With all its quirky deliciousness, the Rose City has hit the honor roll as America’s most original food destination. This year’s report card is in. Come meet our class of 2012: the top chefs, hot spots, and unforgettable dishes that defined a year of seriously good eating.

In This Feature:

Best of the Rest

Still hungry? We've culled the 35 local restaurants that should remain in any food lover's regular rotation.

10/16/2012 Edited by Rachel Ritchie and Karen Brooks

20 Spots That Defined the Year in Food

It's our annual assemblage of Portland's most exciting eateries.

10/16/2012 With Mike Thelin, Benjamin Tepler, and Allison Jones Edited by Rachel Ritchie and Karen Brooks

Meat-Free Zones

Relax, vegetarians! It's not all about prime cuts in this town.

10/19/2012 Edited by Rachel Ritchie and Karen Brooks By Allison Jones

Wine + Food = Love

Five spots taking wine pairing to the next level.

10/16/2012 Edited by Rachel Ritchie and Karen Brooks By Allison Jones

Five Things You Must Eat in 2012

You don't need to rent a tux to tackle these low-brow dishes.

10/16/2012 By Mike Thelin Edited by Rachel Ritchie and Karen Brooks

Chefs of the Year

Portland's top two culinary minds are French-inspired chefs from different generations.

10/16/2012 Edited by Rachel Ritchie and Karen Brooks

The Next Wave: 5 Brand-New Restaurants to Look Out For

Here's what to watch in the final months of 2012.

10/19/2012 Edited by Rachel Ritchie and Karen Brooks With Benjamin Tepler

The Path to Portland Culinary Glory

Twenty-four surefire steps to celebrity chefhood

10/16/2012