"For a fast-casual approach to Eastern European fare, stop by the Hawthorne Asylum to try Slavic dumplings and borscht soup from Pelmeni, a cart tucked away in one of Portland’s busiest food pods. Pelmeni keeps the menu simple and sweet with just five items, whose bright and savory vegan beet soup comes dolloped with sour cream plus a rustic bread depending on your preference. The other focal point is the dumplings, where Russian pelmeni showcase meat fillings, and Ukrainian vareniki feature vegetarian fillings. A house tomato sauce, dill, and sour cream topping complete the arrangement." - Katrina Yentch