The food in Portland is probably one of the main factors why I think the city is the best in the USA. Maybe it’s because the tap water here is delicious itself, so food cooked in it tastes better. Maybe it’s because Portland is full of bohemian hippies (not really, but a little). Whatever the reason, I had some of the best American meals during the couple weeks I was in Portland.

Italian Grinder @ Shut Up and Eat

Shut Up and Eat Italian Grinder“Mortadella, copocollo, sopressatta, prosciutto, provolone, olive caper relish, tomatoes, roasted red bells, house marinated mild peppers, cabbage & braised greens, on a seeded roll. Grilled meats and toasted.”

Oh my Gawd!!! When this sandwich arrived, my first thought was “how the heck am I supposed to eat this?” I don’t even know what most of the ingredients are, though I look forward to the day when I am so well versed in them I can recognize them by taste. But that will follow from my travels in Italy. For now, I will have to satisfy myself with what was arguably the best lunch I have ever had. And besides, how can you pass up trying a cafe called “Shut Up and Eat?”