National Hispanic Heritage Month occurs September 15-October 15, and honors the cultures, contributions, and traditions of people from Central and South American countries. In Portland, Hispanic and Latinx influences can be seen in neighborhood business districts citywide so this week we are highlighting the Hispanic and Latinx-owned businesses that make Portland a thriving city. Here are just a few of the small shops that are doing great things in our city:

  • Alberta: La Bonita Taqueria is a family-owned and operated Mexican eatery with homemade tacos and salsas. At Blind Insect Gallery, check out the work of multicultural artists and creatives who don’t otherwise have access to traditional gallery spaces.
  • Belmont: Taqueria Los Punales serves up tinga-filled, house-made tortillas in a space decked out in queer art. 
  • Central Eastside: Enjoy performances that showcase the best of local and international Latinx playwrights, musicians, dancers, and actors at Milagro Theatre .
  • Foster: You can taste your way across Latin America at the Portland Mercado! In addition to the 18 businesses serving up food and drink from Latin America, the public market also hosts art and cultural events to celebrate Latinx history and heritage. Well known for its brunch, Bar Carlo also serves up margaritas, tacos, and more in the evenings. With expansive outdoor seating, it’s a great place to soak in the Foster vibes.
  • Gateway: El Indio Mexican Restaurant has been family-owned and operated since 1988 and serves all your favorite Mexican dishes.
  • Lents: If you are craving authentic and affordable Mexican food, stop by El Pato Feliz Jr. and let their talented cooks handle your lunch plans.
  • Lloyd: For a quick and delicious breakfast, Xocalo PDX serves coffee and pastries, breakfast burritos, tortas, quesadillas, and tacos with your choice of meat and fresh salsa.
  • Midway: Tejuino’s Jalisco features authentic and delicious Mexican snacks and beverages. A refreshing sweet-and-salty tejuino or a cup of warm chocolate champurrado are perfect drinks for fall weather.
  • Mississippi Ave: The Spicy Spoon is a fusion restaurant featuring American barbecue and Mexican cuisine. Thay also focus on ecological sustainability, earning a Sustainable Business award from the City of Portland in 2015.
  • Old Town: Orox Leather Co. is a fourth-generation, family-owned business that produces handcrafted, high quality leather belts, bags, and accessories.
  • St. Johns: Get your child ready for their Quinceañera, baptism, or first communion with beautiful formal wear at Novedades Prado.
  • Williams District: Tucked away between two buildings you will find Quesabrosa, a Mexican food cart that has had a long history in the Williams District. Another favorite is Arelis PDX, a wonderful Mexican food cart in the Cartside Pod known for their large burritos. 

          This list is only a snapshot of the great Hispanic and Latinx offerings in Portland. What are your favorite Hispanic or Latinx-owned businesses? Show us on Facebook and Instagram. And don’t forget to subscribe to the newsletter at Portland Through a Latinx Lens to stay up to date on local Latinx artists.