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Portland’s Southeast Division Street gained a new focal point this month with the opening of OK Chicken and Khao Soi, a compact restaurant reviving the former Pok Pok address. Backed by restaurateur Earl Ninsom, hospitality veteran Eric Nelson and chef Sam Smith, the spot stakes a claim for **Northern Thai** flavors with charcoal-grilled proteins and a concentrated take on the region’s signature curry noodle soup.
What to order
- Khao Soi — The centerpiece dish: rich coconut curry coats springy egg noodles, balanced by a bright, slightly tart punch from pickled mustard greens and a hint of green chile heat.
- Peek Gai Tod Ka-Min — Crunchy, double-fried chicken wings whose straightforward seasoning lets the meat shine; served with a fragrant cilantro–lemongrass dipping sauce that cuts through the richness.
- Ovaltine Toast — A playful street-food riff: thick, grilled bread spread with margarine, finished with Ovaltine powder and condensed milk for a nostalgic, sweet finish.
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The room
Inside the dining room the energy is immediate — lively music, close tables and the smell of smoke from the open grill. Service moves quickly and casually; the layout leans communal, designed for shared plates and conversation.
It’s the kind of place that invites loose etiquette: bring friends, order several dishes, and don’t be surprised if finger-licking is part of the evening. Cocktails include boozy slushies that pair well with the spicy and fatty flavors of the menu.
Why this matters now
OK Chicken and Khao Soi arrives at a moment when Portland’s restaurant scene is recalibrating: longtime neighborhood landmarks are changing hands, and diners are seeking more regionally focused offerings. A tightly edited Northern Thai program in a visible Division Street location signals both continuity and a new direction for area dining.
Practical tips
Seats fill up fast. The restaurant accepts bookings only for larger parties, so plan accordingly.
- Reservations: Accepted for groups of six or more — useful for planned gatherings.
- Small parties: Arrive at opening or later in the evening to reduce wait time.
- Wait strategy: Put your name on the list and explore nearby bars such as The End for a drink while you wait.
With a focused menu and a clear point of view, OK Chicken and Khao Soi is worth a visit for anyone following Portland’s evolving food landscape or craving an authentic, bold take on Northern Thai classics.
