Portland’s food tour scene packs a punch with authentic local experiences. My favorite routes include the 4-hour Eastside bike excursion, where you’ll pedal between the city’s famous food cart pods – a quintessentially Portland way to eat. The Secret Food Tour stands out for its stops at local institutions, with the Tonkotsu Ramen being a highlight. For those who prefer walking, the Mississippi Avenue tour offers an intimate look at one of Portland’s most dynamic food neighborhoods. The Vibrant Kerns Hood Tour impresses with its mix of global flavors, from Mexican to French to Italian comfort dishes.
Let’s explore these top food adventures in detail.
Key Points
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The Eastside Food Carts tour offers a 4-hour bike tour with diverse cuisine samples and knowledgeable guides for $75 per person.
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The Secret Food Tour provides a 3-hour walking tour in Downtown and Pearl District with local favorites like Tonkotsu Ramen and Simpson Donut for €90.28 to €81.25 per person.
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The Mississippi Avenue Walking Tour is a 3-hour small-group tour with food and drinks at 5-7 locations, including personalized dining recommendations, for $100 per person.
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The Vibrant Kerns Hood Tour is a 3-hour small-group tour with a 1.3-mile walk, featuring Jaliscan, Bretagne, and Italian comfort food, plus gelato, for $105 per person.
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The Guided Foodie Bike Tour has a maximum group size of 10, focuses on vegan and gluten-free options, and highlights women-owned coffee cooperatives and food truck culture.
Portland: Food Carts of the Eastside Bike Tour
The Portland: Food Carts of the Eastside Bike Tour offers an immersive exploration of the city’s renowned food cart scene. Priced from $75 per person, this 4-hour tour takes participants on an 8-12 mile bike ride, visiting four food cart pods and sampling diverse cuisines.
Guests will learn about the evolution of Portland’s food cart culture, from farm-fresh delights to late-night snacks. The tour includes a coffee or tea and food samples, with an option to purchase beer or dessert.
Knowledgeable and personable guides lead the way, though some participants wished for more control over food selections. The tour isn’t suitable for those unable to ride a bike, but dietary restrictions can be accommodated.
Read our full review: Portland: Food Carts of the Eastside Bike Tour Review
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Portland: Secret Food Tour With Local Guide
Discover the culinary secrets of Portland on an enchanting 3-hour Secret Food Tour led by a knowledgeable local guide. Priced from €90.28 to €81.25 per person, this walking tour takes you through Downtown Portland and the Pearl District, stopping at iconic food locations to sample international dishes made from local produce.
Taste a variety of local favorites, including Housemade Sausage, Tonkotsu Ramen, Simpson Donut, and Special Pretzel. With a small group limited to 10 participants, you’ll gain unique insights into Portland’s rich food history and culture.
The tour operates rain or shine, but isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues. An upgraded Drink Package is available for the full experience.
Read our full review: Portland: Secret Food Tour With Local Guide Review
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Portland: Mississippi Avenue Walking Food Tour
Explore the vibrant culinary scene of Portland’s Mississippi Avenue on this 3-hour walking food tour. Priced at $100 per person, this small-group tour (limited to 10 participants) offers a delightful sampling of the neighborhood’s best eats, from perfectly cooked egg sandwiches to melt-in-your-mouth brisket.
Along the way, you’ll visit eclectic shops, learn about the area’s history, and enjoy coffee, cocktails, and more. The tour includes food and drinks at 5-7 locations, as well as personalized recommendations for dining, nightlife, and outdoor recreation in Portland.
Wheelchair accessible and with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour is a must-do for any food-lover visiting the city.
Read our full review: Portland: Mississippi Avenue Walking Food Tour Review
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The Bustling Buckman Hood Food Tour
Nestled in the vibrant Buckman neighborhood, the Bustling Buckman Hood Food Tour invites foodies on a culinary adventure through Portland’s diverse culinary landscape.
Over the course of 3 hours, you will embark on a guided tour, tasting locally sourced ingredients at 5 locally owned eateries, including ethnic contributions like Hat Yai and Kachka.
The tour also features a visit to a craft cocktail tasting room, where both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are offered.
Participants will enjoy Portland’s iconic food cart pod scene and learn about the history of the Buckman neighborhood while walking a total of 1.5 miles through the area’s vintage homes and hipster hangouts.
Read our full review: The Bustling Buckman Hood Food Tour Review
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The Vibrant Kerns Hood Food Tour
The Vibrant Kerns Hood Food Tour invites foodies on a culinary adventure through Portland’s diverse and eclectic Kerns neighborhood.
Priced from $105 per person, this 3-hour small-group tour takes participants on a 1.3-mile stroll, sampling diverse bites from locally-owned eateries. Guests will taste Jaliscan, Bretagne, and Italian comfort food, as well as gelato for dessert.
The tour includes one alcoholic and one non-alcoholic beverage, a local guide, and a gratuity. Dietary accommodations are available, but must be requested before booking.
The tour meets on weekdays at Guero and on weekends at Pambiche, with comfortable shoes and rain gear recommended.
Explore Kerns’ history, architecture, and hipster hangouts on this vibrant food tour.
Read our full review: The Vibrant Kerns Hood Food Tour Review
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Brunch on Mississippi Food Tour
Leaving the vibrant Kerns neighborhood behind, the Portland: Mississippi District Brunch Food Tour invites guests to savor the diverse flavors of the historic Mississippi district.
Over the course of 3 hours, a local guide leads a group of up to 10 participants on a progressive meal, visiting six engaging foodie spots. Guests will enjoy a variety of bites and libations, including a patisserie, local tacos, a food cart pod, a teahouse, and brioche donuts.
The tour covers 1.4 miles, allowing participants to admire the area’s vintage homes, historical brick buildings, music venues, quirky shops, and cozy pubs.
Suitable for all ages, this tour provides a unique opportunity to explore the Mississippi district’s rich culinary and cultural offerings.
Read our full review: Brunch on Mississippi Food Tour Review
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Portland: Food Carts, Pods, & Patios Tour
Frequently, the Portland: Food Carts, Pods, & Patios Tour whisks participants on a flavorful journey through the vibrant Central Eastside neighborhood.
Over three hours, the tour guides visitors to sample 5-7 food carts, including two food cart pods and one brewery. Tasters can expect a global array of cuisine, from Slavic to Mexican to Burmese.
The tour also includes welcome refreshments, a visit to a local restaurant and food market, and a stop at a neighborhood bar.
With an English-speaking guide and all food and drinks included, the tour offers an immersive culinary experience for €103.04 per person, subject to limited group size and 24-hour cancellation policy.
Read our full review: Portland Food Carts, Pods & Patios Tour Review
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Portland: Food Walking Tour
For those seeking a more immersive culinary exploration of Portland, the 3.5-hour Portland: Food Walking Tour offers an engaging and comprehensive experience.
Priced from Kč 2,818 per person, the tour includes a guided walk, food and drinks, and gratuities. Participants can sample signature dishes from the city’s beloved food carts, while a local expert and comedian shares important history and culture.
Though not suitable for those with dietary restrictions, the tour provides a flexible and customizable experience.
With an impressive 4.8/5 rating based on 23 reviews, this tour promises an enjoyable outing filled with great food and knowledgeable insights.
Read our full review: Portland: Food Walking Tour Review
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Portland: Guided Foodie Bike Tour
Embarking on a 3-hour guided foodie bike tour, visitors can expect to explore Portland’s vibrant culinary landscape by cycling through diverse neighborhoods and sampling a variety of local eateries, food carts, and delectable treats.
The tour is priced at $95 per person, with a maximum group size of 10 participants. Highlights include discovering women-owned coffee cooperatives, experiencing the city’s renowned food truck culture, and learning about Portland’s culinary philosophy from an expert guide.
With a focus on vegan and gluten-free options, the tour caters to various dietary needs. Rated 5/5 by travelers, the experience is suitable for couples, families, and solo adventurers alike.
Read our full review: Portland: Guided Foodie Bike Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Food Tours Suitable for Vegetarians or Vegans?
Many food tours cater to various dietary needs, including vegetarians and vegans. It’s best to inquire about the tour’s offerings and whether they can accommodate specific dietary restrictions before booking to ensure a satisfying experience.
Do the Tours Accommodate Food Allergies or Dietary Restrictions?
Many food tours accommodate various dietary needs and restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, and food allergies. Guests should inform the tour operator of any specific requirements when booking to ensure the experience meets their dietary needs.
What Is the Average Duration of the Food Tours?
The average duration of food tours varies, but most range from 2 to 4 hours. Tour lengths depend on the number of stops, distance covered, and the pace of the group. Many tours accommodate dietary restrictions with advance notice.
Are the Tours Wheelchair Accessible or Have Any Mobility Restrictions?
The tours often have mobility and accessibility requirements. Wheelchair users and those with limited mobility should check with the tour operator beforehand to ensure the tour is suitable and accommodating of their needs.
Do the Tours Include Any Alcohol Tastings or Beverage Samplings?
Many food tours in Portland include alcohol tastings or beverage samplings, allowing participants to sample local wines, beers, and spirits. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator for specific details on any alcohol-related activities.
The Sum Up
Portland’s diverse food scene offers a range of tours to satisfy any foodie’s cravings. From bike tours exploring the city’s legendary food carts to walking tours highlighting hidden gems, there’s something for every taste. Whether you’re in the mood for brunch, street food, or fine dining, these tours provide an insider’s look at the vibrant culinary landscape that makes Portland a top destination for food lovers.