Searching for the best tacos in Portland, OR can feel a bit like hunting down a secret recipe. Every corner, every cart, and every tucked-away spot holds a new twist on this favorite dish. The city’s taco scene doesn’t just blend local ingredients with time-honored flavors; it feels like the kitchens and taquerias here are in constant conversation with Portland’s creative spirit. You may think you’ve had a perfect taco before, but in Portland, that’s just the beginning.
I still remember the first time I bit into a taco along NE Mississippi Avenue—fresh cilantro, warm tortilla, and a burst of lime brought the city’s food energy to life. It was impossible not to keep exploring. From sit-down restaurants to lively food carts, I chased one surprise after another. In this guide, you’ll discover spots that locals return to week after week and some under-the-radar gems you’ll wish you found sooner. Prepare to bookmark more than one name. Hungry? Let’s see where your next favorite taco is hiding.
Where to find the best tacos in Portland, OR
Here are some of the top spots to find the best tacos in Portland, OR:
- Por Que No
- Lechon
- Tin Shed Garden Cafe
- Cheryl’s on 12th
- Southpark Seafood
- Elephants Delicatessen
- Island Cafe
- Por Que No
- Jake’s Famous Crawfish
- Nuestra Cocina
1. Por Que No
Por Que No brims with color, creativity, and the warm buzz of Portland’s SE Hawthorne neighborhood. I still remember squeezing a lime over their carnitas taco and realizing how lively the patio always feels—rain or shine. The menu is full of options for all, with vegetarian and vegan tacos that are never treated as an afterthought.
What makes Por Que No special is the way they balance flavor and freshness. Each taco showcases house-made salsas, local produce, and tortillas that carry that perfect chewy bite. It’s clear the kitchen cares about every detail.
If you go, try the pescado (fish) taco for its crisp texture and the barbacoa for signature depth. Sometimes, you just need a place that always hits the spot—this is one of those places.
2. Lechon
Lechon is more than a South American restaurant; it’s an experience wrapped in wood-fired flavor and river views. The first time I walked in, the aroma of grilled vegetables and smoky spices set the mood before I even saw the menu. This isn’t your typical Portland spot. Chef Jaco Smith draws from deep family roots and infuses each dish with creative energy.
Lechon’s approach to tacos is all about balance and boldness. Their vegetarian tacos come loaded with grilled vegetables, fresh salsas, and house-made tortillas that carry a faint hint of smoke. The kitchen takes South American classics and refreshes them for Portland’s palate.
The standout taco: the grilled mushroom taco. It packs flavor and texture, and manages to feel both hearty and fresh. Lechon is the place for those who want a taco that goes a step further.
3. Tin Shed Garden Cafe
Tin Shed Garden Cafe feels like the friendliest backyard you’ve ever been invited into. My first brunch here ended with me lingering over house-made salsa and the satisfying crunch of a garden-fresh slaw. The patio has a loyal following, and everyone seems to bring their dog—which only adds to the neighborhood vibe.
What sets Tin Shed apart isn’t only the community warmth but its commitment to responsibly sourced ingredients. Each taco feels like it was made just for you, with bright vegetables and salsa that never hide behind spice or salt.
For a proper taste, go for their black bean tacos. They’re robust, flavorful, and topped with crisp greens. These tacos show off Portland’s love of inventive, honest food—served up with a side of charm.
4. Cheryl’s on 12th
Cheryl’s on 12th carries that lively, light-filled charm that turns an ordinary meal into something memorable. I once ducked in on a rainy Saturday for their legendary brunch—and found a bustling dining room with the aroma of sizzling breakfasts drifting through the air. The buzz is real, but the service never feels rushed.
The secret to Cheryl’s appeal lies in its attention to freshness and presentation. Tacos here are bright and lively, with house-made tortillas giving each bite a delicate warmth. The kitchen’s focus on balanced flavors shows up in every dish.
The veggie breakfast tacos are a must. Packed with roasted potatoes, sautéed peppers, and fluffy eggs, they’re the perfect brunch staple. Cheryl’s lets you settle in, slow down, and really enjoy each bite of Portland’s downtown scene.
5. Southpark Seafood
Southpark Seafood is the kind of classic Portland spot where you realize how stunning fresh seafood can be. I stopped by on a busy afternoon, drawn in by the display of Pacific oysters and the promise of simple, seasonal plates. Sunlight streams in, and there’s a sense that everything served here is meant to be savored.
What makes Southpark stand out is its dedication to the Pacific Northwest’s bounty. Every plate is built around careful sourcing, so you always get the crisp, clean flavors of top-quality seafood. Sustainability isn’t a buzzword here—it’s a priority you can taste.
Seafood tacos are the must-order here. Think flakey white fish and vibrant slaw, all riding on warm tortillas. Southpark’s tacos are proof that detail and quality belong in every bite.
6. Elephants Delicatessen
Elephants Delicatessen gives off the warm, inviting spirit of an old-world market. I’ve often stopped by for a quick lunch and ended up lingering over the shelves filled with local treats and house-made specialties. The deli feels like a staple for anyone seeking comfort and simple, honest flavor in Portland.
What truly sets Elephants Delicatessen apart is their fusion of classic deli fare with global inspiration. Everything feels thoughtfully made, right down to the hearty salads and bright, freshly chopped veggies in every dish.
For a taco fix, try their grilled veggie tacos. The crisp, roasted vegetables and soft tortillas remind you how satisfying deli food can be when it’s prepared with care. At Elephants, quality never takes a back seat.
7. Island Cafe
Island Cafe feels like a tropical escape—without ever leaving Portland. I first visited on a sunlit day, when the floating patio was buzzing and the river view brought a bit of vacation energy. Surrounded by boats and breezes, it’s easy to lose track of time here.
This spot stands out for its laid-back charm and vibrant, island-inspired flavors. The staff always create a relaxed, welcoming mood, turning a simple meal into a waterside retreat. You’ll find plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options as well.
The fish tacos are the obvious pick. Fresh, flaky fish meets crunchy slaw and a soft tortilla for a simple dish that suits the scenery. At Island Cafe, every bite is summer served up on the river.
8. Por Que No
Por Que No on N Mississippi Ave feels like a party stretched out over lunch, dinner, and the in-between hours. On my last visit, the crowd was a lively mix of regulars and newcomers all digging into platters of tacos. The vibe here is colorful and casual, with a soundtrack of kitchen bustle and friendly chatter spilling onto the street.
What sets this location apart is the chef’s dedication to using local produce in unexpected ways. Every taco feels balanced, the fillings complimented by tangy salsas and fragrant herbs. The menu covers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options without missing a beat.
Don’t skip the grilled salmon taco or the grilled veggie taco. Both showcase why Por Que No makes “simple” feel special—fresh, bold, and a cornerstone of Portland taco culture.
9. Jake’s Famous Crawfish
Jake’s Famous Crawfish blends old Portland charm with a steady focus on the freshest seafood. My first dinner here felt like stepping into a piece of history—surrounded by dark wood, framed photos, and the hum of a busy dining room. There’s a sense of occasion every time you sit down at Jake’s.
What sets Jake’s apart is its consistent quality and commitment to Pacific Northwest ingredients. The menu is filled with seafood classics, but their take on tacos feels refined, spotlighting the day’s best catch in every bite.
The grilled fish tacos are a highlight. Expect flaky white fish, crisp toppings, and tortillas that never overpower their filling. For anyone craving a taste of tradition—served with care and a little nostalgia—Jake’s always delivers.
10. Nuestra Cocina
Nuestra Cocina feels much like walking into a lively home kitchen, with the sizzle of tortillas and laughter floating through the air. My first visit left me lingering long after dinner, soaking in the warmth and hand-painted tiles that fill the room. The staff treat everyone like a regular—which is tough to find in such a beloved spot.
This is where traditional recipes get served with thoughtful, modern touches. Each taco shows off house-made tortillas and bold salsas that never fade into the background. It’s the melding of authenticity and care that keeps diners coming back.
The carne asada tacos are a must. Expertly seasoned and piled high, they show off Nuestra Cocina’s style in every savory bite. This is Portland comfort food at its most honest.
More Things to Try in Portland, OR
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of tacos can I find in Portland?
Portland’s taco scene covers more than just classic beef and chicken. You’ll find everything from seafood, fish, and grilled veggie tacos to creative plant-based options. Many places offer house-made salsas, local vegetables, and gluten-free tortillas.
Are there vegetarian or vegan tacos in Portland?
Absolutely. Many taco spots, including Por Que No and Tin Shed Garden Cafe, offer robust vegetarian and vegan options. Look for tacos with roasted vegetables, beans, and creative plant-based fillings.
Which neighborhoods in Portland are known for great tacos?
Mississippi Avenue, Alberta Street, Division, and Hawthorne all have standout taco places and food carts. Downtown also hides some gems among its restaurants and delis.
Where can I find gluten-free tacos in Portland?
Most modern taquerias and several restaurants, like Elephants Delicatessen and Cheryl’s on 12th, offer gluten-free tortillas or options. Always ask when you order to be sure.
What’s the average price for tacos in Portland?
Expect to pay anywhere from $3 to $6 per taco at food carts or casual spots. Restaurants and higher-end cafes might charge a bit more for premium fillings and gourmet extras.
Are there late-night taco spots in Portland?
Yes. Some places like Nuestra Cocina and Por Que No (depending on the location) offer late hours, especially on weekends. Food cart pods also keep evening cravings sorted.
