Top 5 Posts on Bridgetown Bites, September 2024

Welcome to our (mostly) monthly roundup of top 5 posts on Bridgetown Bites. September’s top articles were an interesting mix of stories last month, and writing them involved my implementing both seasoned and new communications strategies. I’m grateful to those who shared information with me so readily.

September 2024 was the most successful month on Bridgetown Bites to date, from a traffic standpoint. Close to 22,000 unique visitors generated over 27,000 page views. Thanks to all of you for reading, sharing, and commenting—and extra thanks to my tipsters, who have quite the eagle-eyes in this town.

5. The Wooden Chicken Pub Returns

As we reported in June, Argay favorite the Wooden Chicken Pub closed after over 40 years in business. But recent paperwork filed with the City of Portland gives indication that this popular watering hole could come back from the dead. In answer to that speculation, I heard confirmation on August 1 that this is indeed true—The Wooden Chicken is returning! Note: This article has major updates.

4. Jacqueline Is Moving Just Up the Street

Back in May, a Bridgetown Bites tipster emailed me with the news: “Jacqueline will be moving into the former La Moule/Bakers place at 25th and Clinton.” I wrote a little blurb at the time, and I’m happy to say that the tip has been further confirmed—first with a liquor license application from mid-August, and then with an article in The Oregonian this week (and the accompanying Instagram post).

3. Jim & Patty’s Coffee Is at Risk of Closing

A Pig Newton from Jim & Patty's in Portland, Oregon.

Earlier this week I became aware of the plight of Jim & Patty’s Coffee: Their financial situation is exerting major pressure on their ability to survive. So, they started a fundraiser—and they need your help.

2. 1927 S’mores Company Abruptly Closes

S'mores from 1927 S'mores Company in Portland, Oregon.

While I was away this past weekend (traveling home from being out of the country where I enjoyed the glory of homemade butter tarts and Old Dutch Ketchup chips), I received more than one email from readers about the closing of the 1927 S’mores Company. The general feeling among the Portland public on this seems to range from astonished to curious to freaking out. Here’s what we know.

1. Brooklyn Carreta, a New Food Cart Pod, Will Open SE Portland

An aerial view of the construction of Brooklyn Carreta, a new food cart opening in the Brooklyn. neighborhood in SE Portland, Oregon.

Back in August 2022, I reported on a food cart pod that was in development on the former site of the La Carreta Mexican Restaurant. Turns out, it’s happening! They have named it Brooklyn Caretta and the plan is to open the pod in the first quarter of 2025.