When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Cartside Food Carts
Why Cartside Food Carts is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Cartside Food Carts is an inviting, family-friendly food cart pod located in the historic Williams District of Portland, Oregon. Situated just a few blocks north of the Rose Quarter, Cartside enjoys a prime location near major entertainment hubs such as the Moda Center, Lloyd Center, Memorial Coliseum, and the Oregon Convention Center, making it an ideal spot for a casual meetup before or after events. The pod features eight diverse food carts offering a wide range of global cuisines from gyro wraps and burritos to Thai delicacies and Korean corn dogs. This variety caters to many tastes and preferences, creating a dynamic culinary experience for visitors. Cartside boasts both heated indoor and outdoor seating, along with an upstairs deck and event space that showcase beautiful city views, providing a comfortable and scenic environment for groups of friends or families to gather and enjoy good food and company. Additional amenities like free WiFi and televisions enhance the social atmosphere. Nearby, The Garden Tavern at Cartside adds to the appeal with its nostalgic 90s Portland sports theme, offering 25 beers and ciders on tap, a full liquor bar, and a welcoming setting perfect for pre-game drinks, casual hangouts, or private events. This combination of great food, beverage options, historic ambiance, and convenient location establishes Cartside Food Carts as a fantastic, community-oriented place to meet up with friends in Portland.
Here's what people think of Cartside Food Carts
As of recent, Cartside Food Carts holds a 4.7-star rating based on 333 reviews.
Customer feedback for Cartside Food Carts is overwhelmingly positive, reflected in its strong 4.7-star rating from over 330 reviews. Many reviewers praise the diversity and quality of the food options available, highlighting the delicious and authentic flavors from different cuisines. Visitors often mention the friendly atmosphere and the convenience of having multiple top-notch food carts clustered in one location. The heated seating areas and outdoor space are frequently noted as comfortable and appealing, especially for groups looking to relax in a vibrant environment. Positive comments also emphasize the pod’s accessibility to nearby venues, making it a popular stop for both locals and visitors attending events around the Rose Quarter. On the other hand, some negative reviews occasionally touch on busy times when seating can be limited or wait times for food can be longer, which is typical for popular food pods. A few customers would like to see an even broader range of carts or extended hours to accommodate more visitors. Overall, the positive reviews strongly outweigh the negatives, underscoring Cartside Food Carts’ reputation as a beloved and lively food hub. The feedback illustrates a well-maintained space that fosters community and provides a reliable, enjoyable dining experience for friends and families alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Allie Marini
So many delicious options here, great for vegetarian choices. Good amount of seating & an adjacent bar with inside seating & many local events. BBQ, Korean chicken, Burgers, Mexican, Cajun, Gyros & more.
Alexis Jetland
I stumbled on this one just passing by last week. SO CUTE! Was able to walk in, grab a beer and go upstairs to this beautiful little covered rooftop area. Was just killing time before an appointment but will definitely be back to spend more time! Bartender was super friendly 😊
Bella Azcarraga
I recently visited this food cart place and was thoroughly impressed. The atmosphere is bright and welcoming, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a meal. The bar drinks are amazing, with a great selection that caters to all tastes. What really stood out to me was the exceptional customer service provided by Cynthia. She was attentive, friendly, and made the whole experience even better. Highly recommend!
Emily Savage
Wish all the places had been opened. I was hoping you get tacos. Went at 1pm on a Monday. Got shrimp & grits. Was great but not spicy enough for me, so he gave me some hot sauce for free.
Camille Pitts
I had the absolute best espresso martini made by Miguel and Max on Monday night. Seriously, this drink was next-level. Perfectly balanced—smooth vodka, rich espresso, and just the right touch of sweetness. The texture was creamy with a beautiful crema on top, finished off with three espresso beans like a pro. Miguel clearly knows his craft—every sip was bold, smooth, and energizing without being too heavy. If he’s behind the bar, do yourself a favor and order one. Pure perfection in a glass.
How to reach Cartside Food Carts
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Why Cartside Food Carts may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Cartside Food Carts with your friends?
When you want to gather with friends or family for a casual, fun, and flavorful outing, Cartside Food Carts in Portland’s historic Williams District is an unbeatable choice. This vibrant food cart pod not only offers a diverse selection of culinary delights but also creates a laid-back atmosphere ideal for socializing and connecting. With a remarkable 4.7-star rating from over 330 reviews, Cartside clearly resonates with locals and visitors alike who appreciate its blend of excellent food, inviting seating, and accessible location. Whether you’re looking to enjoy an afternoon meal, an evening hangout, or even a private event, this spot effortlessly combines great eats with a welcoming environment that encourages lingering and laughter. Its proximity to major Portland entertainment destinations, including the Moda Center and Oregon Convention Center, makes it a convenient meeting point before or after games, shows, or exhibitions. The heated indoor and outdoor seating options, along with an upstairs deck offering stunning city views, make it comfortable year-round and add to the experience. Plus, free WiFi and TVs enhance your visit whether you’re catching up on sports or streaming entertainment. Altogether, Cartside Food Carts is more than just a dining spot; it’s a community hub where friends come together over food, drinks, and good times.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy at Cartside Food Carts?
Cartside Food Carts provides much more than just amazing food — it fosters a variety of activities that make group meetups memorable and enjoyable. Food lovers can embark on a culinary adventure sampling from multiple carts that offer diverse global flavors, such as Greek gyros, Thai dishes, Korean corn dogs, and hearty burritos. The setup encourages communal dining experiences where groups can share tastes and discover new favorites. Beyond eating, the venue serves as an excellent place to relax and socialize in its spacious seating areas. With heated seating options both indoors and outdoors, friends can comfortably hang out regardless of the weather, making it an ideal place for casual gatherings year-round. The upstairs deck adds an additional dimension, allowing groups to enjoy city skyline views while chatting or celebrating special moments. For those interested in sports or entertainment, Cartside also offers several TVs throughout the venue, perfect for cheering on favorite local teams or catching live broadcasts together. If your group enjoys a refreshing drink, The Garden Tavern housed within Cartside features 25 beers and ciders on tap along with a full liquor bar, catering perfectly to groups who want to sip and savor during their visit. Finally, it also functions as a private event venue, which means you can arrange catered meetups, celebrations, or corporate gatherings, all wrapped in the welcoming vibes of this historic area.
Why is Cartside Food Carts perfect for group meetups?
Cartside Food Carts was designed with social gatherings in mind, making it a stellar choice for group meetups. The flexible seating arrangements, including large communal tables and cozy booths, easily accommodate groups of various sizes, ensuring everyone can sit together comfortably without feeling cramped. This inclusive layout encourages conversation and mingling, a key element for any successful get-together. The range of diverse food options caters to different tastes and dietary preferences within one group, so no one has to compromise or settle on just one cuisine. This can make organizing group dinners stress-free, as everyone can find something they love in one place. The combination of warm, heated seating and vibrant outdoor spaces means your group can adapt to whatever weather Portland throws your way, extending your social time comfortably day or evening. Conveniently located near major concert and sporting venues, it’s an excellent meeting spot before or after events, eliminating the hassle of commuting across town. Free WiFi means groups can stay connected or share moments on social media effortlessly. From casual lunches with friends to family outings or even work gatherings, Cartside’s ambiance blends fun, flavor, and functionality.
What food and drink options make Cartside Food Carts unique?
Cartside Food Carts showcases some of Portland’s newest and most beloved food carts, delivering a rare fusion of tastes from around the world in one vibrant space. Here you can find everything from classic gyro wraps bursting with Mediterranean flavors to spicy Korean corn dogs that offer a playful twist on street food. The presence of Thai cuisine adds aromatic and fresh elements with its renowned spices and herbs, while burrito options cater to those craving hearty, filling meals. The diversity allows groups to mix and match dishes and discover new favorites with ease. Complementing this food variety is The Garden Tavern, a stand-out part of the Cartside experience. This establishment channels Portland’s local sports culture with a nostalgic nod to the 90’s and offers an impressive menu of 25 beers and ciders on tap, as well as a fully stocked liquor bar. This means whether your group has beer enthusiasts, cocktail lovers, or those who prefer bottles and cans to go, everyone’s beverage preferences are accommodated. The Tavern’s welcoming atmosphere paired with great music and drinks makes it a perfect spot for casual catch-ups or lively celebrations alongside your meal.
What is the historical and cultural significance of Cartside Food Carts’ location?
Cartside Food Carts is situated on Williams Avenue in Portland’s historic Williams District, a neighborhood rich in cultural heritage and transformation. This area was once known as Black Broadway, Portland’s historic hub of Black culture and jazz from the 1940s and 50s. The streets around Cartside once reverberated with live jazz performances from legends like Duke Ellington and Oscar Peterson, creating a vibrant atmosphere for nightlife and community gathering. Though the neighborhood has evolved over the decades, this legacy remains visible through public art installations and community projects that celebrate the history and contributions of Portland’s Black population. Choosing Cartside as your meetup spot offers more than just good food; it connects you to an area infused with deep cultural history and ongoing revitalization. Visitors and locals alike can appreciate not only the culinary offerings but also the story of the neighborhood, adding a meaningful backdrop to every gathering. This connection to local culture and history often enriches conversations and experiences, giving friends and families a greater sense of place and community.
How accessible and convenient is Cartside Food Carts for visitors?
Cartside Food Carts boasts an exceptional location that makes it incredibly accessible and convenient for visitors, especially groups. Nestled just a few blocks north of the Rose Quarter, it is a short walk or bike ride from major Portland landmarks including the Moda Center, Lloyd Center, Memorial Coliseum, and the Oregon Convention Center. This centrality makes it an ideal stop when attending events in any of these venues, so groups can easily meet before or after activities without complicated transportation arrangements. Ample nearby parking and bike facilities add to the convenience, accommodating different travel preferences. Its accessibility extends to being family-friendly and welcoming to a broad spectrum of visitors, no matter their age or background. The range of indoor and outdoor seating options means it adapts well to different mobility needs and group sizes. Free WiFi allows everyone to stay connected, whether for sharing photos of the meetup, looking up information on food carts, or streaming entertainment. Overall, Cartside presents a well-rounded package of location, ease of access, and facilities that simplifies planning and maximizes enjoyment for any group visit.
What makes the atmosphere and vibe at Cartside Food Carts ideal for socializing?
The atmosphere at Cartside Food Carts strikes the perfect balance between casual comfort and lively energy, creating an environment that is naturally conducive to socializing with friends and family. Its food cart pod design encourages a communal dining experience, inviting guests to browse multiple vendors before deciding on their meals, which sparks conversation and shared discovery. The heated seating areas, both inside and out, allow groups to stay comfortable and cozy regardless of season or weather, helping meetups linger longer without discomfort. TVs scattered around the space let you catch live sports or music, adding background entertainment that can unify groups with shared enthusiasm or friendly rivalry. The upstairs deck offers a more relaxed, chat-friendly space with city views, ideal for intimate conversations or celebrating special occasions. Combined with The Garden Tavern’s welcoming bar scene and nostalgic vibe, the whole setting feels welcoming yet vibrant, making it a place where friends can easily reconnect, families can unwind, and new friendships can start. The combination of great food, drinks, thoughtful design, and historical ambiance results in an unbeatable social hub in Portland.