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Elephants Delicatessen
Categories: Event Planning & Services Caterers Restaurants Delis Caterers, Delis [Edit]
115 NW 22nd AvePortland, OR 97210
Neighbourhoods: Alphabet District, Northwest
(503) 299-6304
- Hours:
Mon-Sat 7 am - 8:30 pm
Sun 9:30 am - 6:30 pm
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Private Lot
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- Yes
- Take Away:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- No
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
- Good For:
- Lunch
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
157 reviews for Elephants Delicatessen
Review Highlights
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"we always love the tomato Orange soup." In 8 reviews -
"I love their egg salad, which is always fresh and tastes..." In 5 reviews -
"This new location is really nice." In 3 reviews
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157 reviews in English
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Review from Emilie S.
5/20/2012
This place brings joy to my little heart.
Their tomato soup tastes like a snow day.
Everything in here is worth eating--- but I am a dabbler because I can't ever make up my mind in here. I recommend getting a couple of small piles of two of their tasty salads and some soup. Their sandwiches are always perfect, everything from their grill is more than decent and their desserts and baked goods are exceptional. Excellent selection of artisan meats and cheeses.
Elephants is a must-stop on my Christmas shopping expeditions. It's the perfect place for stocking stuffers for my mother- and I get to enjoy a lunch while I am doing so.
Their cocktails are out-of-this-universe.
One of the few places in town with Dr. Brown's Cel-Ray soda- my fav. -
Review from Shirley H.
Corona, CA
5/21/2012 1 Check-in Here
It's a deli and a convenient store and a little gift shop rolled into one. I doubt you can find anything like this in California. There's outdoor and indoor seating, there's freshly brewed coffee, there are baked goods and sandwiches, and best of all...HAPPY HOUR SPECIALS and MIMOSAS. Jyahhhh! That's right. It happened! It exists! I won't lie and say that things are a bit pricey here but their well-lit and friendly atmosphere makes up for it.
Tried the orange tomato soup...blew my mind! However, it is a little on the pricey side at $3-4 a cup. But who cares? It's delicious and you have a place to drink mimosas, eat sandwiches, drink soup, and read your newspaper on a lazy Saturday afternoon. I'm in love :) -
Review from Myra F.
Portland, OR
5/12/2012
Thanks, Elephants, for taking care of my deli tray dilemma.
I received an email, a phone call, and a full gift certificate refund for my disappointing lox tray.
Good food makes people come back, but customer service is what keeps a business growing.
Thank you, Elephant's!Comment from Anne W. of Elephants Delicatessen 5/15/2012
Our Catering team appreciates the opportunity to have made… More » -
Review from Curtis C.
5/21/2012
I like the concept of Elephant's Deli, and the food is usually pretty good, but their service can be a little discombobulating to say the least. I've had some snappy cashiers, and "servers" that seem less than enthused to be working there. Or, maybe it's just that they don't like explaining how things work there e.g. where to order, where to pay, pay before eating, or after, etc.... Sorry, disgunrtled employees, it was my first time there, and I simply had a few questions; I didn't mean to worsen your, apparently, already bad day. That said, even if they had stellar customer service, I hate paying more than I would in a nice restaurant, for things from a deli-counter, no matter how nice it is.
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Review from Joyce H.
I think the Elephants Delicatessen is a really fun place to have lunch. They have a lot of really great items to chose from.
They have different sections of the store dedicated to different types of food. You can get hot sandwiches, chicken tenders, fish and chips, hot soup, cold salads, drinks and a whole cold case dedicated to everything sugary and delicious. There is also a great section of freshly made pastas that you can take home.
I would really recommend coming here for lunch, dinner or even a nice snack. -
Review from Michele M.
Portland, OR
5/7/2012 1 Check-in Here
Been here before and love it!!! They were about to close but happily served us and made us feel welcome.
Won't shop here due to prices. But, food and drink prepared with love!!!!! -
Review from Brent A.
Hillsboro, OR
5/15/2012
The store has some interesting foods, including a grill and a float/milkshake station. I had a good burger, not like a Wildwood or Slow Bar, but still good. It wouldn't be my top pick for a burger. We also shared a couple dishes like the beef enchiladas and mac & cheese. It's fun to drop in and see what they have. If it looks good, sample it. It's hit or miss. It was disappointing that the fries were the frozen variety. For the price and venue, everything should be fresh. Food can get pricey here. A lot of items are discounted in the evening, including cookies, breads, and some of the hot dishes. I like that they have Dr. Brown's sodas for $1.25.
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Review from Christy J.
Scottsdale, AZ
5/11/2012
I loved this place - it was just so cute. I had a marg pizza and it was amazing!
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Review from Lisa K.
Portland, OR
4/8/2012
Yes, Elephant's is tasty "fast" gourmet food and yes it's a little on the pricey side. I wish I could afford to eat here every day, but until I win the lotto, this is a place I will stop into when I need something convenient and am willing to pay a premium for something better than your typical fast-food joint.
Keep an eye out for Groupon-like specials because Elephant's has done them in the past. It's one way to save some money. Another is to take advantage of their half-off hot deli foods about an hour before it closes. Be warned though, many people are on to this and actually trawl the counter, waiting for them to post the sale signs. Once the signs go up, out of nowhere, there'll be a huge lineup and if you aren't fast enough, they'll run out of the dish you were contemplating paying full price for, but couldn't commit to just minutes earlier. Speaking from experience... -
Review from Robert H.
3/4/2012
Before Whole Foods, New Seasons and even Fred Meyer had deli's with meals and salads, Elephants did. NY deli's are epic in their convenience and match to city life. Elephants takes it further with a giant selection of items which could never fit in NY, and that can be picniced and eaten cold, or be taken home and heated. A little hard to find, but they have a rare NW parking lot of their own. I've picniced items from here many times.
Elephants, Portland's best deli is old school semi slow fast food that's tasty, varied and often healthy! -
Review from mark b.
Portland, OR
Updated - 4/28/2012
I'm a long time fan of this location, and while last year I had a bad experience (writen about in an old review) they did try and make it right....so I guess we are rebuilding are relationship. I was there yesterday and got some great chicken pot pie!!!!! so I am bringing their score back up some.... it takes time with me though (food 5 stars customer service 3)
3 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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12/8/2011
I used to be a fan of Elephants going there about weekly. Last time I went there in October I had a… Read more »
Comment from Anne W. of Elephants Delicatessen 4/30/2012
Mark, We all want to extend our thanks for the opportunity… More » -
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Review from K.M. L.
Portland, OR
4/27/2012
One day, while still dressed in jeans and tee-shirt after cleaning house, I decided to stop and make an impromptu visit to Elephant's to have a sandwich and drink somewhere other than my house. The food was great. The problem, which is not anything Elephant's did, was that I felt like Cinderella in her cindery old clothes surrounded by the wicked stepsisters. I don't think I've ever felt so looked down upon on in many a year. The questioning looks I got basically asked the question, "what are you doing here," or "look what the cat dragged in." While I still enjoy Elephant's fine catered food often at business functions, I still cannot bring myself to go back on my own. Silly, I know, but I can't get past the feeling that I did not belong there.
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Review from Claire v.
3/15/2012
I've only been here once but I'm eager to go back. This NY style delicatessen/restaurant has a huge selection of specialty foods, freshly made take home dinners/lunches, unusual brands, and a number of different 'hot food' stations.
While we were here we sampled one of their beautiful egg pastas with a bit of truffle oil. The pasta blew me away, and I would've gladly bought some, except for the fact that we were leaving to go on a road trip that same afternoon. We did have sandwiches and soups (I think mine was a decent butternut squash soup that could've had a bit more spice). You can get all kinds of sandwiches, salads, pizza, and so on from this place. Our only complaint was that it's VERY loud and quite busy. If I lived in the area, I'd still have lunch here all the time though. I wish we had something similar in Eugene, but the closest we've got is Marche Provisions, and that's just not as awesome as Elephants.
Until next time, Elephants! I'll be back. -
Review from Jenny K.
Portland, OR
3/15/2012 1 Check-in Here
Elephants is an excellent, local, high-end deli. We frequent this place for easy picnic items, party finger food, quick lunch and easy to-go dinners. I love their creamy mac and cheese, finger licking good teriyaki chicken wings, tomato orange soup, and juicy pastrami reuben sandwich. If you want all their offerings, their NW 22nd location is the best place to try.
I also love their great selection of charcuterie. Our family had 3 different types of salami (from Salumi in Seattle, Fra'Mai in SF and another from Vermont), olives, salad, cheese and bread as dinner and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.
If you have a Shop Local card, you get a free cookie for spending at least $10. Or show up after 6:30 PM for half off ready-made food. -
Review from Laura B.
Portland, OR
4/26/2012
The monthly wine dinners in the lovely Garden Room are not promoted except by e-mail or posted at their NW location, but they should be! If you like eating family style, ie. seated with people you might not know, and enjoy trying new wines paired with delicious dishes prepared by chef Scott Weaver at a very reasonable price, these monthly dinners should be on your radar! Pluses: cosy atmosphere, attentive staff, delicious food, wine and great value. Downside: parking is sometimes hard to find in their lot, or side streets, but worth the effort and wine stewart tends to talk too much, but just reflects his enthusiasm and eagerness to share information.
Comment from Anne W. of Elephants Delicatessen 5/3/2012
Laura, Thanks so much for your kind words about our… More » -
Review from Brooklyn C.
Alhambra, CA
4/24/2012
Great sandwiches, desserts, and selection of salads, candy, beers, and baked goods. Very good prices on the wine too. Wonderful lunch place or afternoon snack stop. Fun cards too.
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Review from Sandra P.
Portland, OR
4/5/2012 1 Check-in Here
I really enjoy lunch here...breakfast is not too shabby either. Kayla, the barista/bar tender is awesome. However, if you are in a rush, don't go to the deli. Very, very slow. Also, location is a bit chaotic...parking, lines, etc
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Review from Philip K.
Portland, OR
1/19/2012 24 Check-ins Here
I've never eaten anything from here that didn't make me happy in my belly. Burgers, Monte Cristo's, cookies, cheesy twists, salads.
If you get cookies or pastries after 5, there is a deal. Oh and get the frequent cookie buyer card, it's so worth it. -
Review from Sara Q.
4/5/2012
i've been coming to elephants ever since highschool.. and it doesn't get any better than this place when it comes to lunch. i love the fact that you can choose between hot lunch (grill, panini, pizza, etc) and cold lunch (sandwiches, salads, pastas etc). their dessert section is super delish and it looks AMAZING!
lets see.. i had the caprese salad.. so olive oil, 1/2 cut cherry tomatoes, julianne basil, mini mozzarella balls and little round pasta seasoned with salt and pepper. it was FREAKING AMAZINGLY delicious.. i was in heaven. i ended up only getting half a pint because i also got the caprese cold sandwich. i haven't had the sandwich yet but i've had it before and i'd say it's just mediocre in comparison to the pasta. i wish i didn't get the sandwich and got a whole pint of the pasta.. i would probably enjoy that more .. but ill work with what i have.
i picked up a croquet madame and a egg salad sandwich for my friends. the egg salad sandwich was reported to be up to snuff. nice and fresh and the croquet madame was pretty dang good. i got to take a bit of it and it was SUPER tasty. the ham was nice and salty and balanced out the egg and guyuere so great. i love. i also picked up cookies which are always delicious. i did the cowboy cookie (oatmeal chocolate chip with some shredded coconut too i believe) and regular chocolate chip cookies. since i went in this morning, i knew it was fresh and my thoughts were confirmed when i went to pick up the cookies and could still feel them soft and a bit warm.
i've had their french macaroons and they are awesome. the almond cookies get a nice shell on the outside while still being soft on the inside. the buttercream they use is literally melt in your mouth goodness. chocol -
Review from Brian C.
Beaverton, OR
2/26/2012
A little confusing initially. Just head over to whatever area has the food you want, order, you get a ticket, then head over the cashier to pay, and then they call your name when your food's ready, eat, and clean up after yourself.
We ordered the pulled pork sandwich and the elephants burger. The pulled pork was tangy, sweet, tender, and it went well with the cole slaw (though my wife thought it was a little bland) and toasted buttered bun. Burger came on the same bun. Bun was freaking delicious, crispy... buttery... and even a little crumbly, and the meat was flavorful, juicy, and well cooked. Reasonable prices. Spent about 16, no beverages. It was still busy even at 3p. We tried eating here before closer to 12p, and there was nowhere to park or sit. -
Review from R W.
Portland, OR
1/25/2012 2 Check-ins Here
Elephant's Deli is one of those great places that has been consistently good for years, and thus, is unfairly often overlooked.
The food at Elephant's is always amazingly delicious, and when you consider the quality of the ingredients and prep, a value. The Garden Room at the NW location is good for lunch meetings, the front area is great for people watching.
If I know an event is going to be catered by Elephant's I will fast all day before it. So good.
Also, they are very committed to sustainable, local etc... which I love. -
Review from Juju M.
Portland, OR
12/21/2011 2 Check-ins Here
This review is for my Tomato soup list!
The carrot tomato soup at Elephants makes me question my preference for a bisque.
It is very fresh tasting, and by no means lacking in flavor. The carrots give the soup an extra sweetness which cuts the acidity of the tomato quite nicely.
As it is also very easy for me to frequent this establishment on my lunch breaks, I found it has become a lovely wintertime staple.Listed in: Tomato soup. The good, the…
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Review from Vi B.
12/15/2011
When we had people from out of town staying with us, they mentioned Elephant's was a well known place to check out in PDX. Whaaa??? A nationally recognized, chill deli/grocer/hot foods spot here in the city that I've never been to? That's a problem I needed to quash. Fast.
So I quickly found myself here around Thanksgiving, pushing through the masses who too came schlepping in from the cold in search of high-end gourmet cheeses and other deli favorites.
I love that it's smaller, well-stocked and full of quality goods. I will definitely be returning as the customer in that elephant's room. -
Review from Christine M.
Cincinnati, OH
1/18/2012 1 Check-in Here
This place is full of options! That can be a very good thing when feeling hungry but indecisive- it certainly pulls you in to a space full of tasty treats, great main dishes, and interesting combinations- but it's also a bit overwhelming.
There is a case of refrigerated salads, sandwiches, and combo deals, as well as a hot line, soup and sandwich station, and desserts. Drinks are along the wall and there is wine and other merchandise throughout.
I have always struggled a bit to decide on a rounded, reasonably sized meal (the phrase 'one of each has also crossed my mind') but despite this struggle, in the end I've always been satisfied, if a bit all over the place, with my selections. The beauty and the curse of what ultimately feels like an upscale grocery store (Dean and Deluca?) meets a fancy cafeteria (high end private school?) meal. Choice is the key here. Try to be decisive.
The food is good, the selections are endless, and the seating in the back room with the fireplace delightful. I've been here a few time while visiting friend and have nothing but fond memories-after I settled on my food.
Pricing is per piece and comes together at the register, also a bit cumbersome at times...but totally worth it in the end.
On my last trip I was exposed to the croque-madame sandwich. Pretty amazing find. Even coupled with ambivalence, I was wildly satisfied once this beauty hit my taste buds. Seems to be the trend. -
Review from Kathleen Y.
San Jose, CA
2/6/2012
Friend and I tried this place and ended up getting a cheese sampler with bread for about $9 for 3 people which was awesome. The workers were very helpful. We were also able to try some almonds and hazelnuts before deciding to buy the spicy and sweet hazelnuts.
They have really good cheeses. :) -
Review from Matthew W.
Portland, OR
12/31/2011 1 Check-in Here
The "main" Elephants location on NW 22nd, just north of Burnside, is cramped and crazy busy, but the food rocks.
If you are looking for hot or cold sandwiches, soup, wood-fired pizza, deli favorites or other hot meals, you will find great selections at Elephants. They also have pre-made sandwiches, as well as many drinks, snacks and trinkets spread around the store.
Many people take their food out, but there are dine-in seats in the front of the store and in back rooms, assuming they are not hosting parties.
The atmosphere during busy times is frenetic and newcomers find it a bit intimidating. If you haven't been there, just take a deep breath, get in line at one of the food stations and grab a menu so you're ready to order. The cashiers are up front, as are the drink glasses, silverware and napkins (should you be eating in). It's not that bad once you figure it out...and the food is worth the stress. -
Review from Andrew G.
10/27/2011 2 Check-ins Here
I think prior to my recent visits, I would have rated this 4 stars. But the last few times I've been there, I've had some really flipping good food here. Sometimes at half-price, no less!
One time, we had a couple friends down from Seattle. We stopped in here late morning on a Saturday. Seated at the bar, we decided we might have a bevvie, perhaps one alcoholic in nature. The bartender named Kelly (I still remember) said "Do you want to have the best margarita you've ever had?" Oh, challenging us, eh? Bring it on, mister. And he brought it. Sugar-muddled limes, mas tequila, and Grand Marnier shaken in a glass and served on ice. Hosannah! It was incredible. Delicious all the way down and one was about all you needed. Loopy! I've tried to replicate it and, despite it's simple ingredients, haven't been able to approach his masterpiece. Now, the days of this offering are over, I'm told. He did say we could be grandfathered in if we came back, something I hope might stay true til the present day? How bout it? USA #1?
I've gottened some hot food from the deli lately, not really having a great memory of the quality but willing to get stuck in for 50% off. Even late in the day, when they are trying to blow the food out the door, I've had some really great eats. The mac & cheese is divine. Whatever cheeses they use work as well together as Tango & Cash. Rich, nuanced flavors abound. Same goes with the potatoes au gratin. And oh my goodness, how could I not mention you first, Sveedish meatballs with spaetzle? I'm getting that every time. If I sees it, I'll seize it.
These are just some of the reasons to love them. They often have tête de moine, a cheese so radical that you have to have a special device (a girolle) to plane it into little rosettes. Lovely stuff. The only other place I've seen that is at Cheese Bar. As far as the baked goods? Commence forgetting about it! Tastydelphia.
It's not going to be like an Albertson's deli, price- or taste-wise. Good food costs money to make. It's a great place to go treat yourself to something scrumtrillescent. -
Review from Ashley W.
3/9/2012
The food is fantastic, I go to the one at PDX at least 2x a month. I love their salads and mac n cheese, I just wish they had nutritional values listed. It's really nice to know that you're eating natural and local while getting outstanding quality and flavor! I have tried even their sweet treats, soups, meat and it's all good across the board!
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Review from Alyssa C.
2/29/2012 1 Check-in Here
THIS PLACE IS SOOOOO CUTE! I have no idea how I've never been to this location but I found myself here today looking for a good sandwich. Did I find one? Yes I did! I ordered the Tuscan Chicken Sandwich (despite being unable to choose from so many delicious looking options!) and I do not regret it at all! It's delicious! Service was super nice and I spent the time waiting browsing through the adorable gift sets, jams, wines, cheeses - all my favorite things! I'll just have to make sure I set a budget next time I go or I'm afraid I'll walk out with tons of new stuff! At least I'll be able to get lunch while I shop!
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Review from Joey Y.
10/10/2011 1 Check-in Here
The Voodoo Donuts of the delis. One of the tourist stops in Portland. It's cool, hip, EXPENSIVE, and their tastes alright.
Just try to avoid this place on Sundays because it's packed! You'll be lucky to find an outside seat. -
Review from Misty S.
11/15/2011 1 Check-in Here
I've had Elephants cater our work meetings for some time now but I actually had my first trip here a few weeks ago.
They have a parking lot!!! They are helpful and friendly!!! Their food is delicious!!!
When I do order for a catered lunch, they never disappoint. It's always a crowd pleaser. -
Review from Julie H.
This was my favorite place out of all the places we visited in Portland. There was lots of parking, lots of food and it was wonderfully decorated. We went before thanksgiving so it had a holiday feel and I dunno why but it reminded me of that Harry Potter treat cart that came around on the train.... soo much to choose from and so festive!
I got the grilled cheese, tomato and spinach sandwich with the corn chowder. DELISH! And my bf got the reuben with potato salad. The potato salad was to die for! I can't wait to visit Portland again just so I can come back here. All of the food looked wonderful. Good prices, fun and everyone was super friendly! -
Review from Marie L.
Tigard, OR
11/11/2011
3 words: Orange Tomato Soup
Although, I live very close an Elephant's location - if I didn't, I would drive just for this soup. It is amazing with a great piece of sourdough bread.
Their cheese variety is amazing. They will let you sample things you are wanting to taste. Great sandwich menu. They offer delivery and cater. Great customer service and friendly staff.
I haven't had anything here I didn't like. The food tastes fresh and is satisfying. Deli food kicked up a few notches! Definitely, one of my favorites. -
Review from Wil M.
10/1/2011
An absolutely delightful delicatessen... one of my favorite establishments in Portland.
Inside is like a high-end cafeteria with different stations - Mexican food, asian food, a bakery, a grill, a deli-style area, panini station... the foods rotate out and the menu seems to change on the regular. They also have gourmet market items - baking supplies, cooking supplies, fun obscure drink products, etc.
The staff are SO friendly. Both times I've come here I've been complimented on both my beard and my shirts. The staff engage you in conversation and want to make sure you're happy with what you're getting. They glow.
The food is absolutely delicious. I could eat here every day and not get tired of it, as there are so many options (and they are so good!). Favorites include the potatos au gratin, the lemon salmon, and the seared marinated brussel sprouts.
There are lots of wheat-free items here, but they are correct in not claiming gluten-free ness, as there are no gluten-free designated sections of the kitchens and the like. Unfortunately, I had a bit of gluten exposure, but that was a risk I knew I was taking.
PLEASE come here and give it a try! -
Review from Sugar B.
Renton, WA
12/19/2011
One of our favorite restaurants in Portland, and especially around the stadium and Hotel deluxe!
The variety of options is simply amazing, making it a great family choice since everybody can get whatever they want. And despite the range of items, everything we've tried has been tasty and fresh.
Nice seating inside and especially outside when the weather is nice.
A great choice any time of day. -
Review from Susan L.
11/13/2011
Threw a baby shower for 11 lovely ladies in the garden room and I was amazed at how good the service and food were. Plus they packaged up all of our leftovers so we could snack on for days!
- Butternut squash soup was amazing
- Frittata was amazing
- don't forget the carrot cake either! -
Review from Marcelitte G.
Portland, OR
4/5/2012
Love elephants deli -- but was in the food section for take out -- the woman from the register was called to help me -- she did not wash her hands or put on gloves - she then picked up the plastic containers with her thumb in it and proceeded to put in the grilled veggies in that container -- she also pick my other item up with utensils but put it in plastic that had again her fingers holding the plastic -- I thought- ok I'm not going to die from a couple of germs from money and credit cards -- so I didn't say anything -- then she went directly back to the register and she waited on me -- it was like the universe wanted me to correct this ( smile)-- at that point I had to say something to her about the food code -- anyone that works with food knows you have to wash your hands or wear gloves going from place to place in a restaurant-- -- she said she used utensils !!??!!?-- so I left it at that -- love this place but I will speak up next time --
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Review from Cody W.
1/4/2012 1 Check-in Here
Landmark creative Portland spin on the deli tradition. This is not where you get your pastrami on rye and an egg cream, but rather where you submit your lunch appetite to the whims and chalkboard fancies of the savory din. Meatloaf? Fish & Chips? Hot sandwiches, cold sandwiches, burgers, artisan salads, breads, soft, chewy desserts to die for. Just eat it, OK? Everything's good here.
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Review from Jasmine L.
Manhattan, NY
12/26/2011
The mac n' cheese at this place is AMAZING!!!!
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Review from Michael S.
Portland, OR
6/12/2011 4 Check-ins Here
Oh my gosh, where have I been, under a rock? I find it hard to believe I've been in Portland for over 9 years yet I had never been to Elephants!
i was overwhelmed when I first walked in but, in a good way! There's a smiling face behind every counter that's eager to help. Everything looked and smelled amazing, don't get me started on the desserts, I had to walk away because I knew if I made a purchase I would end up buying at least one of everything, just to try it.
Anyway, I will make Elephants a regular stop from now on..
