Exploring the Gastronomic Heaven of Portland, Oregon
Portland, Oregon has a vibrant and diverse food scene, offering a variety of delicious cuisines and innovative eateries. From casual burgers to gourmet crepes, there's something to satisfy every palate. Whether you're a local or a visitor, exploring the food scene in Portland is an experience in itself.
Favorite Local Eateries
One of the go-to spots for crawfish in Portland is Jakes Crawfish. While I'm not sure if they are still in business, they were a beloved local favorite. Another must-try is the mushroom soup at LaProvance in Lake Oswego, a charming suburb of Portland. The restaurant offers a rich and flavorful soup that is perfect for a chilly day.
For those with a taste for Cajun food, the Montage Cafe is a great spot, serving up mouthwatering dishes. If you're a fan of Brazilian cuisine, check out Brazil Grill for a unique dining experience. For burgers and milkshakes, my recommendation is Mikes Drive Inn, but be aware that the PDX location has closed, so visit Oregon City or MicPowki for a similar experience.
Recent Discoveries
When it comes to recent discoveries, I've found a coconut crepe at 6 Tusks Asian from a food cart that is truly delightful. The crepe is sautéed with pork, turmeric, shredded carrot, daikon, and shredded lettuce, all wrapped in a coconut-infused crepe. Another memorable meal was at Xica, where the corn is freshly ground for their tacos, offering a unique and flavorful experience.
Classic Portland Eateries
Mikes Drive-In in Oregon City is known for its top-notch burgers, making it one of the best burger places in the city. For something different, I highly recommend the onion rings at Saylers Country Kitchen, any of the cheese fondues at Urban Fondue, or the Potatoes Breve at Toro Bravo. The skirt steak at Ox and the pounded beef at Whiskey Soda Kitchen are also must-trys, along with the bone marrow at Lechon and the bone-in rib eye at Laurelhurst Meat Market.
Up-and-Coming Locations
If you're a food enthusiast, there are still more places to explore. Chicken-N-Guns, known for its incredible food, is a must-visit, especially when consumed at the corner of SE Hawthorne and 12th. While it has closed at that location, there are still plenty of other fantastic spots to discover.
The food scene in Portland is always evolving, with new restaurants opening and old favorites becoming even more popular. Whether you're a local or a visitor, there's always something new to try. Just make sure to explore a variety of options and keep an open mind, and you'll be sure to enjoy the best that Portland's vibrant food scene has to offer.
Tough question indeed! The culinary landscape of Portland continues to change, with new trends and dishes being discovered all the time. But one thing is certain: there's a wealth of delicious food to be relished here, and I have yet to find a single dish that doesn't impress.
That’s just to start. Keep an eye out for the ever-evolving food scene in Portland, Oregon, and enjoy the journey!