Portland Airport's Best Foodie Delights

what to eat at portland airport

Portland International Airport (PDX) has been voted one of the best domestic airports in the United States, and for good reason. The airport boasts a plethora of dining options, ranging from local favourites to popular chains. Whether you're craving a quick bite or a sit-down meal, PDX has something for everyone. The airport also offers a variety of amenities, including a movie theatre, live music, and tasting rooms, making it a unique and enjoyable travel experience. With its quirky, craft-driven atmosphere, inclusive menu options, and fresh local food and drink brands, PDX strives to reflect the spirit of Portland itself.

Characteristics Values
Food Options Fresh-made pasta, gourmet doughnuts, burgers, burritos, banh mi, grilled cheese, fried cheese curds, ice cream, vermicelli bowls, mac and cheese, pizza, salads, sushi, sandwiches, quiche, bagels, cured pastrami, fried chicken, and more
Drinks Coffee, tea, wine, spirits, cocktails, beer
Notable Establishments Bambuza Vietnam Kitchen, Blue Star Donuts, Stumptown Coffee, Portland Roasting Company, Starbucks, Vino Volo, Westward Whiskey, Henry's Tavern, Grassa, Tillamook, Juliett, Deschutes Brewing, Burgerville, Cha! Cha! Cha!, Hopworks Brewery, Evergreens, Mo's Seafood & Chowder, Capers Bistro, Oven and Shaker
Other Amenities Movie theater, live music, tasting rooms
Pricing Portland International Airport has a "street pricing program", meaning prices at the airport are the same as in the city

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Breakfast at Henry's Tavern

If you're looking for a hearty breakfast to start your travels on the right note, Henry's Tavern, located next to Gate C11, is an excellent choice at Portland Airport. This airport eatery is a vestige of the OG Portland brewing legend, Henry Weinhard, and offers a delightful breakfast menu that will satisfy any early morning cravings.

The star of the breakfast menu at Henry's Tavern is undoubtedly their signature breakfast sandwich. This sandwich is a cut above the rest, served on a tangy, oversized English muffin. Inside, you'll find a fluffy layer of scrambled eggs, a thick and juicy sausage patty, and melted Tillamook sharp cheddar cheese. It's a classic breakfast combination done exceptionally well. If you prefer your breakfasts on the spicier side, don't hesitate to ask for some hot sauce to give it an extra kick.

While the breakfast sandwich is a standout option, Henry's Tavern also offers other breakfast items that are worth considering. If you're seeking something more substantial, their Brewhouse burger is a solid choice. This burger is cooked to a perfect medium-rare, with a bloody patty sandwiched between a stack of pickles and mustard-seed. It's an archetypal burger that satisfies any meat cravings.

In addition to their food, Henry's Tavern also boasts an impressive beverage selection. With 32 taps of beer, you'll have plenty of options to pair your breakfast with a refreshing brew. And if you're travelling with children or simply have a sweet tooth, they also offer creamy scoops of Tillamook ice cream, which is sure to hit the spot.

So, if you're looking for a filling and delicious breakfast at Portland Airport, Henry's Tavern should be at the top of your list. Their generous portions, tasty food, and variety of beverage options make for an enjoyable dining experience before boarding your flight.

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Doughnuts at Blue Star

Blue Star Donuts is a justly famed Portland doughnut shop located in the North Lobby (Concourse D/E Post-Security) of Portland International Airport. It is the perfect spot to grab a quick bite and a cup of coffee before your flight.

Blue Star Donuts offers a wide variety of gourmet brioche-style doughnuts, including city-exclusive flavours. Some of the popular flavours include the horchata doughnut, which is a brioche doughnut with a light glaze and subtle flavours, and the chocolate buttermilk, which is also highly recommended. They also have unique offerings such as the Valrhona chocolate crunch, bacon maple, and fritters.

In addition to their doughnuts, Blue Star Donuts serves their signature coffee blend, crafted by the locally adored roaster, Coava Coffee. Their coffee is available in metal thermoses, and they also offer nitro cold brew on tap. If you're looking for a refreshing beverage to pair with your doughnut, their coffee options are worth considering.

Blue Star Donuts at Portland International Airport is open daily from 4 am to 9 pm. However, it is important to note that they may occasionally be closed or sold out during their posted operating hours, as indicated by some customer reviews. The doughnuts are also on the pricey side, with six doughnuts costing around $23.50. Nonetheless, many customers find them worth the price, and the shop is rated 4.5 out of 5 on Tripadvisor.

So, if you're looking for a sweet treat and a cup of coffee before your flight, Blue Star Donuts is a great option. Be sure to check them out and indulge in their delicious offerings!

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Lunch at Tamale Boy

If you're looking for a lunch option at Portland Airport, Tamale Boy, next to Gate D4, is a great choice. This longtime cart favourite has two brick-and-mortar locations in the city and offers a variety of delicious tamales that are perfect for a quick and convenient lunch on the go.

One of the most popular items on the menu is the Tamale Norteño, which has earned a reputation as the best choice for lunch at the airport. While the full menu offers a range of tamales with various fillings, the Tamale Norteño stands out as a favourite among travellers.

Tamale Boy is known for its fresh and flavourful tamales, handcrafted with high-quality ingredients. The tamales are typically served in corn husks or banana leaves, steamed to perfection, and filled with a variety of options, including meat, cheese, vegetables, or a combination of these ingredients.

In addition to the signature tamales, Tamale Boy may also offer side dishes such as rice, beans, or plantains. The menu may include vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options to accommodate diverse dietary needs and preferences. It's always a good idea to inquire about any allergen information and available options when ordering.

When you visit Tamale Boy at Portland Airport, you can expect a quick and casual dining experience. The service is designed to be efficient, ensuring travellers can enjoy a tasty meal without missing their flights. The atmosphere is lively, reflecting the energy of the airport and the diverse range of travellers passing through.

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Coffee at Stumptown

Stumptown Coffee Roasters is a popular coffee shop located just past the A-B-C security checkpoint at Portland Airport. Known for its third-wave espresso drinks and great roasts, Stumptown is a reliable choice for coffee lovers. Their classic Hair Bender roast, with dark chocolate and citrus notes, is a favourite among customers and can be enjoyed as an Americano or a latte. While the quality of the coffee may vary depending on the barista, Stumptown is generally recognised for its pursuit of creating the world's best coffee.

In addition to their classic roasts, Stumptown also offers a variety of unique coffee blends and single-origin drip brewing options. Their cold brew is available on draft, as well as in stubbies, cartons, and cans, providing travellers with a refreshing option. The cafe itself cultivates a warm and inviting atmosphere, welcoming visitors and citizens alike with a range of living room-style seating options.

Stumptown Coffee has become a well-known name in the coffee industry, with cafes located not only in Portland but also in Seattle, New York, Los Angeles, and New Orleans. The company was founded in 1999 and has since been committed to ethical sourcing practices and building long-term relationships with small-scale producer partners worldwide. This dedication to quality and transparency has earned them a reputation as one of the best coffee brands in the world.

One of Stumptown's innovative partnerships includes the release of a limited-edition Coraline Cold Brew in collaboration with the Portland-based animation studio, LAIKA. This special-edition cold brew was inspired by the award-winning film "Coraline" and featured exclusive menu items, cafe art installations, and merchandise. The Coraline Coconut Cream Cold Brew, in particular, combined creamy coconut cream with the nutty sweetness and dark chocolate notes of Stumptown's Original Cold Brew, creating a magical beverage experience.

Whether you're a coffee connoisseur or simply looking for a warm send-off before your flight, Stumptown Coffee at Portland Airport is worth a visit. With a variety of coffee options, a cosy atmosphere, and a reputation for quality, it's no wonder that Stumptown has become a go-to destination for travellers seeking a pre-flight coffee or a comfortable place to work and people-watch.

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Dinner at Grassa

If you're looking for a spot to have dinner at Portland Airport, Grassa is a great option. Grassa is known for its inclusive options, catering to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets, so there's something for everyone. While I wasn't able to find specific menu items for Grassa at Portland Airport, I can provide you with a general idea of what to expect.

Grassa is a popular choice for Italian cuisine, and you'll likely find a variety of pasta dishes on the menu. You can expect fresh, handmade pasta prepared with high-quality ingredients. From classic spaghetti to more unique creations, there's something to satisfy your carb cravings.

In addition to pasta, Grassa might also offer a selection of Italian appetizers, salads, and mains. You might find options like bruschetta, caprese salad, and grilled vegetables for those seeking lighter options. For heartier fare, they may have dishes like chicken parmesan, grilled salmon, or a variety of pizzas.

The restaurant likely has a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for unwinding before your flight. The service is probably friendly and efficient, ensuring you have a pleasant dining experience even if you're short on time.

While I can't provide specific menu recommendations for Grassa, with its range of options, you're sure to find something delicious to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. So, if you're craving a taste of Italy, Grassa at Portland Airport is worth considering for your dinner plans.

Frequently asked questions

Henry's Tavern, located next to Gate C11, serves a highly-rated breakfast sandwich with sausage, egg, and cheese on a tangy, oversized English muffin. If you're after something a little healthier, Stumptown Coffee, just past the A-B-C security checkpoint, offers third-wave espresso drinks.

Bambuza Vietnam Kitchen, located near Gate E8, serves hearty vermicelli bowls and banh mi. For something more familiar, there are several national chains in the food court near Gate C7, including McDonald's and Potbelly Sandwiches.

Juliett, a women-in-aviation-themed bar located in Concourse E, is known for its fancy cocktails and view of the planes. For something more low-key, Blue Star Donuts offers a range of unique flavours, including Blueberry Bourbon Basil and Buttermilk Old-Fashioned, delivered fresh several times a day.

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