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A veteran of the Portland food scene, Chef Vedran Jordan blends traditional Balkan recipes with contemporary flavors in his first restaurant. Alma is a celebration of contrasts: traditional Balkan dishes meet hyperlocal ingredients, reimagined through a contemporary lens.
Address and Contact Information
Address: 5237 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Portland, OR 97211
Phone: (971) 313-9730
Website: https://www.almapdx.com/
Menu Photos
Order and Reservations
Reservations: opentable.com
Related Web Results
Alma | Experience Balkan Flavors Today
Discover innovative Balkan cuisine at Alma in NE Portland. Join us for dinner, enjoy unique drinks, and experience authentic flavors.
Alma (@alma.pdx) • Instagram photos and videos
Balkan cuisine by chef Vedran Jordan Thurs – Mon, 5-9pm 5237 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Portland, OR 97211. Follow. Message …
Alma Restaurant – Portland, OR | OpenTable
Book now at Alma in Portland, OR. Explore menu, see photos and read 81 reviews: “I was blown away by the generosity and the amounts of food for the three …
Reviews
Ms May
The experience begins not with a menu, but with a gesture: small cups of strong black tea, a welcome that transports you before a single dish is ordered. The space on Northeast Martin Luther King Jr.
Boulevard is intimate and warm, a fitting stage for a menu designed for conviviality
A Tour Through the Menu: Standout Dishes.
Beet Salata: Far from an afterthought, this salad is a masterclass in balance.
Earthy beets and peppery arugula are brightened with grapes and creamy feta, but the true star is the kajmak. This labor-intensive, clotted cream-like dairy product, made from layers of boiled milk skin, is a revelation-rich, complex, and a signature of the kitchen’s dedication to craft.
Manila Clams ‘Buzara’ Style: A testament to Alma’s strength with seafood, a pile of clams arrives in a gloriously soupy, garlic-forward broth that demands to be sopped up with bread. It’s a briny, savory dish that encapsulates the maritime spirit of the Dalmatian coast.
Imam Bayildi: One taste explains why. A half-roasted eggplant, marinated overnight, is rendered silken and almost meaty Topped with zingy zhoug, crispy fried oyster mushrooms, and a swipe of toum yogurt, it is a stunning, deeply satisfying centerpiece that elevates the vegetable to the sublime.
Lamb Shank & Baba Ganoush: This entree is a definitive signature and a flawless pairing. The lamb shank is fall-apart tender, rich and gamey. Its companion, however, steals the show: a baba ganoush smoked until the eggplant is “completely white and ashy,” then blended into an impossibly smooth, deeply smoky, and garlic-forward purée. Together, they are a perfect, unmissable harmony.
Mtuma: Often a supporting actor, the Mtuma (potatoes) here command attention. Prepared with clear skill, they are a testament to the kitchen’s philosophy that every component deserves focus, standing out even among more show-stopping dishes.
Alma is not just Portland’s first upscale Balkan restaurant; it is one of its most soulful new additions. It executes with the precision of a fine-dining veteran yet radiates the warm, abundant hospitality of a family kitchen. It is a restaurant that feeds you, surprises you, and makes you feel welcomed. In other words, it is a place to return to, again and again.
… moreBoulevard is intimate and warm, a fitting stage for a menu designed for conviviality
A Tour Through the Menu: Standout Dishes.
Beet Salata: Far from an afterthought, this salad is a masterclass in balance.
Earthy beets and peppery arugula are brightened with grapes and creamy feta, but the true star is the kajmak. This labor-intensive, clotted cream-like dairy product, made from layers of boiled milk skin, is a revelation-rich, complex, and a signature of the kitchen’s dedication to craft.
Manila Clams ‘Buzara’ Style: A testament to Alma’s strength with seafood, a pile of clams arrives in a gloriously soupy, garlic-forward broth that demands to be sopped up with bread. It’s a briny, savory dish that encapsulates the maritime spirit of the Dalmatian coast.
Imam Bayildi: One taste explains why. A half-roasted eggplant, marinated overnight, is rendered silken and almost meaty Topped with zingy zhoug, crispy fried oyster mushrooms, and a swipe of toum yogurt, it is a stunning, deeply satisfying centerpiece that elevates the vegetable to the sublime.
Lamb Shank & Baba Ganoush: This entree is a definitive signature and a flawless pairing. The lamb shank is fall-apart tender, rich and gamey. Its companion, however, steals the show: a baba ganoush smoked until the eggplant is “completely white and ashy,” then blended into an impossibly smooth, deeply smoky, and garlic-forward purée. Together, they are a perfect, unmissable harmony.
Mtuma: Often a supporting actor, the Mtuma (potatoes) here command attention. Prepared with clear skill, they are a testament to the kitchen’s philosophy that every component deserves focus, standing out even among more show-stopping dishes.
Alma is not just Portland’s first upscale Balkan restaurant; it is one of its most soulful new additions. It executes with the precision of a fine-dining veteran yet radiates the warm, abundant hospitality of a family kitchen. It is a restaurant that feeds you, surprises you, and makes you feel welcomed. In other words, it is a place to return to, again and again.
Mark
The meal was very flavorful and presented beautifully. However, the portions were significantly small for two people. We purchased chef selection program for a fixed price of $65 each. The serving of lamb appeared to be no more than an ounce. The soup was probably a 1/4 cup. The shrimp dish had only two. I would expect there to be four to share between two people. Surprisingly, the mackeral was a full-sized fillet. I would like to emphasize all of the items were delicious.
The restaurant had a cool vibe with two sections of tables; one being quieter than the other.
The staff were attentive and informed.
I was able to enjoy the experience. However, I think I might not have, had I not been on Zepbound.
… moreThe restaurant had a cool vibe with two sections of tables; one being quieter than the other.
The staff were attentive and informed.
I was able to enjoy the experience. However, I think I might not have, had I not been on Zepbound.
Constantine Johns
Very likely has become our new favorite restaurant. This place is incredible and a MUST TRY.
We were looking for a good new dinner spot and this popped up on Eater as the “new kid on the block” and from the same chef who created Gado Gado and Oma’s Hideaway. That being said we had to try it out!
Located on MLK, there’s no shortage of options to choose from, but Alma stands above the rest.
We were warmly greeted and sat. The interior is beautifully decorated with warm colors and huge windows. Like the chef’s other concepts, it is best to order a number of different plates and share. Hard to choose from because everything looks so delicious.
We started with the Chicken Wings. Amazingly crispy with delicious sauce. Went onto the Lamb Kabop. I dont think I’ve had lamb that perfectly cooked… wow. Then mixed it up with a deliciously fresh salad, followed by the Lamb Shank Baba Ganoush and Clams. Hands down some of the most amazing dishes we’ve ever had. Every bite had you coming back for more. Flavors were truly insane!! Given how incredible everything else was, we couldn’t say no to dessert which was still very good. Cocktails and the tea were amazing.
The service was another standout. Super kind, attentive and incredibly knowledgeable.
We will ABSOLUTELY be coming back.
… moreWe were looking for a good new dinner spot and this popped up on Eater as the “new kid on the block” and from the same chef who created Gado Gado and Oma’s Hideaway. That being said we had to try it out!
Located on MLK, there’s no shortage of options to choose from, but Alma stands above the rest.
We were warmly greeted and sat. The interior is beautifully decorated with warm colors and huge windows. Like the chef’s other concepts, it is best to order a number of different plates and share. Hard to choose from because everything looks so delicious.
We started with the Chicken Wings. Amazingly crispy with delicious sauce. Went onto the Lamb Kabop. I dont think I’ve had lamb that perfectly cooked… wow. Then mixed it up with a deliciously fresh salad, followed by the Lamb Shank Baba Ganoush and Clams. Hands down some of the most amazing dishes we’ve ever had. Every bite had you coming back for more. Flavors were truly insane!! Given how incredible everything else was, we couldn’t say no to dessert which was still very good. Cocktails and the tea were amazing.
The service was another standout. Super kind, attentive and incredibly knowledgeable.
We will ABSOLUTELY be coming back.
Severiana Perches
We had an amazing experience at Alma from start to finish. We arrived a little early for our 7:15 reservation and were seated immediately, which was a great first impression. The atmosphere is warm, cozy, and very welcoming, setting the tone for a relaxed and enjoyable evening. They even begin the experience with Turkish tea, which was a lovely and thoughtful touch.
The staff was genuinely friendly, attentive, and made us feel welcome without being overbearing. Service was prompt and well-paced throughout the evening, and every dish we tried was absolutely delicious.
We opted for the Chef’s Tasting Menu, which consisted of seven courses with generous portions. Each dish was beautifully presented and full of flavor, showcasing a lot of creativity. The cocktails were also outstanding, well-balanced and thoughtfully crafted.
We had just gotten engaged earlier in the day, so celebrating such a meaningful moment here made the experience even more special. Overall, a fantastic dining experience. We would absolutely eat here again and highly recommend it to anyone looking for an exceptional meal in Portland.
… moreThe staff was genuinely friendly, attentive, and made us feel welcome without being overbearing. Service was prompt and well-paced throughout the evening, and every dish we tried was absolutely delicious.
We opted for the Chef’s Tasting Menu, which consisted of seven courses with generous portions. Each dish was beautifully presented and full of flavor, showcasing a lot of creativity. The cocktails were also outstanding, well-balanced and thoughtfully crafted.
We had just gotten engaged earlier in the day, so celebrating such a meaningful moment here made the experience even more special. Overall, a fantastic dining experience. We would absolutely eat here again and highly recommend it to anyone looking for an exceptional meal in Portland.
Pamela Feidelson
Alma was fantastic! It was our first visit there, as we wanted to try something new for our anniversary. We love exploring different ethnic cuisines, and Alma delivered an authentic southeastern European experience with a plethora of incredible flavors. From the cheeses to the smashed fried potatoes, and the Kanpachi Crudo to the Manilla clams, every dish was a delicious explosion of tastes. The service was excellent, and the ambiance was warm and inviting. We will definitely be returning!
… moreTravelgirly89
Everyone at my table absolutely loved the food. I had the dip trio, the southern picnic cocktail, and octopus. Cocktails are on point. Some of the best octopus I’ve ever had. The dessert was just okay. It was the only dish we were slightly disappointed with. I will be back for sure! Top spot in PDX.
… moreTanya Kani
We came here for a date night very last minute and we were blown away by the atmosphere the service and the food!
We got seated and were served black tea, which instantly took me back to memories of Eastern Europe.
We started off with a very yummy soup (tomato cobra) which was similar to a tomato bisque, but at the same time completely different! We had a side of lavash bread with some kind of creamy cheese, which was also delicious. We use that lavash bread to pretty much wipe off every dish that we ordered because it was just THAT good ! So make sure you get a side of that for your meal!
We also had the braised lamb which just melted in your mouth. The eggplant dish was soft and the herb mixture on top with mushrooms was amazing. The octopus dish was refreshing and savory. Perfectly cooked. We ended with the squid salata which was equally excellent!
All the dishes had Mediterranean, yet middle eastern with a slavic flare (hints of dill and leek) with a blend of PNW flavor! It was all so well cooked and balanced and SO flavorful!
We tried both desserts, the sherbet was intriguing almost more savory than sweet yet you couldn’t stop eating it. The mint and strawberry balance it out well. The lemon cake was fluffy and light. Both accompanied by chilled briar rose tea (haven’t had it in years! Used to drink it as a kid.)
To finish off dinner we got served little soft powdered Turkish delights. All the plating was beautiful! Noise level was okay and we loved the music.
Very satisfied and compliments on the chef on all! Will be coming back and wishing this restaurant great success!
… moreWe got seated and were served black tea, which instantly took me back to memories of Eastern Europe.
We started off with a very yummy soup (tomato cobra) which was similar to a tomato bisque, but at the same time completely different! We had a side of lavash bread with some kind of creamy cheese, which was also delicious. We use that lavash bread to pretty much wipe off every dish that we ordered because it was just THAT good ! So make sure you get a side of that for your meal!
We also had the braised lamb which just melted in your mouth. The eggplant dish was soft and the herb mixture on top with mushrooms was amazing. The octopus dish was refreshing and savory. Perfectly cooked. We ended with the squid salata which was equally excellent!
All the dishes had Mediterranean, yet middle eastern with a slavic flare (hints of dill and leek) with a blend of PNW flavor! It was all so well cooked and balanced and SO flavorful!
We tried both desserts, the sherbet was intriguing almost more savory than sweet yet you couldn’t stop eating it. The mint and strawberry balance it out well. The lemon cake was fluffy and light. Both accompanied by chilled briar rose tea (haven’t had it in years! Used to drink it as a kid.)
To finish off dinner we got served little soft powdered Turkish delights. All the plating was beautiful! Noise level was okay and we loved the music.
Very satisfied and compliments on the chef on all! Will be coming back and wishing this restaurant great success!
Andrew Balko
The only thing that could possibly outshine the service at Alma is the amazing cuisine. Every dish was eaten in its entirety – each savored for its contemporaneous simplicity and complexity. The balance of salt, fats, and acids in each dish elevated the regional fare.
I strongly recommend Alma to those of you looking to sample hearty fare that is complex but simply satisfies.
Also, the desserts are divine.
… moreI strongly recommend Alma to those of you looking to sample hearty fare that is complex but simply satisfies.
Also, the desserts are divine.
aaron e
Under seasoned, small portions…
Did I eat at the same restaurant as everyone else? $30 2oz portions of under seasoned protein with cold flat bread? Laughably small portions need to carry Michelin level flavor to justify their existence. Kanpachi crudo was bland and tiny, lamb kabob was tasty but under seasoned and small, the $28 lamb shank was the size of an appetizer at best. The clam dish was the most flavorful but served with cold pita bread. Alma will not last too long with this pricing. Vibey but disappointing at best
… moreDid I eat at the same restaurant as everyone else? $30 2oz portions of under seasoned protein with cold flat bread? Laughably small portions need to carry Michelin level flavor to justify their existence. Kanpachi crudo was bland and tiny, lamb kabob was tasty but under seasoned and small, the $28 lamb shank was the size of an appetizer at best. The clam dish was the most flavorful but served with cold pita bread. Alma will not last too long with this pricing. Vibey but disappointing at best
Sandra Hunter
Cozy small-plates restaurant with lovely and attentive staff who check on you but not when you have just taken the first spoonful of delicous lentils. I would come back here in a heartbeat for said lentils, the Imam Bayildi, and Kanpachi Crudo. As others have said, the cocktails are also outstanding. I had a very delicious glass of bubbly.
Also – I very much appreciated the ambience. So often I’ve found myself having to compete against the music but Alma’s knows to keep the volume down so you can enjoy your dinner conversation. I’ll definitely be back.
… moreAlso – I very much appreciated the ambience. So often I’ve found myself having to compete against the music but Alma’s knows to keep the volume down so you can enjoy your dinner conversation. I’ll definitely be back.