Addy's Sandwich Bar

In 2009, Addy Bittner started slinging sandwiches out of a food cart right in the heart of downtown Portland, Oregon. Locals were instantly hooked on her quality, yet simple sandwich varieties served on Little T American Baker baguettes. By 2013, Bittner expanded the menu and upgraded into the adorable brick and mortar space we know and love today. Now residing under charming black-and-white striped awnings, her cozy storefront serves an array of European-style sandwiches, soups, salads, smoothies and beyond that are so tasty they’ll keep you coming back for more. There are three different bread types (baguette, panini, and house-made wheat pita), with a curated selection of sandwiches for each. Be sure to try the ever-satisfying Duck Confit Baguette with house-made duck confit, tangy cranberry relish and fresh shredded cabbage, a standby carried over from the original cart menu. Another must-try is the Chocolate Baguette, topped with a sprinkle of sea salt and a drizzle of artisanal olive oil, resulting in the perfect blend of carbs and rich dessert-y goodness that you simply must taste, as words cannot fully describe just how delightful this sandwich is. As for the paninis, do not pass up the chance to indulge in the Pesto Chicken Sandwich, with vibrant herby pesto, tender chicken, creamy whole milk mozzarella and sweet cherry tomatoes. No meal is complete without the dark Chocolate Almond Truffle, a decadent bite-sized dessert that will truly change your life. If Julie Andrews lived in Portland, she would confidently state that these are a few of her favorite things. The secret behind these delicious creations comes down to the ingredients. Opting for all-natural, organic, and locally-sourced ingredients, the elevated quality of these offerings is palpable. Many of the ingredient sources are listed in plain sight on the website, so you can be confident about the fuel you are putting into your body. So, what are you waiting for? Head over to Addy’s today and start working your way through their mouth-watering menu. Or order a catered spread for the office through Spork Bytes. You only have one life, better spend it eating delicious sandwiches.

Mother's Bistro

Few restaurants in Portland are as beloved as Mother’s Bistro & Bar, founded by chef Lisa Schroeder. Located downtown, Mother’s has built a reputation for serving some of the best comfort food in the city. The concept is simple but powerful: classic home-style dishes inspired by mothers around the world.

The menu features favorites like chicken and dumplings, meatloaf, pot roast, and an outstanding brunch lineup that regularly draws weekend crowds. What sets Mother’s apart is the attention to detail. Each dish is prepared with the same care and warmth you might expect from a home kitchen, but elevated with professional technique and high-quality ingredients.

For many Portland locals, Mother’s Bistro is more than a restaurant. It’s a gathering place where comforting meals and welcoming hospitality come together. Go for breakfast and get the Wild Salmon Hash and a Spicy Bloody Mary.

Sloshy Pops

An instant upgrade to any sweltering day, Cheryl Lisowski’s refreshing boozy popsicles are the warm weather treat you have been searching for your entire life. Seriously, these are life-changing! It all started one summer evening in 2015 when Cheryl, in a desperate attempt to beat, combined the potent powers of a cocktail with the playful, refreshing wonder of a popsicle. Her first ever flavors were Peach Bourbon Basil and Salted Watermelon. With one bite, she knew this magical treat was too delicious not to be shared, and Sloshy Pops was born. The menu offers a wide range of alcoholic popsicles, which are paired with either wine or spirits, as well as a non-alcoholic variety. All the pops are made with fresh, local ingredients. The boozy pops, which are essentially cocktails in popsicle form, playfully pair fruits, herbs, and bitters with traditional liquor selections. The Strawberry Margarita, a unique and elevated spin on the Mexican classic, blends strawberries and tequila with fresh squeezed citrus, orange liqueur, and decadent tequila soaked berries. The wine pops, on the other hand, feature curious combinations with either red or white wines, like in the Raspberry Sangria pop, which contains sweet raspberries, pinot noir, fresh citrus, and brandied cherries. Keep watch for the monthly rotating flavors with enticing seasonal ingredients like mango, lychee, and passion fruit. Want to make an event truly unforgettable? Surprise your guests with Sloshy Pops, served out of an adorably decked out push-cart to retain total icey refreshness. Now, that’s what we call a celebration!

Tin Shed

Located on Alberta Street, Tin Shed Garden Café is a Portland institution known for hearty brunches, dog-friendly patios, and a strong neighborhood following. The restaurant is co-owned by Christie Griffin and Janette Kaden and has been serving the community since 2002.

Tin Shed’s menu focuses on comforting, scratch-made dishes that celebrate seasonal ingredients. Guests can expect favorites like biscuits and gravy, hearty breakfast scrambles, and creative brunch plates that highlight Pacific Northwest flavors.

One of the restaurant’s most distinctive features is its welcoming atmosphere for both people and pets. The café is famously dog-friendly, even offering menu items designed for canine companions.

Whether you’re stopping by for brunch with friends or grabbing a relaxed neighborhood dinner, Tin Shed remains one of Portland’s most cherished women-owned restaurants.

Pambiche

While driving down NE Glisan, you will undoubtedly notice the brightly painted Apambichao apartment building, showcasing vivid canary yellow, royal blue, fuschia, and cyan, standing tall amongst the other buildings on the block. On the East facing wall a massive, 50-by-35-foot mural painted by artists Emily Beeks and Rachel Oleson stands tribute to the rich history and culture of Cuba with depictions of important figures, like musical artists Benny Moré, Celia Cruz, and Our Lady of Charity (La Caridad del Cobre), the patron saint beloved by the island. Just inside is Pambiche, a bustling restaurant, which serves large portions of enticing Caribbean fare and cocktails that are as vibrant as the Victorian building in which it resides. Previously named “Restaurant of the Year” by Willamette Week and “Chef’s Choice” for best Latin American restaurant by The Portland Mercury, Pambiche is well-regarded for their authentic Cuban cuisine. The expansive menu features family recipes that have been passed down for generations. Everything is made from scratch using high quality ingredients. With one bite, you will be transported into Old Havana! The empanadas are baked fresh daily and stuffed with potent flavor combinations. The platos are massive and include an exciting mix of flavors and textures. Seafood lovers must try the Pescado con Coco, a dynamic dish of tender red snapper in a savory coconut pepper sauce, topped with lime, fresh herbs, and Carta de Oro rum, and served alongside caribbean coleslaw and choice of black beans and rice or congrí oriental. Pambiche’s dishes are satisfying and comforting, and pair perfectly with the featured assortment of fruity rum-filled cocktails. Each visit is a tasty and exciting experience; it is no wonder that locals have been flocking here for over 20 years! Treat your guests to a Caribbean spread with catering options through Spork Bytes.

Crisp Salads

Is your body in need of a nourishing, nutrient-dense meal? Look no further than this friendly eatery known for its satisfying and hearty, fresh chopped salads. Their mission is simple - “make flavorful, whole foods more accessible in the Northwest by providing fresh food fast, one neighborhood at a time.” With three locations around the Portland metro area, including one in Happy Valley, we’d say they are succeeding. As a part of their noble objective, they also prioritize sourcing ingredients from local partners and farmers and work avidly to minimize their carbon footprint. Green on the outside, and on the inside, their salads are packed with nutritious veggies and toppings. Choose between a selection of chef-designed salads with inventive ingredient combinations, like the Hail to the Kale with crunchy kale, organic tempeh, vegan parmesan, and crispy chickpeas, tossed in a vegan caesar dressing. Not only is it super tasty but also vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free! If your stomach is growling for a protein-packed carnivorous option, try the ever-popular Chopped Cobb, which combines romaine lettuce, field greens, seared chicken, bacon, avocado, tomato, and cage-free egg with a tangy blue cheese dressing. Or put your own creativity to the test and elect for the build your own option, where you can choose between over 50 fresh, locally sourced ingredients to craft the salad of your dreams. With so many fresh items to choose from, it is easy to find options for every diet whether you are plant-based, dairy-free, gluten-free, or even keto. In addition to extensive salad options, the menu also features a variety of soups and warm bowls. Plus, every salad is available as a wrap! Fast, convenient, and delicious, this will be your new go-to stop for a nutritious midday meal. Crisp is also a great way to feed your team a quick, nutritious meal at work!

Cheryl's On 12th

Since 2012, Cheryl and Ed Casey have been tickling the tummies of Portlanders with their gourmet cafe and market. “Cherly’s on 12th” reads the large sign that hovers over the corner of SW Washington and 12th while brightly colored umbrellas decorate the sidewalk, beckoning you to enter the warm and welcoming space. Inside you’ll find a bustling cafe and charming marketplace with an extensive selection of artisanal foods and gourmet imports such as fine cheeses, wine, and other specialty beverages. The cafe menu is quite impressive, featuring all the New American classics - and we mean all. We are talking pancakes, burritos, French toast, Benedicts, omelettes, salads, sandwiches… The list goes on and on. They even offer a selection of fresh pastries made in-house daily. With seemingly endless options, selecting the perfect brunch item may seem daunting, but fear not! The friendly and helpful staff will surely point you in the right direction. One of our top choices is the Portuguese Fried Rice, which features linguica sausage mixed into umami bacon-and-egg fried rice and topped with green onion and avocado. The Croque Madame, another highlight, layers decadent slices of ham and gruyère on grilled French bread, brushed with mornay sauce, topped with a fresh egg and served with a side of cheesy hashbrowns or roasted red pepper. Yum! Treat your team to a nourishing breakfast spread by placing a catering request today. It’s no wonder this place has been a local standby for almost a decade.

Nuestra Cocina

Nuestra Cocina has been a cornerstone of Portland’s Mexican dining scene for over two decades. Co-owned by Shannon Dooley-Gonzales, the restaurant opened in 2004 and quickly earned a reputation for thoughtful, regional Mexican cuisine.

Unlike many casual Mexican spots, Nuestra Cocina takes a refined approach to traditional dishes. The menu highlights house-made tortillas, carefully sourced ingredients, and recipes that reflect the culinary traditions of Mexico.

Guests regularly rave about dishes like mole, enchiladas, and slow-braised meats, along with seasonal specials that showcase fresh local produce.

The restaurant’s warm atmosphere and dedication to authentic flavors have helped it remain one of Southeast Portland’s most respected dining destinations.

Delicious Donuts

Everyone needs a tasty treat now and again. Next time the mood for sugary goodness strikes, head to this charming donut shop, located on bustling Southeast Grand. Not only are the donuts absolutely delicious (as the name suggests), but the origin story is as sweet as cinnamon sugar. It all started in 2005, when Penny and Boun Nguyen decided to open a business together. These high school sweethearts set out with one mission in mind - to make delicious food and treat every customer like family. And they are known for just that, serving up seriously mouth watering delights accompanied by some of the friendliest customer service you’ve ever encountered. Each day, donuts are freshly made in small batches using quality ingredients and classic pastry techniques.  There are three different categories of donuts; Delicious Big (cinnamon rolls, apple fritters, and apple bear claws), Delicious Regular (twists and filled variety), and Delicious Round (the classic O shaped donuts in raised, old fashioned, and cake). Stand out selections include the soft and fluffy Maple Bar, the rich and buttery blueberry cake donut, and the delectable apple fritter, which is sweet and fruity with a crispy, caramelized exterior. Balance out the sweetness with something warm and caffeinated, like one of their espresso drinks or teas. But it doesn’t stop there. The menu also features fruit smoothies and an array of savory breakfast options including scrambles, omelets, sandwiches, bagels, and the ever-popular and oh-so-satisfying breakfast burritos. Avid breakfast go-ers know the key to a sensational morning meal is to order both a savory dish and a sweet dish, and this shop does it all! These donuts are so scrumptious that they are highly coveted by locals, and even earned recognition by the Oregonian in 2018 as Portland's best donut shop. Often selling out before closing time, it is recommended that you reserve your donuts in advance by calling or placing an order online. Or have Spork Bytes deliver a few dozen directly to you. Be prepared to fall in love with just one bite.

Maruti

Offering a contemporary, wholesome spin on authentic Indian cuisine, this friendly SE Hawthorne eatery serves up some seriously crave-worthy vegan and vegetarian fare. With a focus on holistic health, Maruti transforms traditional homemade recipes into nutritiously balanced dishes, suitable for vegan, gluten-free, and paleo palates alike. The Garlic Naan, which is slow cooked in a clay oven then smothered in Earth Balance, is pillowy soft with perfectly crisped edges. Mushrooms and potatoes marinate in Indian spices and a coconut cream-based tomato sauce for their decadent Tikka Masala. The Paneer Biryani features a medley of basmati rice, garbanzo beans, onions, peas, green beans, and cubes paneer cheese, all cooked in an enticing blend of Indian spices and garnished with fresh cilantro and almonds, served with your choice of sauce. The menu was designed with consideration of the Ayurvedic tradition, an ancient medicinal practice originating in India more than 3,000 years ago, which centers around a holistic approach to physical and mental health. It is no surprise that co-owner Falguni Khanna is deeply passionate about health and wellbeing. Originally born in India, Khanna moved to the U.S. in 1994. Her vision was to create an uplifting and rewarding experience for the local community byway of delicious and nourishing foods. Khanna takes inspiration from her mother’s home-cooked recipes when designing the menu for Maruti. Thanks to her, you can now enjoy hearty and appetizing fare in a fun and welcoming space, and you don’t have to feel guilty about ordering an extra dish… or two. Having trouble choosing? Spork Bytes will curate a menu of Maruti’s best for your next group meal.

Cubo De Cuba

Back in 2010, Emily Blythe (formerly Emily Roskam) and Milko Vigil Escalera began serving authentic Cuban cuisine out of a tiny 7 by 11 foot food cart in downtown Portland. Quickly growing in popularity, it didn’t take long for Cubo de Cuba to transform into the playful, can’t-miss Southeast eatery we know and love today. The vibrantly painted exterior is the first indication that colorful, flavor-packed food awaits just beyond the doors. Inside, the walls are decorated with doodles and scribbles, momentos left by visitors throughout the years. Nestled in the back is a spacious and lively patio - the perfect place for you to enjoy a tasty meal on a hot, sunny day. Bring along your pup, as this patio is dog friendly too! Navigate to the counter to find a tasty menu with a wide selection of protein options for bowls and plates, hot pressed Cuban-style sandwiches, fresh salads, snackable sides, and indulgent empanadas. Try the ever-popular Pollito Bowl - a medley of fluffy rice, seasoned black beans, juicy mango, and creamy avocado, combined with shredded baked chicken in a sweet and tangy house-made guava marinade. Also included are sides of tostones and maduros, staple dishes throughout the Caribbean and Latin America. Plantains are the main ingredient for both these tasty sides, but the flavors couldn’t be more different. While tostones are earthy, savory, salty, and crunchy, made with flattened plantains picked while they are still green, their counterpart, maduros, meaning “ripe” in Spanish, are made with fried yellow plantains and taste sweet with a soft, gooey texture. Both pair perfectly with their fruity house-made sauces, like the zesty Spicy Mojo or the Banana Sauce. No visit is complete without indulging in one of their tropical rum cocktails, like the Guava Colada - a refreshing blended concoction of coconut cream, guava puree, and Bacardi Superior. Elevate your next team meeting with this delightful Cuban fare available for catering with Spork Bytes! Trust us, you will leave with a big ol’ smile on your face.

Aprisa Mexican Cuisine

So you want high quality cuisine without the wait? Well, you are in luck my friend, because this iconic eatery is the answer you’ve been waiting for. Redefining the concept of fast food, Aprisa offers exceptional Mexican fare with a classic drive-through or walk up service window. Convenient and speedy, this is nothing like your typical greasy taco depot. Here, the food is served fresh and prepared using healthy, high quality ingredients. In fact, there isn’t even a freezer or microwave onsite. The menu is simple and easily customizable. Choose between tasty options like burritos, bowls, tacos, tortas and more. Then build-your-own adventure by selecting one of their tempting protein options and adding any delicious topping like shredded Monterey and Jack cheese, sautéed peppers and onions, zesty green chili sauce, tangy Baja sour cream, fresh guacamole and three flavor-packed salsas, which vary in heat. A favorite amongst our team at Spork Bytes is the breakfast burrito, a satisfying combination of fluffy scrambled eggs, grilled potatoes, savory protein (spicy chorizo, sage sausage, crispy bacon, or grilled veggies), and any toppings of choice, tightly rolled into a golden tortilla. Each burrito is branded with their name, Aprisa, on the side, which not only looks cool but adds an extra crunch to the tortilla. Better yet, they open early in the morning, making this the perfect breakfast pit stop on the way into the office. You can also share Aprisa with the entire team, with a burrito bar catered by Spork Bytes. Alongside serving delicious food, their team also focuses on creating a socially and environmentally responsible culture, making company decisions that have smaller impacts on the environment like opting for 100% sustainable and compostable boxes and serving materials. Even the restaurant itself is made out of a recycled shipping container, which would normally be considered industrial waste! This is exactly the type of out-of-the-box thinking that our community needs as the impacts of global warming become more and more devastating. Tasty burritos with a side of sustainability - we say yes, please!

Bella’s Italian Bakery

In Portland’s Lents neighborhood, Bella’s Italian Bakery has quietly built a reputation as one of the city’s best bakeries. Owner Michelle Vernier opened the bakery in 2018, bringing traditional Italian baking techniques and family recipes to the neighborhood.

The small but charming bakery produces a wide variety of Italian pastries and desserts, including cannoli, sfogliatelle, tiramisu, and jam-filled crostata. Guests can also find savory items like focaccia sandwiches and Italian-style pizza slices.

Bella’s is especially known for its welcoming atmosphere and neighborhood feel. It’s the kind of place where regulars stop in for espresso, a pastry, and conversation with the staff.

For anyone exploring Portland’s bakery scene, Bella’s Italian Bakery is a must-visit women-owned business.

City Thai

Tucked into Portland’s Hillsdale neighborhood just off Capitol Highway, City Thai is the kind of restaurant locals love to recommend quietly to friends. Once you try it, it’s easy to see why it has such a loyal following.

Co-owner Summer, originally from Bangkok, has been part of the restaurant for nearly a decade. Her love of Thai cooking comes from her mother’s home kitchen and her grandfather’s Northern Thai roots. In October 2023, when the previous owner decided to move on to a new restaurant, Summer and her partner Duke stepped in to take over City Thai. With strong support from the Hillsdale community, they’ve continued serving authentic Thai dishes while keeping the welcoming neighborhood feel that regulars love.

The menu highlights the bold flavors of Thailand, with favorites like Pad Thai, Massaman Curry, and Mango Sticky Rice. One standout appetizer our team loves is the Chicken Golden Sacks, crispy little bundles that are as tasty as they are cute. With more than a dozen curries, chef’s specials, and plenty of appetizers, there’s something for everyone.

City Thai is also known for its consistency and thoughtful presentation, especially for catering orders. If you’re planning a team lunch, happy hour, or corporate event, this Hillsdale gem is a great way to bring authentic Thai flavors to the table.

Via Chicago

Established in 2009, Via Chicago brought Chicago-style deep-dish pizzas to Portland. In 2013 and after 3 years at the Farmers Market developing recipes and a strong local following, they upgraded to an airy, high-ceilinged spot on NE Alberta. Their roots are still alive, however, and you’ll still see Via Chicago pop up at the Portland Farmers Market seasonally. Owner Tonya Mayhew, a native Midwesterner who has been living in Portland for more than 10 years developed most of the recipes and according to co-founder Kevin Reynolds is “the heart and soul” of Via Chicago. “The interesting thing about Chicago style is that it’s kind of upside down. The meat and the veggies are on the bottom, then you put the cheese and the sauce on top.” - said Tonya in this OPB interview. Baking made-to-order deep-dish pizza requires a lot of time and patience. Completing a single pie can take up to 40 minutes. Luckily this is a great spot for a beverage with 8 rotating taps, over 20 canned or bottled options, and a healthy wine list. So order your pie, have a drink and kick back while the magic happens. Via Chicago has great vegan and vegetarian options and they always have at least one gluten-free pie available with a crust made from almond meal. In fact, any pie can be made vegan with house made tofu ricotta for FREE. Don’t forget to add their soft, buttery garlic knots and pick up a few homemade cannoli. "I think we really satisfy that niche for people who are from the Midwest who are looking for it. A lot of times it's not going to be like your UNO's or Lou Malnati's or whatever you're looking for, but it's unique to Portland" Tonya told the EastOregonian. Fan favorites are the Meaty, featuring hot sausage, pepperoni and giardiniera peppers and the Prosciutto & Arugula. Spork Bytes staff absolutely love the Artichoke & Parmesan, which is available for catering through our website. Midwesterners, this might not be the exact style of pizza you’re used to, but with a thick flaky crust, locally-sourced toppings, and delicious tangy sauce, we feel the spirit of Chicago is alive and well in Portland thanks to Tonya and Via Chicago.

Queen Mama’s Kitchen

Queen Mama’s Kitchen offers a rare culinary experience in Portland: authentic Saudi Arabian cuisine. Founded by chef and owner Hanan Al-Shikh, the restaurant brings Middle Eastern flavors and hospitality to the local dining scene.

The menu features dishes like kabsa, shawarma, and fragrant rice platters filled with spices and slow-cooked meats. Many of the recipes are inspired by family traditions and highlight the bold flavors of Saudi cooking.

Queen Mama’s Kitchen has quickly become a favorite among Portland diners looking for something different. The restaurant’s warm hospitality and vibrant dishes make it a standout in the city’s diverse restaurant landscape.

Cafe Nell

Located in Portland’s Northwest District, Cafe Nell blends European inspiration with Pacific Northwest ingredients. The restaurant is co-owned by restaurateur Vanessa Preston and has built a loyal following for its polished but relaxed dining experience.

The menu changes seasonally and includes dishes like handmade pastas, seafood plates, and creative small plates designed for sharing. Cafe Nell is also known for its lively brunch and carefully curated wine list.

With its welcoming atmosphere and consistently excellent food, Cafe Nell has become a favorite neighborhood destination.

We are grateful for this opportunity to showcase all of our amazing women-owned / co-owned restaurant and business partners. Hopefully we have convinced you by now that not only does supporting women-owned businesses feel great, it tastes great too! With Spork Bytes, you can enjoy any of these outstanding restaurants and more at your next corporate meeting or special event. Get started today to receive a custom proposal. 

Ready for more delicious foodie finds? Give us a follow on social media @sporkbytes and feel free to reach out if you have any questions. 

Enjoy!

The Spork Bytes Team