Sunbela

Sunbela, nestled on the busy thoroughfare of SE Division Street in Portland, Oregon, is a culinary destination that flawlessly combines the artistry of a traditional Middle Eastern bakery with the heartiness of a full-service restaurant. This establishment is much more than a simple eatery; it is a beloved spot for local Oregonians seeking authentic, high-quality Iraqi and Oriental sweets and savory dishes. With a heritage in crafting exquisite desserts since 1968, Sunbela has built a reputation on using quality ingredients, including a signature 'better ghee,' to create luxurious treats.

The experience here is often described by customers as one of warmth and 'coming home,' a testament to the authentic flavors and genuine hospitality. While many Portland locals are familiar with the area's diverse food scene, Sunbela stands out for its specialties: Baklava that is praised as the best in the city, intensely smoky Chicken Over Rice, and succulent kebabs. The dual identity as both a master bakery and a flavorful Middle Eastern kitchen ensures that every visit is complete, whether you're grabbing a quick, savory shawarma sandwich or indulging in a box of delicately prepared, low-sugar sweets. Sunbela provides a comforting, flavorful, and memorable dining experience right here in East Portland.

Sunbela is conveniently situated in a commercial area of East Portland, making it easily accessible for a quick visit or planned meal.

12503 SE Division St D, Portland, OR 97236, USA

The location offers several features that prioritize customer ease and access:

• Parking Options: Shoppers benefit from numerous choices, including a Free parking lot, a Free parking garage, and Free street parking, making it straightforward to find a spot for a quick stop. Paid parking garage options are also available nearby.
• Physical Accessibility: The premises are designed to be inclusive, featuring a Wheelchair accessible entrance, a Wheelchair accessible parking lot, and a Wheelchair accessible restroom.
• Payment Methods: The business accepts modern, convenient forms of payment, including Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.
• Service Availability: Sunbela offers flexibility with Delivery, In-store pickup, Takeout, and Onsite services for enjoying a meal or coffee in their comfortable space.

As a combined Bakery and Restaurant, Sunbela offers a vast menu that covers both celebratory sweets and hearty meals.

• Traditional Oriental Sweets (Bakery Focus): Specializing in classic Middle Eastern sweets, including several variations of Baklava (Pistachios Baklava, Turkish Baklava, Sliced ​​Baklava With Pistachio), Znood Elset (crispy phyllo rolls), Maamol With Dates (semolina cookies), and Tatli.
• Savory Meals: Full plates served over rice, such as Chicken Over Rice With Soup And Pepsi, Lamb Shank Over Rice With Soup And Pepsi, and Whole Chicken Over Rice With Soup And Pepsi, making for a complete and satisfying meal.
• Kebob and Grilled Meats: A variety of freshly grilled meat options, including Beef Kebab, Lamb Kebab Pieces, Chicken Pieces BBQ, and various Mix Kebab Over Rice options.
• Shawarma and Sandwiches: Quick-service items like Chicken Shawarma Sandwich and Beef Shawerma Saj, often served on their fresh, house-made Iraqi Samoon bread.
• Appetizers and Sides: Traditional Middle Eastern staples like creamy Hummus, refreshing Tzatziki, and unique items like Sweet Salad are available.
• Beverages and Coffee: They offer Coffee and are a great spot for a simple beverage and sweet pastry break.

Sunbela is distinguished by its commitment to authenticity, quality ingredients, and customer experience.

• Best Baklava in Portland: The baklava is a key highlight, consistently praised for its flaky, crispy texture, generous nut filling (especially the pistachio), and perfect level of sweetness—often noted for having less sugar than comparable treats.
• Exceptional Savory Flavor: Customers rave about the smoky and tender meat dishes, particularly the Chicken Tikka (referred to as a star by one reviewer) and the well-seasoned Beef Kebab, alongside traditional, comforting sides like okra and white beans.
• Focus on Freshness: The restaurant emphasizes fresh preparation, including having their bread, such as the Iraqi Samoon, freshly made on-site, a detail that greatly enhances the dining experience.
• Personalized Hospitality: The staff, including the baker, is noted for a welcoming, friendly demeanor, offering free samples and pointing out low-sugar options for customers with dietary concerns.
• Nostalgic and Authentic: For those familiar with Iraqi or broader Middle Eastern cuisine, the food is noted for tasting "exactly like home," providing an authentic and deeply nostalgic culinary experience that is hard to find elsewhere in Portland.
• Quick Visit Amenity: The restaurant is suitable for a Quick visit, making it ideal for a fast lunch or a brief coffee and dessert break.

For placing orders, confirming their daily menu specials, or inquiring about catering for a large group in the Portland area, customers can reach Sunbela using the following contact details.

Address: 12503 SE Division St D, Portland, OR 97236, USA

Primary Phone: (503) 839-7779

For Oregonians, what is most worth choosing about Sunbela is the Perfect Harmony of Authentic Nostalgia and Gourmet Quality.

Sunbela offers a rare, two-fold value proposition: it is both an authentic, warm restaurant for a fulfilling savory meal and a high-end bakery for refined, traditional sweets. You get the best of both worlds—the best chicken or beef kebab and the best baklava—all in one location. Choosing Sunbela means selecting an establishment committed to genuine, home-style flavor (which customers describe as bringing them "back home") while also prioritizing modern needs, like low-sugar options and excellent customer service. Whether you are looking for a quick, flavorful lunch like the Shawerma Saj, or need an impressive box of authentic sweets for a Portland gathering, Sunbela on SE Division Street offers an unforgettable, deeply satisfying, and authentically Middle Eastern experience.