By Administrator Introduction
Portland’s culinary landscape isn’t confined to brick and mortar restaurants; some of the city’s most exciting and innovative flavors are found rolling through its streets. Forget stuffy dining rooms and white tablecloths, some of Portland’s very best meals are served from the window of a food truck, a testament to the city’s dedication to deliciousness and unpretentious dining. The food truck scene in Portland, Oregon, is more than just a collection of mobile kitchens; it’s a thriving community of chefs, entrepreneurs, and food lovers all dedicated to pushing the boundaries of culinary creativity.
This guide highlights some of Portland’s must-try food trucks, offering a delicious adventure for every palate. These trucks have been selected based on a variety of factors, including the quality of their ingredients, customer reviews, the uniqueness of their offerings, and their overall contribution to Portland’s vibrant food truck culture. Get ready to experience some amazing food, served up with a side of Portland’s signature laid-back charm!
Featured Food Trucks
Desi PDX: Authentic Indian Street Food
Craving the vibrant flavors of India? Look no further than Desi PDX, a food truck bringing authentic Indian street food to the streets of Portland. This isn’t your average butter chicken and naan; Desi PDX specializes in regional specialties and bold flavors that will transport you straight to the bustling streets of Mumbai or Delhi.
Cuisine Type: Indian Street Food
Location(s): Cartlandia Pod, Southeast 82nd Avenue, Portland, OR
Hours of Operation: Varies; check their social media for updates.
Price Range: $$
What sets Desi PDX apart is their commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods. They grind their own spices daily, ensuring a depth of flavor you won’t find anywhere else. Their menu features an array of flavorful dishes, from savory samosas and crispy pakoras to rich curries and flavorful biryanis. But the real star of the show is their kati rolls, filled with marinated meats, flavorful chutneys, and wrapped in a flaky paratha.
“We wanted to bring a taste of real Indian street food to Portland,” says the owner, Raj Patel. “We focus on using authentic recipes and fresh ingredients to create dishes that are both flavorful and satisfying.”
Why It’s The Best: Desi PDX consistently receives rave reviews for its authentic flavors, generous portions, and friendly service. It’s a true taste of India right here in Portland.
Don’t Miss: The Kati Roll. Seriously. Get one (or two!).
Website/Social Media: Check out their Instagram @DesiPDX for updates and specials.
Matt’s BBQ: Texas-Style Goodness
If you’re looking for authentic, slow-smoked Texas-style barbecue in Portland, look no further than Matt’s BBQ. Matt Pittman, the owner and pitmaster, brings a true passion for barbecue to the table, and his dedication shines through in every succulent bite. This isn’t just barbecue; it’s an experience.
Cuisine Type: Texas-Style BBQ
Location(s): Southeast Division Street, Portland, OR
Hours of Operation: Typically lunch hours on weekends, check their website.
Price Range: $$$
Matt’s BBQ focuses on the holy trinity of Texas barbecue: brisket, ribs, and sausage, all smoked low and slow over oak wood. The brisket is particularly noteworthy – tender, juicy, and boasting a perfectly rendered fat cap. The ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender, with a smoky flavor that lingers long after the last bite. And the sausage is made in-house, packed with flavor and a satisfying snap.
“Barbecue is more than just cooking meat; it’s about building community and sharing a love of good food,” Matt explains. “We put a lot of heart and soul into our barbecue, and we hope that comes through in every bite.”
Why It’s The Best: Matt’s BBQ is consistently ranked among the best barbecue joints in Portland, and for good reason. Matt’s dedication to quality and authenticity is unmatched.
Don’t Miss: The Brisket. It’s the star of the show. Get it by the pound, and don’t forget the sides!
Website/Social Media: Visit their website at [Invalid URL removed] for more information.
Bing Mi! : Chinese Street Crepes
Looking for something unique and flavorful? Bing Mi! specializes in Jianbing, a savory Chinese street crepe that is both satisfying and utterly addictive. Forget everything you think you know about crepes; these are a world apart.
Cuisine Type: Chinese Street Food (Jianbing)
Location(s): SW Washington Street, Portland, OR
Hours of Operation: Lunch hours most days.
Price Range: $
The Jianbing is a thin, crispy crepe made from mung bean and wheat flour, spread with egg, hoisin sauce, chili sauce, and pickled vegetables. It’s then topped with your choice of fillings, such as crispy wontons, roasted pork, or tofu. The combination of textures and flavors is simply irresistible. This isn’t just a crepe; it’s a symphony of savory goodness.
“Jianbing is a popular street food in China, and we wanted to bring that experience to Portland,” says the owner. “We use traditional recipes and high-quality ingredients to create a Jianbing that is both authentic and delicious.”
Why It’s The Best: Bing Mi! offers a unique and flavorful experience that you won’t find anywhere else in Portland. It’s a culinary adventure in every bite.
Don’t Miss: The classic Jianbing with crispy wontons. It’s the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and crunchy.
Website/Social Media: Find them on various social media platforms, just search for “Bing Mi Portland”.
Grilled Cheese Grill: Gourmet Comfort Food
Sometimes, all you need is a perfectly grilled cheese sandwich. But at Grilled Cheese Grill, they take this classic comfort food to a whole new level. With a wide variety of cheeses, breads, and toppings, they offer a grilled cheese for every taste.
Cuisine Type: Gourmet Grilled Cheese
Location(s): Various locations throughout Portland, check their website.
Hours of Operation: Varies by location.
Price Range: $$
Grilled Cheese Grill uses only the finest ingredients, from artisanal cheeses and locally baked breads to fresh produce and premium meats. Their menu features a variety of creative grilled cheese combinations, such as the “Mouser” with sharp cheddar, bacon, and tomato, or the “Prez” with brie, apple, and balsamic glaze. They have multiple trucks, so it’s pretty easy to find.
“We’re passionate about grilled cheese, and we want to share that passion with the world,” says the owner. “We believe that everyone deserves a delicious, well-made grilled cheese sandwich.”
Why It’s The Best: Grilled Cheese Grill elevates the humble grilled cheese into a gourmet experience. With their creative combinations and high-quality ingredients, they’re a true Portland classic.
Don’t Miss: The “Kindergarten” with cheddar and tomato soup. It’s the ultimate comfort food.
Website/Social Media: Visit their website for locations and hours.
The Frying Scotsman: Authentic Fish and Chips
Craving a taste of the UK? The Frying Scotsman brings authentic fish and chips to Portland, using traditional methods and the freshest ingredients. Prepare for perfectly battered fish and perfectly cooked chips.
Cuisine Type: British Fish and Chips
Location(s): Hawthorne Asylum food cart pod.
Hours of Operation: Lunch and Dinner, check online for specific times.
Price Range: $$
The Frying Scotsman uses only wild-caught cod, battered in a secret recipe that creates a light, crispy coating. The chips are hand-cut and fried to perfection, resulting in a fluffy interior and a crispy exterior. Served with traditional malt vinegar and tartar sauce, it’s a taste of Scotland right here in Portland.
“We wanted to bring a taste of home to Portland,” says the owner, hailing from Scotland. “We use only the best ingredients and traditional methods to create fish and chips that are just like you’d find in a chippy in Scotland.”
Why It’s The Best: The Frying Scotsman is consistently praised for its authentic fish and chips, using the freshest ingredients and traditional cooking methods.
Don’t Miss: The classic fish and chips with cod, malt vinegar, and tartar sauce.
Website/Social Media: Check out their social media page for the latest updates.
Waffle Window: Sweet Treats
For a sweet ending to your food truck adventure, head to Waffle Window. This iconic Portland food cart serves up delicious and creative waffles that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Cuisine Type: Dessert Waffles
Location(s): Southeast Hawthorne Boulevard, Portland, OR.
Hours of Operation: Daytime and evening hours.
Price Range: $$
Waffle Window uses a unique Liege waffle recipe, resulting in a dense, chewy waffle with caramelized sugar crystals. Their menu features a variety of sweet and savory waffle creations, from the classic Nutella and banana waffle to the more adventurous savory waffles topped with meats and cheeses. These are decadent delights.
“We wanted to create a waffle experience that was both delicious and unique,” says the owner. “We use only the best ingredients and creative toppings to create waffles that are truly unforgettable.”
Why It’s The Best: Waffle Window is a Portland institution, known for its delicious waffles and creative combinations. It’s the perfect way to end a food truck adventure.
Don’t Miss: The Bananas Foster Waffle. It’s pure waffle heaven.
Website/Social Media: Search for Waffle Window on social media.
Tips for Experiencing the Best Food Trucks Portland Oregon Has to Offer
Navigating the Portland food truck scene can be an adventure in itself. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your culinary journey:
Payment Options: While some food trucks accept credit cards, it’s always a good idea to have cash on hand, especially if you’re visiting smaller or newer trucks.
Cart Pod Etiquette: Cart pods are communal spaces, so be mindful of other diners. Share tables, clean up after yourself, and be patient during peak hours.
Weather Awareness: Portland’s weather can be unpredictable. Dress in layers and be prepared for rain, even on sunny days.
Social Media is Your Friend: Follow your favorite food trucks on social media for location updates, special menus, and temporary closures.
Explore Beyond the Hype: While the well-known cart pods are worth a visit, don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path and discover hidden gems in less-traveled areas.
Discovering Portland’s Culinary Pods
Portland’s food trucks often cluster together in “pods,” creating mini-food festivals with diverse culinary offerings. Here are a few of the most popular pods:
Cartlandia: Located on Southeast 82nd Avenue, Cartlandia is one of the largest cart pods in Portland, featuring a wide variety of cuisines from around the world.
Hawthorne Asylum: Located on Southeast Hawthorne Boulevard, the Hawthorne Asylum is known for its eclectic mix of food trucks and its lively atmosphere.
Piedmont Station: Located on Northeast Killingsworth Street, Piedmont Station is a smaller, more intimate pod with a focus on local and sustainable food.
Conclusion
The best food trucks Portland Oregon has to offer are more than just places to grab a quick bite; they’re a vital part of the city’s culinary identity. From authentic Indian street food to gourmet grilled cheese and Texas-style barbecue, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, ditch the reservations and embark on a culinary adventure – Portland’s best food trucks await, ready to delight your taste buds and introduce you to a world of flavor. Get ready to roll into deliciousness!
