"Birrieria PDX, in East Portland near the Gresham border, was one of the city’s braised beef pioneers, and they’re still going strong with multiple locations and a sit-down restaurant. Ignore the flashy birria ramen and fries and order the PDX sampler featuring the greatest hits, including the very necessary quesataco oozing with melted cheese and a cup of consomé—the fortifying broth will leave you feeling like you can take on the world (or more realistically, a short hike at Powell Butte). You’re given a beeper so you can wait in your car until your food is ready, or hit Supermercados across the street and pick up some bottles of Topo Chico for the road." - Krista Garcia