Por Que No

)[4] is a small taqueria chain with two locations owned by Bryan Steelman, who was inspired by the "hole-in-the-wall joints" he visited in Mexico.

[10] The chain is known for its Mexican-style tacos with recipes originating from across the country, from the Oaxaca region to the Pacific Coast,[8] and for its sustainable practices and seasonal ingredients.

[11] Por Que No is considered local food, with line-caught fish, pork by Oregon-based Carlton Farms, and tortillas handmade and chips fried on-site.

[15] The same location closed for two months in 2013 for expansion and remodeling, during which the house above the restaurant was converted into a catering kitchen, an additional bathroom was added, and the downstairs seating capacity was increased.

[17] Por Que No has contributed to a variety of charitable organizations and fundraising campaigns, including the annual dine-out for Raphael House (which supports victims of domestic abuse),[18] "Dining with Dignity" for Sisters of the Road,[19] "Make It Pop" for the non-profit local summer music festival PDX Pop Now!,[20] and Willamette Week's giving program "Give!Guide".

In 2013, it joined a handful of other restaurants in supporting City Commissioner Amanda Fritz's plan to require all local businesses to provide paid sick leave to employees.

"[24] In 2014, Por Que No supported the unsuccessful campaign behind Oregon Ballot Measure 88, which sought to make available four-year driver's cards to people who were unable to supply documentation of legal status.

[25] In 2005, Willamette Week's Seth Lorinczi disagreed with locals who criticized the original restaurant's high prices, saying, "you get what you pay for, and ¿Por Qué No?

The effect is akin to watching high-definition television: One recognizes familiar flavors and textures, but they're startlingly detailed and fully realized.

[11] One Frommer's reviewer recommend the lime margaritas and said of the Hawthorne location: "It's not huge, and you'll find lines for lunch more often than not, but in good weather it's the perfect spot for sunny sidewalk dining.

Three taco varieties, 2010
Interior of the Hawthorne restaurant, 2015
Hawthorne restaurant exterior, 2015