FOOD - Portland

One thing I love about Portland, other than shopping tax free, is the chance to enjoy good local food.  I have been to the famous and expensive restaurants such as the likes of Jack's Crawfish, Ruth's Chris Steak House, Picnic House and 23 Hoyt among others but for some reason, it doesn't satisfy my craving for local food.  So I made it a point to go where majority of the locals go...

BURGERS...FIVE GUYS

Whenever I think of US food, first thing that comes to my mind is "Burgers".  So when I asked a friend of mine where the best burger in Portland is, without hesitation his response was Five Guys.  I was like huh?

I was told that the establishment name was derived on the history of its owners.  Just five guys who thought about opening a joint that offers the best burgers in town.  Hmmmm...now only if putting up a business is this simple.

Don't let its name fool you though.  This establishment has won numerous awards as the best burger in town and for good reason.  If their perfectly grilled burgers is not enough, you have the option to choose as many toppings as you wish.  And free peanuts!!!

One thing I found weird (no surprise here...it's Portland!) was the choice of a single or double patty...at the same price.  But heck, I sure am hungry so a double patty for me please!  And oh, they claim to offer less calories than other burgers...


FOOD CART...NONG'S KHAO MAN GAI

Another staple part of Portland's food industry is its food carts.  You have a plethora of choices ranging from Korean, Chinese, Japanese, Mexican, etc.  But one food cart stands above them all...Nong's Khao Man Gai.


Food cart is headed by Nong Poonsukwattana who not only is the boss, but order taker as well.  Her cart has won Portland's best food cart and continue to be one of the more if not most lined up carts in the city.


Best and most popular dish is obviously the name of her store.  Khao Man Gai chicken.  I was surprised that for something so simple, it just packs a lot of flavor.

You know it's good Thai food when Thai people love it...and my Thai friends just can't get enough of this dish.

There are actually a lot more like Voodoo donuts but unfortunately, I had the tonsils back then so no sweets for me.  Oh well, probably next year again if I get the chance :)