(c) 2012 John Valls, Travel Portland
Enjoying all of Oregon’s inspired eats, from Willamette Valley wines to Eastern Oregon beef, can be a challenge. After all, Portland’s rich food scene alone is enough to put hundreds of miles on your tires (not to mention a few inches on your waist). Thankfully, Aug. 10-12, The Bite of Oregon takes the distance out of these sought-after delicacies, packing more than 100 restaurants into downtown Portland’s Waterfront Park for a three-day festival of finger-licking fun.
This year’s restaurant lineup isn’t final yet, but last year featured dishes like seafood chowder from Salty’s, seared ahi tuna from Ruth’s Chris and braised beef cheeks from 23 Hoyt, plus sweets from Voodoo Doughnut and Beaverton Bakery. This year, look for offerings from some favorite local food carts, as well. Servings range in size and cost $2-10.
You can also count on plenty of Oregon craft beer and local wine to wash it down. Eugene’s Ninkasi Brewing will pour their seven-hopped Maiden the Shade summer brew, while Portland’s Cascade Brewing will serve up their sour-styled Raspberry Wheat beer, fermented with fresh, tart fruit. Those who prefer grapes to berries can revel in amazing varietals from all over the state.
Also on the menu: entertainment, in the form of live music, chef demonstrations and cooking competitions. Tickets are $5 for the entire weekend, and are available at the gate or online in advance. Little tummies are a bargain: Kids 12 and under are admitted for free.
Heading into its 29th year, Portland’s Cinco de Mayo Fiesta (May 3-5) kicks off a summer of celebration in Waterfront Park, downtown’s stretch of green space along the Willamette River that’s home to concerts, festivals and events of all kinds. This three-day fiesta, presented by the Portland Guadalajara Sister City Association, celebrates Mexican-American culture with music, dance, carnival rides, lucha libre wrestling and plenty of authentic food.
