There are plenty of ways to get fast food without getting “fast food,” and in Portland, fortunately, there seem to be hundreds of small restaurants with just such offerings. When you are in a hurry (or just very hungry), spending your time trying to decide which dish to pick can be an irritating task. In an effort to circumvent such frustration the Vanguard has compiled a small list of some tasty and affordable places to try near the Portland State campus.
Beyond the valley of Chipotle
There are plenty of ways to get fast food without getting “fast food,” and in Portland, fortunately, there seem to be hundreds of small restaurants with just such offerings. When you are in a hurry (or just very hungry), spending your time trying to decide which dish to pick can be an irritating task. In an effort to circumvent such frustration the Vanguard has compiled a small list of some tasty and affordable places to try near the Portland State campus.
Chef Naoko1237 S.W. Jefferson St.This delightful cafe offers a lovely bento menu, as well as a heartwarming story. The chef, Naoko Tamura, discovered firsthand that natural and organic foods provide a healthier diet option when she was consistently sick as a child from badly prepared and processed school lunches. Thus, she became an expert in preparing natural meals. Expect your bento to be completely organic, delicious and around $6.75.
Kinara Thai Bistro1126 S.W. 18th Ave.Named after a mythical bird that signifies purity and human excellence, this bistro certainly lives up to its name. Using ingredients from local farms, Kinara has some of the freshest, tastiest Thai food on the west side. Try all your favorite Thai dishes here, as well as some more obscure ones, such as Blue Crab Wontons with cream cheese. Meals average $10.
West Cafe1201 S.W. Jefferson St.This quaint café offers a brunch, lunch and dinner menu. Using seasonal and local ingredients in every dish, this café offers healthy dishes in a lovely setting. Prepare to spend around $7-10.
The Green Onion636 S.W. Jackson St.Fast, friendly and delicious, this Persian restaurant is an excellent spot for lunch or dinner. The owners personally do the cooking and the dish recommendations. A meal will run $5-10.
Thanh Long Restaurant and Bakery635 S.W. College St.A good place for a quick cup of affordable Pho and some fresh salads. If you are adventurous go for the authentic mung bean desserts. An easy walk from campus, this restaurant offers a great and healthy lunch option. Prepare to drop $5-8.
Superdog 1438 S.W. Park Ave. Have you ever met someone who didn’t enjoy a good hot dog? When you are in the mood, certainly pay Superdog a visit. They have a large menu of completely organic meats (including Bratwurst), as well as around 20 different toppings to add. Depending on how many you choose, spend anywhere from $5-8.
Habibi1012 S.W. Morrison St. A friendly and popular Lebanese restaurant to stop into when you want some delicious Mediterranean food at lunch or dinner. People often rave about the fluffy pita and baba ganoush. At Habibi they serve everything from salads to Lebanese pizzas. Depending on how hungry you are you will spend $4-12.
Pizzeria La Lombardia1434 S.W. Park Ave.Here you can find pizza, as well as salads, and the spaghetti is really quite good. If you are not a fan of excessive sauce, ask them to hold the tomato sauce a bit-then it is perfect! Depending on what you order, spend anywhere from $3.50-10.
The Energy Bar1431 S.W. Park Ave. A bar that is known for its smoothies, as well as pastries and healthy, large sandwiches, all for around $4!
Blue Fin Sushi1988 S.W. Broadway Not everyone is a sushi fan, but for those who are, or for those interested in trying some raw fish, Blue Fin Sushi may be the right starting point for you. If not, try their other menu options (teriyaki chicken, miso, noodles, etc.). A big selling point for Blue Fin is their $1.50 per plate Saturday specials.
