From spring through fall, there are farmers' markets almost every day of the week throughout the Portland metro area. And with more than 100 food carts located in downtown Portland alone - not to mention the countless pods of food carts dotting the city - representing cuisine from all corners of the globe, this is fast food Portland's way.

It's difficult to stroll through the South Park blocks on a Saturday morning without getting distracted. Here (S.W. Park between Hall and Montgomery) you'll run into vendors with everything from fresh produce to flowers, seafood, poultry, baked goods and so much more from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. through December 18, 2010.

Come for the food but stay for the live music happening throughout the day. Portland's farmers' market scene has grown exponentially since its inception in the early 1990s, and now you can find a market six days of the week at various neighborhoods throughout the city. To find out about all the markets around the city visit: www.portlandfarmersmarket.org.

Portland's touted culinary reputation is due, in no small way, to its ubiquitous food carts. Whether it's a falafel you crave, pad thai, a hearty bowl of lentil soup with a grilled cheese sandwich (on gluten-free bread and made with local cheese, of course!), Belgium waffles, savory pies, fish tacos or just a classic slice of New York-style pizza, you'll find it amongst the ever-popular Portland food cart scene (is your mouth watering yet?). Visit www.foodcartsportland.com for information on all the food carts throughout the city.