Enjoy Hawaiian-style food, music and atmosphere anytime of year at Noho's
Warm, tropical, fragrant, fresh, exotic. These are words that are typically used to describe the Hawaiian Islands. Especially at this time of the year, these words do not necessarily describe our fair “City of Roses.” However, a little piece of Hawaii can be enjoyed at any time of the year, right here in beautiful Portland, Oregon.NoHo’s Hawaiian Café, located at 4627 N.E. Fremont, provides the kind of Hawaiian hospitality, flavor and atmosphere that can usually only be found 2400 miles across the Pacific Ocean. It is a beautifully decorated establishment featuring Polynesian décor such as handcrafted shell sconces, hand carved Tikis and original Hawaiian artwork throughout.
As if the tasteful and exotic décor isn’t enough to make you feel as if you are dining amidst the Islanders, NoHo’s features live artists that perform traditional Hawaiian music from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. On Friday and Saturday nights NoHo’s proudly presents Mila, a solo act who performs his own special brand of beautiful Island music. The presence of Mila’s music truly enhances the dining experience, as he entertains the patrons and sets a mood of tranquility, serenity and beauty.
NoHo’s offers a comprehensive menu that consists of plate lunches and dinners; beef, pork, chicken, combinations, vegetable, seafood and noodle dishes, sandwiches, desserts, side orders and beverages. Before ordering, this writer and wife were treated to samples of two favorites; Phil’s ono chicken and kalua pork. Both of these were an instant hit, giving an idea of what sophisticated flavors await.
The service at NoHo’s is second to none. The wait staff is extremely helpful and welcoming and it became apparent that all other patrons were enjoying their experience equally. The food and drink at HoNo’s is simply delicious. The quality ingredients and superb preparation come together to tantalize the tastebuds and satisfy your Island hunger. The Hawaiian-style beverages are served in Tiki-themed tumblers; the Mai Thais have a flavor so authentic, you’d swear that you were enjoying it on the sand, gazing into a warm, blue Hawaiian ocean. Phil’s ono chicken is so tender and flavorful, you will find it easy to finish NoHo’s more than generous portions. The seafood tastes as fresh as if it is right out of the Kona Coast.
While dining, it is easy to get lost in Mila’s music. As stated previously, Mila really knows how to create a soundscape that evokes a warm and tropical feeling that puts the atmosphere in NoHo’s Hawaiian Café into a class of its own. Mila sings and plays traditional Hawaiian songs such as Hi’i Lave on his acoustic guitar. He even infuses some mainland classics such as a beautiful Island-styled medley of Somewhere Over the Rainbow and What a Wonderful World. This full-time musician came to the mainland in 1989 to pursue musical opportunities in Seattle before making Portland his home.
Mila leads worship music, plays R&B and at one time, held the position of music director at Disneyland Tokyo. Mila is also available for weddings, executive events, and other private occasions. Look for Mila Polevia on Facebook for booking information or, better yet, treat yourself to the experience of dining at NoHo’s at 46th and N.E. Fremont on a Friday or Saturday evening from 6-8 and meet the talented and friendly Mila in person.
NoHo’s can cater your wedding, graduation, birthday, office party or any other special occasion. Please ask about NoHo’s custom on-site or off-site catering packages and be sure to drop by NoHo’s and check out their stunning board room and large heated patio area featuring palm trees, firepits and more of that wonderful Island aesthetic.
NoHo’s Hawaiian Café has a full bar and features happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m. daily, offering drink specials and kalua pork and ono chicken springs rolls for $2.95. There are two other NoHo’s locations; 2525 S.E. Clinton St , Portland and 330 E. McAndrews in Medford, Ore. All orders are available for take ut. Visit NoHo’s website at http://www.nohos.com/.
