Introduction
My culinary journey through Portland has been a constant exploration of flavors, textures, and cultures. But one particular cuisine has consistently captivated my senses: Vietnamese food. From the steaming bowls of aromatic pho that warm you from the inside out to the crispy, savory crunch of a perfectly crafted banh mi, Portland’s Vietnamese food scene is a vibrant and essential part of the city’s culinary tapestry. It’s not just about satisfying hunger; it’s about experiencing a culture, a history, and a community through its most delicious expressions.
Portland’s Vietnamese food scene is a diverse and delicious reflection of the city’s multiculturalism, offering everything from traditional pho and banh mi to innovative and modern takes on classic dishes. This guide will take you on a culinary journey, exploring the history, the must-try dishes, the best restaurants, and even some tips for navigating this vibrant culinary landscape.
A Taste of History: Vietnamese Influence in Portland
The story of Vietnamese food in Portland is inextricably linked to the city’s Vietnamese community. Beginning in the aftermath of the Vietnam War, Portland became a welcoming home for many Vietnamese refugees seeking a new life. These immigrants brought with them not only their skills and resilience but also their rich culinary traditions. They established businesses, created communities, and, perhaps most importantly, shared their food with the city.
Over time, the Vietnamese community flourished, particularly in areas like the Jade District, which became a hub of Vietnamese culture and commerce. As the community grew, so did the number of Vietnamese restaurants, grocery stores, and cultural centers. This influx of Vietnamese influence transformed Portland’s culinary landscape, adding a layer of richness and authenticity that is now integral to the city’s identity. You’ll still find many businesses owned by the original immigrants or their descendants, continuing their legacy of excellent food and community engagement.
The Dishes that Define the Scene: Must-Try Vietnamese Delights
Portland’s Vietnamese food scene is a culinary playground, offering a wide array of dishes to tantalize the taste buds. While there are countless options to explore, a few dishes stand out as quintessential representations of this cuisine.
The Soul-Soothing Power of Pho
No exploration of Vietnamese food is complete without mentioning pho. This iconic noodle soup, simmered for hours to create a rich and complex broth, is a true comfort food. The broth, typically made with beef bones, spices like star anise and cinnamon, and aromatics like ginger and onion, is the heart of the dish. Thin rice noodles, tender slices of beef (or chicken or tofu), and a generous topping of fresh herbs, sprouts, and lime complete the experience.
Whether you prefer pho bo (beef pho), pho ga (chicken pho), or a vegetarian version, Portland has a pho shop to satisfy your craving. Some noteworthy spots include Pho Kim, known for its deeply flavorful broth, and Rose VL Deli, famed for it’s family recipes and vegan options. You can also find regional variations like pho bac (northern style) with a clearer broth or pho tai with rare beef that cooks in the hot broth.
Banh Mi: The Perfect Sandwich
The banh mi is a testament to the fusion of cultures. A crispy baguette, a legacy of French colonialism, is filled with a medley of Vietnamese ingredients, creating a sandwich that is both satisfying and complex. Typically, a banh mi includes pate, Vietnamese ham, pickled vegetables (daikon and carrots), cilantro, jalapenos, and a swipe of mayonnaise.
The key to a great banh mi is the quality of the bread and the balance of flavors. Portland boasts a number of excellent banh mi shops. Best Baguette is famous for its crusty bread and generous fillings, while An Xuyen Bakery is a long-standing institution known for its classic banh mi. For a vegetarian option, try the tofu banh mi at Luc Lac, which is a vegetarian delight.
Bun Cha: A Northern Vietnamese Specialty
Hailing from Hanoi, bun cha is a delightful dish featuring grilled pork patties served with rice noodles, fresh herbs, and a flavorful dipping sauce. The pork is often marinated in a sweet and savory mixture before being grilled to perfection. Diners then assemble their own bites, dipping the noodles and pork into the sauce and adding herbs to their liking. This interactive element makes bun cha a fun and engaging dining experience. Several Vietnamese eateries around Portland offer excellent bun cha, showcasing the diverse regional flavors within Vietnamese cuisine.
Goi Cuon: Fresh and Flavorful Spring Rolls
These fresh spring rolls are a light and healthy alternative to their fried counterparts. Thin rice paper wrappers encase vermicelli noodles, shrimp, pork, lettuce, mint, and other fresh ingredients. Served with a peanut dipping sauce, goi cuon are a refreshing appetizer or light meal, especially during warmer months. Many restaurants offer variations with different fillings, allowing for diverse taste experiences. Good quality spring rolls should have a balance of flavors and textures, with each ingredient contributing to the overall harmony.
Beyond the Usual Suspects
While pho and banh mi are staples, Portland’s Vietnamese food scene offers so much more. Consider exploring Com Tam (broken rice), a dish often served with grilled pork chops, shredded pork skin, and a fried egg. Banh Xeo (crispy crepe), a savory crepe filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, is another must-try. And don’t forget to sample Che, a wide variety of sweet dessert soups that offer a delightful way to end your meal. Finally, no visit to a Vietnamese restaurant would be complete without trying Vietnamese coffee.
If you are plant-based, there are many great vegetarian or vegan options available in Portland. Rose VL Deli and Loving Hut offer extensive vegan menus, and many other restaurants are happy to accommodate dietary restrictions. Just be sure to ask about ingredients and preparation methods.
Where to Eat: A Guide to Portland’s Best Vietnamese Restaurants
To help you navigate the vast array of options, here’s a breakdown of some of Portland’s best Vietnamese restaurants, categorized for your convenience.
For the Perfect Bowl of Pho
Pho Kim: Consistently praised for its rich, complex broth and generous portions. A great spot for a classic pho experience.
Pho Oregon: This establishment is known for using fresh, high-quality ingredients and meticulous preparation.
Rose VL Deli: While it is primarily vegan, it’s Pho cannot be missed.
Banh Mi Bliss
Best Baguette: As the name suggests, they are known for their perfectly crispy baguettes and generous fillings.
An Xuyen Bakery: A Portland institution, serving up classic banh mi for decades. The perfect spot for a traditional experience.
Luc Lac: Offers a particularly delicious tofu banh mi, perfect for vegetarians.
Overall Excellent Choices
Lúc Lác Vietnamese Kitchen: This restaurant offers modern Vietnamese cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients and a vibrant atmosphere.
Matts’s BBQ (inside Haymaker): Known for serving a unique blend of Vietnamese and barbecue flavors, this eatery offers a truly memorable dining experience.
Nhà Hàng Viêt Nam: A family-owned restaurant dishing out classic Vietnamese fare in a strip-mall setting.
Hidden Gems to Discover
Ha VL: A tiny shop in the Jade District that specializes in northern Vietnamese cuisine, offering dishes you won’t find anywhere else.
Pho Hung: Known for its authentic flavors and reasonable prices. A great spot for a casual and satisfying meal.
Quick Lunch Destinations
Banh Mi Boys: An excellent spot for a delicious and affordable banh mi on the go.
Various Food Carts: Portland is home to a number of Vietnamese food carts, offering quick and tasty options for lunch.
For a Romantic Evening
Lúc Lác Vietnamese Kitchen: The stylish atmosphere and delicious food make it a great choice for a date night.
Nong’s Khao Man Gai (Hawthorne Asylum): Although best known for its Thai chicken and rice, Nong’s also has a great Vietnamese inspired plate.
Food Cart Delights
Mama Chow’s Kitchen: Great mix of Vietnamese and Cantonese dishes, offering items such as garlic noodles, and rice bowls.
Bing Mi!: Famous for its tasty Chinese street food known as Bing, this establishment also includes a special Vietnamese inspired dish.
Beyond the Classics: Modern and Fusion Vietnamese Cuisine
While tradition is important, some Portland restaurants are pushing the boundaries of Vietnamese cuisine, creating innovative and exciting dishes that blend Vietnamese flavors with modern techniques and local ingredients. One example is Lúc Lác Vietnamese Kitchen, which serves elevated versions of classic dishes in a stylish setting. Another is Matts’s BBQ, which incorporates Vietnamese flavors into its barbecue offerings, creating a unique and delicious fusion experience. These restaurants are showcasing the versatility of Vietnamese cuisine and demonstrating its ability to adapt and evolve.
A Few Tips for Enjoying Vietnamese Food Like a Pro
To fully immerse yourself in the Portland Vietnamese food experience, here are a few tips:
- Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases: “Cam on” (thank you) and “Mot” (one) can go a long way.
- Don’t be afraid to customize your order: Most restaurants are happy to accommodate dietary restrictions or preferences.
- Experiment with the sauces: Sriracha, hoisin sauce, and chili oil are common condiments that can add extra flavor to your dishes.
- Observe the etiquette: In many Vietnamese restaurants, it’s customary to share dishes and use chopsticks.
- Pair your food with Vietnamese coffee or beer: These beverages complement the flavors of the food perfectly.
Conclusion
Portland’s Vietnamese food scene is a vibrant and diverse reflection of the city’s multicultural spirit. From the comforting warmth of pho to the satisfying crunch of banh mi, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious newcomer, I encourage you to explore the many Vietnamese restaurants and food carts that Portland has to offer. Each bite is a journey, a story, and a celebration of Vietnamese culture. So, go ahead, venture out, and discover your own favorite pho-nomenal spot in Portland. You won’t be disappointed. The aroma of spices, the crunch of vegetables, and the warmth of community await.
