There’s something I surprisingly enjoy about eating alone in a city I’m exploring. I don’t feel rushed and I can simply be fully present with the food in front of me. My solo dinner at Singaporean and Malaysian style restaurant, Oma’s Hideaway in Portland, was one of those nights where every bite felt intentional, memorable, and delicious.
I arrived early after they opened and was seated at the bar. Eating by myself can come with moments of nervousness, but more often than not, I find it incredibly empowering. Sitting alone in the restaurant, I was fine being sat next to strangers and having the opportunity to chat with those behind the bar while occasionally people watching and being entertained by my own thoughts. Add to that, feeling the kitchen rhythm, seeing the plates come out, and soaking in the cozy energy was absolutely welcome in my world. In talking with the waitress while scanning over the menu, I found exactly what my tastebuds wanted to explore. First up was the Roti Cani ($16). The Malaysian flatbread was flaky, warm, and perfect for pulling apart and devouring. Not to show up empty handed, the roti arrived with a rich caramelized carrot and leek curry that made each piece of the roti when dipped in it even more comforting. It was the kind of dish that felt like a warm welcome.
Next came the Wonton Mee ($26) of chewy yellow noodles, char siu pork belly, crispy pork and shrimp wontons, and fermented chili. The noodles were perfectly springy, the broth was balanced, and the wontons crisp and satisfying. Each spoonful felt like the dish was planned with heart and intention making this simple-seeming dish feel like a deliberate expression of flavor.
But dessert was the real showstopper and the restaurant knows that. As the sole dessert item on their menu, they took every step to create something that tastes close to perfection.
The Griddled Fruity Pebbles Rice Crispy Treat ($10) was playful, nostalgic, and entirely mouthwatering. The vibrant colored rice crispy treat was topped with mango sticky rice ice cream, toasted pandan marshmallow fluff, and a sprinkle of lime leaf flake salt, it was an unexpected harmony of textures and tastes. Sweet, salty, creamy, and crunchy, it felt like a celebration in every bite.
Eating solo sometimes means savoring every moment without distraction. At Oma’s Hideaway, I found enjoyment with my own company, indulged in food that made me smile, and left feeling full. Not just from the meal, but from the experience of it all too.
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Address: 3131 SE Division St, Portland, OR 97202
Phone: (971) 754-4923
Hours: Daily – 5:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Social: Website, Instagram, and Facebook.
