Judith Rich, Author at Bridgetown Bites

May 7, 2026May 7, 2026

A Delicious Deep Dive Into FIKA Desserts in Portland

Joe Futschik, owner and operator of FIKA in SE Portland. — Joe Futschik, founder and creator of FIKA making his chorizo potato cheddar empanadas

At Bridgetown Bites, we’ve long been fans of FIKA desserts, a sweet (literally and figuratively) cottage bakery tucked into the heart of inner SE Portland. Founder and creator Joe Futschik is the talent behind an impressive lineup of treats—from yeasted pastries and scones, to empanadas, cream buns, cakes, tarts, cookies, and an array of handmade truffles. One scroll through his menu gallery and you’ll find yourself fully tempted. Joe’s creations are perfect for celebrations, gatherings, or simply treating yourself!

We recently had the chance to visit Joe in his charming home bakery, where we got to see his craft and creativity on full display. It was also great to sit down with Joe for a more detailed chat about his growing business. Read on for a delicious deep dive into FIKA.

April 29, 2026May 5, 2026

Mother’s Day 2026 in Portland: Brunch, High Tea, and More

Mother's Day 2026: celebrate with your kiddos!

While Mother’s Day, which falls on Sunday, May 10, may technically be a Hallmark holiday, it’s still one of my favorite ways to spend time with my family in Portland. The city’s restaurants and local businesses make it easy to mark the occasion, whether you’re going all out or keeping things low-key. No matter how the mom or caregiver in your life likes to be celebrated, Portland always keeps it real, and there’s something for everyone. Here’s a list of specific recommendations of where to celebrate Mother’s Day 2026 in Portland.

April 7, 2026April 7, 2026

Behind the Bun: An Insider Look at Bun Bandits in Portland

It’s been a month since the Bun Bandits debuted their tasty treats in SW Portland’s Multnomah Village. Founded by Sarah Lyman and Mackenzie Pentico, who first met while working at Dutch Bros, this handmade kolache and malasadas cart has quickly taken Portland by storm. Their sweet and savory buns regularly sell out within hours, prompting the duo to scale operations and adapt to growing demand quickly.

March 25, 2026March 26, 2026

Passover 2026 in Portland: Eats, Treats, and Celebrations

Matzo layer cake for Passover 2026. — Homemade matzo layer cake.

Passover 2026 begins on the evening of Wednesday, April 1 and runs through Thursday, April 9. This Jewish high holiday of liberation is traditionally celebrated with a Seder, a ritual meal held on the first two nights of Passover, where family and friends gather to retell the story of the Exodus. Some of the foods you can expect to see at a Seder include matzo (a flat dry unleavened cracker), bitter herbs, charoset (a paste of nuts, apples, and wine), and four cups of wine.

March 23, 2026March 22, 2026

Pinolo Gelato Drops “Melody” for Gelato Day in Portland

Melody, the gelato flavor for Gelato Day in Portland. — Melody, gelato flavor of the year, for Gelato Day at Pinolo Gelato. Photo credit: Pinolo Gelato.

On Tuesday, March 24, European nations celebrate Gelato Day—short for European Artisanal Gelato Day—honoring the excellence of artisanal gelato. Each year, the occasion is marked with a special gelato flavor—and this year it comes with a melodic twist! Additionally, it should come as no surprise that Pinolo Gelato, home to authentic Tuscan gelato, is celebrating Gelato Day in Portland, too.