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Planning notes for Astoria

Must-try foods in Astoria

• Egyptian-Style Grilled Whole Fish
  Egyptian-Style Grilled Whole FishCentered on the 'Little Egypt' stretch of Steinway Street, restaurants like AbuQir allow you to pick fresh fish (like Branzino or Sea Bream) by weight, which is then rubbed with a signature garlic-cumin marinade and grilled to order.
• Cevapi
  CevapiA nod to Astoria's deep Balkan roots, these small, skinless Bosnian sausages are made from a blend of minced meats. They are traditionally served in a fluffy lepinja flatbread with ajvar (red pepper spread) and kajmak (clotted cream).
• SMB (Spicy Mama Bagel/Burger)
  SMB (Spicy Mama Bagel/Burger)A modern Astoria cult classic from Between the Bagel. This fusion creation features Korean bulgogi, a fried egg, cheese, and spicy 'Mama’s sauce' on a bagel or roll, representing the neighborhood's evolving culinary diversity.
• Saganaki
  SaganakiA staple Greek appetizer of fried Kefalograviera cheese. It is pan-seared until the exterior is golden-brown and crispy while the inside remains gooey and melted, often finished with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the table.
• Picanha
  PicanhaRepresenting Astoria’s 'Little Brazil' pocket, this premium top sirloin cap is the star of local churrascarias. It is grilled with a thick layer of fat that renders into the meat, seasoned simply with coarse sea salt.
• Loukoumades
  LoukoumadesTraditional Greek honey donuts that are a must-order at local cafes. These deep-fried dough balls are served hot, soaked in honey syrup, and sprinkled with cinnamon and walnuts, though modern versions now include Nutella or pistachio fillings.

Trip guide

• About Astoria
  About AstoriaAstoria, Oregon, is a port city located at the mouth of the Columbia River. Founded in 1811, it is classified as the oldest permanent American settlement west of the Rocky Mountains. The city’s history began as a fur-trading post established by John Jacob Astor’s Pacific Fur Company.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Astoria is from July through September, when the coastal weather is driest and most comfortable, with average highs in the upper 60s to low 70s. While summer is the peak tourist season with higher prices and larger crowds, the "second summer" in September and early October offers a quieter experience with lingering warmth and clearer skies.
• Getting around
  Getting around Astoria

  • Intercity Bus (POINT or NW Connector) The NorthWest POINT bus runs twice daily from Portland's Union Station to the Astoria Transit Center, taking approximately 3 hours. Alternatively.
  • Astoria Riverfront Trolley A seasonal, vintage 1913 streetcar ('Old 300') that runs along a 3-mile stretch of the Columbia River waterfront. It costs $1 per boarding or $2 for an all-day pass.
  • Local Transit (SETD Route 10) The Sunset Empire Transportation District operates Route 10, a local loop that connects downtown Astoria with major sites like the Maritime Museum and Safeway for a flat fare of $1.00.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Keep to the right on sidewalks and public stairs to allow faster pedestrians to pass you.
  • Expect to tip between 18% and 22% at sit-down restaurants for standard service.
  • Always let passengers exit the subway or bus before you attempt to board.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Astoria

  • Gyro City Astoria: A new Greek street food expansion on 30th Avenue featuring customizable souvlaki bowls and imported pita.
  • Astoria-Ditmars Restaurant Week 2026: A neighborhood-wide food crawl featuring viral street eats from vendors like Souvlaki Lady and Grill Lovers.
• Travel Astoria-Warrenton↗
  Travel Astoria-WarrentonThe official destination marketing organization for Astoria and Warrenton, Oregon, providing visitor guides, trip ideas, and local travel resources.