Duck House Chinese Restaurant

Welcome to Duck House Chinese Restaurant, located at 1968 SW 5th Ave in Portland, Oregon. As a Chinese restaurant in a bustling culinary scene, Duck House offers a diverse menu that aims to cater to a variety of tastes, featuring both familiar Americanized Chinese dishes and more distinctive options. Situated in a convenient location, it has attracted both local diners and those looking for a meal before or after events at nearby venues.

Based on recent customer feedback, the environment and service at Duck House appear to have areas for potential improvement. One reviewer expressed disappointment with the cleanliness of the women's restroom, noting issues such as overflowing garbage and a lack of toilet paper. This aspect of the dining experience is crucial for overall customer satisfaction and suggests a need for more diligent attention to hygiene. The same reviewer also mentioned instances of staff appearing more engaged in conversations among themselves near the bar rather than actively checking on diners or attending to the absent hostess podium. Furthermore, a language barrier with some floor staff was cited as a source of frustration. While the reviewer did appreciate the mask-wearing and quick service, these positive aspects were overshadowed by concerns regarding cleanliness and attentiveness.

In terms of culinary offerings, Duck House presents a mixed bag of experiences, according to recent reviews. The Salt & Pepper prawns (without shell), which were reportedly excellent on a previous visit, were described as excessively salty and inedible on a subsequent occasion. This inconsistency in food preparation can be a significant concern for diners who expect a reliable level of quality. On a more positive note, the combination fried rice was praised for its 'Wok hei' (the slightly charred flavor imparted by a hot wok), a nice sheen, and a good amount of ingredients, although it was noted as being short on shrimp. The sesame chicken also received positive feedback for its perfect fry and delicious taste, indicating that some classic dishes are executed well.

One of the standout dishes highlighted in the reviews is the shrimp dry pot. This dish was described as "absolutely fantastic" and a departure from the usual Americanized Chinese fare. The reviewer expressed eagerness to try it again with a different protein, suggesting it is a unique and flavorful offering that distinguishes Duck House. While rated as very spicy, the reviewer, who enjoys spicy food, found it not overly hot, with the heat primarily coming from the generous use of whole Chinese peppercorns, which provided a pleasant tongue-numbing sensation. The shrimp in the dry pot were noted for their freshness and crispy texture due to being stir-fried dry with minimal coating. The only minor criticism was the abundance of green bell peppers, which were easily picked out. This dish appears to be a significant feature of Duck House, offering a more authentic and exciting culinary experience.

The beverage menu also includes options like the ginger lemon drop cocktail, which was positively reviewed as being well-made, flavorful, and not light on alcohol. This suggests that Duck House also pays attention to its drink offerings, providing options that complement the food.

In contrast, the mandarin crispy chicken was described as decent but not particularly memorable, fitting the profile of a typical Americanized Chinese dish that is sweet and heavily sauced. While the reviewer acknowledged that many people enjoy this style, it was not their personal preference. However, they did note that it was executed well, indicating a level of competence in preparing these more common dishes.

Based on the provided reviews, there is no specific information regarding current promotional offers or discounts at Duck House Chinese Restaurant. For local users interested in potential specials or new menu items, it would be advisable to contact the restaurant directly at (971) 801-8888 or +1 971-801-8888. Visiting their location at 1968 SW 5th Ave, Portland, OR 97201, USA, may also provide insights into any in-house promotions or seasonal offerings.

In conclusion, Duck House Chinese Restaurant in Portland offers a mix of culinary experiences. While some classic Americanized Chinese dishes like the sesame chicken are well-received, and the ginger lemon drop cocktail is a highlight, there are also unique and highly praised options such as the shrimp dry pot. However, recent feedback indicates potential areas for improvement in terms of restroom cleanliness and consistency in food preparation, particularly with dishes like the Salt & Pepper prawns. The service also appears to have inconsistencies, with some communication challenges reported. For local users considering dining at Duck House, it may be beneficial to weigh the positive reviews of specific dishes like the dry pot against the reported issues with cleanliness and service variability. Exploring the menu for unique offerings and perhaps inquiring about recent improvements in service and hygiene might help in making an informed decision. As with any dining establishment, experiences can vary, and further investigation or feedback from other recent patrons could provide a more comprehensive picture.