Portland food news and views
News, analysis, and current topics in the world of food.
Back at the end of September I learned that a new bar/restaurant was planned for what was home to Backyard Social for many years. Called The Noshpit, they look to offer sandwiches, soup, hot dogs, drinks, and more. I spoke with the owner of The Noshpit, Jeff Jones, the other day about the new place, and here is what I learned.
Continue reading “Nosh at The Noshpit in the Old Backyard Social Space in Portland”
The Loncheria Los Mayas truck has moved. I drove by the corner of NE Prescott and 42nd the other day and noticed that the Loncheria Los Mayas truck was no longer there. The property has been sold, too, in September 2025. However, I since learned that the taco truck folks have consolidated into their location on NE Alberta. And a neighbor said, “They will hopefully have a 42nd Ave location early next spring.” Meanwhile, enjoy their delicious Yucatecan food on NE Alberta. 2515 NE Alberta Street, Portland
Continue reading “Small Bites: Loncheria Los Mayas, Soen, 28 Tigers, and More”
Last month I stopped in at Recess, the restaurant in the new Cambria Hotel located in the Pearl District. They opened this past August 7. I had a chance meet the staff, hear about their work, and see what they are bringing to the neighborhood—especially when it comes to food and drink. Here’s what I learned during that visit.
Continue reading “Get to Know Recess, the Restaurant in Portland’s Cambria Hotel”
OK Chicken & Khao Soi has been the source of a lot of chatter and speculation over the months since it was first reported in The Oregonian. I, too have been curious and wanted to learn more, so I reached out to them. I had a chance to chat with Sam Smith, one of the owners. Here is what I learned.
Continue reading “OK Chicken & Khao Soi Will Open in the Old Pok Pok Space in Portland”
Tamalada in Portland is back! I attended a tamalada—a group tamale-making party around the holidays—organized by Hot Mama Salsa and Three Sisters Nixtamal pre-pandemic (2019) and loved it. We learned how to prepare the masa, fill the corn husks, and steam the tamales—and we got to take some tamales home. It was fantastic!
So you can imagine how happy I was to see that these same two women-owned and led businesses have brought it back this year. This time it will take place at Hot Mama Salsa’s headquarters in Southeast Portland. There are two sessions on Sunday, December 14: 2pm to 3:30pm and 4pm to 5:30pm. It’s $65; you can reserve your spot and pay them on Venmo. DM them with questions. 333 SE 2nd Avenue, Portland
Continue reading “Small Bites: Tamalada, Crispy Cones, ZabPinto Thai, and More”