For epicureans intent on tasting the best of Portland's food scene, March is the month to nosh about town. Portland Dining Month is back, and more than 100 restaurants are offering three-course meals for a mere $29. A tradition since 2009, the event lets foodies sample innovative and signature dishes from the city's restaurateurs without breaking the bank.

Participating establishments run the gamut from casual to formal, and from the old guard to the new. There's a reason why some longstanding locales have become Portland classics, and Higgins, Huber's Café, Papa Haydn and 3 Doors Down are sure to please. A second wave of restaurants solidified the city's food reputation, and Café Castagna,The Country Cat, Ración and Ned Luddcontinue to deliver fresh creations influenced by the region's bounty. Of course, Portland always has room for more trendsetters, and Portland Dining Month gives newcomers likeLevant, Fireside and Xico an opportunity to shine. For each reservation made throughOpenTable during Portland Dining Month, March 1–31, a donation is made to the Oregon Food Bank.