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Treat Yourself to the Best Cheap Eats in Portland Without the Guilt
Portland is a goldmine for tasty meals that don’t come with a hefty price tag. From food trucks to cozy joints, the city is brimming with joints serving up amazing dishes that prove you don’t need to break the bank to eat well.
If you’re looking to fill up without emptying your wallet, you’re in the right place. We’ve gone around the city and dined in multiple joints to find the absolute best cheap eats in Portland.
Ready to explore? Let’s dive into the city’s tastiest hidden gems that’ll leave both your stomach and your wallet happy.
1. Matt’s BBQ Tacos
Media credits: mattsbbqpdx
Website: https://mattsbbqtacospdx.com/
Address: 2216 SE 50th Ave
Contact: (503) 956-7455
Operating hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 8:30 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM – 8:30 PM
Matt’s BBQ Tacos stands out in the city’s cheap eats scene with its bold flavors and hearty portions. Known for its creative sandwich menu, Matts’s balances rich and inventive dishes with reasonably priced options.
Among its more wallet-friendly items on the menu are the tacos, each packed with flavor. The Migas Taco ($6.50) combines cheesy scrambled eggs, crispy tortilla chips, and pico de gallo for a perfect mix of textures. It also has bacon, which further elevates the taste.
The beef taco supreme ($6) delivers well-seasoned beef in a crunchy shell topped with fresh, flavorful ingredients. For plant-based eaters, the Vegan Smoked Mushroom Fajita Taco ($6.25) offers smoky mushrooms and vibrant veggies for a satisfying yet lighter option.
With choices like these, Matt’s proves that affordable eats can be just as creative and flavorful as their pricier counterparts.
Pro tip: The resto gets pretty packed during lunch and dinner rushes, so showing up a bit earlier can make your visit way more chill.
2. Lardo
Media credits: lardopdx
Website: https://www.lardosandwiches.com/
Address: 1212 SE Hawthorne Blvd
Contact: (503) 234-7786
Operating hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Friday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Lardo is a go-to for anyone craving delicious, affordable eats. This popular sandwich shop focuses on quality ingredients and unique flavor combos that have made it a hit with both locals and visitors.
If you’re looking for a standout meal, the Smokey Cubano ($17) blends savory pork with smoky goodness and tangy mustard for a flavor-packed bite.
The BBQ smash burger ($14) features a juicy beef patty, crispy onions, and white BBQ sauce that creates a perfect crunch and kick.
For a hearty start to the day, the Rhinestone Breakfast Burrito ($16) is a filling choice. It’s loaded with scrambled eggs, pork belly burnt ends, and avocado salsa verde.
Pro tip: If you’re looking to save a little more, check out Lardo’s happy hour specials or meal deals during your visit for some extra bang for your buck.
3. Fried Egg I’m in Love
Media credits: friedegglove
Website: https://www.friedegglove.com/
Address: Pioneer Courthouse Square, 780 SW Broadway
Contact: (503) 704-3358
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Fried Egg I’m in Love serves up a variety of budget-friendly breakfast sandwiches and is
known for its affordable and delicious offerings.
The cart’s menu includes fan favorites like the Yolko Ono ($8). This savory breakfast dish combines a perfectly fried egg, homemade pesto, and a house-made sausage patty.
For those with a bigger appetite, the Egg Zeppelin ($10) doubles up on eggs and sausage, offering a hearty portion at a great price.
If you’re after something lighter, the Smells Like Protein Spirit ($6.25) is a great pick. It features a fried egg, cheddar cheese, and a choice of protein, including savory sausage or a vegan patty.
Pro tip: You can also throw in extras like avocado or the crowd-favorite Holy Aioli—a spicy garlic mayo—to kick your sandwich up a notch.
4. Sammich
Media credits: sammichportland
Website: https://www.sammichrestaurants.com/
Address: 2137 E Burnside St
Contact: (503) 477-4393
Operating hours:
- Sunday – Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Thursday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Sammich is known for serving affordable, delicious sandwiches that hit the spot.
One of the favorites on the menu is the Cubie Cubano. It’s a $13 sandwich that combines smoky slow-roasted pork, melted cheese, and a tangy mustard kick.
Another popular pick is the Pastrami Zombi, priced at $15. This sandwich features thick, black oak-smoked Montreal-style pastrami that’s packed with savory, peppery flavors and a hint of smokiness. It’s perfect for anyone who loves rich, bold tastes.
Pro tip: The tap beers at the restaurant, including local craft options, are the perfect refreshment to pair with the hearty sandwiches. They balance out the flavors and add a nice local touch.
5. XLB
Media credits: xlbpdx
Website: https://www.xlbpdx.com/
Address: 4090 N Williams Ave
Contact: (503) 841-5373
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
XLB is a popular spot in the city for anyone craving delicious yet cheap Chinese food.
One standout is the Mushroom and Chive Bao, priced at $12. It consists of soft, pillowy buns filled with savory mushrooms and fresh chives, enhanced by light soy sauce or chili oil.
Another favorite is the Shanghai & Shrimp Noodles at $16. It features thick, chewy noodles in a tasty stir-fry sauce, with sweet shrimp and vibrant veggies.
To complement these dishes, a refreshing Jasmine iced tea or a light Sichuan pepper tonic is a perfect pairing. They balance the richness of the bao and noodles for a complete dining experience.
Pro tip: XLB offers a variety of dipping sauces, such as chili oil and vinegar-based sauces, that complement its dishes.
6. Pizza Jerk
Media credits: pizzajerkpdx
Website: https://www.pizzajerkpdx.com/
Address: 5028 NE 42nd Ave
Contact: (503) 284-9333
Operating hours:
- Sunday – Thursday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM
- Friday – Saturday: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM
Pizza Jerk has quickly gained attention for its creative and budget-friendly take on classic pizza. The menu includes a range of options, including their $18.50 10” gluten-free pizza and a Greek salad for $13.
The gluten-free pizza features a chewy yet crispy crust. It’s topped with fresh mozzarella, tangy marinara, and aromatic herbs, making it a standout for gluten-free diners.
The Greek salad is simple but packed with flavor. It combines crisp greens, olives, feta cheese, and a tangy dressing that balances saltiness and acidity.
For a perfect pairing, a sweet white wine complements the Greek salad’s fresh flavors. Meanwhile, a light Aperol Spritz can enhance the gluten-free pizza, offering a refreshing contrast to the savory toppings.
Pro tip: Feel free to mix things up with a half-and-half pizza. That way, you can try two different flavors on one pie—perfect for anyone who loves a bit of variety.
7. Nong’s Khao Man Gai
Media credits: nongskhaomangai
Website: https://khaomangai.com/
Address: 609 SE Ankeny St C
Contact: (503) 740-2907
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Nong’s Khao Man Gai is a go-to spot for flavorful, affordable Thai food. The restaurant is especially known for its signature dish, Khao Man Gai—tender poached chicken served over fragrant rice cooked in chicken broth, with a side of flavorful garnishes and sauces.
For those looking for a heartier meal, the Khao Kha Muu ($16) features rich, braised pork served with jasmine rice and mustard greens.
What makes Nong’s dishes famous is the balance of umami and freshness. The chicken is juicy and infused with ginger and garlic, while the rice offers a delicate fragrance.
Sauces made with fermented soybeans, chili, and ginger add a kick, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
Pro tip: You can mix white and dark meat in your Khao Man Gai for a tasty combo of tender, juicy cuts. They also offer extra sauce for a small fee, which really kicks up the flavor of the rice.
8. Los Gorditos
Media credits: mexicanlosgorditos
Website: https://www.losgorditospdx.com/
Address: 4937 SE Division St
Contact: (971) 865-2160
Operating hours: Monday- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Price: $
Los Gorditos is a popular location for flavorful meals that draw from both Mexican and Puerto Rican culinary traditions. Known for its focus on fresh ingredients, this place offers a variety of satisfying dishes without being pricey.
Some of the most popular menu items include the Street Taco, Veggie Soyrizo Taco, and Veggie Fajitas Taco, all priced at $4. The Street Taco packs a punch with well-seasoned, tender meat topped with fresh onions and cilantro for a classic, vibrant flavor.
The Veggie Soyrizo Taco provides a spicy, flavorful soyrizo as a meat alternative. It’s paired with fresh veggies for added texture.
The Veggie Fajitas Taco, on the other hand, features smoky grilled peppers and onions.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to check out the salsa bar—it’s packed with salsas of all heat levels. It’s the perfect way to customize your tacos and amp up the flavor to your liking.
9. Love Belizean
Media credits: v.myfatdiary
Website: https://x.com/LoveBelizeanPDX
Address: 1503 SW Broadway
Contact: (503) 421-5599
Operating hours:
- Monday – Friday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Saturday – Sunday: Closed
Love Belizean offers a great spot for low-cost, authentic Belizean cuisine.
The menu features vibrant tropical flavors. It has dishes like the Single Chicken plate ($12), which includes jerk-marinated chicken grilled to smoky, spicy, and sweet perfection.
If you’re hungry for more, the Double Chicken option ($15) gives you an extra helping of that same tasty chicken.
For a different take, the Bean Plate ($12) serves up seasoned beans—classic Belizean comfort food often paired with rice. It’s a great spot for flavorful, budget-friendly meals.
Pro tip: To amp up your meal, try a refreshing drink like Rum Punch—white and coconut rum mixed with orange and pineapple juice. It pairs perfectly with the spicy chicken, adding a sweet contrast.
10. Bing Mi
Media credits: bing.mi
Website: https://www.bingmipdx.com/
Address: 2572 NW Vaughn St E
Contact: (503) 327-8574
Operating hours:
- Sunday – Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 8:00 PM
- Monday – Tuesday: Closed
Bing Mi is a must-visit spot for those craving affordable and tasty Asian street food. The menu features a variety of dishes, but the Jianbing and Loaded Bing are the real standouts.
At just $8, the Jianbing is a savory crepe filled with egg, bing sauce, and crunchy wonton crackers. It offers a satisfying balance of salty and crunchy flavors.
For a bit more variety, the $11 Loaded Bing takes the classic Jianbing up a notch with added cucumber and Chinese sausage, delivering extra freshness and flavor.
Vegetarians can also enjoy the Double Egg, Double Cracker Jianbing at $10. They keep the delicious street food experience intact without any meat.
Pro tip: When you order the Jianbing, feel free to customize it with extra protein or toppings for a small extra cost. Adding things like an extra egg or more crackers can really level up your meal.
11. The Waffle Window
Media credits: wafflewindow
Website: https://wafflewindow.com/
Address: 3610 SE Hawthorne Blvd
Contact: (971) 255-0501
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
The Waffle Window specializes in Liege-style waffles, known for their rich flavor and chewy texture. This casual eatery offers a mix of sweet and savory waffle options at wallet-friendly prices.
A standout dish is the pulled pork 3affle, priced at $17.50. It’s a malted waffle topped with tender pulled pork, offering a sweet-savory combo that’s both unique and satisfying. The added sweet and tangy sauce gives it a nice kick, making it a great hearty option.
If you want something lighter but just as tasty, the Half Order Chicken & Waffle for $16.95 is another solid choice. It includes a crispy buttermilk fried chicken breast served on a waffle, with the option to top it off with house-made country herb gravy or organic maple syrup.
Pro tip: Getting there right when it opens can help you skip the crowds, especially on weekends when it gets busier. You’ll get faster service and better seating.
