The Bite of Oregon returns to Waterfront Park this weekend, benefiting Special Olympics Oregon. However, for a festival celebrating "Oregon’s bounty" the restaurant selection is disappointing... mostly offering comfort food or pub grub (ranging in price from $2-9). While paying an entry fee to go to one of the four food carts isn't especially compelling—especially when there’s more choice at any one of the downtown pods—at least there's the Chef’s Table where each Oregon Agricultural Commission (there’s a separate one for potatoes, beef, seafood, blueberries and more) presents a couple of special dishes prepared by American Culinary Federation chefs.

Plus there will be plenty of booze—SE Wine Collective is running its own wine bar and there are over 20 Oregon wineries showing off their wares. There’s also a solid selection of local beer and cider as well, plus a handful of distilleries. Throughout the weekend the Northwest Chef’s stage will have presentations along with cocktail and cooking competitions (in an Iron Chef format).

Waterfront Park, SW Naito, August 7-9, tickets from $5 in advance, full details here