Introduction
Portland, Oregon, is a city celebrated for its vibrant food scene, from upscale restaurants to innovative chefs. But beyond the brick-and-mortar establishments, a different kind of culinary experience thrives: the humble yet remarkable world of food carts. While downtown Portland boasts a considerable concentration of these mobile kitchens, venture a little further north, across the iconic St. Johns Bridge, and you’ll discover a neighborhood brimming with unique charm and a truly exceptional food cart scene. St. Johns, Portland, is a destination in its own right, a place where delicious and affordable meals converge with a distinctly local spirit. This article will take you on a culinary tour of St. Johns, exploring the best food carts this hidden gem of Portland has to offer.
St. Johns feels like a world away from the downtown core, despite being easily accessible. This is a neighborhood with a strong sense of community, a palpable artistic energy, and a history deeply rooted in its connection to the mighty Columbia River. The towering St. Johns Bridge, with its gothic spires, is more than just a means of crossing the river; it’s a symbol of the neighborhood itself, a landmark that instantly sets the tone for a visit. The food carts in St. Johns reflect this unique identity, offering diverse culinary creations served with a friendly, neighborhood vibe you won’t find anywhere else.
Why St. Johns Food Carts Stand Out
The food carts of St. Johns, Portland, stand apart for several reasons. First and foremost, the neighborhood’s inherent vibe deeply influences the dining experience. This isn’t just about grabbing a quick bite; it’s about becoming part of the St. Johns community. The area’s artistic flair is evident in the creativity of the cart designs and the passion of the owners. You’ll often find local art displayed near the carts, and the atmosphere is generally relaxed and welcoming.
Secondly, the sheer variety of cuisine available is truly impressive. From authentic Thai street food to mouthwatering Mexican delicacies and savory BBQ, St. Johns boasts a global culinary journey within a few city blocks. Whether you’re craving a comforting classic or eager to try something new, you’re sure to find a food cart that satisfies your appetite.
Perhaps the most appealing aspect of the food carts in St. Johns is their affordability and accessibility. Dining out in Portland can be expensive, but the food carts offer a delicious alternative that won’t break the bank. This makes them a popular choice for locals and visitors alike, creating a diverse and vibrant mix of people enjoying the shared culinary experience. It also helps support the many independently owned and operated businesses in the area.
Finally, many of the food carts in St. Johns are run by local entrepreneurs. These passionate individuals pour their heart and soul into their businesses, creating unique and authentic culinary experiences. By supporting these food carts, you’re not just enjoying a delicious meal; you’re investing in the local economy and helping to preserve the unique character of St. Johns.
Featured Food Carts
Global Grill
Nestled on the corner of Lombard and Charleston, Global Grill delivers on its name by offering a diverse menu of grilled specialties from around the world. From perfectly seasoned gyros to tantalizing Thai skewers, this food cart provides an exciting culinary adventure.
The menu highlights include their signature gyro wrap. Warm, pillowy pita bread is stuffed with thinly sliced, perfectly seasoned meat, crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, onions, and a creamy tzatziki sauce. Every bite is an explosion of flavor and texture. Also noteworthy are the Thai chicken skewers. The chicken is marinated in a blend of fragrant spices and then grilled to perfection, resulting in a tender, juicy, and incredibly flavorful snack.
Prices at Global Grill are very reasonable, with most items costing between eight and fifteen dollars. What truly sets Global Grill apart is their commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and their ability to perfectly capture the essence of each cuisine they feature. The friendly service is also a big plus, making every visit a welcoming and enjoyable experience.
Taco Temptation
For authentic Mexican flavors that will transport you south of the border, look no further than Taco Temptation. Located on Trenton Street, this vibrant food cart is a local favorite for its delicious tacos, burritos, and quesadillas.
A must-try is their carne asada taco. Tender, marinated steak is grilled to perfection and served on warm corn tortillas with your choice of toppings, including fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a spicy salsa verde. The flavors are simple yet incredibly satisfying. Another popular choice is their loaded burrito. A giant flour tortilla is filled with your choice of protein, rice, beans, cheese, sour cream, and guacamole, creating a hearty and flavorful meal.
The pricing is very affordable at Taco Temptation, making it a popular choice for a quick and delicious lunch or dinner. What makes this food cart so special is their dedication to using authentic Mexican recipes and the quality of their ingredients. The tortillas are always fresh, and the meats are perfectly seasoned. The generous portions and friendly service are also big draws.
BBQ Bliss
Craving some smoky, savory BBQ? BBQ Bliss is the place to be. Situated near the heart of downtown St. Johns, this food cart serves up mouthwatering ribs, pulled pork, and brisket that will satisfy even the most discerning BBQ connoisseur.
Their standout dish is the baby back ribs. These tender, juicy ribs are slow-smoked to perfection and slathered in a tangy BBQ sauce. The meat practically falls off the bone. Also highly recommended is the pulled pork sandwich. Tender, smoky pulled pork is piled high on a soft bun and topped with coleslaw and your choice of BBQ sauce.
Prices at BBQ Bliss are in the moderate range, but the generous portions and exceptional quality make it well worth the cost. What truly distinguishes BBQ Bliss is their dedication to the art of slow smoking. They use only the finest cuts of meat and carefully monitor the smoking process to ensure that every bite is packed with flavor. The homemade BBQ sauces are also a real treat.
Sweet Surrender
No culinary tour is complete without a sweet ending, and Sweet Surrender provides just that. This charming dessert cart, parked near the community center, offers a delightful selection of homemade treats, from decadent cupcakes to creamy ice cream.
A must-try is their signature chocolate cupcake. Moist, rich chocolate cake is topped with a generous swirl of creamy chocolate frosting and a sprinkle of chocolate shavings. It’s the perfect indulgence. Also highly recommended is their homemade vanilla bean ice cream. Made with fresh cream and real vanilla beans, this ice cream is incredibly smooth, creamy, and flavorful.
Sweet Surrender’s treats are priced affordably, making it easy to satisfy your sweet tooth without breaking the bank. The magic of Sweet Surrender lies in their commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and their passion for creating delicious and comforting desserts. The charming presentation and friendly service add to the overall delightful experience.
Beyond the Food: The St. Johns Experience
Beyond the delicious food, a visit to the St. Johns food carts offers a chance to experience the unique St. Johns atmosphere. After grabbing a bite, take a stroll through the neighborhood and explore the local shops and art galleries. Or, visit Cathedral Park, located beneath the St. Johns Bridge, for a picnic and stunning views of the river. The neighborhood also hosts various community events throughout the year, many of which feature the local food carts.
The ambiance around the food cart pods is generally laid-back and family-friendly. You’ll often find people gathering with friends and family, enjoying their meals and soaking up the neighborhood vibe. While some pods may have limited seating, many visitors opt to take their food to go and enjoy it in one of the nearby parks.
Tips for Visiting St. Johns Food Carts
To make the most of your visit to the St. Johns food carts, consider the following tips. The best time to visit is during lunch or dinner hours, but be aware that some carts may have limited hours or be closed on certain days. Most food carts accept both cash and credit cards, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand just in case. Parking can be limited in the immediate vicinity of the food carts, so consider taking public transportation or parking a few blocks away and walking. And, of course, be sure to dress appropriately for the weather, as Portland weather can be unpredictable.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the food carts of St. Johns, Portland, offer a truly unique and delicious culinary experience. From the diverse range of cuisines to the affordable prices and the friendly neighborhood vibe, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, if you’re looking for a culinary adventure that’s off the beaten path, head across the St. Johns Bridge and discover the vibrant food cart scene that awaits. Explore the local shops, visit the parks, and soak up the unique charm of this hidden gem. You won’t be disappointed. Let the aromas guide you, and prepare for a feast of flavors that will leave you wanting more. St. Johns awaits, ready to tantalize your taste buds and share its unique culinary spirit. This thriving food cart scene is a testament to the independent spirit and culinary creativity that defines Portland, Oregon. Go forth and explore, and may your culinary journey be filled with delicious discoveries.
