The Red Gate Has Closed in Portland

The Red Gate in Portland, Oregon. — *The Red Gate was located in what resembles an old Portland Foursquare house. The previous tenant was a hair salon.*

For a number of months, neighbors have wondered what is up with The Red Gate, a much-beloved cafe/teahouse on NE Fremont in the Roseway neighborhood that has been closed for some time. Starting in September 2018, they served up espresso drinks, bubble tea, jianbings, and avocado toast, among other things; it was an interesting mix in a nice space. A reliable source has informed me, unfortunately, that they are truly and officially closed and will not be returning.

Why Did Red Gate Close?

The reason why they have closed is not totally clear, but I would not be surprised that the pandemic had something to do with it. They were open and active in 2018 and 2019—then the pandemic hit and that stifled business all around Portland. They reopened in summer 2020, and were operational through that fall for takeout.

In spring 2021, they posted on their website, “We missed you and so appreciate your support! It’s been a continuous struggle, but we’re dusting ourselves off and trying again 😉 Back open and hoping to see your lovely (masked) faces soon!” Then in the summer, the doors closed.

A Loss for Roseway

I really enjoyed stopping in and having a coffee and a snack, meeting up with friends, and having an overall good time. The staff was a big part of that, always so nice and helpful. During better times, they were included along with some other great Portland cafes in this Willamette Week article in 2019. I’ll really miss them, and wish them best in whatever is next for them.

But, there’s good news on the horizon: despite the exit of The Red Gate, a tasty new spot is going to open up in this location. Stay tuned for more details on that in a future post.

So long, Red Gate—thanks for all you did for coffee culture in east central Northeast Portland.

The Red Gate [closed early 2021]
7434 NE Fremont Street, Portland
(the-red-gate-coffee-shop.business.site: accessed February 14, 2022; site status inactive)

Updated April 21. 2025.