Categories > Guides and Tips
The Best Cheap Lunches in Portland to Keep You Full and Happy
From iconic food carts serving crave-worthy dishes to under-the-radar cafes where the locals go for a flavor fix, Portland knows how to do lunch right—without the hefty bill.
If you’re ready to savor big flavors on a small budget, you’re in the right place. Let’s dig into the city’s most delicious cheap eats that prove great food doesn’t have to come with sticker shock.
1. Better Half
Media Credits: betterhalfpdx
Website: http://betterhalfpdx.com/
Address: 25 N Fremont St
Contact: (971) 347-3251
Operating hours:
- Tuesday – Sunday: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
- Monday: Closed
At Better Half, you can dig into a half-roasted turkey sandwich for $12. It’s loaded with herb turkey, fresh greens, and pesto aioli–all tucked into a toasted ciabatta hoagie.
If you’re into plant-based eats, the $11.70 half-vegan chick’n salad is creamy, hearty, and just as satisfying.
Wash it down with a refreshing Hopped Huckleberry Kombucha from Happy Mountain for $4.99—it’s bubbly, fruity, and the perfect finishing touch.
Pro tip: To beat the lunch rush, consider ordering ahead online for quick pickup. This will save you time and ensure you get exactly what you want.
2. My Father’s Place
Media Credits: myfathersplacepdx
Website: https://myfathersplacepdx.com/
Address: 523 SE Grand Ave
Contact: (503) 235-5494
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 7:00 AM – 2:30 PM
My Father’s Place serves up classic diner vibes and seriously satisfying meals. The $14 Philly cheesesteak is loaded with thinly sliced beef, melty cheese, and grilled onions—a go-to for big appetites.
If you’re craving something hearty, the $15.50 burger steak hot platter swaps out a regular burger for a juicy steak patty smothered in savory gravy with comforting sides.
Seafood fans will love the $18.50 seafood platter. It’s a crispy, deep-fried mix of fresh catches served with tartar sauce for that perfect ocean-inspired comfort.
Pro tip: Consider sharing larger meals, like fried chicken or steak, to enjoy a variety of flavors without spending too much.
3. Meat Cheese Bread
Media Credits: meatcheesebreadportland
Website: https://meatcheesebread.com/
Address: 1406 SE Stark St
Contact: (503) 234-1700
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Meat Cheese Breadserves top-notch sandwiches made with fresh, local ingredients.
The $12 Parkkitchen cold sandwich is stacked with tender meats and crunchy veggies—perfect for a light, tasty lunch.
When you enjoy large, comforting foods, the pulled pork hot sandwich (also $12) is loaded with slow-cooked pork on a soft bun and topped with a tangy sauce that’s bursting with flavor.
Pro tip: Look out for daily specials or limited-time sandwiches that provide unique flavors and outstanding value.
4. Taste Tickler
Media Credits: thetastetickler
Website: https://taste-tickler.com/
Address: 1704 NE 14th Ave
Contact: (503) 282-3681
Operating hours:
- Monday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
If you feel like stuffing on some Asian-inspired eats, Taste Tickler has plenty to offer.
The teriyaki chicken plate ($7.95) comes with tender chicken coated in a sweet-savory teriyaki glaze, served over rice with steamed veggies.
Craving beef? The beef teriyaki ($10.50) brings that same umami-packed flavor to juicy slices of beef.
And for those who want to go big, the large colossal combo sandwich ($15.95) is a flavor-packed stack of meats and toppings—a serious bite for the adventurous eater.
Pro tip: Opt for a combo meal with a sandwich and a drink, which often provides the best value for your money.
5. Bake on the Run
Media Credits: bakeontherunpdx
Website: https://www.bakeontherunpdx.com/
Address: Wonderlove Food Pod, 262 SE Main St
Contact: (503) 877-8602
Operating hours:
- Thursday – Saturday: 11:30 AM – 7:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM
- Monday – Wednesday: Closed
At Bake on the Run, Chef Bibi’s chicken chow mein is a must-try for $14. It’s a tasty mix of stir-fried chicken and vibrant veggies tossed in a flavorful sauce.
For a vegan-friendly option, check out the Jai’s dahl rice bowl for $12. It’s a cozy, feel-good dish with perfectly cooked yellow split peas served over fragrant basmati rice—hearty, wholesome, and satisfying.
Pro tip: They also have vegan options, ensuring that everyone can find something delicious and affordable.
6. PDX Dönerländ
Media Credits: pdx_donerland
Website: https://pdxdonerland.com/
Address: 625 NE Killingsworth St
Contact: pdxdonerland.com
Operating hours:
- Wednesday – Thursday: 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM
- Friday – Sunday: 11:30 AM – 7:00 PM
- Monday – Tuesday: Closed
PDX Dönerländ serves up a legit taste of Turkish food. Their lamb doner salad ($13) mixes spiced, savory meat with fresh veggies and a tangy yogurt sauce.
Another great choice is the chicken doner kebab, which is also $13. It features tender, juicy chicken wrapped in soft, homemade flatbread.
Want a little something on the side? The $10 Mediterranean pasta salad is light, flavorful, and pairs perfectly with any main dish.
Pro tip: Use their text ordering system during busy hours to skip the wait and ensure your meal is ready.
7. Kalé
Media Credits: kale_ultimate_japanese
Website: https://www.kalepdx.com/
Address: 50 SW Pine St
Contact: (503) 206-4114
Operating hours:
- Tuesday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Sunday – Monday: Closed
Kalé is a unique lunch spot that puts a creative spin on kale and rice.
A must-try is their Beef Kale Doria ($14.45). It’s a hearty mix of kale rice baked with cheese and packed with rich flavors—perfect for meat lovers.
If you want something lighter, the Vegetable Kale Doria ($13.95) offers a tasty and healthy option. It combines kale rice with fresh seasonal veggies.
Pro tip: Take advantage of their option to customize your bowl with add-ons! This will help you maximize flavor while sticking to your budget.
8. Smart Donkey
Media Credits: smartdo0nkeypdx
Website: https://smartdonkeypdx.com/
Address: 3420 SE 50th Ave
Contact: (971) 544-7219
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Smart Donkey is a lively spot serving up authentic Mexican flavors with a bunch of tasty lunch options that won’t break the bank.
The El Gordo Burrito ($11) has a savory, spicy punch that we love. It’s packed with chicharrón, chorizo, and jalapeños.
Should your taste be craving something a bit new and different, the Zumpango ($11) puts a twist on the classic burrito with adobo-marinated meats wrapped in a warm tortilla.
The Pobre Rico ($7) is a tasty vegetarian choice for a lighter bite. It’s loaded with perfectly seasoned refried beans and cheese.
Pro tip: Remember to try their range of self-serve salsas, which can add a burst of flavor to your meal at no extra cost.
9. El Pilón
Media Credits: elpilonpdx
Website: https://www.elpilonpdx.com/
Address: 431 SW Harvey Milk St
Contact: (971) 716-5055
Operating hours:
- Sunday, Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday -Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Monday: Closed
El Pilón is a great spot to enjoy tasty Colombian dishes without spending a ton.
Their standout dish, the Patacón Pisao for $11.50, is a crispy fried plantain. It’s topped with your choice of protein, garlic sauce, and avocado—giving you a perfect mix of crunch and flavor.
If you’re in the mood for a snack or light lunch, their veggie and Colombian empanadas ($3.99 each) hit the spot. Both are filled with delicious ingredients wrapped in flaky pastry.
Pro tip: Pair your meal with one of their tropical fruit smoothies, which adds a refreshing touch and is typically low-cost.
10. Cubo
Media Credits: cubodecuba
Website: https://www.cuboportland.com/
Address: 3106 SE Hawthorne Blvd
Contact: (971) 544-7801
Operating hours:
- Monday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Cubo serves up some seriously tasty Cuban dishes with big flavors and even bigger portions. T
heir Havana Bowl ($15.96) is a must-try. It features slow-roasted pork shoulder marinated in a house-made mojo. It’s then served with rice, Cuban black beans, and fresh avocado.
Looking for something unique? The Portland Bowl ($14) is a great choice, mixing up similar ingredients with a unique twist.
Pro tip: Cubo often has lunch specials; be sure to ask for any deals that can give you more bang for your buck.
11. Calle 21
Media Credits: calle21pdx
Website: https://calle21pdx.com/
Address: 675 NW 21st Ave
Contact: (503) 954-2668
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Calle 21 is a hidden gem in Portland, serving up tasty Mexican dishes at great prices.
The Azteca Taco, at just $4.05, is a fan favorite. It’s packed with fresh ingredients and wrapped in soft tortillas.
The Fajita Plate, for $16.40, features grilled marinated meats and all the classic toppings and sides for a filling meal.
The Tostada with Carne ($6.65) is another favorite of ours. It features seasoned meat and fresh veggies, with bold flavors that we can’t help but love.
Pro tip: Take advantage of the $13 deal for two tacos and a margarita; it’s among the best lunch deals around.
12. Black Star Grill
Media Credits: blackstargrill
Website: https://www.blackstargrill.com/
Address: 110 NW 10th Ave
Contact: (503) 206-5993
Operating hours:
- Wednesday – Thursday, Sunday: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Friday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Monday – Tuesday: Closed
Black Star Grill is the spot to hit if you’re in the mood for bold Ghanaian flavors without breaking the bank. This laid-back spot is all about bringing those bold West African flavors to the table, making sure you get an authentic taste without spending a ton.
The Black Star Wings ($10) are crispy, spicy, and totally satisfying. Their Jollof Rice is also a steal at only $8. It’s packed with rich spices and served with juicy chicken or beef.
Pro tip: Use their flavorful sauces to enhance your meal without any extra cost, adding depth to your dishes.
13. Goose Hollow Inn
Media Credits: goosehollowinn
Website: https://www.goosehollowinn.com/
Address: 1927 SW Jefferson St
Contact: (503) 228-7010
Operating hours:
- Sunday – Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Goose Hollow Inn is a Portland favorite. It serves tasty and affordable lunch options that satisfy any craving.
One highlight is its half-price pizza deal, where you can grab a whole pizza for just $15.It’s loaded with fresh mozzarella, pepperoni, mushrooms, and a perfectly crispy crust.
The Reuben sandwich is a solid pick if you’re in the mood for something different.
For $15.50, you get tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and gooey Swiss cheese on rye, plus your choice of Russian or Thousand Island dressing.
Pro tip: If you plan to take your meal home, bring your own container to avoid the take-out charge of 0.75 per item. This saves money overall on your bill.
14. Aunt Tillie’s Deli & Pub
Media Credits: aunttilliesdeli
Website: https://aunttilliesdeli.org/
Address: 2000 NE 42nd Ave
Contact: (503) 281-1834
Operating hours:
- Monday – Friday: 9:30 AM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
Aunt Tillie’s Deli & Pub is another Portland favorite for a tasty, affordable lunch.
Their Tillie’s Club sandwich ($11.75) is a hit. It’s packed with turkey, BLT, and mayo, all on toasted sourdough. It’s a perfect balance of flavors, great for a quick bite.
You can also opt for the Aunt Tillie’s Special ($10.75)—a tasty combo of corned beef, salami, Swiss cheese, and all the usual toppings. It also comes with a special sauce that adds a little kick.
Pro tip: If the weather is pleasant, opt for outdoor seating to enjoy your meal under the trees, enhancing your dining experience with a lovely ambiance.
