It’s no secret that Nong Poonsukwattana makes a mean Thai-style chicken and rice, but I wasn’t prepared for just how sensational (and swoon-worthy) it would actually be. Maybe there was something in the chilly Portland air, but I swear, chicken and rice never tasted so damn good!

Nong’s Khao Man Gai cart launched in April 2009 and has since expanded to an additional cart, as well as a take-out kitchen. She also produces a line of sauces that I am dying to get my paws on.

Every order of khao man gai begins with a heap of rice that’s been cooked in chicken stock and aromatics like pandan, ginger, and garlic; it smells and tastes like a dream. Pieces of delicately poached and stupendously moist chicken are served atop the tender grains. A bowl of steaming broth is served on the side.

What takes Nong’s chicken and rice to the next level is her secret sauce, a masterfully concocted blend of fermented soy beans, fresh and pickled garlic, ginger, Thai chilies, Thai vinegar, and sugar. This sauce is everything.

This is what a khao man gai high looks like.

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Nong’s Khao Man Gai (multiple locations)
609 SE Ankeny Street, Ste. B
Portland, OR 97214

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Two years ago: Street Donuts – Seattle
Three years ago: Family Obsession: Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho at Phở King
Four years ago: Taco Taskforce: Los Angeles’ Best Fish Taco
Five years ago: Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
Six years ago: Xôi Gấc
Seven years ago: The Great American Detox Diet – Alex Jamieson