Portlandia – a foodie and beer enthusiast’s playground. Although I have family in Portland and my dad grew up there, I am embarrassed to admit that I had not been back to Portland for 22 years. So once I had the chance to take a trip here for a week to see my dear family and experience all that this city has to offer, you betcha I jumped on it.
Living in Austin, I am used to the “weird” vibe but Portland is a different level. Every neighborhood is different, but my favorite ones embraced the casual, hipster, way-too-much-good-food culture that I expected Portland to have.
We spent one day on a self-guided food tour I put together from recommendations and research, and the food coma commenced. There is so much to eat here it can be overwhelming, but I’ve put together a little day guide of what I personally think are can’t misses in Portland!
One thing I can promise you is that you wont go hungry in this town.
Breakfast: Blue Star Donuts
Voodoo Donuts are all the rage in Portland as well, but Blue Star is my jam. There are many amazing flavors (think Cointreau Creme Brulee and Marionberry Pepper Jam with Powdered Peanut Butter), and I especially loved the fun vegan options. I ordered a vegan Blueberry Basil Bourbon, and it made me so happy to be able to eat such a delicious donut that fit my dietary requirements!
Many locations
Mid-Morning Coffee: Albina Press
Americano with steamed almond milk, please! It’s no secret that Portland coffee is some of the best in the country, and I was happy to stumble upon this low-key gem in the Mississippi Avenue neighborhood. The coffee is strong and good, the prices are reasonable, and the space is relaxed with an eclectic playlist.
4637 N Albina Ave, Portland, OR 97214
Lunch: Food Cart at Tidbit Food Farm and Garden
Food carts are king in Portland so I suggest finding a good food cart park to get a casual, delicious lunch. We went to the Tidbit Food Farm and Garden off Southeast Division and there were so many choices! There is everything from vegan fare to waffle sandwiches to salads to tacos to ramen to donuts and more. I honestly don’t even know what to recommend from here because it is all so amazing!
2880 SE Division St
Mid-Afternoon: Ecliptic Brewery
All this food and moving around probably has you craving a beer by now! Portland is one of the beer capitals of the US, so it’s mandatory you try one while you are here. I recommend getting a beer sampler so you can try them all! We went to Ecliptic Brewery and loved the variety of beers, outdoor patio, and industrial vibe.
What to order: Beer sampler!
825 N Cook St, Portland, OR 97227
Dinner: Por Que No?
Say the words Mexican food and you don’t have to ask me twice whether I want it. I had multiple people recommend this Portland Mexican hotspot, and it proved to be the perfect meal. There will most likely be a line but don’t let that deter you!
What to order: Mezcal Margarita, Por Que Salad, Al Pastor Taco, Pollo Verde Taco, Pollo Asado Taco
3524 N Mississippi Ave, 4635 SE Hawthorne Blvd
Dessert: Salt & Straw
End your day on a sweet note with quite arguably one of the best ice creams you’ll ever have. I love the innovative flavors, especially the seasonal flavors which are definitely worth checking out. Also vegans rejoice because they always offer one or two vegan flavors! Expect a long line, but it’s worth the hype.
What to order: Strawberry Honey Balsamic with Black Pepper, Almond Brittle with Salted Ganache, Petunia’s Cookies & Cream with Raspberry Swirl (vegan!), any seasonal flavor
3345 SE Division St, 2035 NE Alberta St, 828 NW 23rd Ave
Where I Want to Try Next Time: Pok Pok, Harlow, Tasty & Alder, Hot Lips, Lardo, Whiskey Soda Lounge
Any other recommendations?
Safe travels y’all!
Best,
Chelsea Rose Martin
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