Did you know I lived in Portland for almost 7 years?
It’s where I went to college and where Dominic and I met. Jemma was even born there! Portland will always hold a special place in my heart – for many reasons – one such reason being the fabulous food!
Around every corner, Portland boasts perfect little eateries. Here are my top picks … and current cravings!
La Buca /// 40 NE 28th Ave
I worked at La Buca for two years after Dominic and I were married. It was my best waitressing job ever for sure. I’ve tried almost everything on the menu and love it all – favorites include the gorgonzola salad, pollo caesar panini, vegetariana and abituale.
Cha Cha Cha /// 9 locations, I was a Hawthorne regular
Divine, very fresh Mexican. Love the taco salad!
Petit Provence /// 5 locations, I was a Division regular
I’ve never been to France. But, if it’s anything like Petit Provence I can’t wait to go. Perfect sandwiches and my love time love, French onion soup. And of course, all the pastries are très bon!
Los Gorditos /// 3 locations
Food truck represent! The burritos are FABULOUS! Ask to add your favorite veggies and stock up on sauces from the sauce bar – the orange one is the best. Spicy, but the most perfect flavor blend.
Pho Van /// 1919 SE 82nd Ave
This is where I first fell in love with Asian cuisine. I’ve only ever had one thing – the yellow curry (with chicken, sweet potatoes, and onions), because I could never bring myself to break away from it. But my coworkers all loved the Pho, so I suppose it’s a winner too.
Wall Street Pizza – 10114 SE Division
On occasion we’d order lunch for the office from here. But really, there is only one thing you need to try – the garlic rolls! Make Wall Street the first stop on a Portland progressive dinner :)
Noodles & Company – national-ish
I so wish this chain was more prevalent on the West Coast – they’re like a noodle bar, a really good one! You pick your cuisine, Asian, Italian or American and then they’ve got a mondo list of noodle based dishes. My favorite is the Penne Rosa with chicken and parm.
Salt & Straw – 3 locations
Ready to die and go to heaven? Never ever ever visit Portland without a visit to Salt & Straw. Pear and Blue Cheese ice cream for life!!! Drool over all the unique flavors here.
I love La Buca! I haven't been there in ages, though…..
Of what you named, I've only been to Pho Van and Wall Street. Oh, how I wish Hawthorne was what it used to be! It's turning into the Pearl in a bad way, IMO.
In my childless days, The Montage Bistro was our absolute favorite.
Oh yes, we have fond memories at the Montage too! I should have included that one!!!
I grew up in Portland/Gresham and I actually worked at Wall St. Pizza in Gresham. I came home smelling of garlic rolls (divine!) I miss it all the time and all my family lives there still. On my last visit, my brother and I went to Petit Provence and bought macaroons to bring home to my parents. My mom was pleased. :) Where do you live now? I am in Oklahoma City. Esther Norine Designs