NY Strip penang curry and prawn curry
1 / 5

Phuket Cafe

4.7
·363 reviews·Portland, United States

Experience innovative Thai fusion cuisine in Portland's vibrant NW district, featuring unique caboose seating and creative cocktails.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, more intimate vibe

CrowdLow
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NY Strip penang curry and prawn curry

Phuket Cafe

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, more intimate vibe

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience innovative Thai fusion cuisine in Portland's vibrant NW district, featuring unique caboose seating and creative cocktails.

4.7
(363 reviews)

"Dine in a charming caboose for a unique and intimate vibe, perfect for a special occasion. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book the Caboose!

For a truly special experience, reserve the caboose seating in advance. :seat:

🍜 Try the Massaman Curry

The Massaman curry is incredibly flavorful; you'll want to savor every last drop. :curry:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Caboose Seating

Caboose Seating

Outdoor seating area

Dine in a charming caboose for a unique and intimate vibe, perfect for a special occasion.

Reddit
Thai Paella

Thai Paella

Menu item

A must-try fusion dish that blends traditional paella with vibrant Thai flavors.

TikTok
Crispy Potatoes

Crispy Potatoes

Menu item

Perfectly crispy fried potatoes served with a delicious, flavorful sauce.

Reddit
Creative Cocktails

Creative Cocktails

Bar

Enjoy unique drinks like the '55555' and 'Parasol' cocktail, though some may be heavy on ice.

TikTokReddit
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Planning Your Visit

Reservations are Key

Phuket Cafe is a hot spot, especially for its unique dining experiences like the caboose seating. Many visitors recommend making reservations well in advance to secure a table, particularly for popular times or specific seating areas. TikTokReddit

Embrace the Menu's Uniqueness

While Phuket Cafe offers familiar Thai dishes, it also features inventive creations like Thai paella and oysters. Be open to trying new flavor combinations and don't be afraid to ask for recommendations from the staff. TikTok+1

Best Times

When
Weekday evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, more intimate vibe
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend lunch
Why
Enjoy the sunshine with pups
Crowd
Medium
When
Rainy nights
Why
Cozy up with Tom Yum
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Do people live in travel to Portland anymore??? If you are, here’s one of the best restaurants in the city 📍Phuket cafe #portland #portlandfood #portlandoregon
@jasminevholder
2.9K likes • 79.8K views

🎯 Book the Caboose!

For a truly special experience, reserve the caboose seating in advance. Reddit :seat:

🍜 Try the Massaman Curry

The Massaman curry is incredibly flavorful; you'll want to savor every last drop. Reddit :curry:

Thai Dining at its Finest in Portland, OR • Langbaan at Phuket Cafe • #fypシ #foryou #thingstodoinportland #thai #portland #foodtiktok #thisisportland
@nomnom_nori
857 likes • 15.7K views
If you're looking for a nice evening out Phuket Cafe is the perfect spot for delicious Thai food! Afterward, you can walk to bars nearby @yvette got tasty mocktails at The Love Shack be sure to make reservations to both if you're wanting the best experience! #travelportland #thisisportland #portland #pdx #pdxeats #thingstodoinportland #thaifood #bars
@travelportland
184 likes • 6.3K views

🐶 Dog-Friendly Patio

Bring your furry friends to enjoy the outdoor seating and delicious Thai food. TikTokReddit :dog:

🍸 Cocktail Caution

Some cocktails might have a high ice-to-drink ratio, so choose wisely! Reddit :cocktail:

Genre-bending and absolutely beautiful Thai Food 🤯 • Phuket Cafe, NW Portland • #fyp #portlandfood #portlandeats #thisisportland #foryou #portland #thaifood #eatthis
@nomnom_nori
135 likes • 3.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book the Caboose!

For a truly special experience, reserve the caboose seating in advance. Reddit :seat:

🍜 Try the Massaman Curry

The Massaman curry is incredibly flavorful; you'll want to savor every last drop. Reddit :curry:

🐶 Dog-Friendly Patio

Bring your furry friends to enjoy the outdoor seating and delicious Thai food. TikTokReddit :dog:

🍸 Cocktail Caution

Some cocktails might have a high ice-to-drink ratio, so choose wisely! Reddit :cocktail:

🎶 Music Volume

The music can be loud, especially when the restaurant is full, making conversation tricky. Reddit :speaker:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(363 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Phuket Cafe is lauded for its innovative Thai fusion cuisine and unique dining atmosphere, particularly the caboose seating. While many praise the creative dishes and attentive service, some find the music volume high and certain cocktails to be ice-heavy. Seasonal menu changes can lead to varied experiences, with some favorite dishes not always available.

"Beautiful lunch starting with shared Tao Huu Tod (fried tofu with mushroom powder). The Yum Pak kale salad with shrimp is a delicious combination of sweet, savory, crunchy, chewy. Attentive professional service. The music is moderately loud in this snug space making conversation a little challenging when the restaurant is full."

Merry “Merrycyclist”

"There was some nice outdoor seating, but it was way too hot, so we opted for indoors. The fried potatoes were amazing — perfectly crispy with a really tasty sauce. The chilled tofu was fine — super soft, almost melt-in-your-mouth, with a nice spicy kick. The curry noodles were delicious too. The Parasol cocktail, though… probably the highest ice-to-drink ratio I’ve seen in a while."

Nidhi Talwar

"We sat and the caboose and it was so freakin cute in there and such a vibe. The tom yum was so lovely on a rainy night and the massaman curry flavor was so good I poured the rest of the rice into the sauce after all the chicken was gone! Def make a reservation for the caboose. For starters the pickled plate was pretty good, the cauliflower was the best part."

elaine

What People Like

Innovative Thai fusion dishes
Unique caboose seating
Creative cocktails

What People Dislike

Loud music volume
High ice-to-drink ratio in cocktails
Seasonal menu changes

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Phuket Cafe is located in NW Portland. Visitors often drive and find street parking, or use ride-sharing services. Public transport options are also available, with bus stops nearby. TikTok+1

Street parking is generally available in the NW Portland area, but it can be competitive, especially during peak hours. Consider arriving a bit early or using ride-sharing. TikTok

From downtown Portland, you can take a short drive or a rideshare. Public transportation, like buses, also serves the NW Portland area, making it accessible. TikTok

While the main dining area is accessible, the unique caboose seating might have limited accessibility. It's best to call ahead to discuss specific needs. Reddit

Depending on your starting point, it can be a pleasant walk through NW Portland. It's also close to other bars and restaurants for a night out. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, reservations are highly recommended, especially if you want to dine in the popular caboose seating or during busy times. TikTokReddit

It's advisable to book as far in advance as possible, particularly for weekend evenings or special occasions, to secure your preferred time and seating. TikTok

Operating hours can vary, so it's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times. TikTok

Phuket Cafe has a casual yet stylish atmosphere. While there's no strict dress code, smart casual attire is generally appropriate. TikTok

Walk-ins are sometimes accommodated if there are cancellations or available tables, but it's not guaranteed. Making a reservation is the safest bet. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Highly recommended dishes include the Thai Paella, crispy potatoes, Massaman curry, and the unique fried tofu appetizer. TikTokReddit

The menu offers a variety of dishes that can be adapted for vegetarian or vegan diets. It's always a good idea to inform your server of any dietary restrictions. TikTok

They offer creative and unique cocktails, such as the '55555' and 'Parasol,' alongside other beverages like Thai iced tea. TikTokReddit

Spice levels can vary. While some dishes have a noticeable kick, like the chilled tofu, you can often request adjustments to spice levels. Reddit

Phuket Cafe is considered a mid-to-high-end dining experience, with entrees generally ranging from $20-$40. The unlimited budget tip suggests it can cater to high-end dining. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The caboose seating offers a unique backdrop, and the artfully presented dishes, like the Thai paella and creative cocktails, are very Instagrammable. TikTok+1

Absolutely! The dishes are visually appealing, and many visitors share their culinary creations on social media. TikTok+1

Daytime visits, especially for outdoor seating, allow for natural light. Evening visits offer a cozy ambiance, perfect for capturing the restaurant's mood. TikTok

The Thai paella, colorful cocktails, and beautifully plated appetizers are excellent subjects for photography. TikTok

Yes, the interior has a distinct vibe, especially the caboose. Capturing the atmosphere can add to your visual story. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Phuket Cafe can be a fun spot for families, especially during lunch or earlier in the evening. The outdoor seating area is dog-friendly, which can be a bonus for families with pets. TikTokReddit While the menu offers some familiar Thai flavors, it also features unique dishes that might appeal to adventurous eaters. Consider ordering a variety of dishes to share, like the crispy potatoes or fried tofu, which are often crowd-pleasers. Reddit Be mindful of the music volume if you have very young children, as it can be quite lively. Reddit

💑 Couples & Date Nights

Phuket Cafe is an excellent choice for a date night, offering a unique and memorable dining experience. The intimate caboose seating is particularly romantic and highly recommended for special occasions. TikTokReddit The creative cocktails and inventive Thai fusion dishes provide plenty of conversation starters. TikTok+1 While the music can be a bit loud, the overall ambiance is chic and energetic, perfect for a lively evening out. Remember to make reservations well in advance to secure the best spots. TikTokReddit

🐶 Dog Owners

If you're traveling with your furry companion, Phuket Cafe's outdoor seating is a fantastic option. You can relax and enjoy delicious Thai food while your dog relaxes with you. TikTokReddit The patio provides a pleasant atmosphere for both humans and their canine friends. Just be sure to check the weather, as the outdoor space might be less appealing during extreme heat or rain. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Culinary Vision of Earl Ninsom

Phuket Cafe is the brainchild of James Beard Award finalist Earl Ninsom, a prominent figure in Portland's Thai dining scene. TikTok Ninsom, along with partner Eric Nelson, aims to push the boundaries of traditional Thai cuisine, creating a 'genre-bending' and 'beautiful' dining experience. TikTok Their approach involves taking inspiration from extensive travels, particularly to Thailand, and translating those experiences into innovative dishes that surprise and delight diners. TikTok

This culinary philosophy is evident in the menu's unique offerings, which go beyond standard Thai fare. Dishes like the Thai paella and creative seafood preparations showcase a willingness to experiment with flavors and techniques. TikTok The restaurant's commitment to quality and originality has quickly made it a sought-after destination for food enthusiasts looking for something beyond the ordinary. TikTok

Visitors often praise the attentive and professional service, which complements the inventive food. Reddit The ambiance, particularly the unique caboose seating, adds another layer to the dining experience, making it memorable for both locals and tourists. Reddit Phuket Cafe represents a modern evolution of Thai cuisine, celebrated for its bold flavors and artistic presentation.

Navigating the Menu: From Classics to Fusion

Phuket Cafe offers a diverse menu that balances beloved Thai classics with adventurous fusion creations. While dishes like Massaman curry and Tom Yum noodles are present, they are often presented with a unique twist. Reddit For instance, the Tom Yum noodles might be prepared in a 'fancy' style that deviates from the traditional soup, which some diners find intriguing while others prefer a more classic rendition. Reddit

The menu truly shines with its innovative dishes. The Thai paella has garnered significant attention, blending Spanish rice traditions with Thai aromatics and ingredients. TikTok Seafood lovers will also find plenty to enjoy, with options like oysters and other creative seafood preparations that highlight fresh ingredients and bold flavors. TikTok+1

Appetizers like the fried tofu with mushroom powder and crispy potatoes are frequently mentioned as highlights, offering delightful textures and tastes. Reddit Even the drinks menu features unique concoctions, though diners should be aware that some cocktails might be heavy on ice. Reddit Overall, exploring the menu at Phuket Cafe is an adventure in itself, encouraging diners to step outside their comfort zone and discover new flavor profiles.

The Ambiance and Unique Seating

Phuket Cafe is celebrated not only for its food but also for its distinctive ambiance and seating options. The restaurant features a cozy indoor dining space, but its outdoor seating, particularly the charming caboose, offers a truly unique experience. TikTokReddit Many visitors rave about the caboose, describing it as 'freakin cute' and having 'such a vibe,' making it a highly sought-after spot for a memorable meal. Reddit

The interior design contributes to a lively atmosphere, though it's worth noting that the music can be moderately loud, especially when the restaurant is full, which might make conversation challenging for some. Reddit This energetic environment, combined with the creative culinary offerings, makes Phuket Cafe a popular choice for date nights and special occasions. TikTok+1

Despite the potential for noise, the overall atmosphere is considered inviting and stylish. TikTok The combination of unique seating, a vibrant setting, and delicious food creates a dining experience that many find worth returning for. TikTok