Pelmeni Pelmeni

Absolutely loved this pelmeni spot. You can tell the food is made with love and passion. I haven’t had pelmeni dressed the way they made them and very much liked it. The sweet and the savory. The savory ones were so so good. 

The sweet ones were extra tasty but the quantity is large so make sure to have someone to share with :)

Really, really good. Warm, filling, and fresh. I got the potato vareniki and it was so delicious — topped with a tomatoey sauce, sour cream, and fresh dill. The dumplings were perfectly chewy and soft, and the whole dish was delivered steaming hot. The woman was also very kind. Never had anything quite like it — I will definitely be back!

These dumplings are amazing. I usually get the chicken dumplings. Toss your dumplings around and spread the toppings & tomato sauce evenly for best taste!

Tried the Potato Vareniki — they were light, soft, and melt-in-your-mouth tasty. Service was very fast. Nothing mind-blowing, but a good, comforting bite if you're craving dumplings or something quick and satisfying.

Was super stoked to try this place and it did not disappoint. Located in a central part of Portland in an enclave of other food trucks, it was super easy to find and we ordered relatively quickly on a rainy afternoon here in Portland. The person behind the counter was super nice and we received our food relatively quickly. Everything was absolutely delicious, from the potato dumplings to the sweet cheese dumplings, to the borscht. My god the borscht was unbelievable. It was a huge helping And just so flavorful and perfect for a cold rainy day here in Portland. You need to get the borscht! Overall, this was a wonderful experience and I would be happy to eat here again for my next visit in Portland. Thank you so much, Pelmeni Pelmeni!

I’ve been here twice now and love the food. The pelmeni has a great texture and I like ordering this with all the toppings. The cold sour cream, sauce, and scallions are a great complement to the pelmeni. If you like spicy, be sure to add the hot sauce when you pick up your food. I’ve ordered the small and large chicken pelmeni from here. I actually prefer the small size because it seems to have a better ratio between toppings and pelmeni.

Updated review: downgrading my review. Thanks for registering your business as "anti woke" with public square so I know what places to avoid. It's overpriced anyway. They're cry about being persecuted for their politics but you're the one who registered your own business as anti-woke. If you don't want politics in your business then maybe you shouldn't have politically registered your business. Womp womp.

Solid pelmeni. But $16 for a “large” but actually quite a small bowl is a little insane. I suggest going to nearby Eastern European grocery stores and buying them in bulk instead.

First time trying Pelmeni and love it. It was tender, flavorful, and the portion was perfect. My daughter loves pelmeni and has had these in Eastern Europe and said Pelmeni Pelmeni's are on par with those. Had to go back for more ! The staff are very friendly too.

We were visiting Portland over the summer (6/23/2023) and visited pelmeni pelmeni I should have pointed out that my wife is from Kazakhstan. Therefore, we know what authentic pelmeni 's tastes like. The food is really authentic. Service is great. Food tastes great. Recently, we tried all dishes. They were all wonderful. 5/5 I wish I had pics of the food. But you know? The entire food truck area has changed and it is much nicer. I wish's we had something like this in sacramento

Although the Hawthorne Asylum area initially looks spooky from the outside, there are many interesting food carts inside and Pelmeni Pelmeni is one of them. This food cart is unique considering it sells Russian styled dumplings. The dumplings are really good -- juicy, have good meaty flavor, and a balance of creaminess from the sour cream/cheese. My friends and I enjoyed them a lot. However, the reason why I would dock a star is because the quantity is very little while the price is around $13 for a large portion (the picture I posted is a large size). The cook/cashier was nice and service was fast because they made an extra batch before we bought. Overall, I think this is worth the experience if you haven't had Russian dumplings, but don't count on getting full from the food.

Came here on a rainy day. Wasn't sure how these would be with the ketchup and sour cream but everything came together perfectly. Highly recommend the chicken pelmeni.

They were decently good, but probably lowest on the list of ones I've tried in other places. They were extra small, and the beef was pretty texturally tight/tense/dense with lots of chewy tendon pieces in it (which i dont dislike but i think others might not like as much). The dough wrapping was also a little thin and a touch overcooked, as there were a few pieces that had broken apart. I love that they had the touch of dill at the end, which most places dont do, but disappointed that it didnt come with hot sauce. Other places Ive tried also come with a spice powder such as curry which I've realized also makes the flavor better (and was lacking here). But overall would have again, just not sure if theres better options in the PDX area, as the other preferred ones I've had were in Seattle.

Prior to picking up my order they gave someone's order to the wrong person and blamed the customer, and when the person asked for their order that was given to someone else, they didn't seem all the inclined to remedy the situation promptly. When I got home, it was a bummer to see they didn't put the toppings on my mine, when I specifically remember the moment they asked if I wanted toppings (weird request, since the menu has it with toppings, and if someone didn't want what was offered, they make the request rather than be asked), anyway I answered with "yes, all the toppings." If they took that as no toppings, then neither the sweet cheese or potato would have toppings, when the sweet cheese one did have toppings. When I called to see how they would remedy the situation, they told me I grabbed the wrong order and should have checked the name on the box. Funny, because it had my name on the box. Again, blamed the customer. So for that, they get three stars, for being too distracted to do something super simple, showing a complete lack of awareness and couldn't care less. I wished them a better rest of the day with minimal mishaps.

Hawthorne Asylum has some great food carts, and Pelmeni Pelmeni is definitely one in the pod that we have come back to when we're in the area. Serving various pelmenis (eastern European style dumplings) topped with fresh dill and sour cream, although they are a far cry from the traditional Chinese dumplings that I enjoy, they are definitely special and delicious in their own right. The dumpling skin is not too thick (which the filling to skin ratio can always make or break a dumpling for me...), and the filling inside is juicy and hearty. Topped with some acidic sour cream, Russian ketchup, and bright dill, the acid cuts through the fattiness of the dumpling itself. The bowls come out fairly quickly and it always feels fresh. It is super convenient to eat while there, or on the go!

I love this place . The pelmeni is freshly made and the service is always great . They serve you up with a smile and I'll be back many more times :)

Winter comfort food on the menu, this is your spot! This place is a go to for sure in the colder months. Both the potato.and chicken dumplings have such a rich flavor and while I could easily go through a bunch of them, they fill you up quick. Really nice lady serving somehow has the order ready within 10-15 mins so hardly any wait!

This place was amazing! I got the vegetarian one with everything on it. It was so good. I went back Sunday morning after church to have more, but it was closed. They should be open more.

Was in Portland in early March (2024) and went to this place and it was stellar. Newly single (both of us) made for a perfect romantic setting that we both salivated over and took dessert back to my favorite hotel (Zags) & ate the dessert in the oversized tub with the lights down low watching Scooby Doo, Mister Kangaroo, and Gilligan's Island. We asked our waitress to pick out the dinner and sides for us and let's just say / smart move. Going back here again & again since her new place is in Portland and we both love desserts in the tub together!

I have had homemade pelmeni before and I love it. It's like a Eastern European or Russian potsticker. This food truck does a pretty good job and they have some good sauces to go with it. It's a good option for a cheap eat at a food truck. Easy card payment system. I ordered the beef pelmeni. It is quite a heavy meal.

Great Food& tastes great. Poved the Targon flavore soda.. Friendly Staff. The Food Cart Area has a lot of available seating & other locatio has a Fire Pit!

It's my 10th time or so coming back, and its so good and filling. Feels like my mom just cooked for me. Everytime I go to these food carts I run straight to this cart best slavic food

The jewel of Hawthorne Asylum. Pelmeni Pelmeni is consistently delicious no matter what you order. If you're there with friends get an order for the table or just yourself. Everything on the menu makes my Eastern European genes sing.

My mom lives far from me so I often miss Russian and Ukrainian food but this place is great. The vareniki are always fresh and hot. The owner was very friendly and he seemed to enjoy what he was doing :) I tried Borsch before as well and it was vegan and delicious. I just wish it was less oily but most people like it that way. Also the portion was so big I only ate half of it, it's very filling.

First time trying Slavic food, it was amazing! The person working there was really helpful and kind, super fast service as well. I can tell it's made with love!!

It was my first time trying Pelmenis and if you haven't had them either they are russian dumplings. I ended up trying both the chicken and potato pelmenis which run you $7+ up for the 1/2 lb. If you're in a larger group they do sell in 3/4 lb for ~$2 more. On average it will be 15 mins for them to make your order without a crowd so order early if you see lines. As for the dumplings the wrapping has a nice chew and the inside was flavorful. I like how they topped them with plenty of russian ketchup, dill and sour cream. Not what I usually would get on my standard dumplings but they added a nice tartiness to the savory filling. They are perfectly bite sized so easy to share but also easy to eat all at once!

Absolutely loved my dumplings. Tried all the flavors and truly enjoyed them all. Will be back again and again. The proprietor was utterly charming and welcoming. Adore supporting this Ukrainian small business.

Glorious bowl of dumplings! Pelmeni, a russian dumpling. Pelmeni is described as more of a ravioli. I instantly fell in love with pelmeni when I tried it during a trip. So happy that Portland has an amazing Pelmeni food truck. I love the beef dumpling! Its topped with russian ketchup, dill, green onion and sour cream! The magic is grabbing a side of white or balsamic vinegar. I drowned my bowl in balsamic vinegar, it was yums! You'll want to order the large size. Theres also options of chicken, potato or cheese fillings!

The service was fast, the food was amazing and the location was super cool! Wasn't able to finish it all but it would make good left overs!

Love this place and so yummy. Got the beef pelmini and it was delish! I definitely recommend trying them out

The food was amazing. Now I know how Ukrainians eat and I'm jealous. The guy working there was very nice and the ambience was very relaxing. I work at a company that occasionally has food trucks in the parking lot and I'd love for this to be an option if that were possible and mobile.

Who can dislike a dumpling filled with mashed potatoes and topped with herbs and sour cream? This place is delicious and a no brainer.

Amazing Russian Pelmeni foodcart in SE Portland! I ordered small borscht and large Pelmeni (beef and chicken combination). Borscht with beef and sour ream was amazing, and also came with a piece of Russian rye bread. Pelmeni order was enough for a big eater like me. I spent $15 + tip for a great meal! A girl who works there (I don't know if she is an owner or not) was very nice and pleasant to talk to. Highly recommend this authentic food cart! Will be back for sure! P. S. DON'T DISCRIMINATE AGAINST RUSSIAN SMALL BUSINESSES! THEY DIDN'T START A WAR IN UKRAINE! THEY ARE JUST TRYING TO MAKE A LIVING!

I was visiting a friend in Portland and he took me here to grab some dumplings and escape the rain. Y'all are fortunate to have affordable, tasty food trucks like this! Sadly, there is not much in the way of Slavic cuisine in Southern California. I'm used to Polish pierogi and was surprised to see these were like their smaller, yet equally delicious, counterparts. Service was great and there was a beer truck next door. Do yourself a favor and treat yourself to some dumplings with a cold beer. Na Zdrowie to the hardworking gents at Pelmeni!

Food Cart Time: Pelmeni Pelmeni We tried the chicken pelmeni and kvas from this food truck. The small chicken dumplings were topped with sour cream, dill and Russian ketchup. This Slavic food was delicious.

Flavorful and fingerlicking delicious! I honestly loved the potato pelmeni more than the chicken but that's my preference! The dumplings were soft and not mushy. The ketchup sauce, sour cream, and dill really complimented each other. They're releasing their beef flavor soon, which I'm ecstatic to try! $8 for a small is totally worth it! Best in town!

Love love love Slavic food. Had an opportunity to introduce my husband to pelmeni and Kvas and he loved it. Definetly worth checking it out!

ducked out of work a bit early the other day to come by and get some pelmeni. got the beef prepared all the way, added a little of the vinegar. they were absolutely delicious. i can not wait to come back when it's a little cooler and get some borsch. in the meantime i'll probably visit again for some cherry vareniki. slava ukraini!

DELICIOUS BEEF DUMPLINGS! Also tried my friend's potato dumplings and they were also incredible. Sasha (with the amazing cooking and customer service) suggested the beef dumplings w/ all the toppings, pepper and vinegar and that was the ticket. Will be back and 100/10 recommend

Absolutely delicious! Quick service, quick food. The fresh dill pulls all the flavors together for a hot, tangy dish.

Visited specifically to support a Ukrainian-owned restaurant. The service was great and the food equally impressive. Tons of outdoor seating. Will be back. Thank you and continued prayers for Ukraine.

Tonight was our first night trying them and are fans. The food is incredible and the people are stellar. Do yourself a favor and try them. You'll fall in love.

Pelmeni... DELICIOUS dumplings and awesome service. Sasha was the man! Definitely one of my favs at the asylum. Going back for sure. Five stars!

Have ordered from here a few times now, and absolutely love. I am from Poland and good Slavic food is hard to find, I have finally found an amazing go-to. Highly recommend! (little traditional Slavic candies are great bonus nostalgic treat they have as well)

Got half chicken half beef dumplings and it was so yummy it made my day. Perfect addition on the side too if you are trying the other food carts.

The chicken dish was my favorite - soooooo good!! Great service as well. Everyone was very nice working there!

First time here and I'll definitely be back. I got the borsh and the potato vareniki with everything on it and they were both so delicious. Don't skip the tarragon soda, a risk that paid off.

I wandered about Hawthorne Asylum mad for some delicious eats. After finding something to drink (thanks Bobablastic), I looked through the various carts and I stumbled upon Pelmeni Pelmeni. Although the menu was pretty simple and there wasn't a line of people wanting to order from the cart, I pondered on my past experiences eating Russian dumplings. Those little clouds of joy dipped in tangy sauces and fresh herbs on top reminded me of a restaurant in Bellingham that sold and only sold two types of Russian dumplings. They were very popular in town. Safe to say, Russian dumplings, by nature, have a gravitational force that attract young foodies like me. Pelmeni Pelmeni is very similar to that restaurant, and I very much enjoyed their dumplings. The potato vareniki were super silky smooth & the potatoes were perfectly cooked, while the dumplings were SO soft. I'd say definitely go for this option. The chicken pelmeni were delicious, but the taste profile surprised me, it kinda reminded me of pork more than chicken. The fixings on top of the dumplings were fire. Fresh dill & chives, lots of sour cream, and a delightful amount of Russian ketchup (Heinz could never). I'd probably order twice the amount they had put, since there isn't a dipping sauce/vinegar option. I wish I could sleep on a Russian dumpling at night.

We went specifically to Hawthorne Asylum for Pelmeni Pelmeni and they are not open. Their sign says they open at 11:30 and it is almost noon with no signs of life. Very disappointed.

Well, you almost had me dude Told me that I was hangry without food Oh, and after everything you've steamed I can thank you for how satisfied I've been 'Cause you brought Kesha and you put me to Yelp I had to learn many Slavic words by myself And we both know all the stars I could give I'll just say this, all of Portland you'll feed I hope you're somewhere Pelmeni Pelmeni I hope you're digging dumplings, dumplings I hope you find your Russian At the end of this discussion, Pelmeni

Coming to Portland, I was really excited to try Russian/Slavic food since I haven't been able to find a decent place in the Bay Area. We had ordered a large order of the vareniki, except there's no Russian ketchup (had it on the side). Overall the flavor was really good, by that I mean the stuffing of the vareniki. I really liked the sour cream and dill on the vareniki, it was a great addition of flavor. I did notice that it was a bit watery which made the sour cream melt, but it's not her fault she just hadn't drain the vareniki when taking it out. We also got a Russian beverage, i didn't take a picture but it was a green bottle. It was a licorice flavor and usually I would walk away from licorice, but it was actually really good. I'd recommend trying it. I would definitely come back again and try the chicken pelmeni when I'm back in Portland.

This cart was featured on the news so I had to try. The pelmeni's are good: soft (not that microwaved texture) and just the right amount of chicken filling. Portion is fair, they offer two sizes. Wait time is a touch on the long side and I was the only customer. The gal was sweet.

Pelmeni Pelmeni offers a very simple menu with basically 3 pelmeni: chicken, potato and cheese. portions are 1/2 lb and 3/4 lb. The larger size is not much more expensive and is worth paying slightly more for. The large size has about 25 or so small pieces with sour cream, dill and some kind of ketchup thing on top. I have ate a lot of Pelmeni in my life, and these are pretty good ones. Never had the ketchup before, not really traditional garnish, but it was actually pretty good. I don't agree with some people that say large portion is big enough to share, but it's acceptable to get full. Fairly authentic, good tasting lil pelmeni

Super excited to see this cart in the Hawthorne Asylum. Was just wandering through exploring the new pod, seeing what was going in, when their sign lured me deeper. I mean, who doesn't want dumplings as a snack on a cold and rainy afternoon? I ordered the potato, and they took a little less than 10 minutes to come up. The container they're served in is super cute, with a nice logo stamp, as well as a "Your future looks bright" on the inside. Generous serving, along with giant scoop of sour cream, tons of dill, and surprisingly, ketchup. Next time, I'll likely ask for no ketchup, or maybe ketchup on the side. That being said, the dumplings hit the spot and were delicious, with that rad mix of dill, sour cream, and potato goodness.

I'm glad to see that they are located now at the newer food cart pod on Madison (Hawthorne Asylum). The choices here are very simple as hey have three types of pelmeni to choose from. I chose the chicken ones and they did not disappoint. The lady was very nice and told me that she should have them in around 8 minutes. You have two portion sizes- 1/2 pound or 3/4 pound with the prices at $8 and $9.50 respectively. It's a no brainer to choose the larger size. The dumplings here are super tasty and definitely a worthy snack. I would definitely eat here again.

Guys who run this cart are super friendly. The place is clean and the food, well I love their Ukrainian Pelmeni with all the toppings. I got kicked out of Cartopia, around the corner, because I had my bike. So coming to this quieter, cleaner and frankly more "Portland" in spirt was so welcome on a warm spring evening. So thanks for the inviting conversation and food. I wish you success.

Really great portion and value for the price! I had the chicken pelmeni dumplings, and chose the small size. Small is not what it was, but delicious it was! A hearty serving of super yummy pillowy dumplings covered in dill, russian ketchup, and dill. I am a sucker for dill so I asked for extra and they were kind enough to give me a little to go container with extra chopped dill so I could sprinkle as I dug through the container. Super yummy, super worth it!

Dumplings may well be the highlight of any culture - a comfort food introduction to people and their ancestors. I recommend you make friends with these Ukranian and Russian ambassadors located on SE Foster. The pricing on the small but welcoming menu makes it easy to spring for the large portion, but we found that two small orders (one with chicken, the other with potatoes) made for a filling lunch for two, with leftovers. Our order came with a drizzle of a ketchup-like sauce, topped with a substantial amount of sour cream and fresh dill. Service was friendly and efficient. The Matryoshka nesting doll social media icons painted on the side of the trailer made my day.