Portland’s dynamic food scene continues to flourish, offering residents and visitors an array of new dining experiences. Here are some notable additions that have recently enriched the city’s culinary landscape.
Spotlight Brewing and Hollywood Q Food Hall
Located at 4035 NE Sandy Blvd, Spotlight Brewing has opened its doors in the historic Hollywood district. This new brewery, led by brewer Kevin Hanny, offers original craft beers in a space that once housed Pono Brewing Beer Labs and Laurelwood Brewing. Adjacent to Spotlight Brewing is the Hollywood Q Food Hall, featuring stalls for ten diverse micro-restaurants, providing a variety of dining options under one roof.
Alma: A Taste of the Balkans
Alma, situated at 5237 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, brings bold Balkan flavors to Portland. Chef Vedran Jordan, a Sarajevo native, presents dishes like lamb kebabs with pomegranate sauce and roasted eggplant stuffed with tomato. Traditional recipes such as tomato corba, a Turkish soup, are also featured, offering a unique dining experience.
Vya: Spanish-Inspired Tapas and Paella
Vya, located on Southeast Division Street, introduces Spanish-inspired late-night dining to Portland. Founded by Vy and Steve Chao, the restaurant focuses on paella and tapas, aiming to replicate the casual dining culture of Spain. Guests can enjoy classic Valencia mixta paella and a vegan version, along with a variety of small plates.
Portland’s Vibrant Food Cart Scene
Portland’s food cart culture remains a cornerstone of its culinary identity. Notable pods include:
- Cartopia (SE 12th & Hawthorne): A late-night favorite, offering a variety of cuisines with covered seating, making it a go-to spot regardless of the weather.
- Hawthorne Asylum (SE 10th & Madison): Known for its spacious layout and diverse food options, this pod provides a communal dining experience with heated and covered areas.
These new establishments and enduring favorites highlight Portland’s ever-evolving and diverse food scene, inviting all to explore and savor the city’s culinary offerings.