The Experience
Cha! Cha! Cha! - Mexican Restaurant is the kind of airport meal you choose when you want real flavor, fast—not another sad snack box. It’s set up for quick service, so you can order, grab your tray, and be eating within minutes (perfect when boarding is already on the screen). The vibe leans lively and casual: bright, busy, and built for travelers who want something satisfying before a flight.
What people tend to love about a spot like this at PDX is the customizable, hearty format—think tacos and burrito-style plates that actually keep you full. Expect the usual greatest hits of Mexican fast-casual: warm tortillas, rice-and-beans bases, and punchy salsas that wake up your palate after a too-early check-in.
Location & Access
- Exact location: Portland International Airport (PDX), Concourse D
- Access: Post-security (in the concourse gate area)
Concourse D is an easy pivot once you’re through security—follow signs for D gates and look for the quick-service cluster. Seating is typical for an airport counter-service restaurant: some shared tables and quick-turn seating, with overflow often coming from nearby concourse seating. Wait times usually spike during the morning wave (6–9 AM) and the late afternoon rush (3–6 PM); outside of that, it’s generally a straightforward in-and-out stop.
Menu Highlights
- Tacos (mix-and-match): The best move when you want variety—order two or three and sample different salsas.
- Burrito or burrito bowl: A reliable, filling option for longer flights; ask for extra salsa on the side so it doesn’t get soggy if you’re taking it to the gate.
- Chips & salsa/guac: Ideal as a “boarding is soon” snack, or to round out a lighter order.
Price-wise, expect typical airport fast-casual spending: tacos and sides for a lighter meal, and burritos/bowls as the more filling (and slightly pricier) option.
- Vegetarian: Usually easy—beans, rice, veggie toppings, cheese, salsa.
- Vegan: Often doable if you skip dairy; ask staff to confirm beans, rice, and tortillas.
- Gluten-free: Corn tortillas and bowl formats can work; confirm cross-contact if you’re sensitive.
- Halal: Not typically advertised at airport Mexican counters—assume not halal-certified unless clearly labeled.
Practical Info
- Mobile ordering: Not confirmed—check the PDX interactive map/app for current ordering options and hours.
- Reservations: None (quick service).
- Best times to avoid crowds: After the breakfast surge (around 9:30–11 AM) or mid-evening.
- Power outlets: Variable in concourses; plan on using nearby gate seating if you need reliable charging.
Quick Verdict
- Best for: Travelers who want a fast, filling meal; families (easy crowd-pleasing options); anyone tired of bland airport food.
- Skip if: You’re extremely tight on time during peak rushes, or you need guaranteed gluten-free/halal accommodations without cross-contact risk.
Location
Concourse D