PIG ‘N A PEN

The Hoosier style pork tenderloin sandwich was delicious, a generous portion with fries. The service was great, food made to order, hot, crispy and tasty! Would definitely return to Portland for that!

Coming from the Hoosier state ourselves, we know a good tenderloin and these really hit the spot. Great for any Midwesterner missing home or for any one who wants to try something new. Plus, the owners definitely kept their Hoosier hospitality.

The breaded pork tenderloin is scrumptious: thin and tender with the perfect balance of flakey and crisp breading. If you’re a Milanese or Chicken Fried Steak fan then this is for you.
For its size and ample portion of fries, this is a value play for $ 8.
What would take it to the next level for me is probably what makes Midwest enthusiasts shudder. Replace the bland Franz bread with something more interesting. There are so many awesome bakeries around town including Fleur De Lis very nearby. Lastly, American Cheese — like Dark Yellow Cheddar — is practically tasteless. So you really only get texture out of it. Sharp White Cheddar would make this sandwich sing.
Again, foo-​fooing this great sandwich might be considered blasphemy, but something to think about if Portlanders don’t appreciate the way it is now.
And I concur with another reviewer that a cart name highlighting Indiana or the region would attract more curious foodies.
Owners are cool, parking is relatively easy. I’m rooting for this cart.

As a Hoosier transplant, this is currently my favorite food cart. If you’re unfamiliar with Indiana’s culinary claim to fame, drop what you’re doing and head to Pig ‘N A Pen to try your first breaded pork tenderloin. One bite and you’ll suddenly discover all that Midwest living has to offer. Okay, maybe not all it has to offer, but easily my favorite part of Midwest living. I’m not even ashamed to admit that I nearly welled up with tears of pure joy when a friend informed me of a Hoosier run tenderloin cart. All I can say is that my expectations were totally surpassed.
Oh, you’re from the Midwest? Come get a bite of home. Bring your friends and teach them the joy of the BPT.
I’ve been a couple times now, and it’s consistently wonderful. There are a handful of options, but I find myself sticking with Jerry’s Way. The breading is tasty with the perfect crunch, while the meat is always juicy and tender. This isn’t just a great tenderloin for Portland, I’d come here regularly in Indiana (where the competition is stiff). The crinkle cut fries are good enough that I can’t seem to stop snacking on them well after I’m full. The broccoli salad is super tasty, and great to have as a lighter option.
One of these days I’ll manage to tear myself away from my regular order and try the other items on the menu. Maybe.

One of the best food carts I’ve eaten at. The tender crunch of the savory tenderloin sandwiches are to die for. Thirsty? Lemon shake ups are a great way to quench your thirst and they’re all fresh squeezed when you order. So satisfying. I’ve been there several times now, and can’t wait to try the other items on the menu!

Ex-​Pat Hoosiers and midwesterners assemble!
Midwest Tenderloin restaurant in NE Portland.
Crinkle cut fries like Penguin Point (Northern Indiana chain restaurant), and hand breaded or grilled pork tenderloin sandwiches.
Good execution, but I think they need to rebrand the cart as it looks and is named like a whole pig BBQ cart would be and they need to educate locals on what the sandwich is.
And if you’re a local, must try the goodness that is an Indiana breaded pork tenderloin sandwich!