I want to like this place. The food has generally been good and the service attentive. But an experience a couple of weeks ago has made it very difficult to return, and I feel compelled to share why. During a slower part of the day, several employees were sitting together eating, when someone wandered in, possibly looking for coffee or restroom access. What followed was genuinely shocking. Those staff members, in uniform, in their place of work, made loud and deeply dehumanizing comments about the homeless community. They made it clear they were disgusted that this person even existed. One announced "I hate Portland," apparently unbothered that they live here, work here, and serve the public here. This is not a matter of differing opinions. There is no both-sides framing for treating another human being as subhuman. And doing it loudly, in uniform, in a place of business that serves the general public, is a serious failure of basic decency and professionalism. Portland is a community. Businesses that want to be part of it need to hold their staff to a standard that reflects that. Until I have reason to believe this has been addressed, I won't be back, and I'd encourage others who value their neighbors, all of them, to think carefully before spending their money here. read more

Outstanding Breakfast and Service! Elmer's at 10001 NE Sandy Blvd, Portland, Oregon was the perfect start to my morning. The service was friendly, fast, and welcoming and the kind of hospitality that makes you feel right at home. I ordered a black coffee and it was amazing -- hot, bold, and full of flavor. The classic German pancake deserves its own spotlight. It was out of this world... light, delicious, and prepared perfectly. I also enjoyed a traditional breakfast of three eggs, crispy hash browns, and toast. Everything was cooked just right and served with a smile. If you are ever in this area and want to start your day off right, this is the place to do it. Highly recommended, I'll definitely be back! read more

Excellent food in a casual, cozy setting. Come early or at an odd time, as this place does get very busy. Service is wonderful, greeter/host is right there when you walk in to seat and say hello. Fast and they come back often for refills and to ensure you have everything you need. Food is great--never had a bad meal here. Today we got the Eggs Benedict and a Denver Omelette. Both very good, perfectly poached eggs, thick ham and nice sauce, with a bit of lemon. Omelette was packed with meat and veggies, and the pancake side was just way too much, in a good way. The surprise was the strawberry lemonade! This is a must, more of a frozen smoothie--excellent! Happy holidays to the amazing folks working here, thank you for the nice breakfast, at a good price. read more

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Stopped in for late breakfast for dinner. I had potato pancakes, eggs over easy, sausage, links, and applesauce. It was all pretty good. My wife had the chicken and waffles and it smelled so good that I had to taste some. And it was all as good as it smelled. We have to do this again soon because it was nice to have something later in the evening that wasn't heavy and greasy. read more

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We have driven by Elmer's many times over the years, but this was our first time to visit. We are so glad we did! Comfortable, old-school restaurant that reminds me a breakfast spot I used to go to with my father as a kid.... except of course I wish the prices were more reasonable like back in the day. I had a tasty reuben and a cup of clam chowder. The staff here were incredibly friendly and welcoming. Monique, our waitress, was so nice and the Assistant Manager, Jason, came out to say hello too when he learned it was our first visit. They really made our day! We'll definitely be coming back, especially on a cold day when they have the fireplace going. read more

Elmer's Restaurant - Our waitress, Monique, was so friendly! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Portland, Oregon

Best customer service we've ever had at an Elmers!! The host less gentleman was so kind and thoughtful, & our server Cindy was the sweetest. They both went out of their way to make sure we had everything we needed, & it was during a busier time so I was surprised. Our food came out quickly & was delicious. Thank you Elmers! read more

Elmer's Restaurant - My happy partner in a booth in the back. - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Portland, Oregon

Our family came here (near Mall 205) for a Thanksgiving breakfast and were greeted by the friendly staff as soon as we walked in and were seated promptly. Two of us ordered German Pancakes, one ordered Stuffed Hash Browns, and the other, a Denver Omelet. The German Pancake is a specialty, and is fabulous, and we were all pleased with what we ordered. Sometimes the seat spacing can get a little tight. I'd like to give a special shout-out to our server, Jasmine. Despite being busy, she gave us excellent, efficient, and friendly service. She is a real asset to Elmer's! Thank you so much! read more

Elmer's Restaurant - German Pancake! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Portland, Oregon

This was the best elmer's experience i have ever had. Every staff member throughout this dining experience was incredible. Myself, my bestfriend , and nephew were greeted promptly with kids menus and a place to sit. even on this very busy saturday morning! our food came very quick and was absolutely delicious. i got the potato pancakes. what made this food taste so good though, was our service. Our server Veronica was so cute and sweet and attentive. Request her if you come here lol! Thank you Veronica and Stark St. Elmers for an awesome morning. read more

Our server Monique was The Best! Friendly and attentive! Food was great! Manager said the owner reads all reviews.....please give Kudos to Monique. read more

Just a quick update, this Elmer's is still FANTASTIC! Service, The Food, The Place... very consistent, despite all we've been thru these past few years. Whoever manages this chain is pretty good, and the people who work here are spectacular! read more

I love this place. I love it enough that I seriously considered giving it 5 stars. Please bear that in mind as you read. First. they have good food. That is not a given, and needs saying. I really recommend the German Pancake with just lemon and butter. Or, in the evening, we love the Prime Rib, minus the gravy but with extra butter. They have a good selection of tea, if avoiding sugar and soft drinks, and solid coffee. If you get the vanilla coffee, I suggest you have them cut it 50/50 with regular coffee, or it is very sweet. Then, you can have it twice for one price. Also, they have humane meat. They serve Zenner's sausage, for example, so if sourcing matters to you, you can eat here without wondering what you will have to do to get a good meal. So far, this sounds like a 3 star joint, so why do I give it 4? The people. I feel like a regular, and recognize my wait staff, even if they don't recognize me. I feel welcomed, like a genuine guest, that they are happy to see. It is a genuine, old fashioned welcome like you see in the movies but I don't think I have experienced anywhere else. When available, we like to sit at a table next to one of the two fireplaces. The place is decidedly old fashioned, and while I sometimes think it could use a freshening up, I don't really mind. It feels like what it is - an old fashioned restaurant that never lost its soul. I spoke to one of the waitstaff about this and she told me that many of them are long time employees, that it is a second home to them, and that they do feel like we are their welcome guests in that home. So, at least 4 stars. Enjoy that classic ambiance and genuinely good, old fashioned service and enjoy a relaxing meal with friendly folks who want you to have a good time. I always do. read more

I ate here a year ago, as soon as I got home. I had a really upset stomach. Then came down with Nora virus after eating a omelette here . I was so sick for two weeks. I had to go to the doctors and get blood work done to find out was wrong with me . I was diagnosed with the Nora virus after eating at Elmer's. I haven't returned since And never will , all the cups and tables had a strong smell of bleach too . Our server was nice but after getting so sick I'm too scared to go back. Sad too because I used to love Elmer's . read more

I like the place but I eat there to much so they can oder another main meuna and it's actually close to my house. read more

Elmer's Restaurant - I took my two kids with me and they enjoyed it as welll - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Portland, Oregon

This place has been a NW staple for a long time. This time was different. It smells SO BAD in there. It smells like a mix of puke and poopy toilet!!! The manager on duty said they were having some plumbing issues. No ETA of when it would be done and not smell anymore. Couldn't even stay and order. Please fix the problem!!! As of today, March 2, 2025, it's disgusting! read more

Let's just say I know Elmer's:) I was a hostess when I was 16 years old and one thing, it's always consistent. My parents wanted breakfast so we headed to Elmer's on Stark Street. We were greeted warmly and seated quickly by the hostess. Our waitress was pleasant and we ordered a few of our favorites - steak and eggs, stuffed hash browns, strawberry pancakes and the veggie and egg white bowl. My dad has ordered steak and eggs for breakfast for as long as I can remember so it hit the spot for him. The pancake portion is massive so my mom had two to take home as leftovers. The stuffed hash browns were stuffed to the hilt and my daughter gave it a thumbs up. The egg white and veggie bowl was also flavorful with the extra salsa and the fresh avocado was a nice addition. Listen - Elmer's isn't fancy gourmet food but we were wanting nostalgia and comfort on this cold blistery Portland morning and it delivered on all levels. read more

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I am so sad to hear they're no longer allowing to go orders. I used to be able to call in on a lazy Saturday and go pick up my food. Recently I called to place an order and was told by the manager they don't offer that service and apparently they never have........ despite the many times I've used the service. Such a bummer. Dine in only now, probably too many folks not picking up orders and wasting the food. read more

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The food is always good. Their servers are attentive to your needs. The restaurant has a home feel to it with art and fireplaces. read more

Elmer's Restaurant - Chorizo Eggs Benedict - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Portland, Oregon

Prices have been raise 40% expect every dish on menu to cost 18$. This is not fine dinning.

As a franchise, it is remarkable to witness the quality and consistency of this business. A random trip to Portland, Oregon occasioned my visit to an Elmer's store on the east side. Food quality, customer service and overall experience (in an ice storm, no less) was EXCELLENT......!!!!!!! Five (5) ***** Stars for sure! read more

Wow. I have a grandfather almost on his death bed and he wanted Elmer's breakfast. He is too weak to go to the restaurant called to get a to go order and apparently elmers is the only restaurant that will not do to go orders. Super stupid because they have the materials to take the food you don't finish home with you. read more

Amazing customer service the pancakes were delicious the pricing was reasonable. They have high hairs for kids .

In for an early dinner with Mom (90yo), so seating options were plentiful & prompt. Mom wanted a table, & with her using a walker, we were given a table not far from the entry, which was a good idea, except that the man who seated us was also seated nearby & conversing casually with another employee - I just wasn't thrilled with hearing their conversations, the quiet would've been nicer. Our server Erica was very prompt about being attentive for taking our orders, answering questions & then serving our plates with generous servings, as well as returning to check if we needed anything else. Mom had no complaints about her meal of the Chicken Fried Steak breakfast which included eggs, pancakes, & fresh fruit. My fish (cod) was good (3 pieces) & request to substitute (no baked potatoes served) for hash browns (wide, thin slices of potatoes) was very ample a serving but a little greasy, the fish as well; I guess that's to be expected. My meal was good, but not great. I had leftovers (fish), which seemed overly greasy when eaten later. My greatest dissatisfaction was with the container being a clear plastic clam shell type- oh how I wish restaurants would work harder at being more considerate of our earth & use more environmentally friendly containers. read more

Elmer's Restaurant - Fish & chips with hash browns (sub), Ivar's clam chowder & Mom's chicken fried steak breakfast meal - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Portland, Oregon

I mean, it's diner food, so I'm reviewing based on my expectation of diner food. The place was clean and the staff friendly and prompt. It's basic food. I went with a fish fry this time and it was deep fried just fine. My niece enjoyed her kids meal and activity book (although the crayons don't color great). 3 of us all had the fish, but my BIL had like a pot roast style meal and he really enjoyed it too. Yes, prices are going up. As they are on everything everywhere, but considering the new price point for dining I'd still say it's reasonable. read more

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Elmers is my favorite place to eat when I'm in town. This visit I met up with a friend in the middle of the day and we sat and ate and talked for a couple of hours. Staff was okay with that. I had the pastrami and it was YUMMY. The place is not noisy and I could hear myself talk. All of the Elmer's I have been to are like this. Good food, friendly service! read more

I've been at this location a few times and have tried other locations as well. The food, atmosphere and customer service is great. The only thing in my opinion is that there's not much dinner options. I feel like this place is more geared towards brunch. Maybe they could expand their dinner menu in the future! read more

Elmer's Restaurant - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Portland, Oregon

Very disappointed The Canadian bacon was so tough I wanted to take it home for my dogs Potatoes were crunchy and undercooked Only got one napkin and ended up using the receipt to mop up the creamer mess. The service was chaotic and unorganized, don't get me wrong they were nice the 2 times they showed up at my table read more

Always a hit! Food is yummy prices are good people are nice and its always welcoming especially on a solo run! Its old fashioned decor but something about it makes you feel all warm inside. read more

I always enjoy Elmer's food selections. The staff were very fast and efficient. It seemed to be a very busy time and the service was fast for seating and food delivery. Me and my Dad will go here again. It is not far from the freeway 205. We enjoyed the special pancake sampler and a Sunshine Omlete. read more

Shrimp n grits with egg. Amazing! I've been there two time now. It's definitly my regular go to place now.

When I want a home-cooked meal or breakfast, I always choose Elmers at Mall 205. The staff have always been excellent and a joy to order from. I'm in love with their creamy country gravy and always have it with my eggs, hashbrowns, or breakfast meats. My most recent meal was their 'stuffed hash' (of course with creamy country gravy). Three of us have had different steaks that were as ordered; rare to medium. The only negative at this location is that the tables need to be refinished - besides that, their coffee and chowder are also tops! Whether alone or with a guest(s) we've always been treated with respect and favor at Elmer's. It's my favorite restaurant on the East Side. read more

We were at the Elmers on Stark around 9 on Saturday 2/10/24. There were four of us. Each of our breakfast's were great. Veggie omelet, breakfast bowl and eggs, bacon, pancakes, eggs benedict etc. All were outstanding. Compliments to the chefs. All the staff (there were alot) seemed kind and helpful. Our waitress was wonderful! Her name was something like LaDonda. She was so kind and went above an and beyond. Great work to all and thank you for a great time. read more

I used to laugh when I'd drive past Elmer's. It seems like the kind of place your grandparents would go to every Sunday after church to eat (it is). I had this idea in my head that it was like a Denny's, but worse. Oh how wrong I was... I've been to this location at least 3 times now, and it's been nothing short of fantastic! My wife and I usually go here with her brother and his daughter, since they are family friendly. The servers have always been nice, and very attendant to our needs. I've had 3 different dishes (most recently being the country biscuit breakfast, pictured), and all of them have been delicious! On my first visit, the manager came out (my brother-in-law told them it was my first time there) and thanked me for my business, and handed me an envelope. I opened it later, and it was a $10 off your next visit coupon! Sweet! This place has good service, solid food, and they're family friendly and reliable. What else could you want? It's no wonder it's gramps' and grammy's favorite spot! ;) read more

Elmer's Restaurant - Country biscuit breakfast - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Portland, Oregon

Okay, okay, I have to come clean and write an honest review. Truth is our usual breakfast place in Montavilla doesn't open until 9 AM and so my friend suggested we eat at Elmer's. I was silently mortified and agreed to go. Yes I know I have a 1990's world view when it comes to Elmer's. I can't get the image of Tonya Harding and her hooligans planning the attack on Nancy Kerrigan on the napkin from Elmers restaurant. This was all new information for my breakfast date and I explained to my colleague about all the gory details including the news crews parker outside of the Elmers dumpster pulling out the evidence. Strange times for sure. Once I got over myself and stepped in I was surprised to find a modern, well-maintained restaurant with very friendly staff. I was expecting awful coffee and was pleasantly surprised it was bold and flavorful. I ordered the German pancakes with seasonal peach compote and was very impressed. Yes, it turns out that I am a snob and Elmers has changed with the times, and for the better. I will definitely return and leave my dated notions....in the dumpster where they belong! read more

Elmer's Restaurant - German pancakes with fresh peaches, yum! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Portland, Oregon

You can never go wrong with ordering the German pancake at Elmer's. Always happy with it! Hash browns were good. And bacon cooked to order. Strawberry crepes, great treat. Tried the bacon Tillamook potato pancakes, they looked outstanding but lacked in flavor. The service was great as well. read more

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It's been years, probably decades, since I'd eaten at an Elmer's. Then twice in about six months. I was pleasantly surprised with both locations. The food was good both times. Very clean too which you don't always get with busy chain restaurants. The staff was also very friendly at both locations. We plan to go back soon. read more

My favorite Elmer's location! It's right off if I-205 and centrally located for me to meet friends and family who live in the Portland Metro area. Staff is always welcoming upon entering, and seating is prompt. The establishment is clean. Depending on how busy it is, mainly breakfast hours on weekends, it can be a little loud inside. I always request a booth as they are positioned on the outer perimeter of the dining areas, which seem less noisy. I hate sitting in the middle of a room at any dining establishment ;-) My go-to order is the German Pancake Combo, which comes with eggs and choice of meat (bacon, sausage or ham). When I come here with my mom, we split the combo and they divide it up for us in the kitchen before serving. Love that they take the initiative and time to do this for us...very thoughtful! I have never had a negative experience here and would highly recommend this location! read more

Elmer's Restaurant - Breakfast with my mom! - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Portland, Oregon

This Elmer's is pretty much like the rest of them. Same set up and everything. Food is great, too. They have their recipes down pat, so that it tastes the same, no matter which one you go to. They're pet clean, too. Don't see a lot of crumbs under the tables and I don't have to ask them to re-wipe the table after I've been seated. Bonus! read more

You won't see crusty eyed, phone obsessed bed heads hipsters here. No. It's the land of the blue hair. Families of all backgrounds come here for epic breakfasts. German pancakes that have their own area codes, huge omelets, pancake stacks, and other carbo\ protein combos that will ultimately lead you to an early death. Most of which are less than $10. Carousel of jams, plethora of syrups and endless coffee refills to accompany your gluttonous desires. My family of 5 ate very well for only $43. Very good food. Next time, I just have to commit to one of those German pancakes and enter sleepy time. Wi - Fi here. read more

Love this place so much! Every trip to Portland, we need to stop for breakfast! Super friendly staff and the food is delicious and so comforting! I usually get the German pancakes but my brother in law just made some this weekend (it was very delish). I really wanted ham and hash potatoes, but I can't eat regular eggs anymore (), but was happy to see that they have egg whites! Love the healthy options! read more

Well, it happened again. Went to Elmers and had great service and food. Veronica recognized us from the other day and was our server again. Good service is not dead in Portland, you just have to get Veronica . Actually, everyone else was nice and attentive as well. So, maybe they just hire right. We go back to LA on Monday, driving. I think we we will try to stop at Elmer's along the way to see if the service this good in other locations. Wish us luck! read more