Guay Tiew brings Thai noodle bowls to Pearl
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You can order at the register or at your table via a QR code. Photo: Meira Gebel/Axios
Portland's roster of stand-out Thai food just got deeper with the recent addition of Guay Tiew in the Pearl District.
The big picture: From the team behind Khao Moo Dang and Thai Peacock, the new counter service restaurant focuses on one of the country's most popular street food dishes: build-your-own noodle soup bowls.
Best bites: Expect to find a lot of pork in every iteration. Nearly every item on the menu contains minced pork, braised pork, cracklings, patties and meatballs all in a base of pork bone broth. There's vegan options, too.
- Diners can choose from a selection of eight broths — from peppery herb to spicy-sour or the classic Thai boat-style known for being rich and savory — and four styles of noodles or rice.
- I opted for the house curry, a Northern Thai staple, with egg noodles and topped with all the pork options, bean sprouts and yu choy. I found it to be pleasantly sweet with a gentle, manageable heat, if a tad garlicky.
- Be sure to order some sides and snacks, too. The yum Thai salad packed some serious heat while still managing to be refreshing.
What they're saying: "Portland has proven to be a city of adventurous eaters," owner Chookiat "Hamm" Saenguraiporn told Portland Monthly, "locals are open to bold, authentic flavors."
The vibe: I went during the soft opening and the room — where a giant, glowing red neon sign centers the space and gives off real night market energy — was buzzing. Be prepared for some lines.
- Ordering was quick and efficient and food was brought out swiftly, making it a perfect lunchtime hang or fuel-up stop ahead of a late night.
If you go: Guay Tiew (330 NW 10th Ave.) is open Wednesday through Friday 4-9pm and on weekends from noon to 9pm.