Flexible Cooking Gigs in PDX (2023)

If you have a passion for cooking, there are various gig opportunities in Portland that allow you to showcase your skills and make extra money.

Whether you’re a professional chef, a talented home cook, or specialize in a specific cuisine, these cooking gigs offer flexibility and the chance to explore your culinary creativity.

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Cooking Gigs

Turn your love for cooking into a side hustle.

Make money by becoming a food truck owner.

Cook or bake food from your own kitchen to sell.

A restaurant jobs board that has a Shifts section where you can choose where and when you want to work. Has gigs for cook, dishwasher, server, etc. Make sure to filter by Shifts.

Make sure to check out our huge list of even more ways to earn extra cash in PDX.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average food truck startup cost?

The average startup cost for a food truck can vary widely depending on various factors, but it typically ranges from $50,000 to $150,000. This cost includes purchasing or leasing the truck, equipment, licenses, permits, initial inventory, branding, and marketing. Keep in mind that location, size, and the condition of the truck can significantly impact the overall expenses.

What is a sample breakdown of food cart startup costs?

Here's a sample breakdown of food cart startup costs:

1. Cart or Truck: $10,000 - $50,000

2. Equipment: $5,000 - $20,000

3. Licenses and Permits: $500 - $5,000

4. Inventory and Ingredients: $2,000 - $5,000

5. Branding and Signage: $1,000 - $5,000

6. Insurance: $1,000 - $3,000

7. Marketing: $500 - $2,000

8. Commissary or Storage: $500 - $2,000

9. Miscellaneous Expenses: $1,000 - $3,000

Keep in mind that these figures are estimates, and actual costs may vary depending on your specific equipment choices, and other individual factors. Conduct thorough research and budget planning to get a more accurate idea of your food cart startup costs.

Where are the food cart pods in Portland?

Travel Portland has a great list of food cart pods in PDX.

Where can I go to find information on the laws regarding a domestic kitchen or bakery in Portland?

Operating a domestic kitchen requires strict adherence to health and safety regulations set by the Oregon Department of Agriculture. If you are operating a domestic bakery and meet the bakery exemption criteria, you may not need a Domestic Kitchen License. The bakery exemption allows you to sell certain low-risk baked goods without a license. It's important to review all requirements on the Oregon Department of Agriculture's website.

Are there any commercial kitchens in Portland where I can do my cooking or baking?

Yes, there are several commercial kitchens in Portland that offer rental spaces for cooking or baking. These shared kitchen spaces are designed to accommodate food entrepreneurs and provide a licensed and fully equipped environment for food preparation.

The Kitchen Door has a great list of commercial kitchens in Portland.

Next Steps

1. Scroll back up to the list of gigs on this page and sign up today!

2. Need more ideas for side hustles in Portland? Check out our giant list of side hustles.