We’re back with another edition of Neighborhood Bites, where the Bling Dental team explores some of Portland’s tastiest local spots and shares their experiences! This time, our amazing dental assistants Gina and Christy dined at Janken, a sleek Asian fusion restaurant that blends Japanese and Korean cuisine.

📍 Janken

Dinner: Tue–Thu: 5–10 PM | Fri–Sat: 4–11 PM | Sun: 5–9 PM
Happy Hour: Tue–Thu 5–6 PM | Fri 4–5 PM
Address: 250 NW 13th Ave, Portland, OR 97209
Reviews: Over 600 Google Reviews | 4.3 Average Rating

Why Janken?
It was the talk of the town when it first opened. Rumor has it there’s even a hidden speakeasy inside. Though they didn’t make it this time, it’s definitely on their list to come back and check out. They had heard amazing things about the food and ambiance and were so excited to experience it together.

First Impressions
From the moment they walked in, the two were impressed. “The staff was so friendly, everything was spotless, and the décor was beautiful,” Christy said. “Even the lighting felt perfectly planned.” They also loved the curated details, from the table settings to the giant cherry blossom tree anchoring the dining room. “Perfect for a photo on the way out!” Gina added.

The Food & Drinks
The meal kicked off with an incredible cocktail: both ordered the White Juniper, a gin-forward drink served with lightly torched juniper berries that arrived still smoking. They also tried a glass of the White Pinot Noir, another standout and a rare find on menus. Already blown away by the drinks, they didn’t know how it could get better… and yet it did when the food arrived!

Both agreed their favorite dish and star of the night was the Peking Duck. It was Christy’s first time trying duck, and Gina, already a fan, was thrilled to see her reaction. “It was so moist and delicious,” said Christy. “Served with savory pancake tortillas, sliced veggies, and a hoisin dipping sauce…it made the perfect duck tacos!”

Other favorites included the Hamachi crispy rice (Christy says it’s to die for), spicy yellowtail roll with kizami wasabi, avocado, and serrano, wagyu gyoza with chili ponzu (they don’t know how they are going to go back to regular Gyoza), and fried green beans with ground sesame. “Every dish was a 10/10. Pricier, but absolutely worth it,” Gina raved.

Ambiance & Service
“Amazing service,” they both noted. “Every person we met was so kind and helpful.” The space itself? It was all about the details. The beautiful cherry blossom tree, the lighting – even the bathrooms were gorgeous and well-designed! They also have three different kitchens, so dishes come out at different times. “It makes each dish feel so personal and intentional,” Christy said.

Final Thoughts from Christy & Gina “Janken is a top-notch Portland restaurant with amazing food, drinks, and design,” they said. “We didn’t want to leave!” They would recommend it for any occasion – an outing with friends, a date night, or spending time with family. Absolutely worth the splurge! Stay tuned for our next Neighborhood Bites… the Bling Dental crew are already planning their next local adventure!

“Neighborhood Bites”—Janken