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Phuket CafeB+Worth Trying
1818 NW 23rd Pl, Portland, OR 97210
· Thai restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (391 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Inventive Thai with bold flavors, creative cocktails, and small but polished plates; excellent for adventurous diners, but reservations, higher prices, and service pacing can frustrate.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Phuket Cafe delivers bold, inventive Thai flavors with standout cocktails and charming design touches like the chef counter and caboose seating. However, quality swings across visits and cramped seating that limits comfort prevent it from reaching higher territory. The creative approach and loyal following make it worth visiting, though expect occasional service pacing issues and small portions relative to price.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling with eclectic touches and a snug footprint that amps up the energy. Guests rave about the chef counter and even a charming caboose seating nook. Service swings from gracious to hurried depending on the night, with one diner noting, "the team guided us through the menu," while another felt the check arrived a bit too soon. In the kitchen, the approach leans creative Thai with modern twists: Thai paella with add-on octopus, wagyu panang, punchy curries, and wok-kissed noodles. When it hits, flavors are vivid and layered; misses tend to be portion size or seasoning swings. Expect spice and adventurous combinations rather than comfort standards. Families will find some friendly touches like a changing table and flexible sides, with noodles, fried chicken, and coconut-leaning curries as approachable anchors. That said, dishes can be spicy and portions skew small, so picky eaters may need guidance and extra rice.
At a Glance
- Bold, inventive Thai flavors and standout cocktails
- Chef counter and caboose seating add character
- Portions run small relative to price
- Service pacing and check timing can feel rushed
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- chef_counter_experience
- fusion_thai_paella
- premium_steak_curries
- seasonal_menu_shifts
What People Love
- Vivid curry sauces with lemongrass and turmeric notes
- Wok hei on pad see ew noodles
- Creative seafood like Thai paella with octopus
- Thoughtful cocktail program balancing heat and citrus
- Cozy, design-forward space with personality
Points of Concern
- Pricing is genuinely expensive ($16-$24 noodles, mains up to $65) which may surprise casual diners
- Portion sizes are modest; some plates feel light on protein
- Service can feel rushed at peak times with early check drops and strict seating policies
- Spice levels and fusion pairings can challenge conservative palates
- Review patterns are consistent with genuine polarization from a creative menu; expect hits and occasional misses
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$55-$78 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair a snack (Gai Tod $11) with a noodle (Pad See Ew $17) and share a curry (Prawn $18) for balance without overspending
- Seafood fans: Tom Yum Hang ($24) or Thai Paella ($24) with mussels (+$8) or octopus (+$15)
Perfect For
- Date night with cocktails and shared plates
- Foodies seeking inventive Thai twists
- Out-of-town guests to impress in NW 23rd
- Solo diners at the chef counter (with reservation)
Location Insights
Area: Trendy Northwest 23rd corridor with boutiques and cafes; draws locals and visitors seeking polished casual dining.
Safety: Generally safe, lively foot traffic, well-lit commercial blocks.
Nearby: Near shopping on NW 23rd Ave, residential streets, popular bars; modest street parking.
Nob HillNob Hill is a trendy and upscale neighborhood with a strong emphasis on boutique shops, cafes, and diverse dining options. The area attracts a crowd interested in contemporary and international cuisine, with a lively yet relaxed social atmosphere.
Alphabet DistrictThe Alphabet District is known for its eclectic dining scene, featuring a variety of ethnic restaurants, bars, and cafes that cater to a hip and diverse clientele.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–14:30
Tuesday11:00–14:30
Wednesday11:00–14:30, 17:00–21:00
Thursday11:00–14:30, 17:00–21:00
Friday11:00–14:30, 17:00–22:00
Saturday11:00–14:30, 17:00–22:00
Sunday11:00–14:30, 17:00–21:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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