If you know me, you know I love food. To me, food is what makes or breaks any outing, event or day. God did not have to make food enjoyable, just sustaining. Yet, He gave us creative and wonderful people who can give us a joyful experience in their skills with food and drinks. Here are some of my personal favorites from my time in Portland! Also, we occasionally got so excited about our food we ate some before remembering to take a picture! Sorry :)
1. Yataimura Maru
3810 SE Division St.
I think Japanese food is a treat everyone should indulge in. The artistry of how the food is prepared and presented is a gift in and of itself, but the taste is simply ethereal. After spending a decent bit of time in Japan, I am especially partial to ramen and gyoza. At Yataimura Maru, the Tokyo Ramen and Bo Gyoza bring me back to Japan and satisfy every craving I have. This lovely shop also offers an amazingly unique ambiance and a fantastic, long happy hour every day! Check it out and let me know what you think!
2. Namu
7614 SE Stark St. (and other locations)
A huge part of Portland culture you have to partake in is the food cart culture! Namu is one of my absolute favorite food carts and it has numerous convenient locations! This gem serves a mix of Korean and Hawaiian food with portions that could satisfy anyone. Their fried rice and anything with Kalua pork will make you tempted to fly to Hawaii or Korea that day (not that I personally need any extra temptation to do so).
3. Gastro Mania
1986 NW Pettygrove St.
I was introduced to this hidden treat by a dear foodie friend of mine! It is located in a fun area of Portland that offers many local shops, dessert options and an enjoyable evening! The food here is Mediterranean, which speaks for itself, and definitely photo worthy! The portions are wonderful, the tastes life giving and the outdoor seating in the warmer months is very welcome. This is also a little family owned shop, which makes it welcoming and personal. My suggestions are the salmon and lamb/pork plate!
4. Salt & Straw
838 NW 23rd Ave. (and other locations)
Salt & Straw is not one of the more unique or hidden treasure on this list, but it is definitely worth noting! I am someone who normally hates ice cream. Yes, I am aware that makes me as soulless as the fact that I do not like chocolate. However, I am obsessed with Salt & Straw's ice cream. They have flavors that are insane, locally inspired and unforgettable. The location I shared here is super close to Gastro Mania (dessert anyone?). My consistent favorite flavor here is the Honey Lavender. I also love the seasonal and vegan selections!
5. LUCE
2140 E Burnside St.
Do you like fresh bread, intense flavor and hand-made pasta? Then LUCE is a must for your Portland eating adventures. This cozy, corner shop has a darling aesthetic and savory food. You can even watch the bakers and chefs making it as you eat sometimes! This restaurant offers a plethora of wines to complete your Italian meal as well. My suggestions? You must try their focaccia and salad with fennel, celery and dill. And of course, get some pasta!
6. The Grilled Cheese Grill
1027 NE Alberta St. (and a downtown location)
The second food cart suggestion to make it on this list is The Grilled Cheese Grill. I love biting into a cheesy, toasty and flavorful sandwich that takes me right back to being a child! Also, cheese pulls are always great for social media! The Grilled Cheese Grill takes the classic grilled cheese and adds a little Portland love, leaving you with some drool-worthy creations. My personal favorite is the Moondog. For those with bug stomachs, I suggest the Cheesus!
7. House of Banh Mi
511 NE 76th Ave.
This little shop is a college kids dream. The House of Banh Mi serves delicious and filling Vietnamese sandwiches on fresh baked bread for less than $5! The sandwiches are loaded with a meat of choice, fresh veggies, cilantro and yummy sauces! The House of Banh Mi also offers other tasty options, like their Vietnamese coffee, boba smoothies and banana pastries to name a few. I dream about their Xiu Mai (meatball sandwich) and Vietnamese coffee! Ask for their spicy mayo on your sandwich for some extra flavor.
8. Grassa
1506 NW 23rd Ave. (and other locations).
Grassa offers some of the best handmade pasta I have tried state-side. Due to their intentional and skilled work with their pasta, many of their dishes and sauces are simple. Simple in a way that really works and allows you to taste the integrity of each part of the dish. This Italian eatery is also located in the same area as Gastro Mania and Salt & Straw, meaning that there is plenty of enjoyable local shops to meander through before or after your satisfying meal. I suggest their Cacio E Pepe and Fried Brussel Sprouts!
9. Kopi Coffee House
2327 E Brunside St.
Kopi Coffee House is by far my personal favorite coffee shop in Portland. This shop has major Indonesian influences in the drinks and food served, the decor and even the atmosphere which makes it stand out. This shop tends to be on the quieter side, making it great for studying, reading or simply processing life. I love every drink on the menu, but my top three would be the Moka Madu, the Indonesian Ice Coffee, and any seasonal option!
10. Pip's Original Doughnuts and Chai
4759 NE Fremont St.
Last, but definitely not least, on my list is Pip's! Again, this little, local delight will probably be on a ton of food blogs, but it is absolutely deserved. The doughnuts served here are literally a glimpse of heaven, especially when ordered with a housemade chai. The doughnuts are mini, offered in 5 consistent flavors and 1 seasonal one, which means you can try them all with no guilt! The chais are so flavorful that you will want to integrate them into your weekly routine. Pip's owners and employees are also treasures. They love their community and pursue the common good! My favorite doughnuts are the Dirty Wu and the Honey and Sea Salt, but please try them all. Then my favorite chais are the Emmy Lou and Heart of Gold!
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