Gado Gado

You don't expect much from the wine list at an Indonesian restaurant, and that's exactly why Gado Gado keeps surprising people. The list is short but it reads like someone actually thought about what works with sambal and coconut milk. That someone clearly has opinions — good ones.

The list leans heavily into aromatic whites and lighter reds, which is the right call for a menu built around bold, layered spice. Willamette Valley Pinot Noir shows up alongside Alsatian-influenced whites and a Brooks Riesling from Oregon that might as well have been designed for beef rendang. The Forlorn Hope Albariño is a left-field pick that earns its spot, and the Tablas Creek Esprit de Tablas Blanc brings a Rhône-leaning white that handles rich, herby dishes without flinching. Finger Lakes and Germany round out a regional spread that punches well above its weight for a restaurant that could've just thrown a Chardonnay and a Cab on there and called it done.

Glass pour specifics aren't fully listed, but estimated pours run $10–$16, which is reasonable for Portland right now. The by-the-glass program likely mirrors the bottle list's aromatic-forward philosophy — we'd push hard for whatever Riesling they're pouring. If the Brooks 'Ara' is available by the glass, order it immediately.