Known in the Portland area for its Vegball, Italian, and Cuban sandwiches, Dinger’s Deli has permanently closed. The vegan food cart opened in February 2018 and had been a hit in the Belmont neighborhood for three consecutive years.

Dinger’s Deli’s New Plant-Based Project

Over the past year, Dinger’s Deli remained open for takeout and delivery, and the cart continued to sell out on a day-to-day basis. Although business was booming, the owner and chef, Brian Steadham, felt it was time to switch gears in order to focus on a new plant-based project.

“Dinger’s Deli means a lot to me and I really put a large piece of my heart into the place. Even though I love everything that Dinger’s had to offer, I was given an opportunity to help a much larger company further its vegan food, and it felt like the right time to switch gears and change my pace. It’s way too early to talk about the new project, but I can say that it’s in Portland with a great space, patio, and drinks!” Steadham told VegOut. “I am extremely proud of what Dinger’s accomplished, and I am also really grateful that throughout the years we received so much love [from] both vegans and non-vegans alike.”

Creating Vegan Versions of Classic Sandwiches

Throughout its three-year run, Dinger’s Deli specialized in creating vegan versions of classic sandwiches, such as meatball marinara subs, cheesesteaks, French dips, and Cuban sandwiches. The Portland-based deli also crafted faux meats using house-made ingredients, including wheat-based ham and salami, garlic-fennel veggie meatballs, and pulled jackfruit.

Portland’s Vegan Scene

While Steadham is closing the chapter on Dinger’s Deli, he plans to continue to support Portland’s vegan scene, especially as more vegan restaurants, pop-ups, and food carts open in the area. In addition, Steadham hopes to pass on the Dinger’s legacy to a new owner in its current location, however, plans are TBD.