Introduction
Portland, Oregon. The name alone conjures images of quirky coffee shops, craft breweries, and a food scene that’s been hailed as one of the best in the nation. But let’s be honest, all that deliciousness can come with a hefty price tag. Are you a student navigating ramen noodle budgets, a traveler eager to explore without emptying your bank account, or simply someone who appreciates a good deal? If so, you’ve landed in the right place. Forget the notion that Portland’s culinary adventures require a small fortune. This guide is your passport to the city’s most affordable and flavorful food experiences, proving that you can indulge without sacrificing your wallet or your taste buds. Get ready to discover the hidden gems and local favorites that offer incredible value, all while serving up dishes that are anything but cheap in quality.
Portland boasts a vibrant and diverse culinary landscape. From innovative food carts to cozy ethnic eateries, there’s a wealth of options for those seeking budget-friendly meals. This article will guide you to the best and most affordable food spots in Portland, highlighting local favorites and hidden gems that offer incredible value without compromising on taste. We’re setting the bar at meals costing around fifteen dollars or less, that way you can have some cash left over for a pint or two.
Defining Cheap
Before we dive in, let’s define what “cheap” actually means for the purposes of this culinary adventure. We’re aiming for meals that generally fall under the fifteen-dollar mark. Keep in mind that prices fluctuate, and some spots might have a couple of dishes that exceed this limit, but overall, these are places where you can comfortably eat without feeling a pang of regret later.
Several factors have influenced our choices. Obviously, taste is paramount. We wouldn’t recommend anything that doesn’t deliver on flavor. We’ve also considered the quality of ingredients, portion sizes (nobody wants to leave hungry!), overall value for your money, and the local popularity of each spot. These places are beloved by Portlanders for a reason, and that reason isn’t just their low prices.
A quick disclaimer: menus and prices are subject to change. It’s always a good idea to check websites or call ahead to confirm details before you head out. This guide is a snapshot in time, and while we’ll do our best to keep it updated, things in the restaurant world move quickly!
Food Carts Galore
No discussion of cheap eats in Portland would be complete without a deep dive into the food cart scene. These mobile kitchens are a Portland institution, offering an incredible array of cuisines at unbelievably affordable prices. Forget fancy restaurants, just grab a bite from a food cart.
Grilled Cheese Grill
Let’s start with “Grilled Cheese Grill.” If the name alone isn’t enough to get you excited, the food surely will. This food cart takes grilled cheese to another level, with gourmet cheeses, inventive toppings, and perfectly grilled bread. Most sandwiches fall well within the under fifteen-dollar budget, and they are surprisingly filling. The “Mousy Melt” with Tillamook cheddar is a classic, but don’t be afraid to get adventurous with their rotating specials. You can find Grilled Cheese Grill at various pods around the city, so check their website for current locations.
Taco Pedaler
Next up, “Taco Pedaler”. This cart dishes out some of the best tacos in Portland, and their prices are incredibly reasonable. For under fifteen dollars, you can easily get your fill of their delicious carnitas, carne asada, or vegetarian options. Their ingredients are always fresh, and the service is fast and friendly. They can often be found on the Eastside, near several popular breweries.
Hawthorne Asylum and Frying Scotsman
One popular pod is the Hawthorne Asylum. A classic pod location with plenty of different cuisines, you can find the best bang for your buck at “Frying Scotsman.” A cart that puts out scottish style fish and chips, the two piece meal is extremely filling and extremely delicious. Don’t pass up on adding a side of mushy peas for that true scottish authenticity!
Happy Hour Savings
Happy hour isn’t just for drinks, it’s a prime opportunity to sample some of Portland’s best restaurants at discounted prices. Many establishments offer special happy hour menus with smaller portions and lower prices on both food and beverages.
Le Pigeon
“Le Pigeon” is a Portland institution, known for its upscale French cuisine. While a full dinner here can be pricey, their happy hour is surprisingly accessible. From five pm to seven pm, you can enjoy a selection of appetizers, small plates, and drinks at significantly reduced prices. Think charcuterie, oysters, and inventive cocktails, all in a sophisticated setting. This is a great way to experience Le Pigeon without the full price tag.
Deschutes Brewery Portland Public House
Looking for a more casual vibe? Check out “Deschutes Brewery Portland Public House.” Their happy hour, from three pm to six pm, features a selection of appetizers and beers at discounted rates. The truffle fries are a must-try, and their burger is also a great deal. It’s the perfect spot for a casual bite and a craft beer after a long day of exploring.
Ethnic Eats
Portland is a melting pot of cultures, and that’s reflected in its diverse culinary scene. Many ethnic restaurants offer generous portions of authentic cuisine at incredibly affordable prices.
Bollywood Theater
Head to “Bollywood Theater” for some seriously delicious and authentic Indian street food. Their kati rolls are a standout, filled with flavorful meats, vegetables, and chutneys, all wrapped in a warm paratha bread. The portions are generous, and the prices are incredibly reasonable. Be sure to grab one of their lassi drinks as well!
Pho Van
Another great option is “Pho Van”. A staple for delicious and hearty bowls of pho, you won’t be leaving hungry! The portions are extremely generous with your choice of meat and vegetables and their price point is very affordable. They are a no frills, family owned business that knows how to satisfy Portlanders.
Portland Pizza
Pizza is always a good idea, especially when you’re on a budget. Portland has plenty of pizzerias that offer delicious slices at affordable prices.
Sizzle Pie
“Sizzle Pie” is a Portland institution, known for its creative and often outrageous pizza toppings. While a whole pie can be pricey, individual slices are surprisingly affordable, usually around five dollars or less. They have vegan and gluten-free options available, and their late-night hours make it a perfect spot for a post-concert snack.
Escape From New York Pizza
“Escape From New York Pizza” is another Portland favorite, serving up classic New York-style slices. Their crust is thin and crispy, and their toppings are simple but delicious. A slice of pepperoni or cheese will set you back just a few dollars, making it a great option for a quick and affordable lunch.
Breakfast Deals
Starting your day with a delicious breakfast doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Portland has plenty of cafes and diners that offer affordable breakfast options.
Pine State Biscuits
“Pine State Biscuits” is a Portland institution, serving up fluffy, buttery biscuits with a variety of savory and sweet toppings. Their biscuit sandwiches are a steal, and they’re guaranteed to keep you full until lunchtime. The “Reggie Deluxe” is a classic, featuring fried chicken, bacon, cheese, and gravy.
Lunchtime Eats
Don’t limit your budget-friendly dining to just evenings. Plenty of places offer killer lunch specials.
Bunk Sandwiches
“Bunk Sandwiches” serves up some of the most talked-about sandwiches in Portland. With daily special, you can find great deals on delicious sandos during their lunchtime hours. Their ingredients are locally sourced and extremely tasty!
Tips for Eating Cheap
Now that you have a list of places to check out, here are a few extra tips to help you maximize your budget while enjoying Portland’s culinary scene.
Look out for lunch specials. Many restaurants offer discounted lunch menus, making it a great time to sample their offerings without breaking the bank. Embrace the food cart scene; it’s the quickest way to find a quick, and inexpensive meal. Also, make sure you become best friends with Happy Hour, take advantage of discounted appetizers and drinks in the early evenings.
You could also try going during off-peak hours. Restaurants are often less crowded during off-peak hours, and you might even find some better deals. Always check for daily specials. Restaurants often have daily specials that offer great value, be sure to ask for the daily deal!
Think about portion sizes. Sometimes a shared appetizer or smaller portion is enough to satisfy your hunger, especially if you’re planning to sample multiple spots. Utilize restaurant apps and websites, many restaurants offer coupons, promotions, and loyalty programs through their apps or websites. It’s worth checking before you go to see if you can save some money.
Beyond Restaurants: Saving Money
Eating out isn’t the only way to save money on food. Consider visiting farmers markets to stock up on fresh, local ingredients for cooking at home. Grocery store deals are another great option; look for affordable grocery chains or specific deals on staples like bread, pasta, and vegetables. Pack your own lunches, and enjoy Portland’s beautiful parks. This is a great way to save money and enjoy the outdoors.
The Portland Scene
Portland’s food scene is a vibrant and exciting place, and you don’t need to spend a fortune to experience it. With a little planning and this guide, you can enjoy incredible food without emptying your wallet. So, ditch the pricey restaurants and explore Portland’s delicious and budget-friendly options. What are *your* favorite cheap eats in Portland? Share them in the comments below!
Eating well in Portland doesn’t have to break the bank. With the right knowledge and a sense of adventure, you can discover a world of flavors without sacrificing your financial well-being. Now get out there and explore the delicious and affordable side of Portland!
