A new wave of Thai restaurants is hitting Portland. January 2026 has already seen major growth. Two key openings mark this expansion. Yui, a beloved mom-and-daughter spot, has reopened. OK Chicken and Khao Soi also celebrated its grand opening. These additions significantly boost Portland’s already impressive Thai food scene.
Yui’s Triumphant Return
Yui has found a new home. It is now located on SE Belmont Street. This new space is much larger. The restaurant was previously a pop-up. Owner Chalunthorn “Yui” Schaeffer brings family recipes. Her mother, Ta Triamchainon, also contributes. Schaeffer built a career in New York. She worked at places like Bar Masa. Then she moved to Portland. Yui first opened in August 2020. It focused on takeout during the pandemic. Full dine-in service began later. The original Yui closed in 2023. This was due to a lease ending. For a time, it operated as a pop-up. Schaeffer found inspiration in her mother’s cooking. She also learned from New York’s high-level kitchens. These experiences fuel her elevated approach to Thai cuisine. The menu features Thai staples. It also includes less common dishes. The signature boat noodle soup has Wagyu brisket. Beef tendon is also included. Other options include sakoo (tapioca dumplings). Pork and shrimp shumai are also available.
OK Chicken and Khao Soi: A New Powerhouse
This new venture comes from a familiar team. It is from the people behind Yaowarat and Eem. They opened in the former Pok Pok space. This location is legendary in Portland’s Thai food history. OK Chicken and Khao Soi focuses on regional Thai dishes. Charcoal-grilled meats are a specialty. Fried chicken is also a main attraction. Regional favorites like khao soi are featured. Northern Thai larb is also on the menu. The restaurant complements its food with nonalcoholic beverages. This team has a strong track record. Earl Ninsom is a key figure. He is a celebrated restaurateur. He has earned multiple James Beard nominations. His restaurants, like Eem and Yaowarat, are highly acclaimed. Ninsom was inspired by Thai food he experienced in Portland. He aims to offer authentic regional flavors. This new spot looks to Northern Thailand. It specifically targets the Chiang Mai region. The team includes Sam Smith and Eric Nelson. Smith is executive chef at Yaowarat. Nelson is a renowned bartender. Their collaboration promises a unique dining experience.
Portland’s Growing Thai Food Landscape
Portland, Oregon, has a vibrant and expanding restaurant scene. Thai food is a major driver of this growth. Many established chefs are contributing. Earl Ninsom has been instrumental. His influence is seen across multiple successful restaurants. He has brought diverse regional Thai cuisines to Portland. Langbaan, Eem, Hat Yai, and Yaowarat are among his ventures. Each highlights different aspects of Thai cooking. Langbaan earned a James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurant. Eem was named restaurant of the year by Portland Monthly. The Thai community in Portland is substantial. It boasts over 125 restaurants. This culinary depth attracts food lovers. New establishments continue to emerge. They offer both familiar favorites and unique regional specialties. This constant innovation keeps the scene dynamic.
What’s Trending in Portland’s Eateries
The food scene in Portland is always trending. January 2026 shows this trend continuing. This growth reflects a broader interest. People seek authentic and diverse flavors. Portland embraces this demand. The city is known for its culinary innovation. This includes a strong focus on regional cuisines. The Thai food sector is particularly active. It offers deep cultural connections. Restaurants like Yui and OK Chicken and Khao Soi add to this richness. They build on the legacy of places like Pok Pok. This trend benefits diners greatly. They gain access to more authentic and varied options. The expansion is not just about quantity. It is also about quality and diversity. Portland’s restaurants are pushing boundaries. They explore the full spectrum of Thai cuisine. This includes traditional family recipes. It also features modern interpretations. This culinary evolution is exciting. It cements Portland’s status. It is a top destination for Thai food lovers. It also highlights the broader trends in Oregon’s food landscape. Food trends for 2026 point to intentional indulgence. Restaurants are focused on unique flavors. They also emphasize quality ingredients. This aligns perfectly with Portland’s culinary ethos. The city supports restaurants that offer genuine experiences. It values bold flavors and thoughtful preparation. This is evident in its growing Thai food offerings.
