Welcome to The Boiling Bowl
The Boiling Bowl is a vibrant culinary gem located at 103 NW 21st Ave, Portland, OR. This Vietnamese eatery specializes in a variety of flavorful dishes, particularly their acclaimed specialty soups like the rich Beef Stew and the spicy Bun Bo Hue. Each dish showcases carefully sourced ingredients, delivering authenticity and warmth. The welcoming atmosphere and attentive service enhance the dining experience, making it a favorite among locals. Patrons rave about the tender meats, fresh vegetables, and house-made broths. Whether savoring a classic pho or indulging in a self-rolled salad platter, The Boiling Bowl promises a satisfying journey through Vietnamese flavors.
- 103 NW 21st Ave, Portland, OR 97209, United States103 NW 21st Ave, Portland, OR 97209, United States Hotline: +1 971-888-4255
If you find yourself in the heart of Portland, make a stop at The Boiling Bowl, a Vietnamese culinary gem located at 103 NW 21st Ave. This restaurant promises a delightful journey through the rich flavors of Vietnam, offering a menu that celebrates its heritage with a contemporary twist.
Upon entering, guests are greeted by a warm ambiance paired with friendly service, making every visit feel like a return to a familiar place. The star of the menu is undoubtedly their specialty soups. The Wonton Soup, featuring house-made wonton dumplings, tender BBQ pork, and fresh bok choy swimming in a savory chicken broth, is a must-try. For those seeking a little excitement, the Bun Bo Hue offers a spicy kick with its flavorful stew of beef brisket and pork sausage, sure to satiate any craving for hearty, comforting broth.
One standout dish that keeps patrons returning is the Beef Stew. Tender chunks of beef stewed to perfection with carrots and potatoes make it a fulfilling choice. The Dry Soup option, which includes the beloved Hu Tieu Kho, presents a dry noodle experience that is both flavorful and satisfying, whether enjoyed solo or as a part of a larger meal.
But don’t overlook the appetizers! The Chao Tom, or sugar cane shrimp, offers a delightful crunch paired with a touch of sweetness, while the Coconut Prawns come with a sweet chili sauce that’s perfect for dipping. Each dish is crafted with care, reflecting the restaurant’s commitment to providing high-quality, authentic flavors.
Many loyal customers describe their experiences as nothing short of exceptional. For instance, one diner noted the incredible tenderness of the chicken in their Banh Mi, praising the freshness of the vegetables that added a crisp texture. Another patron raved about the spot as their new favorite Vietnamese restaurant, highlighting the friendly atmosphere paired with quick, attentive service.
Overall, The Boiling Bowl stands out not only for its exquisite flavors but also for its welcoming environment. With dishes priced reasonably and the added perk of free parking, it's a perfect spot for regular diners and newcomers alike. Whether you're in the mood for a cozy soup on a cold day or a vibrant platter filled with fresh ingredients, this restaurant has something to offer for everyone.
So the next time you're exploring Portland, don’t miss the chance to indulge in the savory delights at The Boiling Bowl. With every bowl and every bite, you’ll discover why this little haven has captured the hearts of many.

Stopped here before work and just got a chicken Banh mi, it was fantastic!! The chicken was tender and the vegetables were fresh and crisp. I suggest using their hoisin sauce on the table and a little sriracha for a little kick. The soups all look great but I didn't have enough time for one. Will be back.

First time here. Food was amazing 10/10. The server/host was friendly. Quick service. Restaurant is very nice. I will be coming back to try more dishes! Found my new favorite Vietnamese spot in downtown portland! Definitely recommend!

Love this place. Best pho in west Portland hands down. The staff is friendly and the broth is to die for! Been coming here for years.

My favorite Vietnamese restaurant! We always eat pho in here, but this time we tried different menu and both are really good! And the stuff was nice and friendly:) I can’t wait to visit there again.

The only complaint I have about this place is that it isn't closer to me (I'm in Vancouver so the drive isn't too bad haha) First - they have free parking right next to the restaurant. How often do you hear that Portland offers free parking? Service was great. She saw that my fiancee was parking our car and that I was about to pay for the metered parking and she stopped me and said to go park in the garage. She was also patient as I was being indecisive on what to order and checked in on us frequently. I wish I got her name to give her a shout out but her customer service was on point. Ordered egg rolls, fried shrimp, and the thit nuong self roll platter. I am Vietnamese and born and raise in San Jose, California. So I grew up eating authentic home cooked Vietnamese foods and surrounded by authentic viet restaurants. And this place definitely is one of my favorite and authentic viet food within the area, which is hard to find. Highly recommend and would come back.

The bun featured fragrant pork and crispy spring rolls, with hearty portions. And don’t let the boiling bowl’s environs of parking garages and fast food joints fool you, its interior is luxuriously decorated and perfectly cooled for a hot day. Cocktails fairly cheap for a restaurant.

Staff was very nice. Food was excellent, and interesting. Decor was date worthy. Had an intense won ton soup, best I've had. Meal with leftovers size. Spouse had tofu bahn mi. Very good. Did it as a combo, the mushroom fries were very tasty. We recommend the tea highly. Fresh rolls were very good, more interesting than many places. The decorating made the interior look very nice. Free parking! That's a nice plus in this area. Sign says 6'11" Clearance, so careful with vans etc.

Moved into the neighborhood, and this has become my go-to spot. I pretty much always order the tofu banh mi or tofu vermicelli bowl, and both are so good. Always really fresh veggies, really reasonable prices. You won’t find a better, or cheaper banh mi in the NW neighborhood. Service is always attentive, and kind. I love this place 3