When the Portland drizzle settles in, few comforts beat a steaming bowl from Wei Wei – A Taste Of Taiwan. Tucked into Sellwood, this cozy spot turns gray skies into an excuse to slow down and savor deep, soulful broths and pillowy baos. You feel it right away – the warmth, the yellow chairs, the friendly rhythm of a small, confident kitchen. If you crave Taiwanese comfort made with care, this place makes rainy nights feel downright welcome.
Signature Beef Noodle Soup
On a cold Portland night, this bowl feels like a hug. The broth runs deep and savory, with a gentle star anise whisper and a soy-rich backbone that lingers. Noodles have that just-right chew, the kind you chase with a spoonful of broth and a sigh.
Chunks of braised beef arrive tender and generous, the kind reviewers celebrate for good reason. A scatter of greens and scallions adds brightness, while chili oil invites a controlled burn. You taste patience here, the kind born from hours of simmering.
Add a little vinegar to wake it up, or keep it pure and let the broth do the talking. Either way, it is pure comfort in a bowl. Rain outside, steam on your glasses, all is well.
Gua Bao – Pork Belly Bun
This bun lands soft and cloudlike, then gives way to pork belly that practically melts. Crushed peanuts, a sprinkle of sugar, and fresh cilantro create that classic street-market balance. The bite swings between savory, sweet, and herbal in a way that keeps you chasing the next mouthful.
Reviewers call it a reason to return, and it is easy to see why the baos steal the show. The texture play hits just right – fluffy bun, tender pork, a little crunch. It pairs beautifully with tea or a light soup.
If rain has you craving comfort, order two and thank yourself later. Share one with a friend or keep both, no judgment. It is night-market nostalgia tucked into a palm-sized pillow.
Spicy Wonton Soup
When you want heat that comforts instead of overwhelms, this soup delivers. The chili oil floats like ruby confetti, perfuming a broth that does not forget to be rich. Wontons are plump and delicate, offering a satisfying snap from the filling with each spoonful.
It feels tailored for Portland’s wet evenings – warming, fragrant, and easy to love. A squeeze of vinegar brightens everything and helps the spice sing. You can sip slowly or power through the bowl in blissful silence.
Pair it with a crisp cucumber salad if you want a cool counterpoint. Or double down with scallion pancakes for a crunchy foil. Either way, it is a rainy-night ritual in the making.
Scallion Pancake
This pancake shows up golden and flaky, with layers that separate like pastry. The scallion perfume floats up first, then the crisp edges give way to a tender chew. Dip it or do not – the savory layers already bring plenty of character.
It makes an ideal sidekick to noodle soups, adding a crunchy contrast to rich broths. Reviewers praise the texture and satisfying bite that holds up without getting soggy. You can share, but you might not want to.
Order it early so the table has a constant snack to tear into. A drizzle of soy-chili sauce turns it into a little ritual between slurps. Simple, satisfying, and very on-brand for comfort.
Crab Rangoon
These rangoons hit that craveable sweet-savory spot. The wrappers fry up bubbly and crisp, protecting a creamy center that tastes rich without being heavy. One crackly bite, and you are reaching for the next without thinking.
They make a great contrast to brothy mains, especially when you want a little crunch. Dip into the sweet chili sauce for a bright pop that keeps things lively. Fans call them a favorite, and they vanish fast from the table.
Perfect for sharing, but not mandatory. They hold their texture even after a few minutes, which is nice when conversation flows. Comfort, but with a playful edge that suits a cozy night in Sellwood.
Braised Pork Rice – Lu Rou Fan
Lu rou fan is slow-simmered comfort at its finest. The pork glistens with soy and spice, spooned over rice that soaks up every drop. Pickled greens and a soy egg, if you add one, round it out with bite and richness.
It is the kind of dish that calms a long day and makes the rain sound cozy. Each spoonful balances savory depth with a hint of sweetness. You will find yourself scraping the bowl for the last glossy bits.
Pair it with a bright tea or a side of greens. If you are sharing, expect quiet at the table for a few minutes. This is home-style love, served simply and confidently.
Shrimp Wonton Soup
For a gentler soup, the shrimp wonton is comfort in a lighter key. The broth is clear yet flavorful, the kind that restores without weighing you down. Wontons arrive plump and generously filled, with a clean snap of shrimp in every bite.
It is an easy favorite, especially when you want warmth without spice. A dash of white pepper lifts the aromatics and keeps you reaching for the spoon. Reviewers praise the balance and the generous portions.
Order it solo or as a side to share with a friend. Add scallions and a squeeze of chili oil if you want extra depth. Either way, it turns a gray evening into something gentle and kind.
Popcorn Chicken – Salt and Pepper
These bites come hot and crunchy, with a peppery kick that wakes up the table. The seasoning leans savory and aromatic, helped along by crisp basil leaves. It is easy snacking that pairs well with tea or a cold drink.
Fans call it perfectly tender with just the right crunch, especially with a drizzle of chili oil. The balance holds up even after a few minutes, so it travels well between bites of soup. Rainy night, cozy table, one more piece – you get the idea.
Share a plate before your noodles arrive, or keep it as your main with rice. A squeeze of lemon brightens the flavors nicely. Simple, addictive, and very Taiwanese in spirit.
Pan-Fried Soup Dumplings
These dumplings are a little theater. Crisp bottoms crackle, tops stay pillowy, and the first bite releases a rush of hot broth. Take it slow, because that soup can surprise you in the best way.
The balance of texture is what makes them special – golden crunch below, tender chew above. Dip lightly if you want extra tang, but the filling already carries rich savory depth. People rave about them for good reason.
They make a perfect warm-up for noodles or a standout snack with tea. On a rainy night, the steam curling up from the plate feels extra cozy. Be patient, let them cool a beat, then enjoy the burst.
Sesame Noodles
These noodles lean creamy and nutty, with a savory-sweet sauce that clings just right. A ribbon of chili oil adds warmth without taking over. Fresh cucumber and scallions bring crunch and lift to each bite.
Some palates want a bolder punch, so do not be shy with extra chili or vinegar. Stir thoroughly to coat every strand and keep the texture lively. It is a dish that feels casual yet deeply satisfying.
Pair with popcorn chicken for a playful contrast or add a soy egg for richness. On rainy days, cold sesame can still feel like comfort, especially with hot tea. Easy, slurpable, and friendly to sharing.
Cucumber Salad
When you need freshness to cut through rich broths, this salad shows up big. The cucumbers are crisp and juicy, smashed just enough to catch garlic and sesame. Chili oil gives a light hum that lingers without burning.
It is not the same everywhere, and that is part of the charm. Here, the flavor leans clean and bright, with a gentle sweetness. You will find it resets your palate between sips of soup.
Share it at the start so the table feels balanced. The cool crunch plays nicely with hot dumplings or chicken. A small dish with big impact, especially on a gray Portland afternoon.
Scallion Oil Noodles
There is magic in the simplest things. These noodles shine with fragrant scallion oil and a soy-kissed backbone. The texture stays bouncy, and the fried scallion bits bring savory pops in every twirl.
It is the kind of comfort that sneaks up on you. No heavy sauce, just depth from good oil and care with the wok. A dusting of white pepper lifts the aroma and warms the finish.
Pair with a side of greens or a bowl of broth if you want extra warmth. Add chili crisp if you crave a little kick. Clean, satisfying, and easy to love any night of the week.
Scallion Pancake Beef Roll
Here the pancake does double duty as a wrap, hugging tender beef in flaky layers. Hoisin brings a glossy sweetness that plays well with crisp cucumber and cilantro. Each bite balances chew, crunch, and savory richness.
It is substantial enough to count as a main, especially paired with tea. The roll holds together nicely for sharing, though you will want more than one slice. On a rainy night, this feels like street food with a warm indoor glow.
Ask for a side of chili if you want extra spark. The combination with beef noodle soup is a power move. Comfort, but with a little swagger.
Passion Fruit Tea
Bright and tropical, this tea cuts through the richness of noodles and buns. You get the tart pop of passion fruit with a fragrant tea base that keeps it grounded. It is refreshing, cheerful, and a welcome lift on moody days.
If ice is not your thing, ask for less and enjoy a more concentrated sip. The sweetness stays balanced, so it pairs well with spicy wontons or chicken. It is the kind of drink that makes conversation linger.
Order one to share if you want a palate reset between courses. Or keep it to yourself and savor that sunny finish. Either way, it rounds out a comfort-forward meal.
Cozy Dining Room Vibe
The room is small in the best way, with yellow chairs and an easy hum of conversation. You feel welcomed at the door, then guided to a table that instantly feels like yours. Steam from bowls floats under warm lights while rain taps the windows.
Service runs friendly and efficient, even when the line picks up. Plates land quickly, but there is no rush to leave. It is the kind of place that remembers comfort lives in the details.
Come early on weekends and note that Monday is closed. Prices land in the sweet spot for regular visits. You walk out warmer than you came in, which is the whole point.
Plan Your Visit – Hours, Price, Parking
Wei Wei sits at 7835 SE 13th Ave #102 in Sellwood, easy to reach and easier to love. Hours run 11 AM to 9 PM Tuesday through Sunday, with Mondays closed. Prices hover around 10 to 20 dollars, a solid value for the comfort and care on the plate.
Parking is straightforward in the area, which keeps plans simple. Call +1 503-946-1732 if you want to confirm the day’s flow or ask about wait times. The cozy space fills up fast when the rain turns steady.
Come with an appetite and a friend who will split dumplings and soup. Grab tea, settle in, and let the broths work their calm. You will be planning the next visit before you leave.