Judith Rich, Author at Bridgetown Bites

March 12, 2026March 12, 2026

First Look: Honorable Mention Lounge Opens at The Benson Hotel in Portland

Espresso Martini at Honorable Mention. — Honorable Mention’s Sucker Punch Cocktail

It’s official! Portland has its own version of the 40/40 Club with the newly opened Honorable Mention—at least according to this New York expat. Honorable Mention, Portland’s new sports lounge, which is co-owned by Portland Trail Blazers’ point guard Damian Lillard, opened earlier this month inside The Benson Hotel. The space blends a sultry, luxe vibe with a cozy, welcoming feel that’s perfect for gathering with your crew of friends and sports lovers. The Bridgetown Bites team stopped by its media night this week and came away impressed.

February 26, 2026February 26, 2026

Purim 2026: Tasty Treats and Celebrations in Portland

Edie and a plate of hamentaschen for Purim 2026. — My then 7-year-old Edie who is now a pre-teen but still loves their hamantaschen.

The holiday of Purim is almost here—a joyous holiday filled with tasty treats and celebrations, observed by Jews around the world. Purim begins on the evening of Monday, March 2, and continues through March 3 (and through March 4 in Jerusalem). The holiday commemorates the story of Queen Esther, whose courage helped save the Jewish people from Haman’s evil plot to kill the Jews of ancient Persia.

January 27, 2026January 27, 2026

Carina’s Bakery Brings Standout Flavor to Beaverton’s Vegan Scene

Kneeling by the counter at Carina's Bakery.

As January comes to a close, there’s still opportunity to try Portland’s vibrant vegan food scene in celebration of Veganuary. If you’re new to the concept, Veganuary is a global movement inviting people to explore vegan food—and a plant-forward lifestyle—throughout January and beyond. Think of it as a delicious, clean way to start the year, and an ideal place to begin is with Carina’s Bakery in Beaverton, featuring delightful vegan treats.

July 18, 2025July 18, 2025

Bridgetown Bites Roadtrip: Tasting Willamette Valley Salads

While Portland has no shortage of incredible salads—as we’ve showcased throughout Portland Salad Week—Meg and I were eager to explore beyond the city limits in search of more salad treasure. Our adventure took us to the heart of the Willamette Valley, where we visited five distinct food destinations that each offered a unique and delicious taste of the region’s local, seasonal bounty. Here are the Willamette Valley salads we enjoyed and the places we visited.

July 17, 2025July 17, 2025

Portland Food Influencers Share their Salad Love

The salad from Pizza Thief — Photo credit: Paul Wagtouicz.

Shining a light on Portland’s salad scene has been a true pleasure—and at times, even a revelation. Now, we’re putting that discovery to the test by turning to some of our favorite Portland food influencers and top content creators.

We asked them to share their favorite salad spots and what makes those picks stand out. Some confirmed the classics we all know and love, while others introduced us to new and unexpected salads. Read on for all crunchy details.