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A Foodie's Guide to Portland: Best Places to Eat and Drink

Food & Drink · Things to Do in Portland · Travel Guides — Written by Hayden Laverty, Mar 1

Portland is a paradise for food lovers.

Portland offers a rich culinary scene that ranges from innovative restaurants to vibrant food carts. Here's a comprehensive guide to some of the best places to eat and drink in Portland, whether you're in the mood for a gourmet meal, a casual bite, or a craft cocktail.

Food Carts

Portland's food cart scene is legendary, with hundreds of carts serving a diverse array of cuisines. Cart pods are scattered throughout the city, offering an ever-changing selection of culinary delights.
Food Carts

Cartopia

Located on SE 12th and Hawthorne, Cartopia features favorites like Potato Champion (known for its poutine) and Perierra Creperie.

Portland Mercado

A Latino-themed food cart pod on SE Foster Road with options like Cuban sandwiches from Que Bolá? and Venezuelan arepas from Tierra del Sol.

Hinterland

Located on SE 50th and Division, Hinterland offers a variety of innovative dishes, including the popular Matt's BBQ Tacos.

Food Cart Tips from the Locals

Variety:

With so many options, try multiple dishes from different carts for a true taste of Portland's diversity.

Outdoor Seating:

Most cart pods have communal seating areas, making it easy to sample and share with friends.

Restaurants

From upscale dining to cozy neighborhood joints, Portland's restaurants offer something for every palate and occasion.

Le Pigeon — A French-inspired bistro known for its creative dishes and intimate dining experience.

Canard — A sibling to Le Pigeon, Canard offers a unique and adventurous menu. Known for its playful approach to French-American cuisine, it serves dishes like duck stack pancakes and steam burgers.

Eem — This restaurant combines Thai barbecue with flavors of Texas BBQ. It's renowned for its innovative dishes like brisket curry and the spicy papaya salad.

Screen Door — A beloved spot for Southern comfort food, especially known for its mouth-watering fried chicken and waffles. A must-visit for brunch enthusiasts.

OX — An Argentine-inspired restaurant offering a blend of Portland and Buenos Aires flavors. Known for its wood-fired grill, it serves dishes like empanadas and grilled meats.

Ava Gene's — An Italian eatery that focuses on locally sourced ingredients. Celebrated for its handmade pastas and vegetable-forward dishes.

Han Oak — A family-run Korean-American restaurant located in a charming courtyard. Renowned for its delicious dumplings, hand-pulled noodles, and Korean BBQ, providing a cozy and unique dining experience.

Local Favorites & Tips

Don't miss these neighborhood gems and insider advice for navigating Portland's restaurant scene.

  • Stepping Stone Cafe: giant pancakes, diner vibe

  • Por Que No: flavorful tacos, fresh ingredients

  • Seasonal menus change — ask your server

  • Reserve ahead — popular spots fill up fast

Craft Beer & Spirits

Breweries and Distilleries
Portland is home to a thriving craft beer and spirits scene, with numerous breweries and distilleries offering tours and tastings.

Deschutes Brewery

Deschutes Brewery

A Portland staple offering a wide range of craft beers and a cozy brewpub in the Pearl District.

10 Barrel Brewing Co.

10 Barrel Brewing Co.

Known for its innovative beers and lively atmosphere, with a rooftop bar offering fantastic views.

Wayfinder Beer

Wayfinder Beer

Renowned for its lagers and relaxed vibe — a must-visit for beer enthusiasts looking for high-quality brews.

Great Notion Brewing

Great Notion Brewing

Famous for its creative and adventurous beers, including hazy IPAs and fruit-forward sours.

Breakside Brewing

Breakside Brewing

Known for its award-winning IPAs and experimental beers, with multiple locations throughout Portland.

Prost!

Prost!

A German-themed beer bar on Mississippi Avenue with an impressive selection of German beers and a communal atmosphere.

Brewery Tips

Flights:

Many breweries and distilleries offer tasting flights, allowing you to sample a variety of products.

Tours:

Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the brewing or distilling process and enjoy exclusive tastings.

There's always something delicious to discover.

Portland's food and drink scene is a testament to the city's creativity and passion for quality. Whether you're exploring food carts, dining at top restaurants, or enjoying local brews, there's always something delicious to discover.

Ready to embark on a culinary adventure in Portland?

Stay at one of our conveniently located hotel rooms and make your food journey even more enjoyable. Book now and start planning your foodie itinerary!

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