This week (April 28 – May 4) is National Small Business Week and May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, a celebration of the generations of Asian and Pacific Islanders who have enriched America’s history and are instrumental in its future success. What a great time to get out and support local businesses! Historically, Portland’s AANHPI communities have dealt with discrimination and violence, but they have persevered and continue to enhance the fabric of our society. Please consider supporting local Asian and Pacific Islander-owned businesses and organizations, including the ones listed below. And, of course, everyday is a good day to support small businesses!
- 82nd Ave: Fubonn is the largest Asian shopping center in Oregon, complete with a grocery store, foot spa, tailor, chiropractor, and food options including Rockin’ Crab and Sokong Dong Tofu. Pho Hung is a family-friendly restaurant offering a wide selection of pho and other classic Vietnamese dishes.
- Beaumont: Noho’s offers generous portions of great-tasting food in a casual setting that embodies Hawaii’s warm aloha spirit.
- Central Eastside: Wu-Rons, named for the manga Tokyo Tribes, focuses on the porky, thin-noodled ramen found in stalls throughout Fukuoka, Japan.
- Foster: An Xuyen is a Foster staple and has been serving up their Pan Asian bakery and deli items for over 20 years. Their banh mi are superb, macarons and other pastries top-notch, and Vietnamese coffee excellent. They also sell their breads in bulk for those looking for homemade baguettes and buns.
- Hawthorne: Tibet Spirit is the dream of Lhekshy Gyatso from the Amdo province of Tibet. You will find hand-selected, one-of-a-kind items for meditation and ritual, plus clothing and accessories. Down the street, Road to Tibet Imports carries a diverse selection of items for Buddhist practice, such as Tibet Prayer Flags, Prayer Wheels, Prayer Bells and Dorjes, Singing Bowls, and more.
- Historic Parkrose: Fork & Spoon Restaurant is truly an entrepreneur’s story. What started as a culinary school eventually became a food cart, and is now a brick-and-mortar restaurant. This family-owned business serves fresh, traditional Filipino cuisine.
- Jade District: Check out Master Kong for regional Chinese breakfast and lunch hits, centering on the Tianjin and Guangdong regions of China. Ha VL is an unassuming Vietnamese eatery popular for its daily changing soups and sandwiches.
- Lents: The Asian Health & Services Center is a great resource offering social support, wellness groups, mental healthcare, and education to Asian communities.
- Lloyd / NE Broadway: Frank’s Noodle House is a Lloyd staple that is a delightfully homey, family-run spot with Chinese hand-pulled noodle mains and Korean BBQ plates, plus beer and wine.
- Midway: There are 4 women-owned, AAPI businesses in this district that are all amazing – Just Tea, Phin Caphe, Yoonique Phở & Grill, and Yuan Su Vegetarian!
- Montavilla: Discover the Himalayan heat at home! Crafted from local ingredients, Ama’s Tibetan Hot Sauce offers a unique blend of traditional red chili sauce that is inspired by the founder’s love for spicy flavors. Elevate dumplings, tacos, brunch, and beyond with this ideal dip or marinade.
- Old Town: Spring is a great time to stop by the Lan Su Chinese Garden. It features a beautiful pond, Chinese architectural features, and a tea shop. While you are in the area, stop by the Japanese American Museum of Oregon and learn about the experiences of Japanese immigrants in Oregon. Opened in 2018, the Portland Chinatown Museum is Oregon’s first museum about Chinese American history, art, and culture. After you have worked up an appetite, stop by Golden Horse Restaurant or Chen’s Good Taste to satisfy your hunger.
- Raleigh Hills: Demagogue Press is where the creation of games and books collide and coexist in harmonious synergy. They publish everything from tried-and-true classics to fresh, new voices and experimental concepts.
- St. Johns: Banh Mi Up is a well-known spot for delicious Asian Fusion fare. St. Johns Deli offers a deli counter, cold sandwiches, and great home made hot foods like meat loaf, shepherd’s pie, bacon mac and cheese, and lasagna.
- Williams District: The menu at Lúa is an inspired selection of thoughtfully crafted dishes that touches on all the core Vietnamese classics. Kayo’s Ramen serves clever vegan and meat-centric noodle dishes along with beer, wine, and saké. With a family-friendly atmosphere, thoughtfully designed space, and a curated selection of Chinese comfort food, XLB offers something for everyone
This list is non-exhaustive. If you have a favorite Asian-owned business, tell us all about it by tagging us on Instagram and Facebook.