Luc Lac Vietnamese Kitchen isn’t just another spot for pho and banh mi—it's a love letter to Vietnam’s vibrant street food culture, tucked away in downtown Portland. The moment you walk in (or wait in line, because, let’s be real, it fills up fast), you’re greeted with the rich aromas of lemongrass, star anise, and grilled meats. This place has earned a loyal following since it opened in November 2011, and if you've ever tasted their shaking beef or sipped on a homemade iced coffee, you'll know why.

But here’s the thing: Luc Lac doesn’t take reservations. So, if you’re the type who likes to plan ahead, you’ll want to get there early or be ready to wait. It’s a small space, and the energy inside is always buzzing. And honestly, that’s kind of part of the charm. There’s something special about sharing a meal in a packed room where every table is full of people enjoying fresh herbs wrapped in rice paper or slurping down a steaming bowl of pho like it's the last meal you’ll ever have.

With over 5,000 likes on Facebook and a 4.3 rating from nearly 600 reviews on TripAdvisor, it’s safe to say Luc Lac has made a big impression on both locals and visitors alike. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite during your lunch break or coming back for the third time this month because you just can’t get enough of that garlic pork chop rice plate, Luc Lac has something for everyone—especially if you're looking for bold flavors, fast service, and a little bit of that hometown Vietnamese kitchen feel.

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Table of Contents

• A Brief History of Luc Lac Vietnamese Kitchen
• What’s on the Menu? A Closer Look at the Dishes
• What It’s Like Dining at Luc Lac
• Frequently Asked Questions About Luc Lac Vietnamese Kitchen

A Brief History of Luc Lac Vietnamese Kitchen

Back in 2011, Luc Lac Vietnamese Kitchen opened its doors in downtown Portland after a rebranding and relocation of its predecessor, Pho PDX. Since then, it's become a staple for Vietnamese cuisine lovers in the city. The name “Luc Lac” might not ring a bell if you're not familiar with Vietnamese, but it actually refers to a popular dish known as shaking beef—literally translating to “shake shake.”

The restaurant's journey from a small rebranded spot to a top-rated gem on TripAdvisor wasn’t an overnight success. It was built on consistency, quality, and a deep respect for traditional Vietnamese flavors. And while they’ve stayed true to their roots, they’ve also kept things fresh, updating their menu and offering online ordering so you can enjoy their dishes even if you can’t make it to the restaurant right away.

One thing that hasn’t changed? Their commitment to fair service. Because of their limited space, Luc Lac doesn’t accept reservations. It’s first come, first served. Which means you might end up chatting with the couple next to you while waiting for your table—or maybe even swapping food orders because everything just looks so good.

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What’s on the Menu? A Closer Look at the Dishes

The menu at Luc Lac is packed with Vietnamese favorites, from pho and vermicelli bowls to fresh spring rolls and grilled meats. Here’s a quick look at some of the highlights:

• Shaking Beef (Bo Luc Lac): Tender, marinated beef sirloin, cooked to perfection and tossed in a savory-sweet sauce. Served with rice and fresh herbs.
• Pho Dac Biet: A classic beef pho with a rich broth, soft rice noodles, and a mix of tender meats like brisket and meatballs.
• Banh Xeo: A crispy Vietnamese pancake loaded with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts—best wrapped in lettuce and dipped in nuoc cham.
• Com Tam: Broken rice dishes topped with grilled pork chop, egg, and pickled vegetables.

And that’s just the beginning. If you're in the mood for something lighter, there are fresh salads and small plates like grilled pork skewers and lemongrass tofu. Oh, and don’t skip the drinks! Their homemade iced coffee and Vietnamese-style smoothies are a must-try.

One of the best things about Luc Lac is that you don’t have to break the bank to eat well. Their prices are pretty reasonable, especially for the quality of food you’re getting. Plus, they’ve got a breakfast menu if you’re ever up for something different before work.

Online Ordering & Menu Accessibility

Can’t make it to the restaurant? No problem. You can order directly from their website and enjoy Luc Lac’s flavors at home. They offer delivery and pickup, so you can still get your fix even if you’re not downtown. Their online menu includes everything from full meals to small bites and drinks, and they’ve got options for kids too.

It’s worth noting that they recommend ordering directly through their site instead of third-party apps. That way, you avoid those pesky delivery fees and help support the restaurant directly. Win-win.

What It’s Like Dining at Luc Lac Vietnamese Kitchen

Walking into Luc Lac feels like stepping into a little slice of Vietnam. The space is small, but it’s cozy and full of life. There’s usually a line out the door during peak hours, but trust me, it’s worth the wait. The staff is quick, friendly, and always seems to know exactly what you want before you even order—probably because they’ve seen everyone in the neighborhood at least a dozen times.

The vibe inside is casual, and you’ll see a mix of people—office workers grabbing lunch, foodies exploring Vietnamese flavors, and even tourists who stumbled in and ended up coming back again. The tables are close together, but that just makes it easier to strike up a conversation or share a dish with the strangers who feel like friends by the end of the meal.

Another thing worth mentioning? Luc Lac doesn’t just focus on the food—they pay attention to the details. The herbs are fresh, the meats are grilled to order, and every bowl of soup is made with care. It’s not just about feeding people; it’s about making sure you feel like you’ve had a real experience, not just a quick bite.

Frequently Asked Questions About Luc Lac Vietnamese Kitchen

Does Luc Lac accept reservations? No, they don’t. Because their space is limited, they operate on a first-come, first-served basis. So if you’re planning a visit, it’s best to go early or be ready to wait a bit.

Can I order Luc Lac Vietnamese Kitchen online? Yes, you can! Their website allows for direct ordering, which means no third-party fees and faster service. You can choose between pickup or delivery, depending on where you are.

What are the must-try dishes at Luc Lac? If you're new, start with the shaking beef, a bowl of pho, and maybe a fresh spring roll or two. For something different, try the broken rice or the crispy banh xeo. And definitely don’t skip the drinks—they’ve got some of the best Vietnamese coffee and smoothies in town.

Ready to plan your visit? Check out their official website for the latest menu and ordering options. And if you’ve already been, you know exactly why this little kitchen has made such a big impact on Portland’s food scene.