveals the buffet from every possible angle, making it simple to see what you’re getting into.
The riverfront patio gets photographed constantly, especially during sunset hours when golden light hits the water. These aren’t professional shots either, just regular folks who couldn’t resist capturing the moment.
Before my first visit, I scrolled through about fifty images of crab legs. Preparation is key when planning your buffet strategy, after all.
Regular Menu Offers Crab By The Pound Anytime
Sunday brunch isn’t the only chance to satisfy those Dungeness crab cravings. Salty’s regular menu features crab by the pound, so weekday visitors don’t miss out on the signature dish.
Order a pound or two for the table and get cracking. The kitchen prepares it the same way, keeping that classic Pacific Northwest simplicity that lets the seafood speak for itself.
Sometimes you just wake up on a Tuesday needing crab legs. No judgment here, and thankfully Salty’s understands that seafood emergencies don’t wait for weekends.
Sunday Seafood Brunch Earns Local Awards And Loyalty
Week after week, locals and tourists alike pack this place for what’s become a Portland tradition. The Sunday seafood brunch has collected multiple local awards over the years, cementing its reputation as a must try experience.
Reservations fill up fast because word spreads quickly about unlimited crab legs and river views. Smart diners book ahead or arrive right when doors open to snag the best seats.
Some families have made this their monthly ritual. When a buffet becomes part of your routine, you know they’re doing something right beyond just piling food on plates.