Introduction
Ever find yourself staring blankly into the refrigerator, fatigue settling in after a long day? The allure of cooking fades, and the call of a delicious meal becomes undeniable. Perhaps the Portland rain is drumming a soothing rhythm, but also dampening any desire to venture out for dine-in. In these moments, takeout food Portland OR, becomes not just a convenience, but a necessity – a comforting culinary lifeline.
Portland, Oregon, a city celebrated for its vibrant and innovative food scene, understands this sentiment perfectly. From cozy neighborhood eateries to award-winning restaurants, Portland boasts a diverse culinary landscape that readily translates into exceptional takeout experiences. The demand for delicious, restaurant-quality food enjoyed in the comfort of one’s home has steadily grown, transforming the Portland dining scene. This article serves as your personal guide to navigating the very best takeout food Portland OR has to offer. We will explore a curated selection of establishments, spanning various cuisines and price points, ensuring that your next at-home meal is nothing short of extraordinary. So, let us dive into a world of flavors, where every bite is a reminder of why Portland is a food lover’s paradise.
Pizza Perfection To-Go
Portland embraces pizza with open arms, offering a spectrum of styles from the simplicity of Neapolitan to the bold flavors of New York slices, and innovative creations that showcase the city’s culinary creativity. Luckily, pizza travels remarkably well, making it an ideal takeout option.
Apizza Scholls
First on our list is Apizza Scholls, a local institution known for its meticulously crafted pies. Their New Haven-style pizza boasts a thin, slightly charred crust, a tangy tomato sauce, and top-quality toppings. The attention to detail is evident in every bite, and the pies retain their integrity even after a short journey home. Found on Southeast Hawthorne Boulevard, Apizza Scholls consistently wins accolades for its dedication to pizza perfection. It’s a truly amazing and authentic pizza you’ll want to share with all your friends and family.
Lovely’s Fifty Fifty
For a slightly different experience, consider Lovely’s Fifty Fifty on North Mississippi Avenue. They specialize in wood-fired pizzas with seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms. The crust is bubbly and slightly chewy, and the toppings are always fresh and flavorful. Their inventive combinations make for a truly unique pizza experience, and it remains delightful even enjoyed at home. Keep an eye out for seasonal specials which make full use of the great products of the Pacific Northwest.
Asian Cuisine Adventures
The diversity of Asian cuisine in Portland is truly impressive. From fragrant Thai curries to comforting Vietnamese pho, and exquisite sushi, the city offers a myriad of flavors to explore. Fortunately, many Asian dishes are perfectly suited for takeout, allowing you to savor the tastes of the Far East in your own dining room.
Pok Pok
For a taste of Thailand, look no further than Pok Pok, situated on Southeast Division Street. While known for its bustling atmosphere, Pok Pok also offers an excellent takeout menu. Their signature Ike’s Vietnamese Fish Sauce Wings are an absolute must-try. Their aromatic curries and noodle dishes transport exceptionally well, maintaining their vibrant flavors and textures. Please note that Pok Pok offers authentic versions of Thai foods, which can be much spicier than what you find in some other US locations.
Pho Bac Sup Shop
Alternatively, embark on a Vietnamese culinary journey with Pho Bac Sup Shop on Southeast Powell Boulevard. While pho is often enjoyed in-house, Pho Bac Sup Shop expertly packages their flavorful broths and fresh noodles separately, allowing you to assemble your perfect bowl at home. Their banh mi sandwiches are equally exceptional for takeout, bursting with savory fillings and crisp vegetables. Their pho is a truly delightful, warming and comforting treat to enjoy.
Burgers and Sandwiches: Classics Elevated
Portland elevates the humble burger and sandwich to an art form. The city is brimming with establishments dedicated to crafting exceptional handheld meals, using high-quality ingredients and innovative flavor combinations. The good news is that many of these creations travel well, making them ideal for a satisfying takeout experience.
Deschutes Brewery Portland Public House
Deschutes Brewery Portland Public House offers a brilliant burger and fries combo, with several burgers to choose from. With a location on Northwest 11th Avenue, it’s centrally located and easy to find. The classic burger is highly recommended, and travels very well so you can have it delivered or pick it up.
Lardo
For an unforgettable sandwich, seek out Lardo, with multiple locations in the city. Their over-the-top sandwiches are piled high with flavorful meats, cheeses, and sauces. The “Porchetta” sandwich is a standout, featuring crispy pork belly, gremolata, and arugula. Their sandwiches are hearty and satisfying, and will not disappoint. Lardo serves very substantial portions, so be prepared!
Mexican and Latin American Flavors
The vibrant Mexican and Latin American food scene in Portland deserves exploration. From authentic tacos to hearty burritos, and savory enchiladas, the city offers a wealth of flavors to satisfy your cravings. The great thing about these foods is they’re meant to be eaten with your hands, and that they can be easily packed into portable containers.
¿Por Qué No? Taqueria
¿Por Qué No? Taqueria, with multiple locations, is a Portland favorite known for its authentic and flavorful tacos. Their handmade tortillas are the perfect vessel for their delicious fillings, such as carnitas, carne asada, and pescado. Their salsas are fresh and vibrant, adding an extra layer of flavor. Everything is carefully assembled for freshness, and is still fresh even when you eat it at home!
SuperMercado Mexico
For a truly satisfying burrito, head to SuperMercado Mexico on Southeast Powell Boulevard. Their massive burritos are packed with flavorful rice, beans, meats, and cheeses. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable, making it an excellent value for your money.
Fine Dining, Curbside Style
In recent years, many of Portland’s fine dining establishments have adapted their menus to offer elevated takeout options. This allows you to experience the city’s culinary excellence in the comfort of your own home. While not every dish translates perfectly to takeout, some restaurants have mastered the art of delivering a refined dining experience to your doorstep.
Le Pigeon
Le Pigeon on East Burnside Street, is a prime example. While known for its intimate dining room and sophisticated tasting menus, Le Pigeon offers a selection of dishes that travel well. Their pasta dishes, such as the classic pigeon, and select entrees are packaged with care, ensuring that they arrive in excellent condition. Enjoy the great taste in your own home.
Considerations for Ordering Takeout Food Portland OR
Navigating the world of takeout food Portland OR requires a bit of planning. Here are some key considerations to ensure a smooth and satisfying experience:
Ordering Platforms
Portland is awash with delivery platforms like Grubhub, DoorDash, and Uber Eats. These apps offer convenience and a wide selection of restaurants. However, consider checking if your desired restaurant offers direct online ordering. Ordering directly often supports the restaurant more effectively and may lead to lower prices.
Pick-Up versus Delivery
Weigh the pros and cons of each option. Delivery offers unparalleled convenience, but comes with added fees. Picking up your order allows you to support the restaurant directly and avoid delivery charges. It can also be a nice excuse to take a short walk or drive and explore your neighborhood.
Packaging and Sustainability
Portland is a city that values sustainability. Many restaurants are adopting eco-friendly packaging practices. Look for takeout containers made from recycled materials or compostable alternatives. As a consumer, you can also do your part by recycling or composting the packaging properly.
Reheating Tips
Reheating takeout food properly is essential for maintaining quality. For pizza, a quick reheat in a preheated oven will restore its crispness. For stir-fries and other Asian dishes, a brief stir-fry in a wok or pan will bring back their original flavors. Pasta dishes can be reheated gently in a saucepan or microwave.
Check for Specials and Promotions
Before placing your order, check the restaurant’s website or social media pages for specials and promotions. Many restaurants offer discounts on takeout orders or bundle deals that can save you money.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Beyond the well-known names, Portland boasts a treasure trove of hidden gems and local favorites that offer exceptional takeout experiences.
Hole Bagel
Hole Bagel on Southeast Hawthorne Boulevard is a bagel shop offering a wide selection of deli sandwiches on bagels.
Nong’s Khao Man Gai
Nong’s Khao Man Gai on Southwest Alder Street is known for its single dish: Khao Man Gai (Thai-style poached chicken and rice). This dish is simple, flavorful, and perfectly suited for takeout. The chicken is tender and juicy, and the rice is fragrant and flavorful. It’s a truly warming and satisfying takeout treat.
Conclusion: Savor Portland from Your Sofa
Portland’s takeout food scene offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the city’s culinary excellence from the comfort of your own home. Whether you are craving pizza, Asian cuisine, burgers, Mexican flavors, or even a taste of fine dining, Portland has something to satisfy every palate.
So, the next time you are feeling tired, or just want to skip the cooking, remember the wealth of takeout food Portland OR has to offer. Explore the recommendations in this article, support local restaurants, and treat yourself to a delicious meal in the comfort of your own space. Skip the dishes, curl up on the couch, and savor the best takeout food Portland OR has waiting just for you! Now go and enjoy all of the great culinary treats that Portland has to offer!
