If ice cream wasn’t already fun enough, this quirky (and totally committed to local artisans) company features some whack-a-doodle flavors, like pear and blue cheese or beer hops, but man, do they taste great with the high-fat cream they’re using. Get anything seasonal, obviously, and definitely splurge and get a flight, so you can taste … Continued
Chef Nong Poonsukwattana understands the value of doing one thing really well. That’s why you’ll only find the titular Khao Man Gai (chicken and rice) on her menu. It may not sound like much, but crafting one dish with stellar ingredients makes Khao Man Gai a standout in the Portland food scene. Nong’s Khao Man Gai … Continued
What started as one of Portland’s many food carts is now a thriving sandwich shop that serves up a pork-centric menu and impressive beer list in three locations. Lardo 1212 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, OR 97214; (503) 234-7786
This Portland ice cream shop churns out delicious ice cream handcrafted from locally-sourced ingredients. Try one of their nationally acclaimed ice cream sandwiches, a sundae, or an indulgent scoop in flavors like Tiramisu and Oregon Turtle. Ruby Jewel Scoops 3713 N Mississippi Ave, Portland, OR 97227; (503) 954-1345
This Portland school bus/food truck offers a menu of grilled cheeses that range from classic to complex. Stick with your traditional favorites or try different breads, cheeses, or add-ons. Grilled Cheese Grill 1027 NE Alberta Street, Portland, OR 97211; (503) 206-8959
Can authentic Italian-style wood fired pizza happen in a food cart? Pyro Pizza proves that it’s not just possible, it can be exceptional. Also notable are their homemade sodas offered on tap (no high-fructose corn syrup or artificial flavors here). Pyro Pizza 1204 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, OR 97214; (503) 929 1404
One of the members of Portland’s storied Cartopia food cart pod, Perierra Creperie serves up an inventive selection of sweet and savory crepes from breakfast to late night. Perierra Creperie SE 12th Avenue at SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, OR 97214; (503) 753-3692
Accomplished pastry chef Kir Jensen, who trained in Chicago and worked at Trio, crafts a stunning variety of sweet treats along with breakfast offerings in a bright, airy cafe. I first had her desserts when she sold her pastries out of a tiny food cart, but she has since moved on to bigger and better … Continued
Little Bird Bistro serves up fresh, inventive French fare in a chic location. A sister restaurant to Le Pigeon, you’ll find plenty of oysters, charcuterie, cheeses and tarts on the funky, fun-to-eat menu. Little Bird Bistro 219 SW 6th Avenue, Portland, OR 97204; (503) 688-5952
This Portland doughnut joint has quickly become a sensation, with several locations across Oregon. They’re known for their eclectic decor and adventurous handmade doughnuts. You can enjoy a classic or go for something coated in Fruit Loops or shaped like a voodoo doll. You can also get legally married there, if you so desire. I … Continued
This hip little Portland ice cream shop churns up their own unique flavors (Strawberry honey balsamic with black pepper, Arbequina olive oil) and some superior takes on old classics. They also feature a selection of seasonally inspired flavors guaranteed to surprise. Be prepared to wait in line though. Salt and Straw 2035 NE Alberta Street, … Continued