When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Lardo
Why Lardo is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Lardo is a popular small chain of sandwich restaurants based out of Portland, Oregon, known for its flavorful and generously sized sandwiches. With several locations including Southeast Hawthorne Boulevard, the Moda Center, and Portland International Airport, Lardo has become a favorite meeting spot for locals and visitors alike. The casual yet vibrant atmosphere makes it an ideal place to catch up with friends or enjoy a hearty meal on the go. Highlighted by their commitment to quality ingredients and inventive sandwich recipes, Lardo offers a menu that caters to diverse tastes while maintaining a focus on traditional sandwich craftsmanship. Although the downtown and other earlier locations have closed, the existing venues continue to cultivate a welcoming community vibe. Whether grabbing lunch during a busy day or relaxing over a weekend bite, Lardo’s combination of rich flavors, convenient locations, and friendly service makes it a satisfyingly sociable destination to meet friends in Portland.
Here's what people think of Lardo
As of recent, Lardo holds a 4.6-star rating based on 2412 reviews.
User reviews of Lardo emphasize its consistent delivery of delicious, hearty sandwiches that keep customers returning. Positive reviews particularly praise the rich, inventive sandwich combinations, generous portions, and the quality of ingredients, often highlighting Lardo as a must-visit for sandwich lovers in Portland. Many reviewers also note the friendly service and comfortable environment conducive for group gatherings or casual meals. On the downside, some reviewers mention the closure of certain locations, such as downtown and Lake Oswego, which disappointed loyal patrons accustomed to those venues. A few reviews point out that some locations can get crowded during peak hours, potentially impacting service speed or seating availability. Despite these negatives, most customers express a strong overall satisfaction with their dining experience, reflecting Lardo's reputation as a top-rated and beloved sandwich restaurant. In conclusion, Lardo maintains a strong positive standing based on user feedback, solidifying its role as a flavorful and inviting spot for friends to meet in Portland.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Diane Jones
I just went to Lardo 2 days in a row with my husband. We got 4 different sandwiches and still there remain a couple more sandwiches on the current menu we'd love to try. We had the Korean Pork Shoulder and BEERia Grilled Cheese the first day, with delicious Caldera Root Beer (which is not that easy to find if you love root beer you know). We split both and absolutely loved both but especially the Korean Pork Shoulder with Kimchi, it was perfection. Then the second day, I have been craving Falafel and Lardo's Falafel Smash Burger with green zhoug was just on my mind, but unfortunately they were sold out of that so I had to make up my mind choosing between too many options - 3 at least strong contenders, but settled on the Smokey Cubano while my husband knew all along he wanted a favorite of his, the Bronx Bomber, which he has had before and found absolutely perfectly done. We got the Dirty Fries which are a meal unto themself - seriously - and we got Beers because the Lardo beer selection is deep and they had just tons of IPA's to choose from - and they were excellent from breweries we love. It was a lot of food! Everything at Lardo is so well done and the beers were absolutely delious. Lardo's menu changes frequently enough with another monthly chef sandwich special changing every month, that's a lot and it is all delicious...and still I can't wait for some of the items to return when it is their season to be back on the menu. The patio is great, inside is cozy on a winter day. It's super local and they are really kind people. They have a great happy hour and a lot of delicious sounding drinks including non alcoholic, if beer and root beer aren't your thing.
Megan Russell
@lardopdx was worth the hype 🤤 The Smokey Cubano with its in house made juicy smoked mojo pork shoulder, thinly shaved ham with perfectly rendered fat, Swiss cheese, sweet pickles, and yellow mustard was a stand out for the meal- definitely the juiciest Cubano we’ve ever had! The Nashville Hot Fried Chicken was cooked perfectly with hot honey, bacon, pickles, Duke’s mayo, white onion- It was sweeter than I expected, but it was very rich and the homemade pickles really added that salty brininess the sweet chicken needed. The current slushies were amazing, a Key Lime Pie slushy with a rim lined in graham crackers and my favorite was the Strawberry Slushie, which is probably one of the best things I’ve ever put in my mouth hole. Excited to come back and try more of the menu and check in for their limited edition chefs sandwiches they do monthly! Also to note- The staff were genuinely nice people, very welcoming, very excited about the menu and explained it to multiple people with excitement each time. And the ambiance was perfect, not stuffy, not taking itself too seriously, just a perfect little sandwich shop with some East Coast vibes. We will be back 🙌 #lardopdx #lardopdx🐷 #portland #pdx #pdxfood
Leslie Iacono
Cool beer menu. Cool people working there. Inside is loud and cramped. Outside has a bunch of tables. They have a grilled cheese, smashed falafel burger (it was 10/10 amazing). Naked fries, I think there was even another veggie option. You can for sure get by here without meat. Order at the counter and they bring the food out. Great pickles. Potato salad has bacon
Ran Alle
Great atmosphere, outdoor dining space. No table service. Food was good, fresh, distinct and tasty - but wasn't great. Beers were delicious. Nice people. Would return for 'not Red Robin' fare.
Chormaic
One of my favorite places to stop when I’m in town (was a regular when I lived here). I LOVE the mortadella and can vouch for just about every sandy I’ve tried over the years. Great for groups and weather permitting, enjoying a beer and sandwich outside. The staff is kind, and service is fast. Only reason atmosphere got 4 stars is the music can be loud at times. My other favorite sandwiches: Nashville fried chicken Korean pork shoulder Chefwich is always good and supports a great cause.
How to reach Lardo
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Website: None
Why Lardo may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Lardo with your friends? Lardo stands out as an exceptional destination for gatherings because it perfectly balances a lively atmosphere with delicious, thoughtfully crafted food that appeals to all palates. Whether you are planning a casual lunch, a celebratory dinner, or a weekend brunch, Lardo's versatile vibe makes it an inviting place to reconnect with friends or family members. With a solid 4.6 rating based on over 2,400 reviews, it is clear that many diners have found value in the quality and experience Lardo offers. The restaurant combines casual dining with a somewhat sophisticated touch, providing a fun yet relaxed setting that encourages conversation and bonding. Its menu, featuring standout items like pork shoulder sandwiches and creative cocktails, caters to diverse tastes, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied. Additionally, Lardo’s smart use of space and efficient ordering system means your group can focus more on enjoying each other’s company and less on the wait or confusion. Rallying here means you get a blend of great food, efficiency, and an energetic atmosphere that makes catching up with friends or hosting family events genuinely memorable.
What activities and atmosphere does Lardo offer to make it great for groups? When it comes to what you can do at Lardo beyond simply dining, the restaurant’s design and concept are geared toward socializing and enjoying meals together in a welcoming environment. First, the seating arrangements encourage group interaction, with communal tables and spacious areas that accommodate parties of various sizes. This setup is ideal for private conversations while still feeling part of the vibrant restaurant buzz around you. Moreover, the restaurant’s ambiance is lively yet comfortable, with a casual-chic décor that elevates the experience without being pretentious. Groups can enjoy everything from a cozy brunch to a spirited evening out. The menu itself encourages sharing—with dishes that are perfect for passing around a table, such as their roasted cauliflower, fresh salads, and melt-in-your-mouth sandwiches. Adding to this, Lardo serves excellent coffee and a curated selection of wines and cocktails that enhance gatherings by complementing the food and encouraging leisurely sipping and chatting. This combination of food, drink, and atmosphere truly makes Lardo a hotspot for group meetups.
How does Lardo’s menu cater to group dining and sharing? One of Lardo’s most compelling features for those rallying with friends or family is its menu, which skillfully balances variety and quality to suit group dining. The selection, influenced by Mexican and Mediterranean flavors, ensures there’s something to please every taste bud in your party. Popular dishes like the pork shoulder sandwich and short ribs pack bold flavors that make each bite memorable, while lighter options like arugula and Parmesan salad or watermelon fish ceviche allow for a well-rounded meal. Many menu items are designed to be shared, so your group can sample a range of tastes without anyone feeling limited. Additionally, Lardo offers gluten-free options, ensuring guests with dietary restrictions feel just as welcome. The casual, order-at-the-counter service streamlines the experience, allowing groups to order efficiently and focus more on enjoying their meal and each other’s company. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a long, leisurely meal, the menu’s thoughtfully prepared dishes make sharing not only possible but genuinely pleasurable.
What makes Lardo’s location and setting ideal for meetups? Lardo’s locations—whether in Portland or Mexico City—are situated in trendy neighborhoods that naturally attract a crowd looking for quality food and a social atmosphere. In Portland, it’s known for its consistently enjoyable food and local buzz, while in Mexico City’s Condesa district, Lardo thrives as a popular spot for tourists and locals alike to gather for brunch, lunch, or dinner. These neighborhoods complement Lardo’s vibe perfectly, making it an easy choice for people wanting to meet up in a fun, accessible spot. The restaurants’ dynamic settings—showcasing both the urban energy and the comfort of well-designed interiors—allow groups to feel both energized and relaxed. Plus, the often lively, bustling environment adds to the experience without overwhelming conversation, striking the right balance for a social meal. Convenient reservations and the option to come all day make it easy to plan a meetup that fits your group’s schedule and preferences, enhancing your ability to enjoy the occasion without hassles.
Why is Lardo’s service style suited to group dynamics? Lardo’s friendly and efficient service style complements the overall group experience. It operates on an order-at-the-counter system where you place your requests and then enjoy the lively bar or seating area while waiting for your food. This approach reduces the typical delays and miscommunications that can happen with larger groups in traditional table service settings. Customers have reported positive interactions with attentive and upbeat staff members who keep the flow smooth even during busy periods. Such efficiency means your group spends less time waiting on service and more time connecting over great food and drinks. Even during peak times, the staff works to maintain a welcoming atmosphere, contributing to the overall fun and casual vibe. This friendly environment ensures your group feels cared for, allowing the focus to stay on the social experience rather than logistical hiccups.
How does Lardo’s reputation validate its appeal for group meetups? With a strong average rating of 4.6 based on thousands of reviews, Lardo has earned a solid reputation among locals and visitors alike. Many reviewers highlight the restaurant’s “perfectly cooked” dishes, “great ambiance,” and consistent quality as key reasons for returning or choosing Lardo for significant events. Some reviews note the popularity and occasional wait times, which only underscore the place’s high demand and appeal. Despite these busy moments, patrons acknowledge the staff’s efforts to maintain good service and the overall positive experience. Such consistent feedback from a large number of diners instills confidence that Lardo is a reliable choice for hosting social gatherings. Whether you want a special brunch, a casual dinner, or a quick meet-and-eat, this restaurant’s strong ratings suggest that it is well prepared and welcomed as a prime spot for groups looking to enjoy good food and company.
What event or group occasions is Lardo best suited for? Because of its casual yet slightly sophisticated atmosphere, Lardo excels as a venue for a range of group occasions without feeling too formal or too casual. It’s ideal for celebrations like birthdays, reunions, or milestone dinners where guests want quality food and a lively environment but prefer a relaxed setting over an upscale one. The variety on the menu and the ability to share plates make it great for families with kids old enough to enjoy bold flavors as well as groups of friends who enjoy tasting multiple dishes. Lardo’s efficient layout and ordering system also handle varying group sizes well, whether you come with a handful of close friends or a larger party. Additionally, the availability of both hearty meals and light options ensures that the restaurant accommodates different preferences within groups, making it easier to satisfy everyone’s appetite. This flexibility gives Lardo an edge as a dependable choice for hosting enjoyable and stress-free meetups.
How does Lardo make your meetup memorable beyond just the food? Beyond its menu and service, Lardo brings memorable elements to your gathering through its vibrant ambiance and unique blend of Mexican-Mediterranean cuisine. The decor and music create an inviting, festive environment where conversations flow naturally and time seems to slow down. The option to enjoy robust wine selections or creatively crafted cocktails adds a layer of indulgence that enhances the social experience. Many diners mention feeling a special sense of energy at Lardo that makes a simple meal feel like a celebration. Whether you’re catching up after a long time or simply enjoying a weekend tradition, this restaurant’s atmosphere elevates group gatherings into events that people look forward to repeating. In this way, Lardo is more than a meal stop—it’s a place where social connections deepen over shared flavors and smiles.
What should you keep in mind when planning your group visit to Lardo? To make the most of your meetup at Lardo, consider timing and group size. Because it’s a popular spot, especially on weekends, booking reservations in advance is advisable to avoid long waits. Arriving during less busy hours, such as weekday lunches, can provide a more relaxed experience. Since the restaurant’s seating is geared toward casual dining without much accommodation for very young children or elderly guests, it’s best suited for groups of adults or teenagers who appreciate vibrant, bustling settings. Keep in mind that the menu includes some spicy and bold flavors, so checking dietary preferences and restrictions within your group ahead of time will ensure everyone enjoys the meal. Lastly, embracing the informal ordering system and the communal vibe will help your group settle in quickly and enjoy the fun atmosphere Lardo is known for.
In summary, Lardo’s combination of appealing food, lively ambiance, efficient service, and strong reputation make it a top choice for hosting group meetups with friends or family. Its thoughtful menu encourages sharing and caters to diverse tastes, while the setting fosters conversation and connection. Whether casual or celebratory, your gathering at Lardo will be marked by quality, convenience, and memorable moments that bring your group closer together.