Birria Is Blowing Up in Portland, and Birrieria La Plaza Is at the Center of the Boom

Tacos, quesadillas and tostadas are all familiar offerings that gain a new (and messy) dimension of juicy flavor when dipped in the deep red birria.

Birrieria PDX 13 (Chris Nesseth)
By Pete Cottell

The life cycle of food trends in Portland goes something like this: An international comfort food shows up in earnest at a modest food cart or storefront; similar spots pop up and a favorite among the Instagram foodie set emerges; then someone with tattoos and deep pockets sands off the edges and sells it to Portlanders who rarely journey farther east than I-205.

The birria boom is on the cusp of Phase 3—and the persistent traffic jam outside Birrieria La Plaza signals that it’s the chosen one at the moment. Birria is a rich and aromatic consomme that’s used in every step of production at this bright red food truck, located in the parking lot of a neon-green discount store.

Tacos, quesadillas and tostadas are all familiar offerings that gain a new (and messy) dimension of juicy flavor when dipped in the deep red birria. Load up as many as you’d like à la carte, or go for the Plato La Plaza (includes a mulita) if you’d like to sort out which item pairs best with the broth.

Seating options are limited to a pair of picnic tables and a small shed lined with bar-style accommodations. Glenfair Park is a few blocks away if you’re looking for a more peaceful place to enjoy your platter—but judging by the commotion surrounding La Plaza, it’s clear the birria is all that matters.

600 SE 146th Ave., tacoslaplaza.com. 10:30 am-7 pm Wednesday-Friday, 9:30 am-7 pm Saturday, 9:30 am-5 pm Sunday.

See All 16 Ways to Dine Al Fresco in Portland This Summer (and Right Now)

Willamette Week’s reporting has concrete impacts that change laws, force action from civic leaders, and drive compromised politicians from public office. Support WW's journalism today.