Portland’s culinary scene is as diverse as it is delicious, offering a plethora of affordable eats that don’t compromise on flavor or quality. From food carts to cozy cafes, the city is brimming with options for those looking to indulge without breaking the bank. Below, we’ve curated a list of 10 must-try dishes, all priced under $10, based on real customer reviews and local food guides. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these budget-friendly eats are sure to satisfy your cravings.

1. Classic Jian Bing from Bing Mi

  • Restaurant: Bing Mi

  • Description: A savory Chinese crepe stuffed with egg, scallions, cilantro, pickled mustard greens, and a choice of protein, topped with a crispy wonton cracker and sweet and spicy chili sauce.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: This street food gem is celebrated for its bold flavors and affordability. Tripadvisor reviewers praise its “crunchy inside, soft outside” texture, making it a favorite at Portland’s food cart pods.

  • Price: $9

  • Location: 901 SW Salmon St, Portland, OR 97204 or 6035 NE 60th Ave, Portland, OR 97218

2. Tavern Burger from Tulip Shop Tavern

  • Restaurant: Tulip Shop Tavern

  • Description: A classic smash burger with lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and mayo on a soft bun.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: This hearty burger is a staple at Tulip Shop Tavern, lauded by Oregon Live as “the platonic ideal of bar food.” It’s a filling meal for just $10.

  • Price: $10

  • Location: 825 N Killingsworth St, Portland, OR 97217

3. Khao Pyan Sane from Rangoon Bistro

  • Restaurant: Rangoon Bistro

  • Description: A Burmese noodle dish featuring rice noodles in a rich, coconut-based broth with chicken, crispy noodles, and herbs.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Burmese cuisine is rare in Portland, and this dish’s unique flavors shine. Yelp reviewers love its “bright and flavorful” profile, perfect for food adventurers.

  • Price: $9

  • Location: 2311 SE 50th Ave, Portland, OR 97215

4. Panuchos from Loncheria Los Mayas

  • Restaurant: Loncheria Los Mayas

  • Description: Yucatecan snacks with a fried tortilla, black bean paste, shredded turkey or chicken, lettuce, tomato, red onion, and avocado.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: These flavorful snacks are a steal, with Yelp users calling them “delicious” and “authentic.” Two panuchos make a satisfying meal for $9.

  • Price: $4.50 each (two for $9)

  • Location: 4212 NE Prescott St, Portland, OR 97218

5. Tofu Rolls from Bui Tofu

  • Restaurant: Bui Tofu

  • Description: Fresh spring rolls filled with house-made tofu, vermicelli, lettuce, and herbs, served with peanut sauce.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Bui Tofu’s high-quality tofu makes these rolls a healthy, flavorful choice. Portland Monthly calls it a “Portland institution,” with reviewers praising the fresh ingredients.

  • Price: $4.75

  • Location: 520 NE 76th Ave, Portland, OR 97213

6. KJG Dog from Kim Jong Grillin'

  • Restaurant: Kim Jong Grillin'

  • Description: A Korean-style hot dog topped with kimchi, gochujang sauce, and sesame seeds.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: This fusion dish blends Korean and American flavors, earning praise from Yelp for its “bold flavors.” It’s a unique, affordable snack at $7.

  • Price: $7

  • Location: 4606 SE Division St, Portland, OR 97206

7. Less-Involved Burritos from Mole Mole

  • Restaurant: Mole Mole

  • Description: Simple burritos with beans, rice, cheese, and a choice of protein, wrapped in a flour tortilla.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Mole Mole’s quality shines even in their simpler offerings. Eater Portland highlights their consistent excellence, making these burritos a tasty deal at $9.

  • Price: $9

  • Location: 2231 NE Alberta St, Portland, OR 97211

8. Burritos from La Bonita

  • Restaurant: La Bonita

  • Description: Basic burritos with beans, rice, cheese, and optional fillings like carne asada or veggies.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: La Bonita is a local favorite for affordable Mexican fare. Tripadvisor reviewers rave about the “delicious” and “relaxing” experience, with burritos at $8.

  • Price: $8

  • Location: 2839 NE Alberta St, Portland, OR 97211

9. Pizza Slices from Scottie's Pizza Parlor NW

  • Restaurant: Scottie's Pizza Parlor NW

  • Description: New York-style pizza slices with various toppings, served hot and fresh.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Ideal for a quick meal, these slices are a hit for their quality and price. Eater Portland notes their popularity, especially late at night, at $6 or less.

  • Price: $6 or under

  • Location: 685 NW 21st Ave, Portland, OR 97209

10. Bánh Mì from Portland Cà Phê

  • Restaurant: Portland Cà Phê

  • Description: A Vietnamese sandwich with fillings like pork, tofu, or chicken, served on a baguette with pickled veggies and cilantro.

  • Why It’s a Must-Try: Known for its Vietnamese coffee, Portland Cà Phê also excels with its bánh mì. Portland Monthly praises their fresh ingredients, making this $9 sandwich a must-try.

  • Price: $9

  • Location: 2815 SE Holgate Blvd, Portland, OR 97202

Portland’s food scene is a celebration of diversity and affordability, and these 10 dishes under $10 showcase the city’s culinary richness. From the bold flavors of Bing Mi’s jian bing to the comforting burritos at La Bonita, there’s something for every palate and budget. Whether you’re craving a quick slice or an exotic noodle dish, these affordable eats promise a delicious experience. Dive into Portland’s vibrant food culture and savor these must-try dishes!

Price Comparison Table

Dish Restaurant Price Location
Classic Jian Bing Bing Mi $9 901 SW Salmon St, Portland, OR 97204 or 6035 NE 60th Ave, Portland, OR 97218
Tavern Burger Tulip Shop Tavern $10 825 N Killingsworth St, Portland, OR 97217
Khao Pyan Sane Rangoon Bistro $9 2311 SE 50th Ave, Portland, OR 97215
Panuchos Loncheria Los Mayas $4.50 each (two for $9) 4212 NE Prescott St, Portland, OR 97218
Tofu Rolls Bui Tofu $4.75 520 NE 76th Ave, Portland, OR 97213
KJG Dog Kim Jong Grillin' $7 4606 SE Division St, Portland, OR 97206
Less-Involved Burritos Mole Mole $9 2231 NE Alberta St, Portland, OR 97211
Burritos La Bonita $8 2839 NE Alberta St, Portland, OR 97211
Pizza Slices Scottie's Pizza Parlor NW $6 or under 685 NW 21st Ave, Portland, OR 97209
Bánh Mì Portland Cà Phê $9 2815 SE Holgate Blvd, Portland, OR 97202