The Fried Onion

Recently, I changed jobs. I am now a little further north but still in inner southeast. But it's an area that other than the Sheridan, I don't know much about. So, what I usually do is explore my new neighborhood and find out where the good food is. Now I work right across the street from Olympia Provisions, so I have that going for me once they are back open full swing. Oh, covid times.So in my wanderings, I came upon The Fried Onion and what appears to be the best hole in the wall that I never knew existed but I truly needed. East coast food, New York accents, a garage door and a grill. That's it.A very nice couple from the New York area run this unassuming place and they usually will have several of the warehouse workers from the area waiting in line for hot dogs, burgers or grilled sandwiches. They know regulars by name and don't care for the Boston Rex Sox. Get on their good side and be a Yankees fan when you get food. Igloo coolers housing cold sodas, spicy sauces and jalapeños. Fresh rolls toasted on the grill and of course the fried onions that should be put on anything you order. Request them if they aren't on what you choose.Just bantering with this couple is enough, but the food IS really good and a taste of the northeast. Thumann's meats is a good way to do that. It's New York, It's New Jersey and it's Philly. Order anything, whether it's a burger, a cheddar jalapeño dog, pastrami or a Portland beef sandwich. You won't regret it and you'll be back. I've been twice, and I believe I'll be there weekly and will be known by my first name there shortly.Seek this spot out and support local. Enjoy.

Oh geez, be still my heart. GO SEE THESE PEOPLE. New York transplants, husband and wife team made up of a Yankee fan and Brooklyn Dodgers fan are the owners going on 13 years of The Friend Onion. Sandwiches and hot dogs with a lot of pastrami in the mix. I had the pastrami dog, I mean, stop it - this is best idea ever. Really nice owners, excellent hot dog, I'll be back.They have been hanging tight through COVID. Said it's the trades that have kept them going, the electrician, plumbers, contractors and now a bookkeeper!

Tasty good hot dog. We tried the Brick House: dog, bacon, cheddar, and fried onions. They had the usual condiments (ketchup, mustard, mayo) yet it was the sweet-spicy mustard that I absolutely loved on this dog. Mmm, mmm, good!I may ask for them to add sauerkraut to this order.It's a little hole-in-the-wall place with down-to-earth welcoming staff.

My new favorite place. What a great family with some delicious food. Come by and check it out you will not regret it. Great conversation while you wait for your food. A very solid husband and wife team with their granddaughter assisting them. Great family business. Very clean and the food was handled excellently which was nice to see because we have not seen that everywhere in Portland.

This joint is almost more of a glorified food-cart in its temp feeling, although there is some indoor seating. No frills. Limited hours around the lunch hour. Limited menu (burgers, dogs and pastrami sammiches). Limited beverages. None of these comments are negative - just stating the facts. If you compare it to traditional sit-down restaurants, it doesn't compare well. If you compare it to food carts, it holds up very well.That said, the folks are really friendly and the chow is good. The atmosphere is laid back and comfy, but it isn't really a place you'd linger. The sammiches were served on flat bread vs traditional sliced bread and that worked pretty well. I'll go back!

Outstanding dogs and sando's NYC style. Pastrami dog was the best. The Mousa sandwich is so flavorful. Love these guys and there location in the heart of the produce district gives the vibe of being at New York City food cart. Can't wait to go back! Go Yankees!!!!

If you're looking for a definition of hole-in-the wall, look no further than in this industrial part of town. This is basically a garage or large storage space, but not enhanced to make it look any better. There's ample seating, and check out the kitchen in the photo.It was on my list after seeing it featured on the Travel Channel's "Secret Eats" hosted by Alan Richman.I ordered the recommended Moussa and it delivered. The owner was very friendly; people seemed to be tipping extra as he's the kind you root for.Parking is super tough!A somewhat unique dining experience for sure.

This is some of the best food in Portland hands down. Every menu item is amazing but I would recommend getting the bacon cheeseburger it is my personal favorite. Also it is a nice atmosphere with very nice people.

It's opened again and it's legit so good. For $9 you get a flatbread sandwich with pastrami, pepper jack cheese, peppers and their sauce. Added a hotdog for $3. It legit was just as good as it looks. Also the older couple working it were great to talk and charming

My coworker brought me here last week. The couple that runs this place are hilarious! Hot dogs were amazing!