As we creep into the peak of the summer season, there’s been a unique phenomenon happening across the country. As some of you may have already noticed, media coverage surrounding the emerging food cart scene has been rapidly gaining traction the past six months.

Whether it’s the state of the economy, smarter spending, or simply a desire to escape fast food hell, there’s been an explosion in popularity towards street vendors and food carts all over the country.

Recently, the Oregonian wrote about the new influx of carts on Mississippi Ave in Portland in an article published two days ago, noting “Multnomah County has more than 375 food carts, with action blossoming in the suburbs — and the applications keep coming.”And apparently, some other people in Portland see potential here.

“Food carts are the entrepreneurial adventure of the 21st century,” says Howard Shapiro, a board member of the nonprofit Albina Opportunities Corp., one of the lenders that helped Goldingay with financing. “These are more than little things on wheels. They’re serving darn good food and prices at a time when people just love food.”

The New York Times have also caught on. In addition to their thorough review of Portland’s street food scene (found here), they’ve also been detailing some of the new ideas street vendors are implementing to reach customers. A series of open-air, after work summer parties has seen the marriage of local street food, good music, and a relaxed vibe.

This article details the set-up further: “Entry is free; $5 buys a plate of food. Menus have included tacos from the celebrated food truck Calexico and pulled pork from Egg, a beloved local restaurant; indie stalwarts like Tim Harrington of Les Savy Fav have played D.J. (At the next BBQ, on July 29, the chef Sam Mason mans the grill, and the Harlem Shakes, a Brooklyn band, are on the decks.) The mood is chill hipster hangout.”

Hmm…. is this a hint of things to come for our Portland scene? Stay tuned, K-heads.