Norah Belmont — Restaurant in Portland

Portland, Oregon, has long been a haven for food enthusiasts, and Norah Belmont, nestled in the heart of the city, is a testament to the vibrant culinary scene that continues to thrive here. This unassuming yet sophisticated eatery has mastered the art of blending global flavors with local sensibilities, creating a dining experience that is both comforting and exhilarating.

The menu at Norah Belmont is a love letter to international cuisine, executed with precision and creativity. Take, for instance, their Bibimbap, a Korean classic that arrives as a colorful mosaic of marinated beef, crisp vegetables, and a perfectly fried egg perched atop a bed of steaming rice. The dish is served with a side of gochujang sauce, allowing diners to tailor the spice level to their liking. Each bite is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, a reminder of why this dish has endured as a global favorite.

Equally impressive is their Pad Thai, which strikes a delicate balance between sweet, sour, and savory. The noodles are springy and perfectly coated in a tamarind-based sauce, while the generous topping of crushed peanuts and fresh lime wedges adds a delightful crunch and brightness. It's a dish that feels both familiar and refreshingly new, a hallmark of Norah Belmont's approach to reinventing classics.

For those seeking something a little more indulgent, the Coconut Mushroom Fettuccine is a revelation. This creamy, plant-based dish is a masterclass in umami, with earthy mushrooms swimming in a velvety coconut sauce that clings to al dente fettuccine. The addition of fresh herbs and a hint of chili elevates the dish, making it a standout even for those who typically shy away from vegetarian options. And then there's the Chinese Broccoli with Garlic, a deceptively simple side that steals the show. The broccoli is tender yet retains a satisfying bite, while the garlic is toasted to golden perfection, infusing the dish with a rich, aromatic depth. It's a testament to Norah Belmont's ability to transform humble ingredients into something extraordinary.

The ambiance at Norah Belmont is as thoughtfully curated as its menu. The space is warm and inviting, with soft lighting and minimalist decor that allows the food to take center stage. The staff is attentive and knowledgeable, offering thoughtful recommendations without ever feeling intrusive. In a city teeming with culinary talent, Norah Belmont stands out as a destination that celebrates the diversity of global cuisine while staying true to its Portland roots. Whether you're a local or just passing through, a meal here is not just dining-it's an experience. Norah Belmont is, without a doubt, a must-visit for anyone who appreciates the art...

Go here you will not be disappointed! The flavors at this restaurant are out of this world! We had the samosas which were made of a delicious masa and very flavorful spiced filling. They were hot and crispy to perfection with a sweet sauce drizzled to compliment the flavor. The papaya salad had bright citrus flavor and was shredded beautifully. Do yourself a favor and order a side of the Chinese broccoli which was garlic umami cooked to perfection. The curry cauliflower with rice was out of this world. The cauliflower was cooked to perfection and the sauce was a well balanced spice with great flavor. The rice omg I don’t even understand it. So incredibly good. We also had the two NA cocktails on the menu which were both frothy and delicious in their own ways with complex flavors you don’t always get in an NA cocktail. The food arrived quickly and warm to hot. The staff was so kind and checked in repeatedly. This meal has been thought about so many times since I ate here two nights ago. Over and over I just keep thinking that food was SO good. I literally thought why would I even eat again after having this incredible meal lol. I think this restaurant could convince any meat eater that vegan GF eating can be incredible. Go here go here go here. You will not leave...

I had such a good time I forgot to take pictures! Norah is an all-vegan spot with pan-Asian and fusion cuisine. You'll get a little Indian, a little Thai, some noodles and curry options and soups too. I love the concept of sharing small plates and I am glad there is a spot like this in Portland.

The seats are somewhat jammed together which can make it difficult when the place was busy, which it was for a Tuesday night. Service was quick despite the rush and it being later in the evening. They serve dishes and drinks as they are prepared. Get ready for your table to be cramped quickly!

I had the Thai iced tea (just as you would expect from any Thai place), Tom Yum wingz, Larb Croquette, Samosa and coconut caramel banana for dessert.

The Tom Yum Wingz were disappointing. very dry, little sauce, strange texture. The coffee tin with silverware at our table had no knives so cutting anything was difficult. The samosas were interesting, sort of between an Indian samosa and an empanada with the corn masa. My favorite was the Larb Croquette. I would order 2 of these next time. Highly recommend.

Dessert was ok. the banana was mostly banana with little caramel or coconut flavor. I would have opted for something else but it was all the kitchen had that...