Portland’s vibrant culinary scene is constantly evolving, and Oma’s Hideaway stands out as a particularly exciting addition, especially for those seeking an authentic yet innovative Malaysian Food Restaurant experience. From the team behind the acclaimed Gado Gado, Oma’s Hideaway dives deep into Malaysian Chinese barbecue, offering a menu that’s both comforting and adventurous. My recent visits have solidified my opinion: Oma’s Hideaway isn’t just another restaurant; it’s a culinary journey worth taking.
Stepping into Oma’s Hideaway is immediately engaging. The ambiance is unique, blending a casual, almost backyard barbecue vibe with eclectic décor – think robot murals, disco ball-esque bar, and vintage lighting, all underscored by the groovy sounds of 70s Indonesian psychedelic rock. It’s a place that feels both familiar and intriguingly different. Even the initial setup, with its plastic tubs for busing your own dishes at the outdoor tables, contributes to a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere, encouraging you to focus on the food and company.
The star of any Malaysian food restaurant is undoubtedly the cuisine, and Oma’s Hideaway excels here. The menu is a playful yet respectful nod to Malaysian Chinese flavors, with dishes that are both deeply rooted in tradition and sprinkled with modern, creative twists.
Let’s talk about the Wonton Mee. This Malaysian noodle staple is a must-try, and Oma’s version does not disappoint. The homemade noodles are springy and chewy, perfectly complementing the generous portions of Chinese barbecue pork and tangy pickled green chiles. It’s a dish designed for sharing, and diving into it feels both communal and exciting. The char siu pork is particularly noteworthy, boasting a sticky, irresistible glaze with a surprising secret ingredient – Cherry Coke! This unexpected touch adds a layer of playful complexity that epitomizes Oma’s approach to Malaysian cuisine. And then there’s the lava-red chile jam, a kitchen creation that adds a sweet and spicy kick, elevating the Wonton Mee to another level. It’s a testament to how Oma’s Hideaway honors Malaysian flavors while daring to innovate.
Beyond the Wonton Mee, the menu is full of gems. The “OMA-zing burger” is a standout, featuring a charred patty, shredded lettuce, and melty American cheese, all served on a coconut lime leaf butter-griddled bun. It’s an unexpected but brilliant fusion, showcasing the restaurant’s willingness to blend influences. The curry fries, dusted with a warm spice blend and, surprisingly, orange Tang, are another addictive side. For those seeking richer flavors, the pork spare rib tips are pure indulgence – fatty, flavorful, and coated in a dark fish sauce caramel, topped with herbs and toasted sticky rice powder. And don’t miss the roti flatbread, a Gado Gado signature that’s somehow even better at Oma’s – incredibly buttery and flaky, truly a heavenly bite.
The Pandan waffle with fried sweetbreads is another dish that pushes boundaries in the best way possible. Served with asparagus, roasted mushrooms, peanuts, fried anchovies, and a rich sweet beef syrup, it’s a sweet and savory explosion that challenges traditional notions of both waffles and Malaysian cuisine. It’s adventurous, bold, and utterly delicious.
Oma’s Hideaway is more than just a Malaysian food restaurant; it’s a deeply personal project for owners Thomas and Mariah Pisha-Duffly. The restaurant is an homage to Thomas’s grandmother, Kiong Tien “Tina” Vandenberg, affectionately known as Oma, who was of Chinese descent and raised in Indonesia and Malaysia. Her culinary heritage is the soul of Oma’s Hideaway. Thomas sees the restaurant as a “celebration of where I am now with food identity and cultural identity because of her.” This personal connection is palpable in every dish, adding a layer of depth and meaning to the dining experience. Even a seemingly simple Fruity Pebbles Rice Krispie treat, infused with lemongrass and lime leaf, becomes a playful tribute to Oma’s spirit.
While the food is the main draw, the cocktail program, curated in collaboration with Portland bar expert Eric Nelson, adds another dimension to Oma’s Hideaway. While some cocktails might be a bit inconsistent, standouts like the Panther’s Pajamas, a blend of bourbon, mango, and egg white foam, are truly delightful. The overall experience at Oma’s Hideaway is one of joyful exploration. It’s a place where Malaysian flavors are celebrated, reimagined, and presented in a way that is both exciting and deeply satisfying.
In conclusion, if you’re searching for a Malaysian food restaurant that offers more than just the standard fare, Oma’s Hideaway in Portland is a must-visit. It’s a place where you can savor authentic Malaysian flavors while experiencing innovative dishes in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. Oma’s Hideaway is not just serving food; they are sharing a story, a heritage, and a whole lot of deliciousness. It’s easily one of the most exciting dining destinations in Portland right now, and a true gem in the Malaysian food restaurant landscape.
