When asking yourself about something to do near me in Boulder with a group of friends or family, consider
Five Spice
Why Five Spice is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Five Spice Seafood + Wine Bar, located in Lake Oswego, Oregon, is renowned for its exceptional Pacific Rim-inspired cuisine that highlights fresh, local ingredients. With a focus on seafood, the restaurant crafts dishes bursting with vibrant flavors, textures, and the subtle complexity of its namesake five-spice blend, which traditionally includes fennel seed, cinnamon, cloves, star anise, and peppercorns. The venue offers a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere ideal for gathering with friends, whether for a casual lunch during the local farmers market or an elegant dinner by the lake. Its thoughtfully curated Northwest-centric wine list perfectly complements the menu, making patio dining a sublime experience especially in good weather. Executive Chef Bryce Hirayama leads the culinary team with a commitment to quality and creativity, ensuring every dish delights diners. The blend of lively service, fresh ingredients, and picturesque setting makes Five Spice a standout destination for memorable social dining in the Portland area.
Here's what people think of Five Spice
As of recent, Five Spice holds a 4.3-star rating based on 525 reviews.
Customer reviews for Five Spice Seafood + Wine Bar consistently praise the restaurant for its vibrant flavors and high-quality ingredients, particularly highlighting seafood dishes such as the seafood stew and giant scallops. Many appreciate the attentive yet unobtrusive service and the enjoyable ambiance, making it a favored spot for both special occasions and casual visits. Positive reviews emphasize the balance and mastery of spices, noting that the dishes provide a unique and satisfying culinary experience. Guests often mention the restaurant’s ability to accommodate both busy dinner crowds and more relaxed daytime meals during market events. On the other hand, a few guests express a minor inconvenience related to the restaurant’s popularity, such as needing to make reservations well in advance or feeling limited by travel distance if they live outside the area. Overall, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with guests returning repeatedly for the consistent quality and delightful atmosphere. Five Spice is notably remembered as a perfect setting for romantic dinners and celebrations, underscoring its appeal as a cherished local favorite in Lake Oswego.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Suphawit Duangphumek
We got spicy chicken, sizzling steak, egg drop soup and green beans. Everything is very delicious. They gave us a lot of food that we had to order extra rice. Five stars!!!!
Sabrina Shao
First time here but the foods are great! We like double peppers with pork intestine, king bao chicken so much!
Elyn Luo
The best Chinese food in Boulder! Very authentic taste and reasonable price. Environment is good and service also welcoming. Highly recommended!
Mengjie Zheng
If you’re looking for an authentic Chinese dining experience in Boulder, this place is a hidden gem! I’ve had the pleasure of trying several dishes here, but my favorites are definitely the Steamed Whole Fish, the Beef Brisket & Tendon Hotpot, and Spicy Chicken (bone). The service is also worth mentioning—it’s always warm and attentive. The staff makes you feel welcome and is more than happy to offer recommendations or customize your order to suit your preferences. It’s clear they genuinely care about providing a great dining experience. Overall, this restaurant has become my go-to spot for high-quality Chinese food in Boulder. If you’re in the area and crave something authentic, don’t miss out on this place!
Cal L
We absolutely love dining here! Mos of their dishes are great, but we loves especially can't get enough of the Mapo Tofu and Combination Noodle Soup! On top of that, the staff is incredibly friendly, always ready to help with recommendations. Highly recommend!
How to reach Five Spice
None
Website: None
Why rally at Five Spice with your friends?
Gathering your friends or family at Five Spice presents an ideal setting to enjoy both great company and exceptional cuisine. With a solid rating of 4.3 backed by over 525 reviews, Five Spice strikes a balance between quality food, a welcoming atmosphere, and reasonable prices. It’s a place where you can share vibrant, Asian-inspired dishes that appeal to a diverse palate, encouraging lively conversation and an engaging group experience. The restaurant’s ambiance is clean, well-lit, and comfortable, suitable for casual meetups as well as more meaningful celebrations. Whether you’re craving the rich, authentic flavors of Vietnamese pho or the delicate intricacies of sushi, Five Spice offers a culinary journey that invites you to savor each bite alongside good people. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a shared experience that fosters connection through delicious food and a cozy environment. Plus, its friendly staff and relatively quick service help keep the gathering relaxed and enjoyable without long waits disrupting your time together.
What activities can you do at Five Spice that make it perfect for group meetups?
Five Spice caters primarily to food lovers, making dining the centerpiece of any meetup here. The restaurant’s menu features an enticing variety of Vietnamese pho, sushi, and other Asian fusion dishes, offering plenty of options for groups with varied tastes. Sharing food in a group setting is encouraged; selecting several appetizers and entrees to sample family-style creates an interactive meal where everyone is involved in the dining experience. The spacious seating and clean atmosphere provide a comfortable communal dining area, perfect for chatting and enjoying each other’s company while you sample the different dishes. The staff’s friendly and attentive service ensures that even larger parties feel well taken care of, enhancing the social vibe. Although there is no public WiFi, which encourages guests to engage fully with one another, the restaurant's ambiance naturally promotes interaction and connection. For groups interested in a quieter, more intimate dining experience, Five Spice’s lighting and decor contribute to a warm and inviting environment.
How does Five Spice’s menu enhance the group dining experience?
The menu at Five Spice is crafted to deliver authentic and varied Asian flavors that excite the palate and encourage sharing. Their pho, described by many as some of the best around, offers a rich and savory broth with perfectly cooked brisket, ideal for warming up and satisfying a group craving comfort food. Sushi lovers will find an array of fresh selections to enjoy—perfect for sharing sushi rolls and nigiri that cater to different preferences within your party. Additional dishes like spring rolls, vermicelli, and banh mi provide layers of textures and tastes that invite conversation about the ingredients and culinary style. The broad range of options ensures that everyone at the table, from adventurous eaters to those preferring classic flavors, can find something delightful. By ordering multiple dishes to share, your group can taste a variety of authentic meals, turning lunch or dinner into a culinary exploration that strengthens friendships or family bonds.
What makes the atmosphere at Five Spice conducive to socializing and enjoying group events?
The atmosphere at Five Spice supports social gatherings through its design and service. The restaurant is noted for being clean and well-lit, which creates a welcoming and open environment where people feel comfortable and relaxed. Soft lighting and tasteful decor contribute to a cozy ambiance that’s not too loud or overly formal, striking the perfect balance for conversations to flow easily among friends or family. The seating arrangements accommodate both small and larger groups, with spacious tables that encourage everyone to be part of the discussion without feeling cramped. While the absence of public WiFi might seem like a limitation, it actually encourages guests to be more present and engaged with one another rather than being distracted by devices. Service is generally friendly and efficient, enhancing the overall experience by making guests feel valued and cared for during their visit. This setting helps create lasting memories of shared meals and laughter.
Why is Five Spice a reasonable choice for hosting meetups compared to other venues?
Five Spice distinguishes itself by offering excellent value for the quality and variety of food served. Reviews frequently highlight the reasonable prices relative to the authentic and satisfying dishes provided. This balance of cost and quality makes it accessible for groups who want to enjoy a special outing without overspending. In addition, the reliability of quick and friendly service means less waiting and more time spent enjoying the company and the food. The variety of the menu caters well to diverse groups, ensuring dietary preferences and tastes are met without hassle. While some restaurants may offer more entertainment-focused or noisy environments, Five Spice provides a quieter, more food-centered experience that is ideal for groups looking to genuinely connect over a shared meal. Whether for casual get-togethers, family dinners, or celebrations, Five Spice presents a dependable and enjoyable venue option.
How can Five Spice accommodate larger parties or special group events?
Though primarily a restaurant, Five Spice has the flexibility to handle larger groups, making it a convenient option for special meetups. The spacious layout and thoughtful seating arrangements allow groups to sit together comfortably, encouraging collective dining and easy communication. The staff’s attentiveness to group needs means that orders are managed efficiently, and any special requests can be accommodated to ensure everyone’s satisfaction. It's a place where you can plan birthday dinners, reunions, or casual celebrations without the stress of overcrowding or poor service. While it may not host large-scale events with music or entertainment, its focus on food quality and service ensures your gatherings center on meaningful interaction and good eating. For groups that value a great meal and quality time over elaborate event settings, Five Spice offers a practical and delightful solution.
What kind of social experience can you expect at Five Spice?
Dining at Five Spice is as much a social occasion as it is a culinary one. The inviting setting encourages patrons to engage deeply with their companions, sharing stories, laughter, and opinions about the food and flavors. The diversity of the menu naturally sparks discussion around dish preferences and recommendations among friends, making the meal interactive and inclusive. You can expect a relaxed pace where conversation is prioritized, helped by the restaurant’s ambiance that steers guests away from distractions like technology. The friendly, attentive staff contribute by creating a welcoming vibe that fosters comfort and hospitality. Overall, your time at Five Spice will feel like an event designed to nurture camaraderie through the shared enjoyment of expertly prepared food in a supportive social environment.
How does Five Spice compare with similar Asian fusion or Vietnamese restaurants for group outings?
Compared to other Asian fusion or Vietnamese restaurants, Five Spice stands out by balancing authentic dishes with approachable pricing and a pleasant atmosphere suited for groups. While some places may focus on either casual fast dining or upscale experiences, Five Spice fits neatly in the middle, offering quality pho, sushi, and other favorites that appeal broadly. Its strong rating reflects consistent customer satisfaction, especially concerning food taste, which is often the priority for group diners. The variety of dishes on offer provides ample options for mixed groups with varying tastes, which some more specialized restaurants may lack. Additionally, the clean, well-lit environment and attentive staff make the visit comfortable and free from common dining frustrations, enhancing the overall group experience. For groups seeking a reliable venue to enjoy Asian fare in a social setting, Five Spice meets the mark effectively.
What practical tips can help maximize your group experience at Five Spice?
To get the most out of your meetup at Five Spice, consider making a reservation if your group is large, to secure comfortable seating and smooth service. Arriving during off-peak hours can also enhance your experience by avoiding wait times and allowing a more relaxed atmosphere. Sharing multiple dishes family-style encourages trying a variety of flavors and makes the meal more interactive and fun. Since there is no public WiFi, plan ahead to keep phones aside and focus on face-to-face interaction, maximizing the quality of your time together. Finally, communicate any dietary restrictions or special requests to the staff early to ensure everyone’s needs are met without inconvenience. By following these simple tips, your group visit to Five Spice can turn into a memorable event filled with great food and meaningful social connection.