Introduction
Craving that savory, comforting taste of Chinese food but your bank account is giving you the side-eye? You’re definitely not alone! In a city celebrated for its innovative culinary scene, Portland’s love for Chinese cuisine runs deep. But, exploring all the amazing restaurants in Portland shouldn’t necessitate a second mortgage. Thankfully, some amazing spots serve up incredibly flavorful and satisfying Chinese food without requiring you to spend all your hard earned dollars.
Portland’s food scene is a vibrant melting pot, with Chinese restaurants playing a crucial role in its diverse flavors. This article serves as your ultimate guide to finding the most delicious and, most importantly, the most affordable Chinese food in Portland. Get ready to discover hidden gems and local favorites that will satisfy your cravings without emptying your wallet. Because let’s be honest, the best meals are the ones that taste amazing and leave you feeling good about your budget.
Defining “Cheap”: What to Expect in Portland
Before diving into the delicious details, let’s establish what “cheap” truly means in the context of Portland’s dining landscape. We’re not talking about sacrificing quality for price. Instead, we’re focusing on restaurants that offer exceptional value, providing a filling and flavorful meal for under fifteen dollars per person, or even less! This definition considers generous portion sizes, the overall quality of the ingredients, and the ambiance of the restaurant – because even on a budget, you deserve a pleasant dining experience.
Beyond just the price tag, we’ve also carefully considered other factors like the taste, the authenticity of the dishes (where applicable, and always respecting cultural sensitivity), and the overall cleanliness and atmosphere of the establishment. This guide isn’t just about finding the cheapest meal; it’s about finding the *best* cheap Chinese food Portland has to offer – where you get the most bang for your buck. So, whether you’re a student on a tight budget, a family looking for an affordable dinner, or simply someone who loves a good deal, this guide is for you.
Amazing Cheap Chinese Food Restaurants in Portland
Get ready to salivate! Here are some of the best cheap Chinese food spots in Portland that consistently deliver on both flavor and affordability:
Taste of Sichuan
Nestled on Southeast Division Street, Taste of Sichuan is a true haven for spice lovers and budget-conscious foodies alike. As the name suggests, they specialize in authentic Sichuan cuisine, known for its bold flavors, numbing peppercorns, and fiery chili oil. What makes it cheap? Generous portions and incredibly reasonable prices. You can easily get a satisfying meal here for well under fifteen dollars.
What to order: The Mapo Tofu is a must-try – a silky, flavorful tofu dish simmered in a spicy bean sauce with ground meat. It’s a true Sichuan classic and incredibly affordable. The Dan Dan Noodles are another excellent choice, featuring chewy noodles tossed in a savory sesame sauce with chili oil and pickled vegetables. Both dishes are packed with flavor and offer incredible value. Also be sure to try the dry fried string beans with minced pork, a flavorful side perfect for sharing.
The atmosphere is casual and bustling, with a no-frills dining room that focuses on the food. It is the sort of place where you can see people from all walks of life enjoying an affordable and delicious meal. This place is very popular and it is easy to see why! Taste of Sichuan is a local favorite for amazing Chinese food in Portland.
Wong’s Kitchen
Located on Northeast Broadway, Wong’s Kitchen is a staple of the Portland Chinese food scene, serving up classic Cantonese-American dishes with a smile and a price point that’s hard to beat. Wong’s has been around for a while and continues to be a popular spot for budget-conscious foodies. The restaurant is family-owned, which adds to the neighborhood feel. This long-standing establishment is celebrated for its consistently delicious food, friendly service, and incredibly affordable prices.
What to order: The Lunch Special is a steal! For under ten dollars, you can get a generous portion of your choice of entrée, served with fried rice and an egg roll. The Orange Chicken is a crowd favorite, featuring crispy, tender chicken coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. The Chow Mein is another solid choice, packed with noodles, vegetables, and your choice of protein. The portions are large and the food is flavorful.
With its simple decor, and friendly staff, Wong’s Kitchen feels like a cozy neighborhood spot where you can always count on a good, affordable meal. Perfect for takeout or a quick lunch, Wong’s offers a comforting taste of classic Chinese-American cuisine without breaking the bank.
Frank’s Noodle House
Frank’s Noodle House, with multiple locations across Portland, is a testament to the power of fresh, handmade noodles. This unassuming restaurant chain specializes in Northern Chinese cuisine, particularly hand-pulled noodles that are both delicious and incredibly affordable. The price point is very reasonable and its great to be able to choose the size of the noodles you want.
What to order: The Beef Noodle Soup is a must-try. Tender slices of beef, fresh vegetables, and chewy hand-pulled noodles swim in a rich, flavorful broth. You can customize the thickness of your noodles. The Zha Jiang Mian is another excellent option, featuring thick, chewy noodles topped with a savory ground pork sauce. The soup is a crowd-pleaser, especially on a chilly day. You can’t go wrong with either option, and you’ll be surprised at how much food you get for the price.
The atmosphere at Frank’s Noodle House is casual and energetic, with the rhythmic slapping of noodles being pulled by hand adding to the ambiance. These no-nonsense restaurants focus on serving up delicious, affordable noodles, making them a favorite among students and budget-conscious foodies. With multiple locations throughout Portland, you’re never too far from a bowl of amazing, affordable noodles.
Good Taste Restaurant
Good Taste Restaurant, located in the heart of Portland’s Chinatown, is a beloved institution known for its authentic Cantonese cuisine and incredibly reasonable prices. This unassuming spot has been serving the community for years, and its consistently delicious food and friendly service have earned it a loyal following.
What to order: The BBQ Pork Rice Plate is a classic choice, featuring succulent slices of roasted pork served over rice with a drizzle of sweet soy sauce. The Wonton Noodle Soup is another must-try, featuring delicate wontons and chewy noodles in a flavorful broth. The portions are generous, and the prices are incredibly affordable, making Good Taste Restaurant a fantastic value.
The atmosphere at Good Taste Restaurant is casual and bustling, with a no-frills dining room that focuses on the food. The space is often packed with regulars and tourists alike, all eager to enjoy a taste of authentic Cantonese cuisine without breaking the bank. Don’t expect anything fancy, just great food at a great price.
Honorable Mentions
While the above restaurants are some of our top picks for cheap Chinese food in Portland, there are several other spots worth checking out. Chen’s Good Taste on 82nd is another great option for Cantonese food. Also, Lucky House Chinese Restaurant offers great specials, especially during lunch. These may not have made the “top” list, but they are still still great choices and often offer unique dishes or deals that are worth exploring.
Tips for Finding Even More Deals
Looking to stretch your budget even further? Here are some insider tips for finding even more deals on cheap Chinese food in Portland:
- Happy Hour Happenings: Keep an eye out for restaurants that offer happy hour specials on Chinese appetizers and drinks. Some places have incredible deals on dumplings, spring rolls, and other tasty snacks.
- Lunchtime Legends: Many Chinese restaurants offer amazing lunch specials that are significantly cheaper than their dinner menus. Take advantage of these deals for a satisfying and affordable midday meal.
- Takeout Temptations: Ordering takeout is often cheaper than dining in, as you avoid paying for service and often can find smaller portion sizes.
- Online Oasis: Before heading out, check online for coupons or deals at local Chinese restaurants. Many places offer discounts for online orders or first-time customers.
- Cash is King (Sometimes): Some restaurants offer discounts for paying with cash, so be sure to ask before you order.
- Ditch the Apps (Order Direct): Ordering directly from the restaurant, rather than through a third-party delivery app, can often save you money on delivery fees and commissions.
Your Affordable Portland Chinese Food Adventure Awaits
It’s definitely possible to enjoy delicious and authentic Chinese food in Portland without completely emptying your bank account. The options listed above are just the beginning! We encourage you to explore these amazing restaurants, discover your own hidden gems, and savor the flavors of Portland’s vibrant Chinese food scene without the financial guilt.
So, go ahead, satisfy that craving for some flavorful, authentic, and undeniably cheap Chinese food in Portland. Bon appétit!
