Carte Blanche (Part 2)

(Original Post -- April 2012)

This week, I revisit places that are long overdue for an update. Almost three and a half years later, I finally return to Carte Blanche. They are still in their silver trailer near SE 32nd and Hawthorne in Portland.

Since my original post in April 2012, I probably have returned to this cart once. Carte Blanche briefly closed during this time frame, but the people wanted them back and got their wish. The concept has never changed: a small menu that changes every 3-4 weeks.

This time, I got a rice bowl with Thai-sweet pork, stir-fried broccoli, leeks, mushrooms, new potatoes, and asparagus over coconut Jasmine rice, with pineapple-ginger slaw, peanuts, toasted sesame seeds, herbs, pickled pepper, crispy shallots, and a lime wedge. Just typing all that made me tired.

Flawless, colorful presentation. More importantly, the flavor is outstanding. Balanced bursts of flavor, from sweet to tangy to spicy to savory. It's a good amount of food for $10 and worth every penny.

I spoke with two friendly people who were visiting from out of town. They got the same dish as me and could not stop raving about the food. I hope they return and experience more of what Portland's food carts have to offer.

These days, Carte Blanche is open four days a week. Head on down and try this awesome cart! 9.5/10