I love exploring the food scene in Bend, Oregon. This city is a food lover’s dream, with lots of tasty options to try.
One of my favorite things about Bend is its many food carts.
Food carts in Bend offer quick, yummy meals at good prices. You can find these carts all over the city, serving up a wide range of foods from different cultures.
I’ve tried many of them and want to share my top picks with you. Let’s dive into my list of the 10 best food carts in Bend, Oregon.
1. The Podski Food Cart Lot
I love hanging out at The Podski Food Cart Lot in Bend. It’s a fun spot with a mix of food trucks serving tasty dishes from around the world. The place has a great vibe and is perfect for grabbing a quick bite or spending time with friends.
When I visited, I was amazed by the variety of food options. From tacos to Asian fusion, there’s something for everyone.
I tried a few different trucks and was impressed by the quality and flavors of each dish.
The Podski also has local beer on tap, which pairs well with the food. I enjoyed sipping a cold one while listening to live music in their outdoor seating area.
It’s a cool place to relax and soak up the Bend atmosphere.
What I like most about The Podski is its location. It’s right between downtown and the Old Mill District, making it easy to stop by during a day of exploring Bend. The setup feels like a big picnic, with a laid-back and friendly crowd.
Rating: 4.7 (444 reviews)
Location: 536 NW Arizona Ave, Bend, OR 97703
Website: Visit Website
2. IndoDaddy
I stumbled upon IndoDaddy at Bevel Brewing and was blown away by their amazing Indonesian cuisine. The food cart’s aromas pulled me in, and I’m so glad I stopped by.
Their menu is packed with tasty options. I tried the nasi goreng, and it was bursting with flavor. The spices were perfect, and the portion size was generous.
The staff at IndoDaddy were super friendly and helpful. They took the time to explain the dishes and even gave me some great recommendations. It felt like I was chatting with old friends.
I can’t wait to go back and try more of their dishes. The satay looked amazing, and I heard great things about their rendang. IndoDaddy is a must-visit spot for food lovers in Bend.
Rating: 4.9 (127 reviews)
Location: Bevel Brewing, 911 SE Armour Rd Suite B, Bend, OR 97702
Contact: (541) 241-6168
3. A Broken Angel ~ Vegan Food Cart + Catering
I stumbled upon this hidden gem tucked behind The Pantry on Newport Avenue. A Broken Angel is a vegan food cart that’s making waves in Bend’s culinary scene. As soon as I approached, I was struck by the cart’s charming artwork and inviting atmosphere.
The menu is a plant-based paradise. I tried their Miso French Onion soup, and it was a comforting bowl of flavor that warmed me right up. Their platter of specialty vegan cheeses was a standout – I couldn’t believe how creamy and delicious they were.
What really impressed me was their commitment to sustainability. Everything from their ingredients to their packaging shows care for the environment. It’s clear that kindness towards animals and the earth is at the heart of what they do.
I can see why A Broken Angel has been featured on Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.” The food is creative, tasty, and satisfying – even for non-vegans like me. If you’re looking for a unique dining experience in Bend, this food cart is a must-visit.
Rating: 4.8 (281 reviews)
Location: 1124 NW Newport Ave, Bend, OR 97703
Contact: (458) 202-9334
Website: Visit Website
4. Ponch’s Place
I recently visited Ponch’s Place in Bend, Oregon, and I was blown away by the lively atmosphere and delicious food. This unique spot features a food truck pavilion and beer garden, offering a variety of culinary options.
The standout for me was the authentic Mexican food truck. Their tacos were bursting with flavor, and I couldn’t resist going back for seconds. I also tried some mouthwatering wings and crepes from another truck.
What I love about Ponch’s Place is the sense of community. They host fun events like bingo on Wednesdays and trivia on Thursdays. It’s a great spot to hang out with friends and enjoy good food and drinks.
I was impressed by the range of beverages available. They serve beer, cider, seltzer, and wine. I hear they’re planning to add specialty coffee and breakfast options soon, which I’m excited to try on my next visit.
Rating: 4.7 (43 reviews)
Location: 62889 NE Oxford Ct, Bend, OR 97701
Contact: (541) 236-5426
Website: Visit Website
5. The Bite Tumalo
I stumbled upon The Bite Tumalo and it quickly became one of my favorite food cart spots in Bend. This charming outdoor food court in Tumalo is a hidden gem that’s worth the short drive from downtown.
The Bite offers a variety of food carts with different cuisines. I loved the laid-back atmosphere and picnic-style seating. It’s perfect for enjoying a meal with friends on a sunny day.
The food quality here is impressive. I tried dishes from several carts and was blown away by the flavors. From tasty tacos to gourmet burgers, there’s something for everyone. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable.
What I really enjoy about The Bite is the community feel. It’s a great place to meet locals and visitors alike. The staff are friendly and always ready to chat or give recommendations.
Rating: 4.6 (1100 reviews)
Location: 19860 7th St, Tumalo, OR 97703
Contact: (541) 610-6457
Website: Visit Website
6. The Corndog Company Of Central Oregon
I stumbled upon this gem of a food truck on South Highway 97 in Bend. The Corndog Company of Central Oregon serves up some of the best corndogs I’ve ever tasted. Their secret? Hand-dipped, honey-glazed batter that creates a perfect crispy exterior.
The menu is simple, but that’s part of the charm. They focus on doing one thing really well – corndogs. I tried their classic corndog and was blown away by how fresh and flavorful it was. The honey glaze adds a subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory hot dog inside.
What really stood out to me was the friendly service. The staff clearly takes pride in their work and were happy to chat about their process. It’s clear why this place has become a local favorite. If you’re in the mood for a nostalgic treat with a gourmet twist, this is the spot to hit up in Bend.
Rating: 4.8 (184 reviews)
Location: 61334 S Hwy 97, Bend, OR 97702
Contact: (541) 819-0913
Website: Visit Website
7. The Barn in Sisters
I stumbled upon this hidden gem in Sisters, Oregon, and I’m so glad I did! The Barn in Sisters is more than just a food cart – it’s a community hub with a tap house and kitchen.
The moment I walked in, I felt the warm, welcoming vibe. The staff was super friendly and helped me choose from their tasty menu. I tried their locally sourced burger, and it was amazing! The fries were crispy and perfect too.
What I love about The Barn is how they support local. Their ingredients are sourced nearby, and they even have a bread day. I enjoyed my meal while listening to live music – they have a summer lineup that’s worth checking out.
The Barn is open late, which is great for evening hangouts. It’s a cool spot to grab a drink from their tap house and enjoy the community feel. I can’t wait to go back and try their weekly specials!
Rating: 4.7 (271 reviews)
Location: 171 E Main Ave, Sisters, OR 97759
Contact: (541) 904-4343
Website: Visit Website
8. Manzanita Grill Bend LLC
I recently stopped by Manzanita Grill Bend LLC and was blown away by their tasty food. This food cart serves up some of the best Mexican cuisine I’ve had in Bend.
The menu is filled with classic dishes like tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. I tried their carne asada tacos, and the meat was perfectly seasoned and tender. The homemade salsa added a nice kick.
What really stood out to me was the friendly service. The staff made me feel welcome and were happy to answer my questions about the menu. They even gave me a sample of their horchata, which was creamy and refreshing.
The portions are generous, and the prices are fair. I left feeling full and satisfied, already planning my next visit. If you’re looking for authentic Mexican food in Bend, Manzanita Grill is a must-try spot.
Rating: 5 (209 reviews)
Location: 63067 Plateau Dr, Bend, OR 97701
Contact: (541) 848-9438
9. Americana
I stumbled upon Americana food cart and was blown away by their tasty burgers. The menu is simple but well-executed, focusing on classic American fare done right.
Their signature burger is a must-try. It’s juicy, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. The bun is soft yet sturdy enough to hold everything together.
I love the toppings bar where you can customize your burger. The fries are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside – just how I like them.
The staff is friendly and quick. Even when there’s a line, it moves fast. The cart has a few tables nearby, making it easy to enjoy your meal right there.
Rating: 4.9 (187 reviews)
Location: 536 NW Arizona Ave, Bend, OR 97703
Website: Visit Website
10. Tacos Pihuamo
I stumbled upon this gem of a food cart on SE 3rd Street in Bend. Tacos Pihuamo serves up some of the most authentic Mexican flavors I’ve tasted outside of Mexico.
The menu is simple but oh so delicious. I tried their street tacos and was blown away by the tender, juicy meat and fresh toppings. The homemade salsas pack a perfect punch of heat and flavor.
What really stood out to me was the friendly service. The staff made me feel like family, chatting with me while they prepared my food. It’s clear they take pride in their work and love what they do.
I can’t wait to go back and try more dishes. The burritos I saw other customers eating looked amazing. If you’re looking for tasty, no-frills Mexican food in Bend, Tacos Pihuamo is a must-visit spot.
Rating: 4.9 (748 reviews)
Location: 950 SE 3rd St, Bend, OR 97702
Contact: (541) 390-9992
The Unique Appeal of Bend’s Food Carts
Bend’s food cart scene offers a unique blend of local flavors and sustainable practices. I’ve found the variety and quality to be impressive, with each cart bringing something special to the table.
Local Culture and Flavor
I love how Bend’s food carts capture the essence of the city. Many carts showcase diverse offerings, from fresh seafood to unique desserts. It’s like taking a culinary tour of Bend without leaving the food cart lot!
The carts often reflect the laid-back, outdoor-loving vibe of the city. I’ve noticed many use locally-sourced ingredients, which adds to the authentic Bend experience.
Some carts have become local legends. For example, Toasty, Bend’s top-rated vegan spot for 2023, calls the Podski food cart lot home.
Sustainable and Fresh Ingredients
I’m always impressed by the focus on sustainability in Bend’s food cart scene. Many carts prioritize using fresh, local ingredients in their dishes.
This commitment to sustainability isn’t just good for the environment – it results in tastier food too! I’ve found the flavors to be brighter and more vibrant when ingredients are sourced locally.
Some carts even partner directly with local farms and producers. This farm-to-cart approach ensures the freshest ingredients while supporting the local economy.
The use of eco-friendly packaging is another way Bend’s food carts show their commitment to sustainability. It’s great to see this environmentally conscious approach in action.
Tips for Finding the Best Food Carts in Bend
I’ve learned some great tricks for discovering Bend’s top food carts. These tips will help you find tasty spots all over town and get the inside scoop from locals and visitors alike.
Exploring Different Neighborhoods
I love checking out Bend’s food cart pods in different areas. The Lot is a popular spot downtown with lots of choices. I also enjoy visiting The Podski and Midtown Yacht Club for a variety of flavors.
On the east side near Costco, I recommend On Tap. It’s got a great view of Pilot Butte. When I’m in the mood for river views, I head to The Podski or River’s Place.
I always keep an eye out for new carts popping up in unexpected places. Sometimes I find hidden gems in parking lots or at events around town.
Using Social Media and Reviews
I rely on social media to stay updated on Bend’s food cart scene. Many carts post their daily specials and locations on Instagram or Facebook.
It’s a great way to discover new options.
I also check Yelp reviews for honest opinions from other food lovers. It helps me find highly-rated carts like Da Nang Vietnamese Eatery and A Broken Angel.
Local food blogs and websites are super helpful too. I often visit Eat Drink Bend for up-to-date info on Bend’s food trucks.
They highlight must-try dishes and new arrivals on the scene.
