Portland food news and views
Food news about Beaverton, one of Portland‘s western suburbs, located in the Tualatin Valley. Beaverton is a popular place to live, work, eat, and play.
Here we are with yet another food tradition for February 2. Previously, we highlighted “ground hog” and pancakes for this day; this time, it’s about eating tamales.
Continue reading “Eat Tamales on Candelmas (February 2) in Portland”
Earlier in January, a reader emailed me with questions about Caffe and Barba Mingo. They had become aware of the property potentially being developed and was concerned about its future. I did some research, contacted involved parties, and wanted to share what I’ve learned. Spoiler: Farewell is now goodbye.
Continue reading “Update on Portland’s Caffe and Barba Mingo”
Lunar New Year 2025 in Portland starts on Wednesday January 29, when we will enter the Year of the Snake—more specifically, the Wood Snake. Here, you can read more about the qualities of this upcoming year with more insight than I could possibly give you. And, as a Monkey myself, it’s nice to read that “those born in the Years of the Rat, Monkey, Rooster, Horse and Dragon should experience good luck.”
Here are some ways to celebrate the Lunar New Year in Portland and surrounding areas.
Continue reading “Year of the Snake: Lunar New Year 2025 in Portland”Javelina has found a place to call home. Indigenous pop-up-turning-restaurant Javelina announced late last year that they have found a place to land in Portland—the Lil’ Dame space in Northeast Portland. On Instagram, they said, “We have secured a hosting space to open the FIRST indigenous dining restaurant in Portland, Oregon.”
They will run two services at the new location—the original Javelina concept offering “classic powwow comfort food,” and a new dinner concept, which they will say more about this year. A soft opening will be on Monday and Tuesday, January 13 and 14, and full service starts Thursday, January 23, operating Wednesdays to Saturdays. Very exciting! Reserve on OpenTable. 5425 NE 30th Avenue, Portland
Pip’s Original closes Beaverton location. Unfortunate news for one of our western suburbs—Pip’s closed up shop in Beaverton. Sounds like it has to do with rent increases and the stance of the landlord and property management company. They were “ultimately unable to reach an accommodation,” and that meant shutting down in Beaverton. They are still operating at their NE Fremont location. 12400 SW Broadway Street, Beaverton
And Blue Star closes its Lake Oswego and Mississippi locations. The Mississippi location was my first encounter with Blue Star, and I’m sorry to see them leave that space. On their Instagram they posted, “These spaces have been home to countless sweet memories, joyful celebrations, and deep connections. While this decision was incredibly difficult, it’s one we had to make to ensure the long-term stability of Blue Star as we head into our 13th year.” You can still find them at South Waterfront, Goose Hollow, Division Street, and PDX Concourse D. 3753 N Mississippi Avenue, Portland and 350 1st Street, Unit C-4, Lake Oswego
Giveaway! Support the local small business community. Former bartender Matt Kesteloot is organizing a giveaway of $5 gift cards to support local small businesses. How to participate? Enter from Friday, January 17 to Friday, January 31 by posting a picture of yourself at your favorite, bar, restaurant, coffee shop, vintage store, etc. Tag the business and use the hashtag #BeThereForPDX. On Saturday, February 1, winners will be chosen randomly to split the pot. Read more on Matt’s Instagram, including updates on what businesses are participating. Multiple locations
Stories you may have missed this week on Bridgetown Bites:
Summary: Portland Restaurant Openings and Closings, 2024
Landing Paper Planes Will Bring a Pay-What-You-Can Cafe To Portland
Zero Proof Portland: Dry January 2025
Updated January 5, 2025.
The Paladins League is in their soft opening phase. Back in August I wrote about The Paladins League, opening in the old Alameda Hop/Alameda Brewing space. There you can enjoy “analog games of all kinds … a warm community space, tasty food and drink, and a family-friendly atmosphere.” And they are now open—soft open, that is! Limited hours for now, as they work on their final menu and service offering.
The hours between Friday, November 22 and Wednesday, November 27 are Friday, Tuesday, and Wednesday 5pm to 9pm; Saturday and Sunday 11am to 10pm. Closed Monday. They have a 500-game library and food: sliders, fries, milkshakes and adult beverages. 4765 NE Fremont Street, Portland
Bánh Mì Nam Lộc has closed. Over in Montavilla, a neighbor reports that Vietnamese deli Bánh Mì Nam Lộc on 82nd Avenue has ended their run. The reason? The owners retired. The place was known and loved for their bánh mì, seafood pancakes, beef soup, iced Vietnamese coffee, among other things. They will be missed. 328 SE 82nd Avenue, Portland
The Rip City Bar Network. The Portland Trailblazers launched the Rip City Bar Network this week. 25 bars and restaurants, mostly around Portland—but also Beaverton, Hillsboro, Fairview, Happy Valley, Oregon City, Springfield, Sherwood, Salem, Newport, and Astoria. will show the Blazers’ games. Also “Trail Blazers-related events, discounts for season ticket holders and be a place where fans can enjoy away games.” Check out the full roster on the Trailblazers NBA website. Various locations
PUSH X PULL has opened a new cafe location. And that would be inside of their roastery in SE Portland! “We’re excited to be able to drink coffee with you around our roaster once again, in a new space with some new gear.” Check it out, but only on weekdays from 7am to 2pm, as they are closed on weekends. 1700 SE 6th Avenue, Portland
Stories you may have missed this week on Bridgetown Bites:
Learn To Cook Burmese Cuisine This Weekend
Eat Chimney Cakes at Devilishly Delicious Delights in Roseway
An Early Site Visit at the James Beard Public Market
The Scandinavian Christmas Goat Market is happening next weekend, too.
