Portland’s Best Barbecue, Brewery, and Distillery Van Tour

Portland’s Best Barbecue, Brewery, and Distillery Van Tour offers a fun, tasty way to explore the city’s vibrant local food and drink scene. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast, lover of smoky BBQ, or curious about craft spirits, this tour provides a balanced mix of all three, all in a relaxed, social setting.

We like that it combines visits to a boutique brewery known for gluten-free grains, a popular BBQ joint praised for its smoky meats, and a distillery specializing in small-batch rum. The three stops are carefully chosen to showcase Portland’s innovative approach to traditional favorites. A possible drawback? The tour’s duration of around 3.5 hours means you’ll want to pace yourself—especially if you’re not used to tasting sessions.

This experience is ideal for those who enjoy flavorful food, craft beverages, and a lively atmosphere. If you’re after an introduction to Portland’s best local flavors with a small, intimate group, this tour could be just the ticket.

Good To Know

• Authentic Portland Flavors: Focuses on local craft beer, barbecue, and spirits.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 13 travelers for a personalized feel.
• Comprehensive Tasting: Three stops, each offering a unique taste of the city’s culinary scene.
• Value for Money: At $99, the tour offers a well-rounded experience that includes tastings and meals.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Accessible Location: Starts at Portland Beer Hub, close to public transit.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The tour begins at the Portland Beer Hub at 11:45 am, a convenient starting point for most visitors. The first stop is Orange Bike Brewing Company, an eye-catching addition to the East Bayside neighborhood. Here, the focus is on naturally gluten-free grains like millet and buckwheat, which appeal to health-conscious beer drinkers or those with gluten sensitivities. Guests are treated to a tasting session that lasts about an hour, during which the brewery’s innovative approach to brewing becomes apparent.

From the reviews, it’s clear that Orange Bike Brewing isn’t your average craft brewery. One guest noted, “I loved how the beers had a unique twist, especially the millet-based ones—they felt lighter but still flavorful.” This spot tends to draw praise for its creative styles and approachable atmosphere, often described as laid-back with friendly staff.

Next, the tour heads to Noble Pizzeria & Barbecue, a favorite for their expertly smoked meats and inviting vibe. The BBQ stop lasts another hour, during which you can expect a hearty, flavorful meal rooted in Southern tradition. Reviewers mention that Noble’s BBQ is “laid-back but full of flavor,” with some calling it the highlight of the tour. Smoky ribs, juicy brisket, and tender pulled pork are often highlighted, along with side dishes that complement the smoky meat.

Guests appreciate how Noble balances authenticity with approachable service, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed lunch. The pairing of rich, savory flavors with the casual ambiance makes this stop feel like a true local secret. One reviewer pointed out how the barbecue “felt like a comforting hug,” especially after a morning of tasting beers.

The final stop is Three of Strong Spirits, a small distillery renowned for its bold, handcrafted rums. Here, the focus is on small-batch production with a commitment to using local, sustainably sourced ingredients. The spirit tasting session lasts about an hour, during which you’ll learn about the distillation process and try a selection of expressive rums. Guests often comment on the quality and depth of flavor in these spirits, calling the experience “an eye-opener” for those unfamiliar with craft distilling.

The tasting environment at Three of Strong Spirits is intimate, with knowledgeable staff sharing insights into what makes their spirits unique. Many reviews praise the “vibrant, full-bodied rums,” and mention that the experience is both educational and enjoyable for all levels of spirit connoisseurs.

What to Expect from the Tour

The entire experience lasts around 3 hours and 30 minutes, making it a manageable yet satisfying outing. The group size is limited to 13 travelers, ensuring ample opportunity for questions and personalized attention. The mobile ticket system makes checking in straightforward, and the meeting point at Portland Beer Hub is easily accessible, especially for those staying centrally or using public transportation.

Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy bottled water provided at each stop, which helps keep you hydrated amid tastings. While the tour fee covers all tastings and your BBQ meal, it’s worth noting that additional food or drinks outside this itinerary are not included. Tipping guides is optional but appreciated, especially given the personalized insights and friendly service you’ll encounter.

Timing-wise, starting at 11:45 am allows for a relaxed pace before the afternoon winds down. Since the tour is weather-dependent, participants are advised that poor weather might lead to rescheduling or a full refund—an important consideration if you’re planning during wetter months.

Authentic Portland Flavors

One of the most appealing aspects of this tour is how it showcases Portland’s culinary creativity. The brewery’s use of gluten-free grains is a smart, health-conscious twist that distinguishes it from more conventional breweries. Meanwhile, Noble BBQ offers a comforting, down-to-earth experience that emphasizes authentic Southern-style smoked meats—something Portland is increasingly known for.

Finally, the spirit tasting at Three of Strong Spirits reveals Portland’s burgeoning craft distilling scene—small-batch, high-quality spirits that you won’t find just anywhere. The combination of these three stops results in a well-rounded introduction to what makes Portland’s food and drink scene so lively and innovative.

Pricing and Value

At $99 per person, the tour offers solid value when you consider the variety of tastings, a full BBQ meal, and the chance to learn from local experts. Compared to booking each experience separately—visiting breweries, restaurants, and distilleries individually—this package provides convenience and often a better overall value.

Many guests felt that the price was justified by the quality of the food and drinks, as well as the insights from guides. For those interested in trying a range of local flavors without the hassle of planning multiple visits, this tour offers a hassle-free, immersive experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for food and drink lovers who want an authentic taste of Portland’s finest. It’s also suitable for groups who enjoy small, social outings, and those who appreciate learning about local craft and culinary traditions. If you’re looking for a relaxed, fun way to spend an afternoon with a focus on flavor, this tour checks all those boxes.

However, if you’re not a fan of tasting sessions or have dietary restrictions that might not be accommodated at these particular stops, you might want to consider other options. Still, since the stops are chosen for their quality and authentic character, most will find something to enjoy.

The Sum Up

In summary, Portland’s Best Barbecue, Brewery, and Distillery Van Tour offers a balanced, flavorful, and engaging way to explore Portland’s vibrant local scene. It combines thoughtfully selected stops that highlight the city’s inventive take on traditional favorites—craft beer, smoky BBQ, and small-batch spirits.

The small-group setting, knowledgeable guides, and well-curated itinerary ensure a personal experience that feels both educational and delicious. It’s ideal for foodies, drink enthusiasts, or anyone eager to discover Portland’s culinary personality in a laid-back, friendly atmosphere.

For travelers seeking a straightforward, fun, and tasty introduction to Portland, this tour provides excellent value and plenty of memorable moments. Just be sure to pace yourself—you’ll want to savor each bite and sip along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
The tour focuses on smoked meats and craft spirits, so vegetarians might find limited options. It’s best to check with the provider if specific dietary needs can be accommodated.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour runs approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including all tastings, meals, and travel between stops.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Portland Beer Hub located at 320 Fore St and ends back at the same location, making it convenient for most city travelers.

Are tips included in the price?
No, tips for guides are not included but are appreciated based on the level of service and experience.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time, with a full refund.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 13 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is this tour accessible for public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transit options, making it easy to reach without a car.

This tour offers a satisfying, well-rounded look at Portland’s flavorful side. Perfect for those eager to taste, learn, and enjoy in a relaxed setting.