Whether you’re just visiting or you’re lucky enough to live in the City of Roses, this list of delicious offerings (and where you can find them) will satisfy the most discerning critic.
Once a food cart in SE, Lardo currently boasts three locations around Portland (West, East and North). When you hear the name, thoughts of overindulgence flood the senses, and with good reason. Lardo celebrates the gourmand in the most glorious way. With sandwiches like the Korean Pork Shoulder, Griddled Mortadella, and the Double Burger slathered in a house-made sauce plus sides such as Corn Dog bites and the popular hand-cut Dirty Fries drenched in pork scraps, marinated peppers, fried herbs and parmesan, you’ll be extra grateful for the large selection of craft brews to wash it all down.
Strain: Hawaiian Skunk
A cross between Hawaiian Indica and Skunk #1, this delightful hybrid will keep you lifted and engaged while stimulating your appetite without inducing too much drowsiness. Equal parts fruity and musky, your tastebuds will be ready for the feast.
Shop: Bridge City Collective
Bridge City Collective, known for their chic decor, knowledgeable budtenders and high quality cannabis, is the perfect spot to stop off at before pigging out since both locations are conveniently located near Lardo in SE and North Portland.
In case you haven’t heard, Portlanders love to wait in line especially for tasty artisanal ice cream treats. And now that warmer weather is around the bend, you can guarantee a wait at all three of Portland’s Salt & Straw locations during peak hours (Inside Scoop: There’s usually no wait early afternoon and around dinner time). Expect to find flavors like Stumptown Coffee & Burnside Bourbon, Honey Lavender, Pear & Blue Cheese and Strawberry Honey Balsamic with Black Pepper. Not to mention, they always have at least one non-dairy option on the menu that tastes just as good (if not better) than the rest of the selections.
Strain: Conspiracy Kush
Heroes of the Farm Genetics presents Conspiracy Kush, Obama Kush crossed with Space Queen. It’s the perfect appetizer for your sweet frozen refreshment. The citrus mingles nicely with hints of pepper as a haze washes over the brain and a wave of relaxation washes over the body, making waiting in line a breeze.
Shop: Rip City Remedies
One of the first dispensaries to open in Portland, Rip City Remedies is home to the famous Rip Stick and conveniently located a hop, skip and a jump from the Salt & Straw on SE Division Street. What’s a Rip Stick? A pre-rolled joint with premium flower coated in butane hash oil (BHO) and kief. Yes, it’s as delectable as it sounds.
Portland, the Strip Club Capital of America, is home to Sassy’s Bar, known for tattooed beauties, an inviting happy hour, an impressive beer selection and delicious steak. A top sirloin with a side of fries will cost you $16. There’s no cover, but bring some ones for the ladies!
Strain: Kandy Kush
A combination of OG Kush and Trainwreck, Kandy Kush is a favorite of DNA Genetics’ Reserva Privada line with a strong lemony scent and a sweet confectionary flavor, making this strain perfect for admiring eye candy while relaxing over a pint and a juicy sirloin.
Shop: Belmont Collective
With an emphasis on local organic flower and an on-site licensed massage therapist who offers Deep Tissue, Advanced Hot Stone Massage and Sports Massage, Belmont Collective goes the extra mile. Plus, it’s just a two minute drive and a 13 minute walk from Sassy’s.
There’s a myth that you can’t find good Chinese cuisine in Portland. Obviously, those folks have never tried Szechuan Chef, one of the most authentic spots around. Do yourself a favor and stay away from the Americanized dishes and order items like the Spicy Crab. They pull an enormous live crab from the aquarium when you order. Plus, it’s served with the perfect amount of spicy goodness. An icy cold beer complements the heat.
Strain: Super Silver Haze
Bred by Green House Seeds, Super Silver Haze (Skunk x Northern Lights x Haze) will lift you up as you’re chowing down, stimulating appetite while keeping the dreaded food coma from setting in. It’s energetic vibrations will mingle sweetly with the complexity of the Szechuan spices.
Shop: Little Amsterdam Wellness Center
Only a one minute walk from Szechuan Chef, Little Amsterdam Wellness Center offers Massage Therapy and Acupuncture as well as a lovely selection of flower, concentrates and edibles. Plan ahead, inquire about one of their wellness packages, spark up and save room for something spicy.
This adorable 12-seat xurreria serves a full menu of fried-to-order xurros (pronounced chu-ros), an authentic Spanish snack, and is located in NE Portland. Xurros are available in three sizes or by the dozen and can be served plain or with orange zest-infused marshmallow cream, lemon curd or peanut butter and caramel dipping sauces. Wait, there’s more! Order one pre-dipped in chocolate and sprinkled in Jacobson Salt (harvested from the waters of Netarts Bay on the Oregon Coast) or filled with dulce de leche, crema catalana or housemade crema de xocolata. Yum.
Strain: Chocolate Thunder
With a subtle semi-sweet, slightly bitter and earthy nose, Chocolate Thunder’s (Alaskan Thunder Fuck x Chocolope) aroma is reminiscent of raw cacao and packs a powerful punch. Think of it as a leafy aperitif, a hint of what’s to come.
Shop: Pure Green
Patient owned and operated, Pure Green is located in the former Hollywood Liquor store, one of Oregon’s four original post-Prohibition liquor stores (which is quite fitting since the end of marijuana prohibition was October 1st). Be sure to ask about their daily specials, grab some green and enjoy the scenery on the fifteen minute walk to 180 X.
Bon Appétit!
