Introduction – What Is Vanakkam PDX?
If you love authentic South Indian food, then Vanakkam PDX is a must-visit. Located in Portland, Oregon, this vibrant spot serves up bold, fresh, and flavorful dishes inspired by the streets of South India. From crispy dosas to savory vada, every bite bursts with tradition and passion.
Vanakkam PDX offers a fast-casual dining experience. It is perfect for anyone craving genuine Indian street food made with care and quality ingredients. Whether you are vegan, vegetarian, or a meat lover, you will find plenty to satisfy your taste buds here.
A Closer Look at Vanakkam PDX
Vanakkam means hello in Tamil, reflecting the warm, welcoming spirit of this restaurant. The team focuses on authentic recipes and fresh preparation, bringing traditional South Indian dishes to the Pacific Northwest.
The restaurant is located at 14740 Cornell Rd #160, Portland, OR 97229, inside a lively shopping plaza. Vanakkam is not a food cart, but a cozy, colorful restaurant with quick service and a relaxed vibe. It is family-friendly and ideal for quick lunches, dinners, or takeout.
📍 Quick Guide About VANAKKAM PDX
| Details | Information |
| Google Rating | 4.5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Based on 285 reviews) |
| 💲 Price Range | $10–20 per person (Reported by 156 people) |
| 🍽️ Cuisine | Indian Restaurant |
| 🏳️🌈 Tags | LGBTQ+ friendly, Women-owned |
| 📍 Address | 14740 NW Cornell Rd #160, Portland, OR 97229 |
| 🏢 Location Info | Floor 1 · Oak Hills Village |
| ☎️ Phone | (503) 747-2049 |
| 🌐 Website | For the menu and prices, visit the official website here. |
| 📲 Order Online | Available via Clover |
| 🚗 Services | ✔️ Dine-in ✔️ Takeout |
Vanakkam PDX Menu With Prices
The menu showcases the best of South Indian cuisine with a modern twist. Here are some key highlights:
🏷️ Day’s Special
| Item | Price | Description |
| Anniversary Spl Lunch Buffet | $17.99 | Weekend buffet for Veg and Non-Veg lovers. Dine-in only. No sharing. |
| Kid’s Anniversary Spl Buffet | $8.99 | For kids under 11 years. Dine-in only. |
🍛 Biryani Combos (Serves 1 Adult)
| Item | Price | Description |
| Veg Biryani Combo | $12.99 | Choice of Hyderabadi or Chettinadu Veg Biryani. Served with Veg Salna, Raita, small assorted Veg appetizer, and dessert of the day. |
| Chicken Biryani Combo | $14.99 | Choice of Hyderabadi or Chettinadu Chicken Biryani. With Salna, Raita, small chicken appetizer, and dessert of the day. |
| Goat Biryani Combo | $15.99 | Choice of Hyderabadi or Chettinadu Goat Biryani. Served with Salna, Raita, small chicken appetizer, and dessert of the day. |
🥘 Bowl Combos
| Item | Price | Description |
| Curry Combo Bowl | $10.99 | Portion of rice and 2 plain naan slices with your choice of curries and salad. Additional curry varieties available. (Serves 1) |
🍱 Thali (ToGos – Until 2 PM)
| Item | Price | Description |
| Veg Thali (ToGos) | Unavailable | White Rice, Sambar, Poriyal, 1 Chapati with Paneer gravy, fryums, Rasam, savory fried snacks, dessert, and buttermilk. |
| Meaty Thali (ToGos) | Unavailable | White Rice, choice of chicken or other gravy, 1 Chapati, Sambar, Rasam, chicken appetizer, dessert, and buttermilk. |
🍚 Rice
| Item | Price | Description |
| Curd Rice (16 Oz) | $7.99 | Traditional South Indian dish made with rice, yogurt, spices & curry leaves. |
| Chitranna/Lemon Rice (16 Oz) | $7.99 | South Indian lemon rice made with rice, spices & curry leaves. |
| Gongura Rice (16 Oz) | $7.99 | Spicy and tangy rice dish made with roasted spices and Gongura leaves. |
| Tamarind/Puliyodharai Rice (16 Oz) | $7.99 | Tangy, sour, and spiced rice made with tamarind. |
🧆 Appetizers
| Item | Price | Description |
| Masala Peanut | $4.99 | Fried peanut mix with Indian spices. |
| Gobi 65 | $9.99 | Crispy fried cauliflower with flour, spices, herbs, served with mint chutney. |
| Gobi Manchurian | $9.99 | Crispy cauliflower in Indo-Chinese Manchurian sauce. |
| BabyCorn Manchurian | $9.99 | Crispy fried baby corn in Manchurian sauce. |
| Paneer Manchurian | $12.99 | Fried Paneer cubes tossed in Manchurian sauce. |
| Andra 65 (16 Oz) | $12.99 | Deep-fried Andhra-style marinated chicken with curry leaves & green chilies. |
| Chicken 65 (16 Oz) | $12.99 | Deep-fried marinated chicken served with lemon and onion. |
| Pepper Chicken (16 Oz) | $12.99 | Spiced chicken pieces cooked with onions and lemon. |
| Chicken Sukka (16 Oz) | $12.99 | Bone or boneless chicken cooked with spices, served with onions and lemon. |
| Chicken Manchurian | $12.99 | Crisp fried chicken pieces in Indo-Chinese Manchurian sauce. |
| Goat Sukka (16 Oz) | $13.99 | Bone-in goat cooked with spices, served with onions and lemon. |
| Lamb Sukka (16 Oz) | $13.99 | Boneless lamb pieces cooked with spices, served with onions and lemon. |
🫓 Indian Breads & Curry
| Item | Price | Description |
| Naan (1 Pc) | $2.00 | Plain flatbread. |
| Garlic Naan (1 Pc) | $2.00 | Flatbread topped with garlic. |
| Chapati (1 Pc) | $2.00 | Unleavened whole wheat South Asian flatbread. |
| Parotta (1 Pc) | $2.00 | Layered South Indian flatbread made with refined flour and oil. |
| Veg Curry Options (16 Oz) | $0.00 | Choice of daily vegetarian curry with rice (To-Go). |
| Meat Curry Options (16 Oz) | $0.00 | Choice of daily meat curry with rice (To-Go). |
🍢 Snacks (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
| Item | Price | Description |
| Onion Samosa (3 Pcs) | $3.99 | Tea-time snack served with mint & sweet chutney. |
| Samosa (1 Pc) | $1.99 | Homemade veg samosa with mint and sweet chutney. |
| Mirchi Bhaji (4 Pcs) | $5.99 | Jalapeño fritters served with mint chutney. |
| Medhu Vada (2 Pcs) | $3.99 | Deep-fried lentil donuts served with sambar and coconut chutney. |
| Masala Vada (3 Pcs) | $3.99 | Crispy South Indian fritters made with chana dal and spices. |
| Veg Pakora | $5.99 | Crispy fritters with veggies like onion, potato, and Indian spices. |
🍽️ Tiffin (6:00 PM Onwards)
| Item | Price | Description |
| Idli (3 Pcs) | $6.99 | Steamed rice & lentil cakes served with chutneys and sambar. |
| Thattu Idli | $6.99 | Large, soft steamed rice & lentil cake with chutneys and sambar. |
| Podi Idli | $6.99 | Idlis tossed in spicy podi (ground lentil spice mix). |
| Plain Dosa | $9.99 | Thin crepe made of rice and lentil. |
| Paneer Dosa | Unavailable | Dosa with a paneer stuffing. |
| Mysore Podi Dosa | $11.99 | Dosa topped with podi, served with masala on side. |
| Andhra Kara Dosa | $11.99 | Spicy dosa in Andhra style. |
| Masala Dosa | $11.99 | Dosa stuffed with seasoned mashed potatoes. |
| Egg Dosa | $13.99 | Dosa topped with egg and vegetables, served with chutney or sambar. |
| Onion Dosa | $11.99 | Dosa with sliced onions on top. |
| Onion Uthapam | $12.99 | Thick dosa pancake topped with onions. |
| Veg Uthapam | $12.99 | Thick pancake-style dosa with onion, carrot, and capsicum toppings. |
| Kuzhi Pannigaram (10 Pcs) | Unavailable | Pan-fried South Indian rice dumplings. |
| Rava Dosa | Unavailable | Thin, crisp dosa made with semolina and spices. |
👶 Kid’s Menu
| Item | Price | Description |
| Mini Podi Idli | $6.99 | Small idlis tossed in spicy podi (lentil powder). |
| Cone Dosa | $7.99 | Dosa folded into a cone shape, perfect for kids. |
| Cheese Dosa | $7.99 | Dosa topped with melted cheese. |
| Chicken Strips & Fries | $7.99 | Deep-fried chicken strips with fries and ketchup. |
| Fish & Fries | $7.99 | Fried fish fillets served with fries and ketchup. |
🌙 Sarakku Sides (9:00 PM – Midnight)
| Item | Price | Description |
| Paneer Roll | $12.99 | Marinated and grilled paneer wrapped in a buttery crisp paratha. |
| Chicken Roll | $12.99 | Marinated grilled chicken and veggies in a buttery crisp paratha. |
| Egg Roll | $12.99 | Scrambled egg wrapped in a buttery crisp paratha. |
| Lamb Roll | $13.99 | Minced lamb wrapped in a buttery crisp paratha. |
| Special Fish Tawa Fry (2–3 Slices) | $12.99 | Indian fish tawa-fried in coconut oil, served with onions & lemon. (Pomfret/Threadfin etc.) |
🍰 Desserts & Beverages
| Item | Price | Description |
| Masala Tea | $3.99 | Spiced Indian milk tea with cardamom, ginger, and black tea. |
| Badam Halwa | $3.99 | Almond-based Indian dessert made with ghee, sugar, and cardamom. |
| Filter Coffee (8 Oz) | $3.99 | Traditional South Indian coffee brewed with chicory. |
| MoongDhal Halwa | $3.99 | Sweet dessert made from moong dal, ghee, and cardamoms. |
| Royal Falooda | $5.99 | Layered dessert with vermicelli, milk, ice cream, fruits, nuts, and flavored syrup. |
| Rabdi Jamun | $5.29 | Gulab Jamun (2 pcs) served with thickened sweet milk (Rabdi). |
| Mango Lassi | $4.00 | Chilled yogurt drink blended with sweet mango and cardamom. |
| Jamun (2 Pcs) | $2.99 | Fried dough balls soaked in aromatic sugar syrup. |
| Strawberry Lassi | $4.00 | Refreshing drink made from ripe strawberries and yogurt. |
| Rasamalai (2 Pcs) | $3.99 | Cottage cheese dumplings in saffron-infused sweetened milk. |
| Badam Milk | $4.00 | Milk flavored with almonds, saffron, and cardamom. Served hot or cold. |
| Chikoo Shake | $4.00 | Creamy shake made with ripe chikoo (sapota) fruit. |
| Indian Sodas | $2.49 | Variety of Indian sodas. |
| Diet Coke | $2.00 | Diet Coke. |
| Coke | $2.00 | Classic Coca-Cola. |
| Pepsi | Unavailable | – |
| Sprite | $2.00 | Sprite lemon-lime soda. |
| Kulfi | $4.00 | Traditional Indian ice cream. Flavors: Pista, Malai, Mango, Oreo. |
🍬 Sweets & Savories
| Item | Price | Description |
| Homemade Mysore Pak (10 Pcs) | Unavailable | South Indian sweet made from gram flour, sugar, and ghee. |
| Homemade Mysore Pak (1 Pc) | Unavailable | Individually prepared Mysore Pak made by home cooks. |
🍽️ Uncategorized / Other Specials
| Item | Price | Description |
| Kid’s Weekday Buffet | $7.99 | Buffet for kids aged 5–11 years (Weekdays only). |
| Weekday Buffet | $13.99 | Unlimited dine-in buffet (Weekdays only). |
All dishes use fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. Vegan and gluten-free options are available, clearly marked on the menu.
Top 5 Dishes to Try at Vanakkam PDX Menu
Here are the five must-try dishes that showcase the heart of Vanakkam’s menu:
- Masala Dosa
A large, crispy crepe filled with spiced mashed potatoes. Served with tangy chutneys and flavorful sambar. This dish perfectly balances texture and taste. - Medu Vada
Crunchy, savory lentil donuts served with coconut chutney and sambar. A classic South Indian snack loved by all ages. - Vegetarian Thali
A wholesome platter with rice, dal, vegetable curry, chutneys, and more. Ideal for anyone wanting to experience a little bit of everything. - Chicken Kothu Parotta
Chopped flatbread stir-fried with chicken, eggs, and spices. A hearty, flavorful street food dish packed with layers of taste. - Mini Idli Sambar
Small steamed rice cakes paired with a spicy lentil soup. Light but satisfying, perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Vanakkam PDX Dress Code and Happy Hour
Vanakkam PDX welcomes guests in casual attire. There is no strict dress code, making it an easy spot to stop by for a quick meal or a relaxed dinner with friends and family.
While there is no formal happy hour, the restaurant often features specials on popular dishes. It is best to check their website or social media for current deals and promotions. Their prices are already very reasonable, offering great value for authentic flavors.
Location, Hours & Contact
Address: 14740 Cornell Rd #160, Portland, OR 97229
Phone: +1 (503) 747-2049
Ordering: Dine-in, takeout, and delivery through DoorDash and Uber Eats
Location on Map:
The location is easy to find with ample parking available in the plaza. Vanakkam’s friendly staff make dining a pleasant and smooth experience.
🕒 Business Hours – VANAKKAM PDX
| Day | Lunch Hours | Dinner Hours |
| Saturday | 11 AM – 3 PM | 5 PM – 10:30 PM |
| Sunday | 11 AM – 3 PM | 5 PM – 9:30 PM |
| Monday | — | 5 PM – 9:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 11 AM – 2:30 PM | 5 PM – 9:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 11 AM – 2:30 PM | 5 PM – 9:30 PM |
| Thursday | 11 AM – 2:30 PM | 5 PM – 9:30 PM |
| Friday | 11 AM – 2:30 PM | 5 PM – 10:30 PM |
What Makes Vanakkam PDX Unique?
Vanakkam PDX stands out because of its:
- Authentic South Indian recipes with real traditional spices.
- Vegan-friendly options for health-conscious diners.
- Fresh, fast-casual service perfect for busy Portlanders.
- Commitment to quality using fresh ingredients and traditional techniques.
- Welcoming atmosphere that invites everyone to enjoy South Indian cuisine.
VANAKKAM PDX Reviews
Overall Rating: 4.5 out of 5 (⭐⭐⭐⭐☆) Based on 285 reviews. Google Reviews.
Similar South Indian Restaurants in Portland
If you love Vanakkam PDX, try these other top South Indian restaurants in Portland:
1. Chennai Masala
📍 2746 SE Powell Blvd
🌐 For more info, visit the official website here: chennaimasala.com
⭐ 4.6 Google Rating (⭐⭐⭐⭐)
Famous for its crispy dosas and authentic spices. A cozy spot delivering genuine Chennai flavors.
2. Annam Indian Cuisine
📍 8211 NE Sandy Blvd
🌐 For more info, visit the official website here: annamindian.com
⭐ 4.4 Google Rating (⭐⭐⭐⭐)
A mix of South and North Indian dishes with excellent vegetarian and vegan options.
3. Woodblock Indian Kitchen
📍 206 NW 21st Ave
🌐 For more info, visit the official website here: woodblockindian.com
⭐ 4.5 Google Rating (⭐⭐⭐⭐)
Offers some South Indian favorites with modern presentation and innovative flavors.
4. DesiPDX
📍 Portland Food Cart Pod, 335 NW 11th Ave
🌐 For more info, visit the official website here: desipdx.com
⭐ 4.3 Google Rating (⭐⭐⭐⭐)
A popular food cart serving Indian fusion with vegan and gluten-free dishes, including dosas.
5. Maruti Indian Restaurant
📍 3601 SE Hawthorne Blvd
🌐 For more info, visit the official website here: marutipdx.com
⭐ 4.5 Google Rating (⭐⭐⭐⭐)
Features authentic Indian meals with a focus on vegetarian and vegan-friendly South Indian dishes.
FAQs About Vanakkam PDX
Q: Is Vanakkam PDX fully vegan?
Many dishes are vegan or can be made vegan. The menu marks vegan options. Ask the staff for recommendations.
Q: Does Vanakkam PDX have a dress code?
No formal dress code. Casual wear is perfect.
Q: Can I order delivery?
Yes. Available on DoorDash and Uber Eats.
Q: Is parking available?
Yes, there is ample parking in the plaza.
Q: Are gluten-free options available?
Yes, many dishes are gluten-free or can be adapted. Always check with the staff.
Final Thoughts
Vanakkam PDX is a must-visit for lovers of South Indian cuisine in Portland. It combines authentic flavors, fresh ingredients, and a welcoming atmosphere in a fast-casual setting. Whether you are new to South Indian food or a longtime fan, Vanakkam delivers bold tastes and satisfying meals every time.
Stop by to enjoy a crispy dosa, savory vada, or hearty thali. Experience the vibrant spices and traditions of South India, right here in Portland.
Plan your visit or order online today at vanakkampdx.com.
Please also read articles about the following restaurants:
