Dinner Bell Barbecue

Barbecue restaurant · North Tabor

Dinner Bell Barbecue

Barbecue restaurant · North Tabor

2

4400 NE Glisan St, Portland, OR 97213

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Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null
Dinner Bell Barbecue by null

Highlights

Pulled pork, ribs, chicken, shrimp & grits, mac & cheese  

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4400 NE Glisan St, Portland, OR 97213 Get directions

dinnerbellbarbecue.com

$10–20

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4400 NE Glisan St, Portland, OR 97213 Get directions

+1 503 739 0833
dinnerbellbarbecue.com
DinnerBellBarbecue

$10–20

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wifi

Last updated

Aug 14, 2025

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@eater

8 Standout Barbecue Restaurants and Carts in Greater Portland

"Laurelhurst locals and Providence Portland employees will often pop by this lowkey cart for piles of grits loaded with sauteed shrimp or andouille. Owner Sam Mouzon will load his smoker with spare ribs and pork shoulder, relying on sweetness of cherry wood over the more commonly spotted white oak. Those meats appear in classic platters, sandwiches, and, in the case of the popular Dinner Bell BBQ bowl, over grits with collard greens and coleslaw." - Ron Scott

https://pdx.eater.com/maps/portlands-best-barbecue-restaurants
View Postcard for Dinner Bell Barbecue
@eater

Where to Eat and Drink in Portland’s North Tabor Neighborhood

"After working up an appetite during a capoeira or kung fu session at Flying Tortoise, head behind the building for a restorative meal of pulled pork, shrimp and grits, or barbecue chicken from the Dinner Bell food cart. This formerly downtown cart relocated to North Tabor, touching on barbecue staples and traditions across the American South. Visitors will find cheesy grits topped with shrimp and collard greens, gooey macaroni and cheese loaded with pulled pork or chicken, and tender spare ribs. For the full experience, grab a beer from the Beer Spot food cart next door to pair with your smoked meats." - Zoe Baillargeon

https://pdx.eater.com/maps/best-restaurants-north-tabor-neighborhood-portland
View Postcard for Dinner Bell Barbecue

Leslie Neiss

Google
Based on the reviews I had to try this place. It was my first time trying collard greens and cheese grits. Although my brother wasn't the biggest fan since it's a low smoke flavor, it was exactly what I would want from a BBQ joint. The pulled pork bowl was a perfect combination. The portion was big and leftovers were just as good warmed up the next day. I'd definitely go back!

Vancouver Coffee Snob

Google
Absolutely OUTSTANDING BBQ food. Got the chance to chat at length with the owner (Sam) who's an absolute wealth of information on BBQ. The ribs were tender and sweet, with some nice acidity. The coleslaw is an incredible pairing with the ribs. The baked beans are the best I've ever had in my life, hands down. If you love BBQ you need to visit dinner bell.

zachary clarke

Google
Really interesting unique options. Around this food cart are many different cultural foods, whether it be Spanish, Middle Eastern, or Asian, so you might not think to immediately go to the "American" food truck. But, trust me, the food is easily as diverse and easily as good as the options round about.

Stacie Jones

Google
This place is hands down one of our favorite carts. My daughter and I go randomly when we have time together. It's tucked away, but it does not dissappoint with it's southern flare. Greens, cheesy grits and shrimp, bbq... it's not a big menu, but I can barely try new items, because I already have a couple of favorites! The owner is very friendly and nice! It's got an open area that is shades, to sit outside and it's next to another cart that sells wine and spirits while you while wait. Well worth the visit!

Medical Unicorn

Google
Great food truck area with free parking on the street. Covered area in case it rains and there are a few picnic tables. This particular food truck isn’t Texas Louisiana style but rather Alabama style which I didn’t realize when I ordered. Actually I didn’t know there was a difference. Vendor is nice. I got the shrimp and grits which is usually my favorite dish but this one was more messy and creamy than I’m used to, there was a lot of cheese and not the consistency I like with grits. Plus it had a lot of collard greens on top which I thought would be more of a side portion. It was too greasy and sloppy for my liking but others might prefer this style. I just like my grits to taste like corn grits, not too creamy but more like polenta. To each their own.

Dan Mitu

Google
I’ve eaten here maybe 20 times. Never had a bad experience. The term “hidden gem” is overused but this spot is definitely one. Pictured is the pulled pork plate.

Kelsey Betsill

Google
I have a rule. If I love a place, I will never rate it because I want to keep the good stuff a secret. But I will make an exception because this place just blew my mind! I had the chicken BBQ bowl and a side of baked beans. What a delight. Flavor explosion! Collard greens were just wonderful, cooked perfectly and a great addition to the meal. Will come here again for sure.

Cassandra Pangelinan

Google
Found this truck after trying to satiate a craving for barbecue. So glad I found this place! Smells amazing, tastes even better, with fair prices and friendly service. Food came to us piping hot and delicious! We got the mac-n-cheese with pulled pork and couldn't finish! Super heaping portions that tasted just as awesome the next day. They sell out later in the evening, just something to keep in mind, but easy to see why! Really enjoyed having the beer cart beside it as well. Check it out if you're in the area!
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Dina E.

Yelp
Service was quick, food packed well, everything was tasty! Pulled pork plate (sweet and tasty) with potato salad (fresh, great texture), collared greens (solid) comes with some white bread and quick pickled cucumber and onions. Everything went well together, portions were great. Will return! They only have pork and chicken meat-wise but they do it well. Sides weren't over-salted. Everything went very well together. Almost seemed healthy? Lol. Will be back. They have outdoor seating or you can take your food to go.
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Marina P.

Yelp
5 stars: Quick service, professional, clean and kind. 4 stars: the grits were my favorite. The bbq chicken was a little sweet. Collard greens a bit too salty. Coleslaw was fresh and crisp.
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Holly T.

Yelp
This was the first place I went to after being out of the country for two months. I love good BBQ, but it seems hard to find backyard BBQ in Portland. I ordered the pulled pork plate with grits and beans on the side. I wasn't expecting a lot of food since the price wasn't very high. It took about 10 minutes, and they brought our food out to us. It was a LOT of food. I couldn't finish it. Seriously, raise your prices. That was a ton of food. It was absolutely delicious. My husband ordered the porky melt sandwich. It wasn't as much food as mine was, but it was super tasty. He really likes slaw and thought their slaw was extra amazing. The service was great, and the person who took our order was super patient and kind with everybody's questions. There's a cute area to sit down with your friends, family, and pups too. We will absolutely be back.
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Molly C.

Yelp
Been wanting to try this food truck. Glad I finally did. Everything on the menu looks so good I can't wait to work (eat) my way through it. Dirty grits were full of flavor with plenty of pulled smoked chicken, andouille sausage and pimento topped with perfectly cooked over easy eggs. Great friendly, fast service too.
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Scott H.

Yelp
I'm willing to pay more to avoid the risk of missing out. My main criticism is that I wish they had a combo plate because while pleased with what I got I wanted to try more. I got the pulled pork with cheesy grits and beans. It's pretty hard to screw up pulled pork in my opinion. But to elevate it is tricky. Tasting the meat I could definitely taste the rub and the smoke it was hit with before it was pulled apart. I like mine saucy but this was the perfect amount of sauce. I've never had cheesy grits before. I guess I expected them to be firmer. They were kind of soupy. But whatever at least they aren't vegetables The beans were pretty good. Could stand to be a little more interesting but I've had worse. I like the addition of the white bread. Few things are not improved with a couple slices of white bread. Overall. Solid barbecue. I want to try more things.
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Andrew H.

Yelp
Around the corner from one of the best hidden Mexican food spots is a BBQ cart that also, if you don't know it's there, you're missing out. Cheese grits and the collard greens. Damn. Dinner Bell BBQ is on NE 44th and Glisan but if you don't realize that there's a food cart pod behind the martial arts place on the corner, you wouldn't think twice. They have all the good stuff. Pulled pork, chicken and ribs. But they also do shrimp and grits and what I ended up getting, dirty grits. Cheese grits, andouille sausage, pulled chicken, pimento and two fried eggs on top. Sound good? Oh it was. So creamy, plenty of meat and the eggs on top? So ridiculously amazing. Then there were those collards. Sweet and meaty and just plain good. I left nothing behind, not even the juice. Go check out this hidden gem, you will be quite happy and just a bit chunkier. Support local. Enjoy!
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Lynn F.

Yelp
This food is soooo good! Best shrimp and grits I've ever had! I've had their bbq bowls too and they're amazing. I also love the collard greens, I don't usually like them but these ones are delicious. The guy is super nice as well.
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Rice X.

Yelp
Best ribs in PDX. I go here all the time and get cole slaw (which is also amazing) and rib plate ($20 good deal for good portion). The ribs are so well cooked, very soft. Good sauce. Best bbq. Nice guy runs the operation.
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Julie L.

Yelp
This place is great! We've always had the pulled pork dinner bowl with cheese grits. I don't think I can get past it, but their other bowls look good too. And their ribs look good too.
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Marilyn B.

Yelp
just want to tell the owner how much I love his food It is 100 degrees and he stayed serving people he is my hero It was too hot for me to cook yet he stayed in that hot truck to serve us the barbecue is succulent ribs are worth the drive his collard greens are savory and bring the vegetable gourmet notes that will surprise your palate now going home to air conditioning with tons of leftovers Thank God for talented chefs that serve people when the weather sucks

Nadine F.

Yelp
Looks like this wonderful cart is permanently closed, according to a note on their gate. So sorry to see this, the food was really fine.
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Jer G.

Yelp
Third time I've been turned away for "Sold Out" on Ribs. Great for them but bummer for me. I'll have to find a more reliable supply chain. Hold the slaw! Get there early or be prepared to try something other then your stomachs desire. Super kind server! Love the neighborhood access. Side note: Honestly, probably another sign to go "Veggie" and live longer. *Aptly named, when the dinner bell rings- you better hustle. When it's gone . . . It's gone!

Nadine F.

Yelp
This is sincerely great bbq! A little hard to find, it's actually on 44th just south of NE Glisan in a tiny pod. We got ribs and cheese grits and collard greens, and all were fantastic. The ribs are tender and meaty with a lovely sauce that's not spicy but that complements the ribs perfectly. We plan to go back whenever the bbq jones strikes!
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Derek H.

Yelp
I don't typically care much for food trucks in Portland anymore. The goods one all left or the good ones left are all way too expensive and I get it. I feel bad for em. They got a real shit end of the economic downturn. But this guy that's always here who runs the joint. He does it day in and day out. And makes consistently good food. I come here for the bowl with pulled pork with a side of hot sauce. It's perfect for any bbq fix. And it's a meal with veggies, rice and meat. All under 15 bucks. Bang for your buck wise. This is my favorite spot. Go support the dude. I sure will.

Seth M.

Yelp
I had the Dirty Grits which were ah-MAZING. Creamy, cheesy, and expertly seasoned, with Andouille sausage and shredded BBQ chicken, topped with the most perfect fried eggs over easy--beautifully cooked with runny centers that made the grits into a bowl full of heaven. The food came up fast and magically at exactly the right temperature to reach the table hot but ready-to-eat by the time I sat down. My son (whose picky preferences rival my own) was dubious at the thought of an unknown menu, but when he heard me describe the Mac'n'Cheese with sharp cheddar, gouda, and mozzarella, and lacking any suspicious "green stuff" (one of his all-time mac'n'cheese ruiners), all reluctance fell away. His first bite confirmed that we'd just found a new dinner spot for family meals out. The prices are VERY reasonable, particularly with the generous portions and insanely great flavors. We had plenty for dinner plus leftovers for lunch (for me, breakfast because I didn't want to wait that long for the rest of my grits!) Seating was easy even on a Friday night around 6:30pm, and the space is comfortable, casual, and covered; all perfect for small groups in the unpredictable winter weather in Portland. Don't miss the cheerful pig mascot at the counter wearing a stylish hat!
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Af R.

Yelp
Best shrimp and grits!!! Great portion with big sized shrimp and collard greens. Love this spot!!
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Kelvin R.

Yelp
Greatest taste of home being an Alabama Boy Sam is the best and one of the hardest workers ever I hope you all go by here and get some delicious food you won't be disappointed
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Collin W.

Yelp
Really really good bbq , if your looking to fill that homemade craving this is the place
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Chris T.

Yelp
We loved the shrimp grits and the spare rib plate. The sides are perfect match! Very friently service team!
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Ronald A.

Yelp
Wow! Great ribs. Our first visit exceeded all expectations. We ordered the half rack. It comes with two sides. We got the collard green and baked beans. The beans had great flavor. No pale imitation here. The meat was tender. We ate with our fingers. No knife required. Sweet sauce with full flavored Smokey meat flavor. Better than all the hot sauces we usually get stuck with. This cart is in a pod just off 44th and NE Glisan. Look for it since it is not obvious. It is tucked behind a building. Great use of space. Cozy. They were downtown, but moved to the East side where the "need" for a fancy hotel forced them out. With the pandemic a year later, getting forced out was a blessing. Glad they are so close. Good, fair price. Good, friendly service. All expectations exceeded. Did I say we loved our meal? Of course. We will come back.
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Sarah S.

Yelp
I am so glad that there is a great consensus about Dinner Bell. I grew up around the corner, and boy I was sad I don't live that close anymore. Everything I've tasted is good, I am a big pulled pork fan, and they do a great job, so juicy and flavorful! The coleslaw is made very well, definitely not something you'd get from a can or a supermarket. Spread the word, this place is great!!
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Jina M.

Yelp
Wow. $15 for 2 sides and half rack of ribs that have been smoking for 6 hours? It is an incredible deal (and I would totally pay a bit more for this combo). And an additional side for $3?! Not sure how the owner manages to sell his delicious food for such a low price! Especially since ribs aren't the fastest food type you can produce -- you need talent, space, time and love to create a good end product! Not only is the price amazing but the way this is made is also quite amazing. The owner puts a lot of care, time, thought and love into the food and you can definitely taste it. The potato salad was nice and tangy with both mayo and vinegar. The grits were smooth and cheesy. The coleslaw was just perfectly dressed. And the ribs - I thought they could be seasoned a little more with salt but the sauce is delicious. The ribs were a little more "wet" than the St. Louis ribs I'm used to but I do recognize it is a stylistic thing and they were delicious. Would highly recommend checking this place out before the lines go on for miles!

Brian ..

Yelp
Best BBQ ribs I have ever had. Please give this spot a shot. I am here once a week and everyone I love it more and more.
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Holly L.

Yelp
Absolutely phenomenal bbq. I had a pulled pork sammie with cheese grits and a coke, total was $10 before i added tip but oh my goodNESS. This samwich was so delicious and i ate it all after taking this photo. Slaw on sandwich is rlly mild but rlly good. Could use some spice but thats preference :-) service was amazing my order took maybe 6 minutes from ordering to getting back to my car. Employee was very kind gentleman who did amazing makinf a foodcart feel homely.
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Jack W.

Yelp
Ok this place is the bomb. I can't find good bbq in Portland. This one is tucked behind the building FIND IT! It's worth it. I leave a lot of bad reviews because restaurants in Portland restaurant staff often SUCK. But this guy...he's nice as pie and his grits and pork butt are perfect. Try the raspberry Chipotle bbq sauce. Excellent.
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Isabelle Nicolas B.

Yelp
After walking by on a few doggo walks, we finally stopped in. Goodness gracious, delicious! Sam is plating up amazing fare: pulled pork sando's are exceptionally savory without being greasy, ribs? Boom. So tasty, tender, and not over saucy. Extra points for great collard greens, cole slaw, and potato salad. We've no idea how he's pulling it all off, but dang we are thankful!
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Anne E.

Yelp
I drool just at the slightest thought of DBBBQ. The ribs are frickin amazing, fall off the bone, delicious sauce. Guaranteed goodness. My fave is the pulled pork sandwich, oh mylanta! The flavor of the meat does not disappoint, the bun and coleslaw all mixed together is perfection. The potato salad is good. The beans are just right. LOVE this truck!

Red P.

Yelp
Amazing! One of the best kept food secrets in Portland. The flavor, quality, consistency, and value of this place cannot be overstated. If you're like me and you're a fan of the simple pulled pork sandwich and southern style sides, WINNER! If you prefer shrimp and grits, WINNER! If you'd prefer the whole barbecue plate, WINNER, WINNER, BBQ DINNER!!

David C.

Yelp
PSA: Dinner Bell is closed until June 1st for the owner's wedding/honeymoon. Was hoping to eat here today, but I will be back, it's very good!
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Amy Kapuanani A.

Yelp
My "go to" for amazing ribs and sides if you like mouth watering meat that falls off the bone and all. Cheesy grits, greens, beans and slaw I also recommend.

Angela M.

Yelp
We came here today after looking at the amazing reviews and the pictures. It may have been the favorite meal I have ever had in my whole entire life. This guy puts so much love into what he does. It takes a lot for me too lick a cardboard box. I kept shaking my head in disbelief that any food could be this amazing! When I approached the gentleman behind the counter he was incredibly gracious and humble. Go to experience food we have never experienced. It will change your life! We had the shrimp and grits and the potato salad. Both were beyond outstanding!
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Chloe M.

Yelp
I had a procedure at Providence and wanted to treat myself and my better half. I saw that this BBQ food cart had all 5-star reviews and was very close to the medical center. There are only three trucks (but I heard more are coming and a fire pit is being added); BBQ, Beer, and a sandwich plus cart. We both got the Dinner Bell BBQ Bowl. Fantastic! Creamy grits, perfect greens, lovely pulled pork and slaw. It made the perfect bite. The folks here are very friendly and accommodating. The prices are affordable, it's pleasant in the yard and we will definitely be back (even coming from Gresham!)

Bob B.

Yelp
Decided to go back as I was craving collard greens. The pulled pork was amazing. Collard greens perfect seasoning. I don't typically like slaw BUT this was tasty. The Max -Cheese perfect!!! Guy was very friendly and polite. Very reasonably priced!

Ivy P.

Yelp
this guy knows what he's doing. food is always consistently amazing and very fast, most reasonably priced and best barbecue i've found in portland! they do sell out quickly sometimes so call before you go especially on weekends!
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Ellen T.

Yelp
Outstanding! Excellent quality, large portions, friendly people! Support this NE Portland business. It is a treasure! We'd heard a lot of good things and were absolutely not disappointed in any way. We had the rib platter and pulled pork bowl. Will be back to try more though these were enough to return for in their own.
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Grace L.

Yelp
This places always hits the spot! I've had several menu items and they have all been delicious! The collard green are especially amazing! Unfortunately there are a lot of spots on Portland that just don't get collard greens quite right and the Dinner Bell BBQ nails it. Takes me back to my days living in Alabama. Full and Happy!
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Ernest E.

Yelp
The shelter in place quarantine has provided new food exploration opportunities and new habits for our 2 person family. Dinner Bell is a new habit for us. We order the rib plate every week or so. It's half a rack of meaty pork ribs that drip with a nice sauce along with 2 sides and a couple of slices of fresh white bread for sopping. We usually get collard greens and potato salad as sides but baked beans, grits, rice and slaw are also available. It costs around $15 and is enough for a shared meal. I also recommend the Dirty Grits that contain
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Cynthia C.

Yelp
Joining Jeff R in caling out this great business. Quality food made with love and sold at a reasonable price. Please, with this cart and so many other local businesses, reach out to the restaurant first to find out how to order. Cut out the middleman and help keep more money in the pockets of local folks making great food like Sam does. His cheesy grits and collards are so good. Lovely beer and cider in a nearby cart. Handy and clean port-o-potty in the small alley they share. Several picnic tables allow social distancing.
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Roman S.

Yelp
Tried the pulled pork sandwich, it was pretty tasty. I liked the fact that the bun was toasted. Coleslaw has a unique kick.
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John N.

Yelp
This place rules! I had the BBQ chicken plate with rice and beans that was just so delicious! My friend got the shrimp and grits that was just bursting with flavor!
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Kersten R.

Yelp
We had a socially-distanced family get together while visiting my hometown. We ordered two of each item and ooooh boy, let me tell you! We decided to try Dinner Bell BBQ without any recommendations because it was all pretty much last minute, we were short on time, and they were close. Those two went right to town for us and our order was ready within ten minutes. We got back to our hotel, laid out our spread, and folks dove in. Everything was done perfectly. Sweet, hot, and scrumptious bbq. The sides had just enough kick (try their potato salad) and were plentiful. My only regret was we didn't order more. The owner and his FoH guy were so helpful, incredibly personable, and clearly love what they do. I believe when we make food it's essential to have love in your hands because food carries energy to your audience. I know my family filled their bellies with nourishment not only of body but also of heart.

Jim M.

Yelp
Excellent barbecue. The rib plate is fantastic. The chicken bowl is delicious. The shrimp and grits bowl is great too.
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Stephanie B.

Yelp
If your in search for some great BBQ, look no further. This place is fantastic. Food was amazing and service was delightful. Potato salad is delicious and has an amazing flavor. The place is clean and in a great neighborhood. Nothing is better then great food and service with a smile. We will be back! Thanks Sam!
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Shy M.

Yelp
Amazing always! The shrimp and grits are my favorite! I make sure to go here every time I'm in Portland!
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Daryl L.

Yelp
This place is a hidden gem. Really amazing shrimp & grits and collard greens. I don't eat pork but my fiancé is selective about ribs and loves the ones here. The guys who work here are super nice and passionate about what they do.
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J.C. C.

Yelp
Great food. Great Staff. Honestly, great customers! Can't believe I hadn't discovered this place until now.
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Jayme M.

Yelp
Fantastic food. I was impressed by the one man show dealing with a super long line of many orders per person all while making amazing meals. First time visitor and we will certainly be back.
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Jeremy S.

Yelp
Hands down, this food truck in my top 10. First time experience at Dinner Bell and it was amazing. I tried the Chicken Sliders with cheese grits. I sampled the Blackberry Chipotle sauce on my sliders and it was delicious! Will definitely come again and sample the rest of the menu. The price is also right for this good ol southern BBQ!
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Jaime T.

Yelp
I found this little food cart pod on a whim, this one was the only one open that day there. Ohhhh lawdy! SO GOOD! I had the chicken sliders and they were amazing. The guy running the show was really nice too. I told my coworker about it and we're going there hopefully tomorrow too. Yummy!