Lardo — Photo courtesy of LardoLardo is a one-of-a-kind sandwich shop and beer garden that cooks all of their seasonal ingredients from local farms in pig fat. What used to be a popular Portland food cart is now a permanent sandwich shop in the Hawthorne district serving unique and tasty sandwiches Tuesday through Sundays, 11 am to midnight.

Many of the sandwiches offered here are Italian creations like the rapini and grilled mortadella. Their most popular sandwich is the pork belly, egg and cheese. Besides sandwiches, they also offer salads and fries, including their famous dirty fries made with pork and herbs.

Lardo often has a favorite local chef visit and make their own sandwich. That chef’s creation is then featured on Lardo’s menu for a month. The restaurant has 14 rotating beers on tap including Italian and regional selections. All beers here are just $5 a pint. They also serve signature cocktails like grapefruit margaritas and Moscow mules.

The eatery is often crowded, but don't worry about having to sit outside if the inside is full; the patio is covered by a heated tent. On a busy day, be prepared to wait in line to order your food.

Lardo also has a sister location in downtown Portland on Washington Street: Lardo Downtown.