We’re lucky to live in a place where great food is never far, and often served on wheels. With hundreds of carts and dozens of pods across the region, deciding where to go next can be a challenge (the delicious kind). From quick weekday bites to weekend hangs with friends, these food pod picks offer more than just a meal, they’re a taste of the community, one plate at a time.
Here’s our curated guide to Portland’s most beloved and delicious food cart pods, organized by neighborhood.
Downtown Portland
Pioneer Courthouse Square
Located in the heart of the city, this compact pod delivers big on flavor. Fan favorites like Whole Bowl (vegetarian comfort in a bowl) and Fried Egg I’m In Love make it an ideal lunchtime stop. Grab a bench on the bricks and enjoy a bite in “Portland’s living room.”
The Cart Blocks
This newer downtown hub houses longtime favorites from the old Alder Street pod like Kafta House and Rachel & Rose. Right next to the North Park Blocks, it’s perfect for a stroll after lunch.
Third Avenue Pod
Offering a rotating mix of global cuisine from Mexican to Egyptian to Vietnamese this pod is a quick walk to Tom McCall Waterfront Park, making it ideal for a sunny day picnic.
Midtown Beer Garden
Steps from the MAX line, Midtown Beer Garden is newly renovated with space for 300+ diners and regular events. Expect a solid lineup of multicultural carts and beer garden vibes.
Portland State University Pod
Surrounded by leafy trees and the South Park Blocks, this pod is a go-to for PSU students and staff. You’ll find Thai, Indian, and Mexican carts offering affordable, flavorful meals.
Southwest Portland
Multnomah French Quarter
Nestled in the village-like Multnomah neighborhood, this pod is as charming as it gets. From Yoshi’s sushi to DelToro’s hearty steak bowls, it’s a cozy, eclectic mix with plenty of character and people-watching potential.
Hillsdale Food Park
Right off Capitol Highway, this chill pod has been a Southwest Portland staple since 2012. With shaded picnic seating and a relaxed, community vibe, it draws both locals and weekend explorers. Two longtime favorites you won’t want to miss: Phat Cart, known for its hearty bento bowls, and Pad Kee Mao, serving classic Thai stir‑fry dishes.
Southeast Portland
Cartopia
An anchor of the late-night scene, Cartopia is known for its cult favorites like Potato Champion and Chicken and Guns. It’s comfort food heaven, especially with the fire pit and communal picnic tables.
Springwater Cart Park
Formerly Cartlandia, Springwater Cart Park on SE 82nd brings together roughly 30 carts and a huge covered dining area. A great destination for big groups or adventurous eaters.
Lil’ America at Fracture Brewing
A community-forward pod with BIPOC and queer-owned carts serving bold flavors and fresh ideas. Visit Lil’ America next to Fracture Brewing for a memorable bite.
Hawthorne Asylum
Built for cozy hangs, Hawthorne Asylum has covered seating, a fire pit, and a wild variety of carts from Smaaken Waffle Sandwiches to Le Bistro Montage Ala Cart. Plus, there’s a bar onsite.
Piknik Park
Located in Sellwood-Moreland, Piknik Park is a neighborhood favorite with beer on tap, lawn games, and a rotating mix of carts like Taste of Casablanca and Uncle Tsang’s Kitchen.
The Heist
Located in the historic Woodstock neighborhood, The Heist offers indoor/ outdoor seating, and live music, not to mention a wide variety of top-notch food carts. Try Namo for authentic Himalayan fare or Thai Sunflower for Thai favorites, among many other delicious options.
Flipside
Tucked into the Lents neighborhood, Flipside Bar & Carts offers a full bar, rooftop seating, and standout carts like E-San Thai and Kenbu Sushi.
Barley Pod at Baerlic Brewing
Attached to the brewery, Barley Pod serves up a range of eats from ramen to burgers.
Northeast Portland
The Yard at Montavilla
Located on NE 82nd, The Yard offers a relaxed setting and mix of savory options, a bar cart, covered seating, cornhole boards and a fire pit table.
Park the Carts
Conveniently on MLK Blvd., Park the Carts offers many unique tastes in one location. From savory barbecue to sassy Thai delicacies, Park the Carts brings it to you in one fantastic place.
Piedmont Station
A low-key pod offering sushi burritos, grilled cheese, and dessert options. Piedmont Station offers amenities like a wide range of indoor and outdoor seating options, a play area for kids and on-site restrooms.
Rose City Food Park
This community pod on NE Sandy has a mix of carts and often features live music. Rose City Food Park
North Portland
Cartside
Across from the Moda Center, Cartside blends food carts with a beer hall experience-great pre-event fuel.
St. Johns Food & Beer Porch
St. Johns combines covered outdoor dining with local brews and a solid cart lineup.
Prost Marketplace
Pair your bites with a German brew at Prost Marketplace, home to carts like Matt’s BBQ and DesiPDX.
Burbs
Happy Valley Station
Located right off SE 145th and Sunnyside, Happy Valley Station features over 20 carts with everything from sushi and Hawaiian BBQ to bubble tea. The large indoor seating area and covered patio make it a year-round destination.
Canby Beer Library (Canby)
Tucked in the heart of Canby,Canby Beer Library offers comfort food favorites, Thai street eats, and family-friendly picnic vibes.
The Yard at Elk Lake (Lake Oswego)
Lake Oswego’s first major pod, The Yard at Elk Lake brings upscale carts, a taproom, and seasonal community events.
The Yard Food Park (Salem)
Just south of Portland, The Yard Food Park is a Salem favorite with 18+ carts, a full bar, and regular live music.
BG’s Food Cartel (Beaverton)
BG’s is Beaverton’s flagship pod with a central location and broad variety.
Zesti Carts (Forest Grove)
Zesti offers a cozy spot with diverse carts and a local vibe.
Hillsboro Downtown Station
Downtown Station brings together comfort food, craft beverages, and shaded seating.
Baller Food Park (Tigard)
This one-of-a-kind combo of food pod and sports facility is home to Baller Food Park, featuring food, brews, and 3-on-3 basketball tournaments.
Vancouver & Southwest Washington
Oak Tree Station (Camas)
Set in a park-like space with covered seating, a playground, and room to roam, Oak Tree Station serves up diverse, family-friendly eats in a community-focused setting built for connection and comfort.
Ashwood Taps & Trucks (Washougal)
A laid-back, all-ages tap house and food cart pod serving local drinks and rotating eats. With indoor-outdoor seating, a backyard, and pet-friendly patios, it’s a go-to spot in the heart of Washougal.
From comfort classics to adventurous bites, Portland’s food cart scene has something for every kind of craving. These pods are more than just places to eat they’re gathering spots, creative hubs, and the perfect excuse to try something new every time you stop by.
Go hungry. Go often. And always Go With Local.