Seemor

Eem - Thai BBQ & CocktailsB?Proceed Cautiously

3808 N Williams Ave #127, Portland, OR 97227 · Thai restaurant, Barbecue restaurant, Cocktail bar · 4.6/5 Google (2802 reviews)

Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating

Bold Thai-BBQ fusion with standout curries and cocktails in a lively room; expect waits, auto-gratuity for groups, and occasional service friction.

Why it gets a B? for overall quality

⚠️ Review concerns: This assessment reflects moderate uncertainty due to questionable review patterns. See details in Authenticity Assessment. Eem delivers bold, creative Thai-barbecue fusion with exceptional signature curries that justify its strong reputation and destination appeal. However, inconsistent execution on sides like fried rice and mixed service experiences at the host stand prevent a higher grade. The tight, cramped room adds friction during peak times, though the lively atmosphere and playful cocktail program create genuine appeal for adventurous diners willing to navigate the crowds.

Restaurant Summary

The room hums with lively, tiki-tinged energy—servers hustling, cocktails in playful mugs, and the aroma of smoke meeting coconut and lime. One diner put it simply: "The white curry with burnt ends was rich and memorable." Expect crowds and a buzzy, cramped vibe; seating can take a while and the host stand draws mixed reviews. In the kitchen, Thai flavors meet Texas smoke with confident, creative cooking. The signature white curry with brisket is the headline act, green curry with pulled pork wins loyal fans, and papaya salad brings real heat. Not every dish hits for everyone—fried rice can skew charred or salty—but when it clicks, it is the kind of fusion that feels bold and satisfying rather than gimmicky. Families will find a limited kid lane: fried chicken and fried rice are approachable, but much of the menu runs spicy, fragrant, and assertive. The room is loud and lively, and there is no kids menu. Great for adventurous teens; picky eaters may be happier elsewhere.

At a Glance

What Sets It Apart

What People Love

Points of Concern

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost$42-58 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

Perfect For

Location Insights

Area: Trendy mixed-use North Williams corridor with boutiques, bars, and cyclists; draws locals and visitors.

Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, and busy at night; standard urban awareness applies.

Nearby: Near popular bars and eateries, close to Mississippi Ave; strong evening foot traffic.

WilliamsWilliams is a lively neighborhood within Northeast Portland characterized by its hip, community-focused vibe and a strong emphasis on local businesses. The dining scene here is dynamic, featuring a variety of innovative restaurants, bars, and cafes that attract a diverse crowd looking for casual yet quality dining experiences.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday11:00–21:00 Tuesday11:00–21:00 Wednesday11:00–21:00 Thursday11:00–21:00 Friday11:00–22:00 Saturday11:00–22:00 Sunday11:00–21:00

Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating

View full analysis on Seemor →