Blossoming Lotus

Whether you are a vegetarian or not, Blossoming Lotus provides an opportunity to taste the wonders of meat-less cooking. Part of the joy of dining out is being able to experience new tastes and flavors. The restaurant's inventive dishes will both amaze and comfort you.

This restaurant has “blossomed” from its first location in the Pearl District to its current sit-down restaurant in northeast Portland. Most people would think a vegan restaurant would only have a niche following, but a wonderful aspect of the Blossoming Lotus is that it welcomes everyone.

The atmosphere is refined with nice wooden benches and booths, while fun paintings and pictures adorn the walls. It can be busy, especially for dinner, but the wait time feels lessened when getting to view amazing art on the walls by usually little-known local artists.

Blossoming Lotus was founded by award-winning chefs Mark Reinfeld and Jennifer Murray. Not only did they creatively think up the restaurant’s menu, but have also authored books such as The 30-Minute Vegan and the Complete Idiot’s Guide to Eating Raw.

The menu is a collection of vegan, gluten-free and raw foods. For visitors to Portland or those unaccustomed to such fare, it is not as “out there” as might be first thought. Live or raw food means that the dish has not been cooked and that all the food is in its natural (or raw) state. With a delectable mix of flavors and sauces, their menu should have something for every palette.

A good choice for first time diners is either their sandwiches or wraps. The Crispy Thai BBQ Wrap or Smoked Maple Tempeh sandwiches are wonderful choices. You will get a great taste of what the Blossoming Lotus is all about while staying healthy at the same time.

Blossoming Lotus serves lunch, brunch, and dinner. While the sit-down dinner can be nice, the best recommendation for first time visitors is for lunch. The atmosphere is low-key and you can order for food for dining or out. Nearby Irving Park makes a great destination for you and your sandwiches on a sunny day. 

If you want to try vegan fusion at its best, Blossoming Lotus is a perfect choice. The restaurant fits in with Portland’s focus on sustainability and healthy living, but goes beyond it to create the future of meat-less cuisine.

HelloPortland Tip: Want a sweet treat to cap your meal? Try their cookie or brownies, especially if you have never tried a vegan bakery delight before.

- by William Crane, Portland Reporter for HelloMetro  (Click to leave a message)