Actor Mena Massoud Explores Portland in Peacock Series

When Canadians think of Portland’s food scene, many may recall the delicious plant-based creations featured in the documentary series, Evolving Vegan. The show highlights unique dishes like plant-based rabbit dumplings, comforting bar food, and mouth-watering burgers sprinkled throughout the city. Mena Massoud, the host and producer of Evolving Vegan, describes Portland as one of the best vegan cities in the world, praising its diverse range of flavors and culinary styles.

The first season of Evolving Vegan premiered on Peacock in May, showcasing Portland in its second episode. Massoud visits chefs Jewan Manuel of Plant Based Papi, Cyrus Ichiza of Jade Rabbit, and Thuy Pham of Mama Đút, offering viewers a glimpse into the post-pandemic world of vegan cuisine in the Rose City.

Throughout the episode, Massoud marvels at the vibrant and innovative food scene in Portland, noting the risk-taking and avant-garde approach to cooking that sets the city apart. The episode also highlights Collective Oregon Eateries Bar & Food Carts, featuring establishments like Gnarlys, Broken Rice, and Mama’s Peruvian Bowls.

The chefs featured in Evolving Vegan have undergone significant changes since 2023. Manuel has transitioned from Fortune in downtown Portland to Dame on Northeast Killingsworth Street, while Ichiza has transformed Jade Rabbit into a thriving seven-member collective on Southeast Belmont Street. Pham has shifted gears as well, now working with the nonprofit Growing Gardens and preparing to publish a cookbook in spring 2027.

Ichiza’s journey with Jade Rabbit has been particularly impactful, as he opened a new location in January after parting ways with Aimsir. Despite the challenges, Jade Rabbit has seen unprecedented success this year, with its famous bunny-shaped dumplings drawing in crowds of eager diners.

Massoud’s exploration of Portland also includes visits to iconic spots like OTA Tofu, the country’s oldest tofu company, and foraging trips for mushrooms along the Oregon Coast. He emphasizes the beauty of Portland’s nature, which he believes is an underrated aspect of living in the city.

The episode culminates in a heartwarming gathering of local chefs, where Ichiza prepares a delicious mapo tofu dish. Massoud reflects on the power of food to bring people together, expressing his gratitude for the experience. As the series aims to showcase the chefs’ legacies onscreen, it serves as a tribute to their dedication and creativity in the ever-evolving restaurant industry.

Evolving Vegan offers viewers a taste of the dynamic and thriving vegan food scene in Portland, inviting them to immerse themselves in the culinary delights of the Rose City. Whether you’re a dedicated vegan or simply curious about plant-based cuisine, this series is sure to leave you inspired and appreciative of the innovative chefs shaping Portland’s food culture. So why not stream Evolving Vegan on Peacock and embark on a flavorful journey through Portland’s vegan landscape?