Kung Pow! Opens on NW 21st Tonight; The Bulgogi Korean Grill Debuts on NE Sandy

KUNG POW! — Henry Liu, chef-owner of the popular Shandong restaurant in NE Portland's Hollywood neighborhood, officially opens the doors to his hipper, spicier westside spin-off Kung Pow! tonight. The former Blue Olive restaurant has been transformed, and Liu is unleashing a big lineup of new dishes that make liberal use of chile-spiked heat, including fish balls, lamb bao bing, and wontons in Szechuan chile oil. But he'll also offer favorites from his original NE spot, including hand-cut noodles and shandong beef. Kung Pow! is open for dinner from 5-10 p.m. this week. Next week, Liu plans to add lunch hours every day and late night hours Thursday - Saturday.  Kung Pow: 500 NW 21st Ave., 503-208-2173

The Bulgogi/Facebook

THE BULGOGI — The old Hama Sushi space in the Hollywood District is now home to The Bulgogi. The small, family-owned restaurant opened in early April, serving up Korean barbecue, bibim bap and spicy, kimchi-topped ramen using organic ingredients. The menu also includes vegetarian options like grilled mushroom bulgogi. The Bulgogi: 4232 NE Sandy, 503-327-8607

NEKO ASIAN GRILL — Neko Asian Grill has taken over the old Blue Olive Cafe space on NE Alberta, swapping out humus and falafel for healthful, belly-filling Japanese-Korean rice bowls.

Neko Asian Grill/Facebook

Pick a base of rice or salad, add steamed vegetables and protein (grilled salmon, chicken or tofu), pour the housemade ponzu sauce on top, garnish with kimchi, then dig in. Rounding out the menu are sides like edamame, miso soup, and miso-cucumber salad. Neko Asian Grill: 2712 NE Alberta St., 503-284-7000