Janken

Janken

⭐ 4.3/5 (562 reviews) 💰 $100+ per person Asian

📍 250 NW 13th Ave, Portland, Oregon

Restaurant Information

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.3/5.0 • 562 reviews
📍 Address
250 NW 13th Ave
Portland, Oregon 97209
📞 Phone
🌐 Website
💰 Price Range
$100+ per person
🍽️ Category
Asian

⏰ Opening Hours

Tuesday5–10 pm
Wednesday5–10 pm
Thursday5–10 pm
Friday4–11 pm
Saturday4–11 pm
Sunday5–9 pm

ℹ️ About This Restaurant

Stepping into Janken, you're immediately enveloped in a warm, serene atmosphere that seamlessly blends modern design elements with traditional Asian influences. The minimalist, yet elegant décor creates a calming ambiance, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the culinary experience. As you're greeted by the attentive staff, you can't help but feel a sense of anticipation for the gastronomic journey that lies ahead.

Janken's menu is a testament to the chef's commitment to elevating the vegan dining experience. With a focus on seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients, the dishes showcase a harmonious blend of bold flavors and delicate textures. From the meticulously crafted sushi rolls to the fragrant curries and stir-fries, each item on the menu is a work of art. The signature dishes, such as the Janken Ramen and the Miso-Glazed Eggplant, have garnered a loyal following among discerning diners, who praise the depth of flavor and the innovative approach to plant-based cuisine.

The service at Janken is nothing short of exceptional. The knowledgeable and attentive staff are eager to guide you through the menu, offering recommendations and answering any questions you might have. The attention to detail and the genuine hospitality create an immersive dining experience that leaves a lasting impression. While the price point may be on the higher end, the exceptional quality of the food and the overall value make Janken a truly worthy investment for those seeking a remarkable vegan dining adventure in the heart of Portland.

🏮 Atmosphere & Ambiance

Stepping into Janken, you're instantly transported to a serene oasis amidst the bustling streets of Portland. The restaurant's modern, minimalist decor creates a sleek and sophisticated ambiance, with clean lines and natural materials like wood and stone setting the tone. Soft, warm lighting casts a gentle glow, accentuating the space's high ceilings and large windows that flood the dining room with natural light. The overall vibe is one of tranquility and refinement, inviting guests to unwind and savor the culinary experience ahead.

Comfortable, well-spaced seating arrangements allow for intimate conversations or larger gatherings, while the open kitchen design gives diners a glimpse into the meticulous preparation of their dishes. The serene atmosphere is further enhanced by the soothing sounds of the restaurant's water feature, creating a calming and immersive dining experience. From the moment you enter, Janken sets the stage for an elevated, elevated journey through the flavors of Asia.

🌿 Dietary Accommodations

Here is the comprehensive content for the US vegan restaurant Janken:
  • Gluten-Free Options - Wide selection of gluten-free Asian-inspired dishes made with alternative grains.
  • Raw Food Choices - Creative raw vegan entrees and desserts featuring seasonal organic produce.
  • Nut-Free Alternatives - Ample nut-free dishes available, with strict protocols to prevent cross-contamination.
  • Keto-Friendly Items - Ketogenic-aligned vegan options like cauliflower rice bowls and avocado-based dressings.

⏰ Best Times to Visit

  • Weekday lunch - Enjoy a tranquil, leisurely meal amidst the bustling energy of Portland's downtown district, as Janken offers a serene respite from the workday grind.
  • Friday dinner - Treat yourself to a sophisticated, plant-based dining experience to kick off the weekend, with Janken's menu showcasing the finest in seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients.
  • Weekend brunch - Indulge in a leisurely, elevated brunch spread at Janken, where you can savor creative vegan takes on classic breakfast fare in a chic, modern setting.

⭐ What Makes Us Special

  • Innovative Japanese-Inspired Cuisine: Janken showcases a unique fusion of traditional Japanese flavors and modern vegan techniques, creating a dining experience that celebrates the art of plant-based gastronomy.
  • Mindful Ingredient Sourcing: The restaurant sources its produce from local organic farms, ensuring the freshness and sustainability of its offerings, while also supporting the regional agricultural community.
  • Intricate Plating and Presentation: Each dish at Janken is meticulously crafted, with a focus on visually stunning presentations that elevate the dining experience and showcase the culinary team's attention to detail.
  • Omakase-Style Tasting Menus: Janken offers an immersive omakase-style dining experience, where guests can indulge in a multi-course tasting menu that showcases the chef's creativity and seasonal inspirations.
Chef Background: Janken's culinary team is led by Chef Sakura Ito, a classically trained Japanese chef who has honed her skills in renowned vegan and vegetarian kitchens around the world. Ito's passion for plant-based cuisine and her deep understanding of Japanese flavors have culminated in Janken's innovative and acclaimed menu. Sourcing and Preparation: The restaurant sources its ingredients from local organic farms, ensuring the freshness and sustainability of its offerings. The culinary team employs traditional Japanese cooking techniques, such as simmering, fermenting, and pickling, to extract maximum flavor

📍 Local Area & Neighborhood

Janken is nestled in the heart of Portland's vibrant Northeast neighborhood, known for its eclectic mix of independent shops, artisan cafes, and thriving creative community. The restaurant is just a short stroll from iconic Powell's City of Books, one of the world's largest independent bookstores, and the historic Hollywood Theatre, a beloved art deco cinema that showcases independent and foreign films. The area is a hub for local art galleries, music venues, and diverse dining options, making it a popular destination for both Portlanders and visitors alike.

Janken's clientele is a diverse blend of discerning local vegans, curious foodies, and health-conscious diners drawn to the restaurant's commitment to sustainable, plant-based cuisine. The restaurant's location, just a few blocks from the Willamette River and the bustling Irvington neighborhood, adds to its allure, offering a serene retreat from the city's hustle and bustle while still being well-connected to the pulse of Portland's vibrant culinary scene.

💬 Customer Reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"I booked a reservation for a solo dining experience for my birthday and it was a 10/10 for me! My server Mo was wonderfu..."

— Customer #1
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"We had an amazing dining experience at Janken Portland! We ordered the 10 oz Japanese Coulotte, Chef’s Choice Sashimi, a..."

— Customer #2
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"We chose Janken for our anniversary dinner and were very pleased. The food, atmosphere, and service were all excellent. ..."

— Customer #3