What is it? Annam VL is a Vietnamese lunch restaurant on SE Belmont Street that features a rotating menu, mostly focused on noodle soups.
Why we love it: Their small menu (three to four items) changes depending on the day of the week, and it allows a much-needed break from overwhelming menus that leave us with decision fatigue. Go on Wednesdays for their Hủ Tiếu Bò Kho (a hearty beef stew with rice noodles and carrots) or Fridays, when they serve “Mom’s Hometown Favorite,” Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho (rice noodles in a pork and dried seafood broth, with sliced char siu, quail eggs, shrimp and pork liver).
Time Out tip: Get to Annam VL early, as they often sell out before close. Also, a shout-out to the other “VL” restaurants, Ha VL and Rose VL Deli, all owned by the same family and all delicious.
Address: 3336 SE Belmont St, Portland, Oregon 97214
Hours: Wed–Sun 9am–4:30pm or until sold out
Expect to pay: About $20 per person, not including drinks.