Food Carts have become all the rage in the foodie world in recent years. Their nimble nature and lower overhead costs than standard brick-and-mortar establishments allow for easier startup. That means creative chefs can really let their new ideas fly. Mt. Hood Territory is home to a trio of food cart pods, meaning you're never far from some unique dining options.
The newest to the mix is Milwaukie Station, which just opened this summer. Conveniently located at TriMet's Orange Line Milwaukie/Mainstreet Transit Station, nearly a dozen food trucks are serving a wide variety of cuisines. From Mexican to Italian, Thai to Greek, the culinary choices abound. Grab your food of choice and take a seat at one of the covered picnic tables on site. Afterwards you can browse one of countless shops and businesses along Milwaukie's thriving mainstreet which is just steps away.
A little further east in the foothill community of Sandy is Sandlandia. Located right off of Highway 26 as it splits in the middle of town, Sandlandia is another new pod that just opened up earlier this year. New carts are coming in as well, thanks to a permanent go-ahead granted by the city council. That means Sandlandia is here to stay, and their offerings will be expanding. I recommend Melt It, which celebrates just about every type of fun, throwing-my-diet-out-the- window food that I love. Mac and Cheese, hotwings, hot dogs, pizza, they've got all of that. I would probably be completely satisfied eating there every day.
Another options lies in the heart of Happy Valley. Home to the only indoor-dining food cart pod in the region, Happy Valley Station offers a tremendous selection of foods. Name a country, and chances are you'll find its culinary viewpoint represented. They even have a huge selection of local beers and ciders on tap, so you can enjoy a nice craft beer with your meal. The beautiful indoor dining room also has a play area, which is a personal favorite for my four-year-old son; it's always a game of "Let's Make a Deal" on how much he has to eat before he goes to play.
No matter your favorite food, or where you are in Mt. Hood Territory, you're never far from a good meal. Especially when those meals are mobile. See you at the food carts!
