North Portland’s vibrant culinary landscape is set to welcome a new anchor with the reopening of SUN RICE, a celebrated Filipino restaurant. The eatery has soft-opened its doors in the former XLB space on Williams Avenue, marking a significant step for Chef TJ Cruz and Ken Tran, the dynamic duo behind the acclaimed concept. With a grand opening celebration planned from September 11th to 14th, SUN RICE is poised to become a must-visit destination, blending familiar Filipino flavors with innovative culinary artistry.
From Pop-Ups to Permanent Fixture: The Journey of SUN RICE
Chef TJ Cruz and Ken Tran have steadily built a reputation in Portland’s food scene through dedication and a clear vision. Before establishing their own restaurant, they helmed the popular food program at Deadshot from the fall of 2021 through the end of 2022, earning accolades for their bold and flavorful approach. Following their success at Deadshot, they transitioned to operating a vibrant kiosk at the Moxy hotel in downtown Portland starting in the fall of 2023, while simultaneously engaging in off-site pop-ups and events. Their time at the Moxy concluded recently, as they prepared for this ambitious move to a dedicated brick-and-mortar location. This new chapter represents a culmination of their experiences and a desire to create a lasting culinary legacy.
A New Home on Williams Avenue
The relocation to the former XLB space in North Portland signifies more than just a change of address; it’s an opportunity for SUN RICE to expand its footprint and enhance its offerings. XLB, a popular Chinese restaurant known for its xiaolongbao, operated in this location for several years before closing its doors earlier in 2025. By taking over this established culinary spot, SUN RICE signals its readiness for growth, acquiring the necessary infrastructure and space to realize their ambitious plans. The neighborhood of North Portland has a rich history with restaurants and bars, and SUN RICE is set to add its unique Filipino flair to this trending scene.
A Menu Designed for Every Palate
SUN RICE’s menu is a testament to Chef TJ Cruz’s culinary expertise, blending traditional Filipino roots with contemporary techniques. During the daytime, guests can anticipate returning favorites like their signature silogs – a delightful combination of garlic rice and a sunny-side-up egg. The daytime offerings also include breakfast sandwiches crafted with HeyDay’s milk buns, and the locally inspired Kalesa cold brew, all complemented by a partnership with Steven Smith Teamaker. As evening approaches, the dinner menu opens up, featuring a return of beloved dishes from their Deadshot era alongside new, elevated creations from Chef TJ. Popular items such as their unique fries with nước mắm aioli and the indulgent Lechon crispy pork belly are expected to draw crowds.
Cultivating a Community Hub
Beyond the culinary offerings, SUN RICE aims to cultivate an atmosphere that feels like a true neighborhood gathering spot – a diner, a bar, and a place to simply hang out. This vision is further supported by an extensive beverage program developed in collaboration with Nan Ketsuda. The drink menu will feature San Miguel, a classic Filipino lager, alongside rotating seasonal specials from local breweries, including collaborations with CMNSL on their rice lager and hazy IPA. This focus on local partnerships underscores SUN RICE’s commitment to being an integral part of the Oregon community.
A Grand Celebration and Future Outlook
The grand opening event, scheduled from September 11th to 14th, promises to be a festive occasion with special collaborations yet to be fully unveiled. This event marks the official introduction of SUN RICE to its new North Portland home and offers patrons a chance to experience the full spectrum of what the restaurant has to offer. With a deep well of experience, a refined culinary vision, and a commitment to community, SUN RICE is poised for a successful and impactful return to Portland’s dynamic dining scene.
