Beaverton, Oregon, often recognized as a hub for innovation and technology, holds a delightful secret – a thriving and diverse Asian culinary landscape just waiting to be explored. From steaming bowls of Vietnamese pho to expertly crafted Japanese sushi and tantalizing Korean barbecue, Beaverton offers a delectable journey through the flavors of Asia. If you’re craving authentic tastes and vibrant spices, look no further. This guide will navigate you through the best Asian food experiences Beaverton has to offer, catering to a variety of palates and budgets. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds singing!
A Taste of Vietnam in Beaverton
Vietnamese cuisine, renowned for its fresh herbs, delicate broths, and flavorful sauces, has found a welcoming home in Beaverton. Popular dishes like pho (noodle soup), banh mi (sandwiches), bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), and fresh spring rolls offer a symphony of textures and tastes. Whether you’re a seasoned Vietnamese food aficionado or a curious newcomer, Beaverton’s Vietnamese restaurants are sure to impress.
One standout is Pho Vi Van, located on Southwest Canyon Road. This family-owned establishment has been serving authentic Vietnamese cuisine for over a decade. Their pho, simmered for hours with a secret blend of spices, is a local favorite. The broth is rich, aromatic, and deeply satisfying, perfectly complementing the tender noodles and your choice of protein. Don’t miss their banh mi, filled with grilled pork, pickled vegetables, and a spicy aioli – a true explosion of flavor. The restaurant offers a casual and welcoming atmosphere, making it perfect for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner. Their prices are also incredibly reasonable, making it a great option for those on a budget. Many customers consider this restaurant to have the best pho in Beaverton.
Another gem is Banh Mi 79, nestled on Southwest Murray Boulevard. As the name suggests, they specialize in banh mi, offering a wide variety of fillings to suit every taste. From classic Vietnamese cold cuts to grilled chicken and vegetarian options, there’s a banh mi for everyone. Their bread is always fresh and crispy, and the fillings are generous and flavorful. They also offer a selection of Vietnamese beverages, including refreshing iced coffee and homemade lemonade. Banh Mi seventy-nine is a popular spot for lunch, so be prepared for a short wait during peak hours. However, the delicious food is well worth the wait.
For a more upscale Vietnamese dining experience, consider visiting Le Happy. While technically a French-Vietnamese fusion restaurant, Le Happy incorporates traditional Vietnamese flavors into its elegant and innovative dishes. Their menu features items like lemongrass chicken, shaken beef, and crispy spring rolls, all prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The restaurant’s ambiance is sophisticated and romantic, making it a perfect choice for a special occasion. While Le Happy is slightly more expensive than other Vietnamese restaurants in Beaverton, the exceptional food and service make it worth the splurge. One local food blogger praised the restaurant’s creative use of spices and its commitment to using local ingredients.
Exploring the Flavors of China
Chinese cuisine, with its diverse regional variations and centuries of culinary tradition, is another major player in Beaverton’s Asian food scene. From Cantonese dim sum to spicy Sichuan dishes and savory Hunan specialties, Beaverton offers a wide range of Chinese dining options.
If you’re looking for authentic Sichuan cuisine, look no further than Taste of Sichuan, located on Southwest Cedar Hills Boulevard. This restaurant specializes in dishes from the Sichuan province of China, known for its bold flavors and generous use of chili peppers. Their mapo tofu, kung pao chicken, and dan dan noodles are all highly recommended. Be warned – the food is spicy! However, the flavors are complex and satisfying, making it a truly unforgettable dining experience. Taste of Sichuan is a popular spot for locals, so be sure to make a reservation, especially on weekends. One reviewer raved about the restaurant’s authentic flavors and its commitment to using traditional Sichuan ingredients.
For a more traditional Cantonese dining experience, consider visiting Wong’s Kitchen on Southwest Canyon Road. This long-standing Beaverton institution has been serving classic Cantonese dishes for over twenty years. Their menu features items like sweet and sour pork, General Tso’s chicken, and beef with broccoli, all prepared with fresh ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. Wong’s Kitchen is a great option for a casual family dinner or a takeout meal. The restaurant’s prices are also very reasonable, making it a great value for the money. Many locals consider Wong’s Kitchen to be a reliable and consistent source of delicious Cantonese food.
For dim sum lovers, check out HK Cafe on Southwest Hall Boulevard. While a bit outside of central Beaverton, the short drive is well worth it. They have a wide selection of steamed buns, dumplings, and other dim sum favorites. It is an excellent place for a weekend brunch with friends or family.
Japanese Delights: Sushi and Beyond
Japanese cuisine, celebrated for its precision, artistry, and delicate flavors, is well-represented in Beaverton. From expertly rolled sushi and fresh sashimi to comforting ramen and crispy tempura, Beaverton’s Japanese restaurants offer a diverse range of options.
Sushiland, located on Southwest Scholls Ferry Road, is a popular spot for sushi lovers. This restaurant offers a wide variety of sushi rolls, sashimi, and nigiri, all prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Their chefs are skilled and creative, constantly experimenting with new and innovative roll combinations. The restaurant also offers a selection of Japanese beers and sake. Sushiland is a great option for a casual lunch or a fun dinner with friends.
For a truly exceptional ramen experience, visit Marukin Ramen on Southwest Beaverton Hillsdale Highway. This authentic ramen shop specializes in Hakata-style ramen, known for its rich and creamy pork broth. Their noodles are made fresh daily, and their toppings are carefully selected to complement the broth’s flavor. Marukin Ramen is a popular spot for ramen enthusiasts, so be prepared for a wait during peak hours. However, the delicious ramen is well worth the wait. Many reviewers consider Marukin Ramen to have the best ramen in the Portland area.
Another option is Izakaya Kichinto, also on Southwest Beaverton Hillsdale Highway. They offer a wide array of Japanese bar food and drinks. Their menu includes yakitori, agedashi tofu, and various other appetizers and small plates. This restaurant provides a more social and engaging experience.
Korean Cuisine: A Flavorful Adventure
Korean cuisine, known for its bold flavors, spicy kimchi, and savory barbecue, is gaining popularity in Beaverton. From sizzling bulgogi to hearty bibimbap and flavorful stews, Beaverton’s Korean restaurants offer a taste of Korea’s rich culinary heritage.
Kimchi Korean BBQ, located on Southwest Canyon Road, is a must-visit for Korean barbecue lovers. This restaurant offers a wide variety of marinated meats, which you can grill yourself at your table. The experience is interactive and fun, and the food is incredibly delicious. The restaurant also offers a selection of Korean side dishes, including kimchi, pickled vegetables, and rice. Kimchi Korean BBQ is a great option for a group dinner or a special occasion.
Another great choice is Han Oak, located on Southeast Sandy Boulevard, not far from Beaverton. While not directly in Beaverton, it is a popular and highly regarded Korean restaurant. They offer a multi-course dining experience that showcases the best of Korean cuisine. Their menu changes seasonally, ensuring that they always use the freshest and most flavorful ingredients. Han Oak is a great option for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
Other Asian Options: Expanding Your Culinary Horizons
While Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean cuisines are well-represented in Beaverton, there are also other Asian options to explore. Thai restaurants offer flavorful curries and noodle dishes, Filipino restaurants serve up savory stews and grilled meats, and Malaysian restaurants tantalize with their unique blend of spices and flavors.
Thai Bloom!, located on Southwest Cedar Hills Boulevard, offers a sophisticated take on classic Thai dishes. Their menu features items like green curry, pad thai, and tom yum soup, all prepared with fresh ingredients and authentic Thai spices. Thai Bloom! is a great option for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.
For a taste of the Philippines, visit Mama Sita’s on Southwest Murray Boulevard. This family-owned restaurant serves up traditional Filipino dishes like adobo, sinigang, and pancit. The food is hearty, flavorful, and comforting. Mama Sita’s is a great option for a casual lunch or a family dinner.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Beyond the well-known restaurants, Beaverton also boasts a number of hidden gems and local favorites. These smaller eateries, food carts, and grocery stores offer a more authentic and off-the-beaten-path dining experience.
For bubble tea lovers, Bubble Tea Bliss on Southwest Beaverton Hillsdale Highway is a must-visit. This shop offers a wide variety of bubble tea flavors, from classic milk tea to fruity concoctions. They also offer a selection of Asian snacks and desserts. Bubble Tea Bliss is a great option for a refreshing treat on a hot day.
Uwajimaya, a large Asian grocery store on Southwest Beaverton Hillsdale Highway, also has a great selection of prepared foods. It is a great place to find a wide range of options at a variety of price points.
Tips for Exploring Beaverton’s Asian Food Scene
Exploring Beaverton’s Asian food scene is an adventure in itself. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your culinary journey.
Beaverton is easily accessible by car and public transportation. Parking can be limited in some areas, especially during peak hours, so be sure to plan accordingly. The MAX light rail also has several stops in Beaverton, making it a convenient option for getting around.
Many Asian restaurants in Beaverton offer vegetarian and vegan options. Be sure to ask your server about specific dietary needs. Also, some restaurants may be able to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
The price of dining at Asian restaurants in Beaverton varies widely. Some restaurants offer budget-friendly options, while others are more upscale. Be sure to check the menu online or ask your server about prices before ordering.
Tipping is customary in most Asian restaurants in Beaverton. A tip of fifteen to twenty percent is generally considered to be appropriate.
Conclusion: A Culinary Adventure Awaits
Beaverton’s Asian food scene is a vibrant and diverse tapestry of flavors, textures, and aromas. From traditional Vietnamese pho to innovative Japanese sushi and tantalizing Korean barbecue, Beaverton offers a delectable journey through the tastes of Asia. So, grab your appetite and embark on a delicious adventure through Beaverton’s vibrant Asian food scene! Let us know your favorite spots in the comments below. We hope this guide has inspired you to explore the many culinary treasures that Beaverton has to offer. Happy eating!
