Eat Here Now

Why Did Cult Tokyo Ramen Shop Afuri Come to Portland? Because We’ve Got the Water.

“Portland water makes our broth the best,” says the CEO. “Afuri cannot exist without the water.”

11/14/2016 By Kelly Clarke

Word of Mouth

The 11 Best Things Food Critic Karen Brooks Ate in 2016

Beef tartare to old-school pizza to Japanese shaved ice, here are the year’s defining dishes.

11/14/2016 By Karen Brooks

First Look

Chef Naoko’s Bento Café Gets a Redesign from Star Japanese Architect Kengo Kuma

We’ve got a first look at the farm-fresh eatery’s new digs.

11/14/2016 By Benjamin Tepler

Food News

Zilla Sake Launches Japanese Breakfast

The NE Alberta sushi and sake spot joins Portland’s Asian brunching movement.

10/19/2016 By Benjamin Tepler

Best Restaurants 2016: Ramen Rapture

Portland’s Best Real-Deal Ramen: Marukin

Mark it down: in 2016, we finally got certifiably amazing Tokyo-style ramen.

10/10/2016 By Benjamin Tepler

Best Restaurants 2016: Supahardcore

Portland’s Best “Supahardcore” Japanese: Nodoguro

From pop-up beginnings to a new Zen-vintage space on Belmont, the champion of “Supahardcore” Japanese doubles down.

10/10/2016 By Karen Brooks

Breaking News

Biwa to Reboot as Two Eateries: A Sashimi Chef’s Counter and a DJ-Spinning Japanese Bar

On October 16, Portland’s DIY Japanese pub pioneer moves down the hall to become Biwa Izakaya. The original space will become Parasol Bar in November.

10/05/2016 By Karen Brooks

Breaking News

First Look at Tokyo's Cult Afuri Ramen, Opening Soon in Southeast Portland

In mid-October, Afuri unveils an ambitious showcase for Japanese cooking in SE Industrial—noodles to sake and skewers—anchored by a key Oregon-only ingredient and major international chef talent.

10/03/2016 By Kelly Clarke