Portland, OR – Filipino culinary innovators SUN RICE are celebrating a significant milestone with their grand re-opening in North Portland. The highly anticipated return takes place at the former XLB space, located at 4090 N. Williams Avenue, marking a new era for the beloved restaurant.
The celebratory re-opening event is scheduled from Thursday, September 11, to Sunday, September 14, offering diners multiple opportunities to experience their elevated Filipino cuisine. This move represents a substantial step forward for SUN RICE, transitioning from their previous kiosk at the Moxy hotel to a dedicated space that allows for expanded offerings and a more immersive dining experience.
A New Chapter on Williams Avenue
The choice of the former XLB space on North Williams Avenue signifies SUN RICE’s commitment to establishing a prominent presence within Portland’s vibrant food scene. XLB, a well-regarded Chinese restaurant known for its soup dumplings, closed its doors in April 2025, leaving a culinary void that SUN RICE is now poised to fill. This location offers SUN RICE the infrastructure and room needed to grow and solidify its place as a key player among Oregon’s diverse array of restaurants.
The Culinary Vision of Chef TJ Cruz and Ken Tran
Founded by the dynamic duo Chef TJ Cruz and Ken Tran, SUN RICE has built a reputation for bold, flavorful cooking that artfully blends Filipino heritage with contemporary culinary techniques. Chef TJ Cruz brings a wealth of experience from respected Portland kitchens, including Lechon, Deadshot, and Holdfast, where he honed his skills in developing innovative dishes. Ken Tran complements Cruz’s culinary expertise with his background in community organizing and event production, infusing SUN RICE’s vision with a deep commitment to creating inclusive, culturally rich spaces.
Their journey began with a residency at Deadshot from fall 2021 to the end of 2022, where they gained significant recognition. Following this, they operated from a kiosk in the Moxy hotel starting in fall 2023, while also participating in numerous pop-ups and events across the city. This period allowed them to connect with the community and refine their offerings before making the strategic move to their new, permanent home.
A Menu That Celebrates Filipino Roots
The name “SUN RICE” itself is a nod to the classic Filipino breakfast dish, silog, which features garlic rice and a sunny-side-up egg. The daytime menu at the new location continues to champion these comforting staples, alongside inventive breakfast sandwiches crafted with Heyday’s milk buns and the signature Kalesa cold brew. A collaboration with Steven Smith Teamaker further enhances their beverage program.
However, the dinner service is where Chef TJ Cruz truly gets to stretch his creative muscles. Diners can anticipate the return of popular dishes from the Deadshot era, such as their highly praised fries with nước mắm aioli and the decadent Lechon crispy pork belly. These familiar favorites will be complemented by an array of new, elevated dishes, showcasing the chef’s ongoing culinary evolution and his passion for pushing the boundaries of Filipino cuisine.
A Toast to Collaboration and Community
SUN RICE’s re-opening is marked by exciting collaborations and a robust beverage program. On Thursday, September 11, a special partnership with the acclaimed Jinju Patisserie, located just across the street, will feature a unique BBQ pork belly x kimchi croissant tart. Jinju Patisserie, a recent recipient of the prestigious James Beard Award for Outstanding Bakery, is renowned for its innovative pastries that blend Asian flavors with traditional French techniques. On Sunday, September 14, SUN RICE will team up with Champs Burgers and Thaan Charcoal for another collaborative event.
The beverage program, guided by consultant Nan Ketsuda, includes the classic Filipino beer San Miguel and rotating specials from local breweries, such as CMNSL’s rice lager and hazy IPA, underscoring SUN RICE’s dedication to supporting the local Portland bars and restaurants community.
Portland’s Evolving Food Scene
The re-opening of SUN RICE is a testament to the dynamic and trending nature of Portland’s culinary landscape. As the city continues to embrace diverse and authentic flavors, SUN RICE is well-positioned to capture the attention of food enthusiasts eager to explore the rich tapestry of Filipino cuisine. Their arrival on North Williams Avenue adds another compelling destination to Oregon’s already impressive gastronomic map, promising an unforgettable dining experience rooted in tradition and innovation.
