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Pacific Northwest

Tips for Dining, Eating, and Food Shopping in Washington, Oregon and Alaska (exc. Seattle and Portland)

PDX - Cheap Eats

Looking for some choices for good 'cheap eats'. My husband and I are going out to dinner tonight-- but want to keep it casual and on the cheaper side. A few drinks, good atmosphere and yummy food. We are open to driving anywhere close in, so part of town doesn't really matter. We are also open to type of food -- love ethnic, fish, and he loves burgers. Ideas?

    13 Replies so Far

    1. start by looking here:

      http://www.roadfood.com/Restaurants/S...

        1. re: goodbyeohio

          this is a list of memorable eateries, not really what I was looking for.

          • What about Le Bistro Montage?
            (503) 234-1324
            301 SE Morrison St
            Portland, OR 97214
            www.montageportland.com

              1. re: alexa52

                I had some crawfish at Montage the other day that tasted real 'fishy'. I go there sometimes at three in the morning because it's usually decent and still open but I wouldn't make plans to go out to dinner there.

                  1. re: alexa52

                    Montage: Surly service, the most humdrum limited beer list imaginable for a Portland joint.
                    Frozen vegies in Portland in summer, the mecca of quality local produce.
                    What's not to love?

                    So what is your budget?

                      1. re: Leonardo

                        Budget- $75 for the two of us- drinks and dinner.
                        I asked for cheaper recommendations, so I didn't get the usual Le Pigeon, Paley's Place, Higgins, etc list which is more than I want to spend. We just want a casual dinner, but good food. Just don't need to go the real fancy route. We do Wild Abandon on Belmont at times-- but it can be hit and miss. Just looking for a new option.

                          1. re: alexa52

                            Tabla is moderate and I love it!
                            I'd suggest Navarre as it's one of my favorite neighborhood places. Perhaps you should call first to see if they are swamped, as the O named them their restaurant of the year.

                              1. re: Leonardo

                                Wine list at Navarre sounds great. Just called. They only take reservations for 6 or more. I am going to try and if its too busy we'll head down the street to Tabla. Thanks. This is just what I was looking for.

                                  1. re: Leonardo

                                    Stopped by Navarre and there was a 40 minute wait. So we walked to Tabla and ended up having dinner. It was delicious. Really enjoyed the ambiance as well as the food. Great service too. Started with a salad and salt cod fritters, then the giant ravioli with the egg inside. Really interesting. Thanks for the suggestion.

                              2. Here is a link to a list of restaurants under $30 per person. http://www.10best.com/Portland,OR/Res...

                                Have you tried Cafe Mingo on NW 21st or Ciao Vito on Alberta?

                                  1. I love the Screen Door on Burnside for casual dinner, great cocktails, great food, great service. It is often crowded, and it is a bit loud, but my husband and I love it for a fun night out. It is southern style food. We like the smoked brisket, and fried green tomatoes.

                                      1. Toro Bravo, Tabla, Dang's, Kurata, Davis Street Tavern (esp at happy hour!), Laurelhurst Market...

                                          1. re: JillO

                                            Third for Tabla. Excellent food and the price is right (it's like $24 base for a 3 course meal)! Also recommended is Simpatica (Friday/Saturday nights only) - completely different set menus, one seating/night, excellent food.

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