Skip to main content536 E Burnside St., 467-7501, mirakuteipdx.com.
[LO-BU SUSHI AND RAMEN] After
wowing diners at Hiro Sushi in Lake Oswego and Hiroshi in the Pearl
District, sushi master Hiro Ikegaya migrated east to inner industrial
Portland. Here, at small, spare Mirakutei, he challenges nearby Biwa for
ramen supremacy. Hiro's genki ramen ($11.50), for instance, practically
defines "umami," with its savory shredded char siu pork and garlicky
scrambled egg, perfectly complemented by a clean miso broth with crisp
bean sprouts and chili pepper bits. Hiro also serves several Japanese
tapas (many grilled and skewered) and Northwest-influenced seafood
salads, including a kampachi sashimi salad ($9): Hawaiian yellowtail
slices with beets, sugar snap peas and tomato on a bed of greens tossed
with a light vinaigrette that throws the creamy yellowtail into relief.
As for the sashimi and sushi, an able and friendly server will help you
navigate any unfamiliar components. If you require more than wasabi to
clear your sinuses, order a Dirty Hot Monkey ($7), made with dry
vermouth, olive juice and New Deal Distillery's chili-pepper infused
vodka. Don't say I didn't warn you.
Ideal meal: Whatever you do, be sure to order the gyoza (five for $8), housemade pot stickers with minced pork and beef; you won't find their equal anywhere in Portland.
Best deal: If you're hitting the clubs on a Friday or Saturday, you can lay down a healthy protein base first at Mirakutei's late-night happy hour starting at 9:30 pm.
Pro tip: Feeling flush and indecisive? Plonk down $30 for the sashimi omakase (chef's choice) and trust Chef Hiro and his team to bring you the day's best raw bites.
11:30 am-2 pm, Monday-Friday, 5:30-10 pm Monday-Thursday, 5:30-10:30 pm Friday-Saturday, 5:30-9:30 pm Sunday. $$.
WWeek 2015