For casual dining, make sure to check out:
Food Carts: There are many permanent food cart locations in the downtown area at SW 10th & Alder, SW 5th & Stark and SW 3rd & Stark, as well as in the Northeast on Alberta between 11th and 30th, at NE Mississippi Marketplace at 4233 N. Mississippi, Southeast at SE 2nd and Oak and 50th and Division. There are many ethnic choices in all locations.
Bunk Sandwiches: Don’t miss this casual, sandwich shop on the Eastside that is purported to be one of the best in the US, according to Food and Wine Magazine. Don’t let the neighborhood, or its casualness, deter you. The food is wonderful. I particularly loved the tasty pulled pork sandwich with an apple slaw!! 621 SE Morrison. There is a second location downtown at 211 SW 6th.
Petit Provence: On the busy Alberta St. corridor, this French Boulangerie and Patisserie is a perfect spot for casual dining. The breakfast items are perfect for a weekend brunch. The portions are huge. 1824 NE Alberta.
Food & Wine Magazine recommends Laurelhurst Market, which is a butcher shop by day, steak house by night. It also has sandwiches during the day. 3155 E. Burnside.
St. Honore Boulangerie: At 2335 NW Thurman, is a wonderful French bakery and café. A perfect spot for a croissant (try the almond) and a café au lait.
Hollywood Farmers Market: A fun place for local foods, coffee, breads, meats, cheeses, fruits, flowers and produce on Saturdays. It is open all year and can be found at NE Hancock between 44th and 45th.
Behind the Museum Cafe: Across from the Portland Art Museum, this is a great spot for coffee, tea and lunch. 1229 SW 10th Ave.
Recent articles have recommended Bamboo Sushi and Distillery Row with six distilleries available for tastings and tours.