[Closed, June 2011]
Location: SE 32nd and Hawthorne
Hours: Tues-Sun, 11am-7pm
The Story:
Put a cowboy hat on a gun toting Frito chip and you have one heck of a logo. Add to that vintage wallpaper inside the already vintage cart and Rawhide playing on the back patio and I’m sold. Chili Pie Palace, a new cart on SE Hawthorne put all the pieces of the puzzle together to create a memorable experience for young and old alike.
Chili Pie Palace is the work of Palmer and Melissa who came to Portland after spending some time in Austin where they hatched the idea of opening a cart focused on the famed Frito pie. Many in Portland, including myself, probably aren’t aware that Frito pie is a staple of the south and southeastern US. It is one tasty dish, essentially creating a nacho plate with Fritos. That’s my description and the naysayers can correct me if they want. According to Wikipedia, the Frito Pie may have originated back in the 30′s by the mother of the founder of Frito Lay. I don’t really care where it originated, I’m just glad people are bringing it to Portland.
Chili Pie Palace’s Frito Pie is made with Fritos covered with chili, grated cheddar cheese, chopped onions, sour cream and house pickled jalapeno peppers. While not something Mom would recommend, I’m old enough to make the choice that this is a great lunch option. I love that the Fritos stay crisp while you nosh on the dish. The house made jalapenos are to die for – perfectly crunchy and spicy as hell. They blend well with a spoonful of Frito, cheese, sour cream and chili. Pair it with a citrus Jaritos to round out the experience. The entire plate is vegetarian and can be done Vegan by substituting a few items which Chili Pie Palace has available.
Chili Pie Palace is now open at SE 32nd and Hawthorne. The cart is pretty darn cool with what appears to be the original appliances in avocado green. When you are there, check out the vintage western wallpaper they installed. You’ll want some for your office. Tucked behind the cart is a comfortable seating area with strap chairs and western music for your to drown out the sound of the cars galloping down Hawthorne. A great addition to the cart scene. If your down that way, drop on by and let them know Food Carts Portland sent ya.
Sample Menu:
- Frito Pie – chili over Fritos topped with cheddar cheese, onions, pickled jalapenos and sour cream – $5.50
- Sub in Vegan topping like Daiya cheddar cheese or green chili cheese queso – $6.50
- Bowl of chili – $4.00 with fixins – $5
- Jalapeno lemonade – $2
- Vegan ice cream sandwich – $4
Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 11am-7pm
Twitter: @ChiliPiePalace
Facebook: Chili Pie Palace
It originated in San Antonio, Tx. It combined two local staples: Chile con Carne (Chili without beans) and fried corn chips. Throw on cheese and sweet onions and you have bliss.
I lived in Atlanta for almost two decades and I never heard of a Frito pie.
Podnah’s Pit BBQ on Prescott has had Frito Chili Pie on their lunch menu for years.
I grew up in atlanta and we ate Frito Pie in the school cafeteria almost every week. Can’t say I remember seeing it in restaurants as a adult though.
Awesome!
I use to go to the old Soda Fountain/Cafe in Gresham for Frito Pie all the time. Hadn’t seen it anywhere since they closed.
I ate a “Jack-fruit” chili pie yesterday, it was amazing! I was blown away how Chili Pie Palace took the old simple frito pie idea and and really jazzed it up! oh oh oh and the Jalapeno lemonade was so refreshing, not too spicy for me either. Im happy to welcome them to my neighborhood!
Great to have this on Hawthorne. Tasty veggie versions of the classic dish I remember from childhood. Freshly made with quality ingredients.
Chili Pie Palace delivers a really tasty and filling Frito Pie. I had the vegetarian version and Melissa told me they also have vegan options though the vegan option days are I believe currently limited. Usually, I avoid jalapenos since they are usually too strong for me. Melissa pickles hers so they have a subtle sweat flavor and I found them enjoyable. I’m also not normally a fan of the frito chili pie type of food yet I had a good meal there today.
@SilverWings
One of the folks there told me that the vegan option has been their most popular. And for dern good reason to, I might add. The raw “sour cream” is tastiness bent over a table and given a go.
So, yep, vegans rejoice. Then relax cause it’s here to stay.
The food here is great! I brought the frito pie and a chili bowl home to my parents (who love meat-filled chili) and they loved it! Simple, delicious food with good ingredients.
The Jalapeño Lemonade was wonderful as well.
I plan to visit again soon!