Discover 10 Unique Portland Restaurants for an Epic Meal Out
2024-04-14
From cozy ramen spots to vibrant Thai eateries, dive into our list of 10 unique Portland restaurants you can't miss.
1. TOMO RAMEN
Stepping into TOMO RAMEN, you're immediately transported to what feels like a cozy ramen shop in Japan. The chill vibe is complemented by a playlist of early 90s hits, making the dining experience uniquely relaxing. I tried the Nest Ramen and the Veggie Ramen, both bursting with flavor and generously portioned. The highlight for me was the quail eggs added to the dishes, a delightful touch! The karaage chicken was crispy and flavorful, a must-try. Although the broth could have been creamier for my taste, the overall quality and atmosphere will definitely bring me back.
Address: 3545 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, OR 97214
Phone: (503) 208-2165
2. Khao San
If you're craving some authentic Thai street food, Khao San is a must-visit! The vibe is unique, and the decor transports you straight to the bustling streets of Thailand. I absolutely loved the Hoy Joh appetizers – a delightful mix of pork, shrimp, crab meat, and water chestnuts wrapped in bean-curd skin. For the main course, the Holy Basil Chicken with customizable spice levels was a fiery delight, and the Chinese Broccoli with pork belly was so good, there were no leftovers! Plus, the happy hour menu is a steal with plenty of options to choose from. Don't miss out on this gem, especially if you're heading to a game – the outdoor seating is perfect, albeit a bit loud, but the strong drinks and friendly service more than make up for it.
Address: 1435 NW Flanders St A, Portland, OR 97209
Phone: (503) 227-3700
3. Buranko Cafe & Bar
If you're wandering through downtown and hunger strikes, Buranko Cafe & Bar is a must-try! I've been here a couple of times, and each visit leaves me more impressed. The tomyum chashu ramen and chashu bowl are out of this world, and don't even get me started on the desserts – every single one is a delightful surprise. The quirky decor adds to the fun vibe, making it perfect for a girls' night out or a casual hang with friends. The unique seating and friendly staff only enhance the experience. Highly recommend for a tasty adventure!
Address: 108 SW Pine St, Portland, OR 97204
Phone: (503) 241-2691
4. Rukdiew Cafe
Stepping into Rukdiew Cafe feels like entering a pink paradise, perfect for a girly gathering or a cozy family celebration. The place bursts with charm, from floral dishes to cute wallpapers. The food? Absolutely divine. The evil jungle fried rice, pad see ew, and lava noodles are must-tries for anyone, especially vegans, thanks to their thoughtful options like soy curls and tofu. Don't miss out on the crab puffs and boat noodles - they're a game changer! Whether you're picking up or dining in, the vibes and flavors here are sure to impress.
Address: 2534 SE Belmont St, Portland, OR 97214
Phone: (503) 841-6123
5. Eem - Thai BBQ & Cocktails
If you're craving a unique dining experience, Eem - Thai BBQ & Cocktails is a must-visit! The cozy Thai spot offers a delightful array of dishes that left me dreaming about the crispy sweet and sour fried chicken and the intriguing White Curry with burnt ends. The vibe is just right for a night out, with top-notch drinks and a lively atmosphere. Although the portions might leave you a bit peckish if you come with a big appetite, the flavors and the overall experience are definitely worth it. Highly recommend for anyone looking to spice up their meal times!
Address: 3808 North Williams Avenue st, 127, Portland, OR 97227
Phone: (971) 295-1645
6. Mee-Sen Thai Eatery
Mee-Sen Thai Eatery in Portland is a gem for food lovers! The place may be small, but it packs a punch with its variety of flavorful dishes. From the Tom Yum and Tom Kha soups brimming with fresh veggies and proteins to the standout Tom Yum fried rice, every dish is a delight. The desserts, especially the sticky rice with mango and custard, are a perfect end to a meal. The friendly staff and thoughtful touches like a cute note and a little basket of candy with takeout orders make each visit special. Definitely a must-try spot!
Address: 3924 N Mississippi Ave, Portland, OR 97227
Phone: (503) 445-1909
7. Sichuan Taste
If you're a fan of spicy food and unique dishes like bullfrog, Sichuan Taste might just be your next go-to spot. I tried their Sichuan chili chicken and garlic cucumbers, and both dishes were bursting with flavor and had generous portions. The service was quick, which is great when you're hungry and ready to dive into some tasty food. Although some dishes like the Mongolian beef and soup dumplings didn't hit the mark for me, the overall experience was decent. Just a heads up, the restaurant's location next to a liquor store might make you a bit cautious.
Address: 515 SW 4th Ave, Portland, OR 97204
Phone: (503) 477-5711
8. THE ONE CHINESE BBQ
Recently, I discovered a hidden gem for late-night dining right next to Nimblefish, called THE ONE CHINESE BBQ. This no-frills spot offers authentic Chinese BBQ skewers that are seriously spicy and incredibly tasty. From the unique beef aorta to the genuinely spicy chicken, each skewer is a delight. It's a fun experience, grilling small skewers right at your table. The flavors are bold, primarily featuring curry, garlic, and spice. Definitely a must-try for BBQ lovers looking for something out of the ordinary!
Address: 2030 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, OR 97214
Phone: (503) 327-8739
9. Ka-te Restaurant & Bar
If you're cruising for a unique spot to grab some Vietnamese eats and maybe belt out a karaoke tune, Ka-te Restaurant & Bar is your go-to. The vibe is lively, perfect for a night out with friends. While the fried rice might not knock your socks off, dishes like the BBH hot pot and shaken beef pack a flavorful punch. And if you're feeling adventurous, the tofu/noodle dish with fermented fish paste is a hit among the daring. Don't miss out on their French fries, surprisingly the star of my meal!
Address: 3554 SE 82nd Ave, Portland, OR 97266
Phone: (971) 346-2201
10. HA VL Vietnamese Noodle Soup
If you're craving authentic Vietnamese pho, HA VL is a must-visit! They offer only two types of pho each day, but the clarity and taste of the soup are unmatched. The place has a cozy, no-frills vibe, perfect for enjoying a bowl of their brothy, rich Vietnamese beef stew or the flavorful turmeric yellow soup. The shrimp in the turmeric soup is particularly good, and the beef in the stew melts in your mouth. Remember to arrive early, as they often sell out before noon!
Address: 2738 SE 82nd Ave UNIT 102, Portland, OR 97266
Phone: (503) 772-0103
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