Since 2006, Pok Pok has grown from a grilled chicken stand into a small empire of Thai restaurants, with four locations in Portland. The original spot on Division is still our favorite though, because the food is consistently great and because you can go to Salt & Straw next door for dessert. There’s always a wait, but grab a cocktail across the street at Whiskey Soda Lounge and use that time to plan your order, which should definitely include the fish sauce wings and khao soi. While Pok Pok isn’t a new spot anymore, it’s still a can’t miss for anyone’s first trip to Portland.

photo credit: Evan Sung