Discover Year-Round Comfort: Why Chin’s Kitchen in Northeast Portland is Your Go-To for Delicious Soups

When Patrick Herlihy moved to Portland in 2003, he was not impressed with a nearby restaurant called Chin’s Kitchen. It had basic plastic chairs and food that didn’t entice him to return. Fast forward to 2023, and a stroll in his old Hollywood neighborhood showed him a transformed restaurant, now under the leadership of Wendy Li and her family since 2017. This new Chin’s Kitchen had a warm atmosphere and delicious dishes inspired by northeastern Chinese cuisine.

Two years and countless visits later, Patrick, now 64, continues to explore the extensive menu at Chin’s. He especially enjoys their generous portions, often taking home leftovers.

One dish he recommends is the hot-and-sour soup. Interestingly, he credits it with helping him recover from a tough bout with COVID. “Suddenly, I liked it,” he says.

Patrick observes that many customers stick to their favorites. “I think most people order the same few items repeatedly. I could be wrong, but that’s what I see.” While he has his own favorites like the seafood and pork dumplings, he has made his way through most of the menu.

However, he’s learned to skip the braised pork belly. “It was good, but my older body can’t handle it.” It’s a common experience; as we age, our metabolism changes.

Patrick is quite settled in Portland. Having moved constantly as a military child and a Navy veteran himself, he promised himself to stay put when he turned 50. He appreciates that Chin’s is nearby and loves the new bar area added last summer.

Culinary adventures extend beyond just his Irish roots. “I’m a meat-and-potato kind of guy,” he laughs. His grandparents hailed from County Cork in Ireland, which makes him appreciate the homey dishes at Chin’s, like the Chinese sauerkraut and pork stew or stewed pork ribs with potato noodles. He finds them just as comforting as the Irish comfort food he grew up with.

In a world where more people are turning to comfort foods, it’s no surprise that restaurants like Chin’s Kitchen are thriving. According to a recent survey by the National Restaurant Association, 80% of adults say they’re trying new cuisines more than ever before, suggesting a growing appetite for diverse flavors.

Engagement on social media also reflects this trend. Many diners share their experiences at Chin’s on platforms like Instagram, showcasing their favorite dishes and encouraging others to step outside their culinary comfort zones.

Overall, Chin’s Kitchen has evolved into a must-visit spot in Portland, offering a blend of comfort, nostalgia, and delightful flavors that keep customers like Patrick coming back for more.



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