¿Por Qué No? — Restaurant in Portland

¿Maybe this is a more Portland/Americanized style taco place and it's good for being that? Definite pros are good hardworking people with genuine warmth and kindness serving food made with love and clean, organic, hormone-free ingredients in partnership with local PNW producers. That is a huge deal, so I am highly appreciative of their outstanding business ethics. Pandemic protocols in place are well handled. Outdoor seating is amply spaced out and available both on an upper level patio and lower level street side, cleanliness, quick to clean and sanitize tables when people leave, all handled well.

A few bites into the food, I had a stomachache. Food was very spicy, acidic, and salty but otherwise didn't taste like it was flavorful. The horchata was gritty like a pea protein shake but I downed it out of desperation. My partner had to take some antacids. We wanted to give this place a chance so we ordered several things on their menu, including their specials, pork, chicken, veggie, and beef items. I had a side of rice and beans, which were clean and fresh tasting pinto beans and rice with cilantro. The rice and beans are great for lunch when you want to stay on the healthy side. They were the only mild food we had out of everything we ordered. Cantaloupe agua fresca was delicious, really tasted like perfectly ripened, sweet cantaloupe. The next morning, I still had a stomachache ☹️.

Someone who works at Restoration Hardware and is a California transplant told us she wouldn't recommend this place and now we know why. I am glad that I recommended a place by our house in Vancouver across the river instead because I know for sure that she'll have the experience she's craving. If you're California taco dreaming, this is not the place.

Why take our word for it?

Coming from: 10 years of living in California and having had a local taco place that debuted on Netflix's Taco Chronicles (they kidnapped a Northern Mexico taquero they found on vacation, brought him home with them, and then he married into the family, true story), having places like Tacos 1986, Goa Taco (ridiculously flavorful, juicy mouthwatering tacos in a unique paratha, described by NY Times as a "many-layered Indian flatbread built like a chapbook of dough, each leaf inscribed with ghee"), a sprawling outdoor open air food market called Smorgasburg and another food market at the Los Angeles Farmer's Market on Third & Fairfax, Michelin starred Taco María, and many of famed food critic Jonathan Gold's favourite haunts being our own. We were fortunate even to have authentic, incredibly delicious Oaxacan mole tacos from a start-up stand in an Asian market of all places. I've lived in NYC for 5 years and been to Texas. I've also experienced being invited over for Mexican Christmas with a family that had a whole goat head in their refrigerator. Suffice to say, we've tasted taco greatness and...

I'm a Portland Native and I used to love Por Que No, but the quality has gone down. It's always been super expensive for Mexican food, but the food was good so it was worth it. With the decline in the quality of the food it's no longer worth it. I went to two days ago with friends and was telling them how good it was going to be and it wasn't. The service also wasn't that good either at the front counter; we had to wait while the cashier chopped it up and had a drink while we stood there and just waited for her to acknowledge us and take our order. The ceviche had no flavor or salt and there was a straight hair in it, I took a picture of it (you can see it on the avocado); our whole table was curly haired girls so it wasn't from us and came to the table like that. The Tacos no longer have all the toppings they used to and the flavor was bland. Unfortunately this will be my last visit to Por Que No cause I can get better Mexican food at any Carniceria in Portland. The Tacos were giving a step above Baja fresh. In this economy I'm just not spending my hard earned money on bland food when I can cook better tacos and Mexican food at home. With all that said, the...

¿Por Qué No? is hands down one of the best taco spots in Portland! From the moment you step in, you're greeted with a vibrant, lively vibe that perfectly embodies Portland's eclectic charm. The colorful decor, friendly staff, and upbeat energy make this a place where you instantly feel at home.

The tacos here are nothing short of extraordinary. The Verduras taco is a flavorful explosion of roasted seasonal veggies, paired with just the right amount of spice and freshness. It's a must-try for veggie lovers or anyone seeking a lighter, yet satisfying option.

Then there's the Hongos y Papas taco, which is pure magic. The combination of earthy mushrooms, perfectly seasoned potatoes, and a hint of creaminess creates an indulgent bite that you'll want to savor slowly.

Their commitment to using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients shines in every dish. Pair your tacos with one of their house-made aguas frescas or a margarita, and you're in for a treat. The line might be long during peak hours, but trust me—it's worth the wait!

If you're in Portland and craving bold, delicious flavors in a fun and welcoming atmosphere, ¿Por Qué No? is the...