It didn't take long after living in a small provence of Thailand to appreciate homemade Thai food from the Isan region. These are some of favorite spots for Thai food in Portland when I'm feeling nostalgic, and it wasn't easy to decide either.
The soups, along with almost anything on the specials board are killer. The owners work daily, serving up a vast menu of Thai favorites.
The menu is expansive but consistent. Stray from your usual Pad Kee Mao for the creamy and flavorful Tom Kha soup.
Chill out, it might take a while. There's usually only one server. Don't pass up the specials board or you'll miss the crispy avocado rolls.
Thai comfort food, especially if you are comfortable eating dishes other than pad thai. The cocktails are top-notch and the appetizers are flavorful enough to be a stand-alone meal.
Andy Ricker left off a few staples like Pad Thai, giving us a chance to try North/Northeast Thai food. Accessible dishes, & so flavorful.
Having lived in Thailand, Mee Sen is one of my favorite PDX spots for authentic Isan eats, and one of the only places in the city to find ba mee haeng.
There's really nothing like it, in a city swarming with Thai food. This Thai/ Hainanese chicken and rice dish is served with sauce of fermented soybeans, ginger, garlic, thai chilies, vinegar. Get there early, Nong's sells out daily.