Blossoming Lotus

"It’s not listed on their (online) menu, but Irvington’s vegan (and often raw) restaurant makes one mean bloody. If you like them thick and chewy, you’ll like this one, thanks in large part to some coarsely chopped garlic in the mix. It also comes across as a sort of drinkable vegan chili — yes, what you’re tasting there are liberal doses of both cumin and freshly pressed cilantro juice. If you are a fan of beets, the house beet infused vodka bloody is also an option." - Chad Walsh, Maya MacEvoy

"20 years in the Portland restaurant scene is an eon or two, so what was once striking — an entirely vegan restaurant — is now abundant. And while vegetarian and vegan dishes dot nearly ever menu in town today, and plenty of plant-based-only restaurants have sprung into existence, Blossoming Lotus remains a hallmark. From dishes that emulate carnivorous classics like the lentil-walnut burger or the BBQ soy curls, to fully raw dishes like the spicy live nachos or the vibrant taco salad, Blossoming Lotus covers the plant-based gamut. The bar serves both mocktails and cocktails, and features a modest wine and beer list. But the most celebrated beverages are the smoothies and juices — start the day with sweet-sour green lantern juice, or enjoy a smoothie as spicy dessert with a pecan, banana, cayenne, and cinnamon hot date." - Nathan Williams

"It’s surprising to see a burger on the menu at this airy vegan bistro that’s known for organic juices and vegetable laden bowls, but Blossoming Lotus puts its own twist on a cheeseburger. The lentil-walnut burger comes with harissa aioli, a ciabatta bun, and optional avocado. For sides, diners can choose between salad, fingerling potatoes, or mac and cheese. Lavender lemonade or iced coconut chai make especially refreshing drink pairings for this burger on a sunny day." - Waz Wu

"Located in the Irvington neighborhood, this stylish vegan bistro with high ceilings and windows lined with plants is best known for its organic juices and healthy vegetable-centric fare. One of Blossoming Lotus’s longtime staples, the raw vegan nachos with spicy and nutty dehydrated chips topped with pecan chorizo crumbles, is a great choice for sharing. Entrees include a lentil-walnut burger on ciabatta bun and lemon-pepper-cashew cream pasta, while specials and multi-course menus feature dishes like oyster mushroom-tofu “crab cakes” with tomato caviar and lasagna with cashew bechamel sauce. The bar serves vegan wines and cocktails made with ingredients like mango-chili agua fresca and beet-infused vodka." - Waz Wu

"Although Blossoming Lotus is best known for its healthy raw vegan fare, the stylish restaurant serves brunch alongside fresh juices and smoothies from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekends at the original location on NE 15th. Choose from pancakes with fresh berries, scrambled tofu breakfast tacos, potato-squash-mushroom vegetable hash, and tofu Benedict slathered with silky eggless hollandaise. Blossoming Lotus offers indoor and outdoor dining, as well as online ordering." - Waz Wu