Wa Kitchen Kuu

wa kitchen kuu menu

For those in the Oregon region seeking an authentic and delightful Japanese culinary journey, Wa Kitchen Kuu in Portland stands as a highly recommended destination. This charming restaurant is renowned for offering a "very welcoming experience" from the moment you step through its doors, consistently delivering "tasty menu" items that are both "absolutely delicious and reasonably priced." Patrons frequently praise the freshness of the ingredients, noting that "everything is made fresh and is very satisfying," ensuring a truly enjoyable meal every time. Beyond the exceptional food, Wa Kitchen Kuu is celebrated for its "kind, courteous, and professional" staff who "greet you when you arrive with a smile and provide you with top notch quality service for a wonderful experience." Whether you're craving "amazing sushi," comforting noodle dishes, or unique Japanese specials, Wa Kitchen Kuu promises a fulfilling and pleasant dining adventure, making it a must-visit when you're in downtown Portland.

Wa Kitchen Kuu is conveniently located at 125 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Portland, OR 97232, USA. This address places it in a prime and accessible area of Northeast Portland, situated on a major thoroughfare. The location is particularly advantageous for those attending events or working in the inner Northeast, often being a good option post-event at the Oregon Convention Center.

Accessibility to Wa Kitchen Kuu is generally excellent. Martin Luther King Jr Blvd is a well-trafficked street, making it easy to reach by car. While street parking "may be tricky," especially during peak hours, there are various parking options available nearby. The restaurant itself indicates parking information is available through services like Parking NW, which can help pre-book spots. Additionally, being on a major street, Wa Kitchen Kuu is well-served by TriMet's extensive bus network, offering convenient public transportation access from many parts of Portland. The interior is described as having "traditional Japanese" decor with a mix of counter seats, high tops, and low tops, providing a comfortable setting once you arrive.

Wa Kitchen Kuu offers a comprehensive range of services, catering to a diverse clientele seeking authentic Japanese cuisine in a welcoming environment.

• Dine-In Service: Enjoy a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere for both lunch and dinner. The restaurant provides a comfortable setting with various seating options, including counter seats, high tops, and low tops, designed to give you a sense of being in Japan.
• Lunch and Dinner Service: Wa Kitchen Kuu operates with specific hours, typically open Wednesday to Thursday from 11:30 AM to 3:30 PM and 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and Friday to Sunday from 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM. They are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
• Takeout Service: For those on the go or preferring to dine at home, takeout orders are readily available.
• Delivery Services: Wa Kitchen Kuu partners with popular third-party delivery platforms such as Uber Eats and Postmates, allowing customers the convenience of having their favorite Japanese dishes delivered directly to their location.
• Extensive Menu: The menu offers a wide variety of Japanese dishes, including:
  • Sushi and Rolls: Highly praised for "amazing sushi," including classic and specialty rolls (e.g., Spicy Tuna Roll, Oregon Roll, White Tiger Roll) and hand rolls.
  • Noodle Dishes: A strong selection of udon and soba, including favorites like Tempura Udon/Soba, Curry Udon/Soba, and the highly recommended Kama-age Udon, often noted for their house-made noodles and flavorful broths.
  • Rice Bowls (Donburi) and Curry: Options such as Veggie Mabo Tofu, various Poke Dons (Spicy, Seafood, V.V.G.), and Katsu Nanban Combo.
  • Tapas and Appetizers: A range of small plates perfect for sharing, including Tako-Yaki, Edamame, Fried Gyoza, Chicken Kara-age, and more.
  • Specials: A rotating selection of "Specials" that can include unique sandwich combos (e.g., Katsu Nanban, Men-chi Katsu), Japanese takes on classics like Kuu Style Locomoco, Oden, and specialty rice dishes (Kama-Meshi).
• Vegan, Vegetarian, and Gluten-Free Options: Wa Kitchen Kuu is accommodating to various dietary needs, with clearly labeled menu items and options for vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diners, including a specific "V.V.G. Don" and vegan rice balls.

Wa Kitchen Kuu distinguishes itself in Portland's Japanese dining scene with several key features and highlights that contribute to its excellent reputation and loyal customer base.

• "Amazing" and Fresh Sushi: A consistent highlight from reviews is the quality of the sushi, described as "amazing" and "fresh tasting food." This commitment to fresh ingredients ensures a satisfying and authentic sushi experience.
• "Delicious" and Reasonably Priced Food: Patrons frequently praise the food for being "absolutely delicious" and "very satisfying," all while being "reasonably priced." This combination of high quality and good value makes it an attractive option for regular dining.
• "Very Welcoming Experience" and Top-Notch Service: The staff at Wa Kitchen Kuu are consistently described as "very kind, courteous, and professional." Their warm greetings and "top notch quality service" create a genuinely welcoming and pleasant dining atmosphere, making guests feel comfortable and well-cared for.
• House-Made Udon Noodles: For noodle enthusiasts, a significant highlight is that they "make their noodles from scratch." Reviewers specifically rave about their udon, with the "Kama-age udon" being a particular fan favorite, often called "amazing." This dedication to handmade ingredients elevates the quality of their noodle dishes.
• Diverse Menu Beyond Sushi: While known for sushi, Wa Kitchen Kuu offers a broad menu that extends to various noodle dishes (udon, soba, ramen, curry noodles), rice bowls (donburi), and a wide selection of Japanese tapas and appetizers. This variety ensures there's something to please everyone, from traditionalists to those seeking more unique Japanese comfort food.
• Unique and Rotating "Specials": The restaurant features a dynamic "Specials" menu, showcasing dishes like the Katsu Nanban Sandwich Combo, Men-chi Katsu Sandwich Combo, Kuu Style Locomoco, and Oden. These rotating items add excitement and provide opportunities to try authentic, often seasonal, Japanese flavors.
• Accommodating Dietary Needs: Wa Kitchen Kuu is praised for offering clear and appealing "vegan options" and other dietary accommodations. Their "V.V.G. Don" (Vegetarian, Vegan, and Gluten Free) and various vegan rolls highlight their inclusivity.
• Authentic Japanese Ambiance: The interior decor is described as "traditional Japanese," providing an immersive experience that transports diners to Japan.

Wa Kitchen Kuu provides several appealing options that act as ongoing "specials," focusing on value, variety, and the experience of traditional Japanese cuisine.

• Rotating Daily/Seasonal Specials: The restaurant features a dedicated "Specials" menu on their website and likely in-house. These include unique lunch and dinner combos and seasonal dishes. Examples include:
  • Katsu Nanban Sandwich Combo: Chicken katsu thigh in a sweet and sour glaze, served with sweet potato fries and a small mixed green salad for $10.
  • Men-chi Katsu Sandwich Combo: Minced pork and beef katsu, egg omelet, with sweet potato fries and salad for $10.
  • Kuu Style Locomoco: A Japanese take on the Hawaiian classic with minced katsu, rice, cheese omelet, and pasta salad for $12.
  • Oden: A classic winter Japanese meal with beef skewers, egg, tofu, fish cakes, konnyaku potato, and daikon radish in bonito broth for $13.
  • Specialty Rice Balls: Options like Spicy Salmon/Tuna or Vegetable Rice Balls, served with a quarter-sized udon and a rotating side for $15.
  • Kama - Meshi Specialty Rice: Slow-cooked rice with crab, ikura, scallop, salmon, and mushrooms, with vegan and gluten-free versions available.
  • Rotating Traditional Lunch Special: A daily-changing combo platter featuring a rotating fish entrée, sashimi, tamago omelet, miso soup, rice, and other traditional sides for $14.
  These dynamic specials ensure there's always something new and exciting to try, offering excellent value for a complete meal.
• Lunch Combos: Their menu highlights various combos for lunch, providing satisfying meals at attractive price points.

To stay fully informed about the latest daily or seasonal specials, it is always recommended to check their official website or inquire directly with the friendly staff upon your visit.

To experience the welcoming atmosphere and delicious Japanese cuisine at Wa Kitchen Kuu, here's how you can get in touch:

• Address: 125 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Portland, OR 97232, USA
• Phone: (503) 477-9383

For inquiries about their menu, current hours, or to place a takeout order, giving them a call is the best approach. You can also find them listed on popular food delivery apps like Uber Eats and Postmates for convenient online ordering. Their website, kuupdx.com, also provides menu details and specials.

Wa Kitchen Kuu is an exceptionally suitable and appealing choice for locals in the Oregon region, particularly those in Portland, seeking an authentic, satisfying, and welcoming Japanese dining experience. Its blend of quality, value, and hospitable service makes it a true local gem.

Firstly, for Portlanders who appreciate fresh and flavorful Japanese cuisine, Wa Kitchen Kuu consistently delivers. The "absolutely delicious" food, with special mention of their "amazing sushi" and "fresh tasting" dishes, ensures a high-quality meal every time. The fact that their udon noodles are "made from scratch" highlights a dedication to authenticity and craftsmanship that resonates with discerning local palates. This commitment to fresh, satisfying food at "reasonably priced" rates provides excellent value, making it a viable option for both casual lunches and more substantial dinners.

Secondly, the "very welcoming experience" created by the "kind, courteous, and professional" staff is a significant draw. In a city that values genuine hospitality, the warm greetings and "top-notch quality service" at Wa Kitchen Kuu make diners feel comfortable and valued. This personal touch fosters a loyal customer base and enhances the overall dining pleasure, creating a comforting and familiar atmosphere.

Finally, its convenient location on NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd in Portland ensures easy accessibility, whether by car, public transit, or through convenient delivery services. The availability of a wide and varied menu, including numerous vegan and gluten-free options, caters to Portland's diverse dietary preferences, making it an inclusive choice for various groups. For Oregonians seeking an authentic, delicious, and friendly Japanese restaurant that consistently delivers a wonderful experience, Wa Kitchen Kuu is undoubtedly a top recommendation.

Wa Kitchen Kuu

125 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Portland, OR 97232, USA