A Little Bit of Southeast Asia in Southeast Portland

(the jungle vibes are strong at Double Dragon PDX)

Portland's central Eastside has always been one of my favorite areas of town for nightlife, dining and bar hopping. The surge of development in the area in recent years has made it a magnet for locals and tourists alike. Last weekend my partner and I checked out the Portland Night Market in an area known as "produce row." In it's current incarnation the market is one weekend every three months and offers a bustling array of handmade arts, crafts, food and beverages as musicians busk outside and a DJ spins inside. The Haus has plans in the works for having a booth at the market later this year!

After checking out the scene we made our way to the food cart pod in search of snacks and quickly noted the long lines. Thankfully there's plenty of options in the area. About a half mile from the night market on southeast Division lies a little slice of southeast Asia. Double Dragon opened in 2011 as a modest Banh Mi sandwich spot and has since grown to offer cocktails and other food options for vegans and omnivores. Their cozy, plant laden bar and dining area is a great place to hang on rainy evenings and an expansive patio in front is one of the best in the area in the summer! Also noteworthy is their collection of vintage VHS videotapes that are played on an old TV/VCR combo unit. The cinematic jewel Conan The Barbarian was shown on this particular evening.

(the sesame peanut soy curl rice bowl is one of the best vegan snacks. highly recommend!)

("Water Sign" and Ginger Margarita) 

(an establishment named Double Dragon is probably required to have this 1980's arcade classic!)