(lardosandwiches.com) – SE Hawthorne, Portland, Oregon

How I heard of this place: We tried it two years ago for the first time. We found a new location. We ate it.

Type of cuisine: “What is Lardo: A type of salume made by curing strips of fatback with rosemary and other herbs and spices.

Who We Are: “Starting life as a food cart in SE Portland, rarely has a spot been so aptly named. Rocking an ancient charcuterie moniker that truly serves as a harbinger of things to come, Lardo is a sandwich shop that worships at the alter of  bovine & swine. Using old-world techniques, contemporary flourishes and a gonzo approach, Lardo proudly celebrates its excesses. Pushing a menu that features pork drenched double burgers, a giant meatball Banh Mi, and hand-cut french fries (again) smothered in pork, Lardo also has beer. Lots of beer, actually. 

Rotating taps of knee-buckling craft brew greatness, backed-up with a refreshing mix of premium cocktails. Operating on both sides of the river at SE Hawthorne and SW Washington, Lardo serves as a mecca for those seeking a uniquely smash-mouth deli experience.”

Ambiance: A simple exterior with flat, thick, metallic roof boasting its logo, windows on all sides, and a huge outdoor patio available for seating and consuming. Clean, white lines inside, wooden counter- and table-tops, metal stools at the bar and requisite pig, Lardo gleams in the summer daylight streaming through its windows.

What I ordered: After a second day, completing his 200+ mile bike ride from Seattle to Portland, my husband was immediately hungry for the Spicy Memphis Fried Chicken ($11) with sweet pickles, mayo, bee local honey, and Crystal Hot Sauce.

My choice: the Kale Caesar ($7),

and a highlight from last time: Dirty Fries ($7) with pork scraps, marinated peppers, fried herbs and Parmesan cheese.

What I loved: The Kale Caesar. Easily.

Why I loved it: While the space, including the staff come with an air of pretentiousness and the care and attention to detail in the food preparation and presentation have gone down hill, the patio and its abundance of seating on a warm summer day made it the perfect post-ride/supporter quick dinner option.

Cost: Average ($8 – $12 per sandwich)

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