You’ve just conquered Mt. Tabor’s trails, taken in the breathtaking views of Portland, and worked up a serious appetite. The fresh air, the climb, the sheer beauty of it all – it’s enough to make anyone ravenous. Now what? Do you head straight home and raid the fridge? Absolutely not! The area surrounding Mt. Tabor Park boasts a vibrant and diverse culinary scene just waiting to be explored. From cozy cafes serving up the perfect post-hike coffee to upscale restaurants offering a refined dining experience, there’s something for every palate and budget near Mt. Tabor. This guide will help you navigate the delicious landscape and find the perfect meal to cap off your Mt. Tabor adventure.
Mt. Tabor Park, a beloved Portland landmark, is known for its stunning city views, volcanic cones (yes, you read that right!), and network of winding trails perfect for hiking, jogging, and leisurely strolls. It’s a place where nature thrives within the city limits, a true urban oasis. But beyond the natural beauty lies a treasure trove of culinary delights, often overlooked by those rushing to and from their outdoor adventures.
The secret is out! The area around Mt. Tabor Park offers a delicious and diverse range of dining options, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants, catering to all tastes and budgets. This guide will help you find the perfect post-hike meal, highlighting some of the best spots to satisfy your hunger. Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that complements your outdoor experience perfectly.
Casual & Quick Bites After Your Hike
Sometimes, after a good hike, all you need is something quick, easy, and satisfying. Luckily, the area around Mt. Tabor has plenty of options to choose from when you’re craving something quick.
Coffee Shops and Cafes
Fueling up before or re-energizing after a hike is essential, and a local favorite, “Tabor Bread,” is the perfect place to do just that. Their artisan breads are the stars of the show, used in delicious sandwiches and alongside hearty soups. But their coffee is nothing to scoff at either, a robust and flavorful brew that will give you the boost you need. They also offer pastries that are perfect for a quick sugar rush to combat those post-hike energy dips.
Tabor Bread is fantastic for hikers for a few reasons. First, its proximity to the park makes it incredibly convenient. Second, the service is quick and efficient, meaning you can grab your coffee and pastry and be on your way in no time. And finally, they offer outdoor seating, allowing you to soak up the neighborhood atmosphere while enjoying your well-deserved treat.
Pizza Perfection
Who doesn’t love pizza? It’s the ultimate comfort food, and “Apizza Scholls” is a pizza institution that’s more than just a food option – it’s an experience. While it can be a bit of a wait to get a table (or a slice), the perfectly charred, chewy-yet-crispy crust of their New York-style pizza is worth the effort. The ingredients are fresh, the toppings are creative, and the result is simply divine.
Apizza Scholls is perfect for hikers because it’s incredibly filling, making it a satisfying reward after a strenuous hike. Plus, pizza is inherently shareable, so you can split a pie with your hiking buddies and enjoy a communal feast.
Sandwich Sanctuaries
If you’re looking for something portable and customizable, a sandwich shop is the way to go. “Bunk Sandwiches” is a Portland staple known for its creative and flavorful sandwiches. From their juicy pork belly Cubano to their decadent roast beef, there’s a sandwich for every craving. You can also customize your sandwich with a variety of toppings and sides, making it a truly personalized experience.
Bunk Sandwiches excels for hikers because of the portability of their offerings. Grab a sandwich to-go, and you have the perfect picnic lunch to enjoy on the summit of Mt. Tabor. They also offer a wide variety of options, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters in your hiking group will find something to love.
Delicious Sit-Down Restaurants
Sometimes you need more than just a quick bite. After a particularly challenging hike, you deserve a proper sit-down meal. Fortunately, the area around Mt. Tabor offers a range of excellent restaurants to choose from.
American Comfort
For classic American fare with a modern twist, “Laurelhurst Market” is a fantastic option. This butcher shop and restaurant serves up delicious burgers, fries, and salads, all made with locally sourced ingredients. Their burger is a local favorite, juicy and flavorful with the perfect toppings. They also have a great beer selection, making it the ideal place to unwind after a long day of hiking.
Laurelhurst Market is ideal for hikers because it offers classic comfort food done right. Their menu is familiar and approachable, but the quality of the ingredients and the execution are top-notch. Plus, the relaxed atmosphere and friendly service make it a welcoming spot to recharge after your hike.
Mexican Fiesta
If you are craving something more flavorful, you should consider a delicious Mexican option. “Por Que No?” is a wildly popular local chain in Portland that offers tacos, burritos, and other traditional dishes prepared with fresh ingredients and a vibrant flair.
Por Que No? is great for hikers for a myriad of reasons. Their menu has plenty of filling and energizing options that will quickly replenish your body from a hike. There are also plenty of vegetarian and vegan options that are just as delectable as their meaty counterparts.
Asian Delights
Explore the vibrant tastes of Southeast Asia at “Nong’s Khao Man Gai.” This beloved food cart turned restaurant specializes in Khao Man Gai, a deceptively simple yet incredibly flavorful dish of poached chicken and rice cooked in chicken broth. The dish is served with a ginger-scallion sauce that elevates the entire experience.
This location is especially beneficial to hikers as it allows you to replenish with something healthy and packed with flavor after an intense hike.
Italian Indulgence
If you are in the mood for something more filling and carb heavy, consider “Pizzeria Otto,” a restaurant serving delectable pizzas and pastas in a pleasant atmosphere. You’ll be able to easily replenish your energy and enjoy comfort Italian style.
The large portions and the carb load are perfect for refueling after a long hike.
Sweet Treats to Celebrate
No hiking adventure is complete without a sweet treat. Luckily, the area around Mt. Tabor has plenty of options for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ice Cream Dreams
For a truly special ice cream experience, head to “Salt & Straw.” This Portland institution is known for its unique and creative flavors, from Sea Salt with Caramel Ribbons to Strawberry Honey Balsamic with Black Pepper. They also offer vegan options, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a scoop of happiness.
Salt & Straw is the perfect reward after a hike. The refreshing ice cream is a welcome treat on a warm day, and the unique flavors make it an unforgettable experience.
Bakery Bliss
If you prefer pastries or cakes, “Ken’s Artisan Bakery” is the place to go. This beloved bakery offers a wide variety of delicious treats, from croissants and pain au chocolat to cakes and tarts. Everything is made with high-quality ingredients and baked to perfection.
Ken’s Artisan Bakery is a fantastic option for hikers because it offers a variety of portable and satisfying treats. Grab a croissant for a quick snack or a slice of cake to celebrate your hiking accomplishment.
Donut Delight
For a classic treat, you can’t go wrong with donuts. “Pip’s Original Doughnuts” is a local favorite known for its mini doughnuts made fresh to order. They offer a variety of unique flavors, from the classic cinnamon sugar to the more adventurous raw honey and sea salt.
Pip’s Original Doughnuts is great for hikers because the mini size makes them perfect for sharing and trying different flavors. Plus, the warm, fresh doughnuts are the perfect way to end your Mt. Tabor adventure on a sweet note.
Tips for Choosing Your Post-Hike Feast
With so many delicious options to choose from, deciding where to eat after your Mt. Tabor hike can be overwhelming. Here are a few tips to help you make the right decision:
Consider your budget. Restaurants in the area range from affordable cafes to more upscale dining establishments. Think about how much you’re willing to spend on your post-hike meal and choose accordingly.
Think about your dietary needs. If you’re vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, make sure the restaurant you choose offers options that cater to your needs. Many restaurants now clearly label their menus with dietary information, making it easier to find something suitable.
Check reviews and ratings. Before you commit to a restaurant, take a look at online reviews on platforms like Yelp or Google Reviews. This can give you a better sense of the quality of the food and the service.
Factor in travel time. While many of the restaurants mentioned are located near Mt. Tabor Park, some may require a short drive or walk. Factor in travel time when making your decision, especially if you’re feeling tired after your hike.
The Perfect End to Your Mt. Tabor Adventure
From quick bites to sit-down restaurants and sweet treats galore, the area surrounding Mt. Tabor Park offers a diverse and delicious culinary landscape just waiting to be explored. So, next time you’re hiking Mt. Tabor, be sure to venture beyond the trails and discover the incredible food scene that awaits you. Happy hiking and happy eating!
Mt. Tabor Park offers stunning views and a rewarding workout, and the surrounding neighborhood provides the perfect culinary experience to complete your day. So, ditch the packed lunch this time and treat yourself to the flavors of Mt. Tabor! You’ve earned it.
