featuring restaurants I frequent in Portland, Oregon.

---

Shoyu Ramen

A good starting point to Asian cuisine. Most of us have had the cup kind, but if you want a full belly, I highly recommend a hearty shoyu ramen. For those wondering, shoyu is soy sauce! I like my shoyu ramen with as many ingredients as possible, like chicken, pork shoulder, leeks, corn, and hard boiled egg.

I ordered this at Sushi Shoten. They combine an American sports bar atmosphere with Japanese cuisine! A bit different than most places, but still very authentic in delivery.

Poke Tuna

They also have a delectable ahi tuna poke. This is raw tuna smothered in Hawaiian poke sauce and served with onions and sesame seeds.

Beware of this dish! It may convert you into a full-blown sushi addict! Even those that dislike raw food find tuna poke irresistible.

Grilled Squid

Another underrated restaurant I have visited is called Hakatamon.

If you're feeling adventurous, but still would like something cooked, you should consider a whole grilled squid! Typically, I like mine battered and fried but surprisingly it is just as good without breading! Typically served with mayo soy sauce for dipping.

Sake-Ikura Donburi

Pictured above is one of my all time favorites. Salmon sashimi and eggs, atop a bed of sticky rice. I have convinced many of my wary friends to try this, and they are surprised at how delicious it is!

The eggs are quite salty and pair well with the buttery avocado and fish.

Sushi & Nigiri

Last, but not least, some of my personal favorite rolls from Kajitsu.

These rolls are staples in any sushi restaurant, so you won't have any trouble finding them elsewhere.

In the far back is a green dragon roll: barbecued eel topped with avocado and eel sauce. Far left is fried shrimp, another thing beginners should try. Second to the left is a tuna roll, and a salmon roll; simple yet elegant. In the middle is the big easy, that features all of my favorites: salmon, tuna, and yellow-tail, with cucumber for texture. Lastly on the right is a classic, the Philadelphia roll: salmon, cream cheese, and avocado.

---

Whether you've never had it, hate it, or you're a sushi lover; I hope you enjoyed the presentation.

xoxo Vera