Onion lovers and culinary adventurers alike have discovered a haven at the Crying Onion Cafe, where the pungent bulb takes center stage in ways you've never imagined. Forget everything you thought you knew about this kitchen staple—this isn't just another restaurant serving onion rings and French onion soup. The cafe has developed a devoted following by showcasing over 30 onion varieties through creative preparations that highlight their unique flavor profiles, textures, and culinary applications.
Understanding the Crying Onion Concept
When you first hear "Crying Onion Cafe," you might wonder about the name's origin. The cafe's founders drew inspiration from the natural reaction onions provoke—tears from their sulfur compounds—and transformed this everyday kitchen experience into a celebration of flavor. The cafe's philosophy centers on the belief that onions deserve recognition beyond their supporting role in recipes.
Scientifically, the "crying" reaction occurs when cutting onions releases enzymes that create syn-propanethial-S-oxide, a volatile gas that irritates the eyes. Rather than avoiding this characteristic, the cafe embraces it as part of the onion's authentic culinary identity. During peak harvest season, the cafe even hosts "Tear-Jerker Tuesdays" where guests can experience fresh-picked onions at their most potent.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Downtown Portland, Oregon (45.5152° N, 122.6784° W) |
| Hours | Tuesday-Sunday: 11am-8pm (Closed Mondays) |
| Specialty | Onion-focused cuisine with seasonal variations |
| Reservations | Recommended for parties of 4+ (online system available) |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible, onion-scent-free private room available |
What Makes This Cafe Unique
The Crying Onion Cafe distinguishes itself through its dedication to showcasing the incredible diversity within the allium family. While most restaurants use just one or two onion varieties, this establishment features:
- Shallots from Burgundy with their delicate garlic notes
- Cipollini onions caramelized to sweet perfection
- Ramps during their brief spring season
- Red onions from local Oregon farms
- Scallions harvested the same morning
- Unique heirloom varieties like the Ailsa Craig
Each menu item tells a story about the specific onion variety used. The "Allium Journey" tasting menu ($65) takes guests through six courses that demonstrate how preparation methods transform the same onion variety into dramatically different flavor experiences. Their signature dish, the "Tears of Joy" onion tart, has been featured in Food & Wine magazine for its perfect balance of sweet and savory notes.
Planning Your Visit
For first-time visitors, understanding what to expect enhances the experience. The cafe maintains a relaxed, educational atmosphere where staff genuinely enjoy sharing their onion expertise. Don't be surprised if your server can tell you exactly which farm grew the onions in your dish and when they were harvested.
Practical considerations for your visit:
- Best time to visit: Weekday afternoons offer a quieter experience for those sensitive to strong aromas
- Dress code: Casual; many regulars wear the cafe's onion-themed t-shirts
- Allergy note: While they accommodate other food allergies, the onion-focused nature means cross-contamination is unavoidable
- Must-try items: Onion blossom appetizer, roasted onion dip with house-made chips, and the caramelized onion chocolate dessert
Onion Varieties Comparison
Understanding the differences between onion varieties helps appreciate the cafe's culinary approach. This comparison highlights key characteristics that influence menu development:
| Onion Type | Flavor Profile | Best Culinary Use | Seasonality |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yellow Onions | Strong, pungent when raw; sweet when cooked | Caramelizing, soups, stews | Year-round (peak summer) |
| Red Onions | Sharp, slightly sweet, vibrant color | Salads, pickling, garnishes | Spring through fall |
| White Onions | Crisp, clean flavor, less sweetness | Salsas, Mexican cuisine | Summer through winter |
| Shallots | Delicate, subtle garlic notes | Vinaigrettes, sauces, fine dining | Fall through spring |
| Green Onions | Mild, fresh, grassy notes | Garnishes, stir-fries, raw applications | Year-round |
Historical Context of Onions in Cuisine
The cafe's educational approach connects modern diners with the rich history of onions in global cuisine. Archaeological evidence from the British Museum shows onions were cultivated in ancient Egypt as early as 3200 BCE, where they symbolized eternity due to their concentric layers. Ancient Greek athletes consumed them for strength, while Roman soldiers believed they provided courage.
Throughout history, onions have served practical purposes beyond flavor:
- Medieval European monasteries grew onions as both food and medicine
- Pioneers in North America relied on wild onions as a vital food source
- During World War II, the USDA promoted "victory gardens" featuring onions for their nutritional value
The cafe's "Onion Through Time" exhibit, developed in consultation with food historians from the Oxford Research Encyclopedia of Food Science, showcases this journey from ancient staple to gourmet ingredient.
Practical Considerations for Visitors
While the Crying Onion Cafe offers a unique culinary adventure, certain considerations help ensure an enjoyable experience:
- Sensitivity to strong aromas: The cafe provides complimentary nose plugs and maintains excellent ventilation, but those with extreme sensitivities may prefer outdoor seating
- Photography policy: The vibrant onion displays make for great photos, but flash photography isn't permitted during dinner service
- Group visits: Parties of six or more should inquire about the "Allium Experience" group menu options
- Seasonal variations: Menu changes quarterly based on onion harvest cycles—spring features young onions, while fall highlights storage varieties
For those unable to visit in person, the cafe offers virtual tasting experiences and an extensive online resource library about onion cultivation and preparation techniques. Their "Onion 101" video series has become a valuable resource for culinary students and home cooks alike.
Understanding the Limitations
While the Crying Onion Cafe provides a remarkable culinary experience, it's important to recognize situations where it might not meet everyone's needs:
- Dietary restrictions: Those following strict low-FODMAP diets may find limited options
- Budget considerations: Specialty onion dishes command premium pricing reflecting their labor-intensive preparation
- Culinary preferences: Guests seeking traditional restaurant experiences may find the onion focus too specialized
- Sensory sensitivities: The distinctive aroma permeates the space, which some visitors find overwhelming
The cafe staff excels at working with guests to accommodate reasonable requests while maintaining their culinary vision. As noted in a 2023 Oregon Live feature, "The Crying Onion Cafe doesn't just serve food—it creates edible experiences that challenge preconceptions about one of cooking's most fundamental ingredients."
浙公网安备
33010002000092号
浙B2-20120091-4