The Most Flavorful Restaurants in Portland

"The location and hours are super convenient when you are staying at this hostel. Wifi, good amount of outlets and seating.My enjoyment of the cafe (live music sand space) is why I'm rating 4.In terms of as a restaurant it's a 3. Standard food for a cafe. Service is friendly ordering but nothing further.Great place for the hostel convenience but definitely don't come out of your way to eat here"

"I visited with my girlfriend for a Sunday brunch after a bunch of friends recommended this cart, and I'm glad we came! It's pretty clear to see why this cart was awarded one of the top food carts in PDX.We ordered the Tosilog, but with eggplant instead of the pork belly. I've never had Tosilog before, and I would've gotten the pork belly version if I were alone, but after I tried the eggplant, I would dare say that it'd be almost impossible for the pork belly version to have been better. The eggplant is lighted coated and then deep fried to perfection, resulting in a crunchy exterior and a very light and fluffy interior. I'm not even an eggplant person, but I loved it here!The garlic rice was also cooked perfectly, and I found that there was just the right amount of garlic in it. The two sunny-side up eggs added creaminess once the yolks were broken, as they slowly oozed over the rice sitting below. The onions and cherry tomatoes gave a slight smokiness from hitting the flattop, as well as some needed acidity to cut through the other savory flavors. The way the dish was executed, I can't help but think that it was the perfect representation of Filipino cuisine - an exciting combination of salty, savory, and acidic.We also ordered the Ube Bibingka for dessert, and it was amazing! The cake is extremely light, with the ube flavor coming through for a perfect amount of sweetness. And the coconut crumble topping gave some crunch and textural contrast. Would absolutely order this again.There wasn't a line to order when we came, but we did have to wait about 15 minutes to get our food. The cart is a 2-person operation, so be patient. They're super nice too, and I loved that we were able to chat it up with them a bit while we were waiting.There's only outdoor dining here, as there's 2 long wooden tables that serve the patrons for all of the food carts in this pod. There are some parts of the tables that're covered by umbrellas to shield you from the heat, but I didn't mind getting some sun while eating.Pricing is reasonable given the amount and quality of food that you get. It'd be tough to find anything cheaper, and I know that it's already tough to find good Filipino food to begin with.There's tons of street parking around that's free - we didn't have any trouble when we came. If I remember correctly, there's a 2-hour parking time limit, but not sure how enforced that is.Absolutely love this cart! Show them as much love and support as possible, because they deserve it! Whenever we visit PDX again, we'll definitely come back."

"A food truck that serves baos! I love the breaking bad thing they have a lot of little accessories and props that go along with the show. I love the car so here it is super tangy. I thought the chicken one was a little bit salty. However, the beef one is a mustard flavor is so good and to put a little bit of the coleslaw on top is amazing. The ambience has other food trucks and picnic tables but we brought it home and made it, the service is great the people there are super friendly"

"Okay let me first say I haven't YET been to Dirty Lettuce because I don't eat fried food. It makes me feel awful so I just don't eat it. Well it was my husband's birthday and it was his choice so I went in ALL the way. While we all got situated and checked out the menu, my kids and I perused the shopping. There is swag for the restaurant, then ALL sorts of cut vegan things like stickers and paintings and necklaces. Then hot sauces, nut mixes, niche chocolate. Then you've got Dirty Lettuce's chicken that's frozen to take home and cook. You've got Doe Donuts frozen ice cream sandwiches to take home! Ice Queen PDX frozen treats to choose from. And my favorite vegan cheeses, Cultured Kindness wheels to buy!So...the food!!! We got LOTS of chicken!! The batter and crunch is unmatched for what I've had that's vegan. Really good flavor and it's made with seitan. The fried pickles were EPIC. They were totally perfect. Their ranch was also EPIC. It's thicker than what I've had before and super dilly. I loved it and I really don't like ranch at all so that's a huge compliment. My son was SO tired between us having time change from EST to PST and not really having any food but breakfast by 6pm EST/3 pm when we were eating. So he didn't want any food. BUT I used our air fryer to reheat the chicken for him, and his fries and he ate ALL of it and said it was amazing. My daughter loved her original Chicken sandwich and my carnivore mom said EVERYTHING was really good. My son even asked for the rest of the leftovers today for lunch. My husband has loved DL since it opened. Before it got "Best Soul Food 2022" from the Veg News awards!!! And yes. Well deserved. The staff was incredibly friendly and engaging. The owner (?) Who took our orders and chatted with my daughter and I was REALLY cool. Especially after having been to an all vegan spot earlier in the week who treated my kids like pariahs, he was talking to her. He asked if she liked to cook and they had a talk about favorite foods and things to cook. Then he told her that she should try making taco meat with TVP! We hadn't done that so I said I'll have to do that too. And I shared how I recently had my mind blown by an Instagram vegan who simply used a grater and shredded tofu for tacos. I said now I have TWO new things we have to try. But to ME, as a mom, the thing that he said that got me was "do you like to cook?" And she said "yes, I love cooking." Then he said "I knew it. I recognize other chefs." Okay y'all won me over completely. If you want pretentious food or need a fancy atmosphere, maybe it's not for you. But if you want a DOWN SOUTH true SOUL food, in a cozy atmosphere that feels like you're with friends, then DL is you place!!!"

"Ordered off of DoorDash here and I was actually surprised because the price is really low hence the one dollar sign but the food quality is actually quite high.Food: I got the yakisoba with chicken and I read the yelp reviews it said that the chicken here was great. They weren't lying because the chicken was actually quite flavorful and it tasted like any chicken that you get from a gourmet store actually. They actually also give a really good amount of food for the price that you pay and they also give you nice hoisin sauce containers. Service: The door Dash order was completed in about 20 minutes which is actually quite quick.This place is really casual and I would come here on like a lunch break probably in the future again."

"We came here on a recommendation that they made good frozen drinks, as a little early birthday celebration. Walking in the door we were greeted and seated right away by the super friendly staff. The frozen margaritas did not disappoint!! Very good, and not too sweet. Between all of us we had the veggie fajitas, super nachos, chimichanga, and a tamale. Everything was hot and fresh, good quality, quantity and taste. To top the night off, we told our waiter we were celebrating a birthday. They bright over a sombrero and a birthday shot, and sang her happy birthday. Maybe we have no shame, but it was so much fun! We really enjoyed our dinner and everything else. We'll definitely be back."

"My husband and I used to stop in all the time with all his riding friends. It's been awhile since I've been back but we stopped in last night for a car event. There was so many people and so many nice old schools. The service was okay. We ordered a few drinks and also some tacos. The tacos were amazing! So flavorful and well seasoned/marinaded. These have been the best tacos I've had around town. Will most likely be back again for the food. The bar has a cool vibe. It's small, but they have a room for video poker and they have some games. They also have outdoor seating. They have a large amount of Jell-O shots with all kinds of flavors. One of my favorites is the juicy fruit one. It's all street parking."

"The ample sized roxkfifish was crispy and flavorful, the condiments fitting, but bun was low end. Also, cabbage or slaw would be a nice upgrade from iceberg lettuce. Nevertheless, it's the kinda place that I want to sample more of the menu.The guy in the cart was cool. About average wait time. The default tip is a silly 25%, but this is inner Portland so I'm used to it."

"Surprise! That's what I got. I wasn't actually headed here, but glad this is where I ended up! Excellent Brussels sprouts!! I'm a fan & thankfully they don't come with bacon like many. (Pescatarian here) The vibe was laid back, fairly busy for the time and day of the week, probably popping in the later hours. Obviously being on Division parking is a challenge, walk if you can. They had drag bingo the night I was there, (Thursday) but sadly, so sad - I couldn't stay but it definitely gives me reason to come back!!"

"Great food cart in Cartlandia. The hog dogs and the fish and chips are delicious. They stay open late (2am) and the owner is very attentive and friendly."

"When I visit my kid, we just have a serious passion (addiction) for sharing our love of 'the most important meal of the day'. Considering I looked at other breakfast locations, City State D. gave me a jolt when I first noticed the Crab Benedict (sans the sauce for me) in the menu at this spot in Portland's Northeast area. Appearances are deceptive because City State D. goes further back than you'd think from the street. Coming here for breakfast after getting in from NY on a Friday night, was the perfect fit. Our wait topped at 20 mins but we were called before that- so thank you! The inside is simple but it's decked out with these twinkling lights. There's booth sitting, at the bar- even outdoor as well. Between my daughter's caramelized onion omelette, my scrumptious crab Benedict and sharing the hazelnut French toast, everything was tasty. Our server was spot on and full of smiles. And can we talk about their mimosas? Potent with an incredible bubbles:oj ratio. It's pretty clear what makes City State D. stand above the rest. The crowds flock here on a weekend and it's easy to see why."

"Food is always great and service is usually great. But this past visit was hilarious. I had to damn near beg for 2 forks and 2 napkins. I ordered a full entree 26. Pad Thai and asked for silverware and napkins, and they literally gave me 1 fork, and 1 napkin. I said "can I get a few forks, and a few napkins?", and he gave me 1 more fork, and 1 more napkin I dine here frequently, so that was quite peculiar."

"Duffy's has been a downtown Milwaukie staple for years. From it's famous "train beers," to it's Irish honoring music (especially during the non-pandemic monthly performance or award winning artist Darby O'Gill), to its solid selection of food and drinks, Duffy's is a great go to local bar and pub. Their karaoke is phenomenal as well, as is their poker nights. Get the chicken wrap, pictured below. It is incredibly good."

"One of Portland's old institutions, this is a great place for community, good coffee and... a hidden secret!We've been coming here since the 90's. It hasn't changed much... a very hippy vibe, lots of bike parking, a comfortable space, very good coffee and some awesome and unique rotating pastries. I love the marionberry coffee cake, but today, I tried the thoroughly unique Savory Pesto Muffin. You read that right... savory... pesto... MUFFIN. And..., it was great! OK on to the secret...They have this tiny alley to the left of the shop with tables, lots of greenery AND a window for ordering and pickup (see my picture). This is such a wonderful addition."

"Been coming here for about a year. Quality of food has not decreased at all. Best Chinese food cart for kids. Chicken is juicy and crispy. Always fresh"

"Came here for a quick drink for a birthday and I am so happy with it! I was surprised with the outdoor patio space since it's huge and even covered for the gloomy days. They even had TVs out there and the staff was kind to come out to the back to take orders and didn't need us to come inside to place our orders. I ordered a mule here and pretty standard. Fries here are also tasty and great options to share with a group! I didn't get to enjoy the indoor space or other food but there were plenty people inside so it's definitely a favorite in the area. Solid menu of drinks/food, affordable prices, and friendly staff."

"Weekend lunch but minimal expected service was lacking.Thick chew with the soup Dumplings but soup was cold. Salty eggplant was mostly string beans bed.Parking is not free despite what other reviews say."

"Outstanding! While the name says, Thai, they serve a variety of Asian dishes - Thai, Vietnamese, Japanese, even some fusion. The food is fresh, made with high quality ingredients, and it's delicious!We eat with our eyes first, and Magnolia Thai uses gorgeous veggies in all colors of the rainbow, which is also how I like to eat. The vibrant colors immediately set the tone, providing a beautiful palette for your eyes and tastebuds! I could eat here every week!Typically I get Pad Kee Mao (Drunken Noodles) when I am craving Thai because I love the wide rice noodles, veggies and heat. My first time here, the Drunken Yakisoba caught my attention. They stir fry udon noodles with lots of spicy basil, onions bell peppers, tomatoes, mushrooms, egg and both shrimp and chicken. OMG. Fantastic! I loved everything about this dish - the spice, the choice of veggies, and especially the perfectly cooked shrimp and tender chicken. This will be my go-to-dish here and the food I will crave that will bring me back again and again. My friend had the Penang curry and raved about the flavorful curry with a bit of heat, the very tender chicken, and veggies. served over your choice of rice - jasmine, white or brown, this is a satisfying dish. We shared the papaya salad which was crisp, bright, had the perfect amount of heat, a bit of sour, and a generous amount of chopped peanuts on top. I love a good papaya salad and this one hit the mark. So many items I want to try like the crab fried rice, the ginger lovers stir-fry, and a repeat of the Drunken Yakisoba. Need to go back with a few friends so we can enjoy a variety of dishes. So happy to have found this restaurant. Thanks, Yelp!"

"A Multnomah Village favorite for grab-and-go dinners. When I walked in the first time, I was welcomed to the "smallest sports bar in Portland, or so I'm told" by one of the regulars. With four indoor stools for diners, I think he may be right. Both my husband and I are big fans of their healthy bento meals. It is actually the best meal I've had in Multnomah Village and the one that makes me feel good after dining. Portions are not oversized and they've nailed that magical combination of healthy and delicious.The basis of the bento meals are high quality meat and fish options, although tofu and chicken are offered (http://www.thehutpdx.com/menu/). I can't pass up the lamb when it is on the specials menu and Mr. K is a tri-tip man. Your choice of white or brown rice and the vegetables remain crisp (not overcooked) and I love the kick of their special sauce.Although you have to wait a bit for your food, I consider this a good thing. Beer and wine are served and I don't mind passing the time watching and talking football with the owner and staff. I realize that $12 for bento is a bit pricy, but it doesn't seem outrageous considering the quality of the meal."

"Always a smiling face to greet you! Good selection of well prepared foods. I have been a handful of times dine in, and take out. Everything from the veggie scramble to Caesar salad is on point, portobello sandwich yummm YES! It's a cozy spot where you feel right at home, thanks Sckavone's!"

"This food cart opened up behind Cully Central on 9/21/2021. It's a brand new business with no website or social media yet! And I'm pleased to say they're off to an amazing start. Their menu is pretty big (see pic) with the classic thai dishes and plenty of veggie/tofu options. I ordered the pad see ew and green curry, which totaled to a little over $20. The chef behind the counter was a mom with her kiddo hanging out, which I certainly don't mind. She whipped up my order in about 10 mins while I sat at a picnic table under a solid tent enjoying being safe from the rain.This food is good! It's what you'd expect for thai food, with flavors that are right on. Portions are generous. Medium spicy was perfect for me and my partner added extra hot spice with the small side sauces. I can definitely see myself craving these meals, over this winter especially!"

"The tofu salad rolls are fresh and their peanut sauce is savory. But the pineapple fried rice with tofu / veggies and brown rice is really what set it apart for us. Everything went so well together, looked great and tasted amazing. It was so good I forgot to take a photo till the end We finished everything on that plate. The brown rice is different than the regular brown, which absorbed the spice really well and made it even more filling, without missing out on flavor. I decided to try it today with the brown rice and it's well worth it. Definitely recommend trying! Also I ordered 4 out of 5 on spice and it's exactly what you'd expect - hot but not insufferable so I can only imagine how crazy 5 is lol Also service was amazing, our lady was really nice and accommodative and took care of us, and the ambience is great and very cleanIf you are near the Tanasbourne or Hillsboro area and are feeling some Thai, this is definitely the place to go!"

"I like it. I'm a big fan of the combo meal so I can try many different things but none of the combos had all the elements I wanted. So I opted for the general tso lunch special. It's just fried rice and chicken. Decent price though. The bag was heavy so there was lots of food. The rice had some pork. I hate the ones that are just essence of pork. It was ok. Some of it was a little too dry.The general would approve of the chicken. The breading just barely stays on but it's the right combination of sweet spicy and pungent. Definitely in my top five. Would I get again. Definitely. So I crave it...eh wouldn't go that far."

"The Local Asian Bistro is a new spot for us. A little out of the way but we wanted try some place different. No regrets!!! You might think all Asian/Thai places are the same. In particular we were looking for a place that accommodates vegetarians. They have a few dishes that are vegetarian and tasty. What I like most about the Local Asian Bistro is the vibe. The atmosphere was peaceful, clean and comfortable. Even though our order was to-go, next time I'll park and stay."

"Since my first 5-star review, I've really enjoyed Elixir Mezcaleria and am so glad they are in Gresham. Unfortunately, after their recent menu update, I need to remove a star. They previously had a well-highlighted section of the menu with vegetarian options -- including a stuffed poblano with the most amazing potatoes. The new menu is missing options for vegetarians (though there are a few seafood/fish options such as fish or shrimp tacos, which are solid).I still would recommend this, but just can't go for that 5th star until they iterate on the menu to provide some vegetarian options again."

"Located at Pioneer Courthouse Square, parking was hard to find, but this food cart was not. Service was friendly and helpful with no wait to order, and it took about 10 minutes for our food to be ready. The breakfast sandwiches here are unique and tasty, the sriracha mix-a-lot with just the right spice, and the yolko ono with a delicious light layer of pesto, a slight char on the sausage patty inside (almost overcooked but nice and savory), the egg fried perfectly, and the sourdough bread airy and flavorful... it's clear they use quality ingredients here. There was nowhere to sit and eat as they were setting up for a concert on the day we visited, so we ended up walking to Director Park nearby and enjoying our meal at the tables over there."