Category: News

News, analysis, and current topics in the world of food.

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Small Bites: Thien Hong, Phin Ca Phe, Coffee, and More

Not Thien Hong, but gelato from Pinolo.
Cantucci e Vinsanto gelato (top) + Fioritura sorbetto (bottom) from Pinolo Gelato.

Looks like renovations may come to Thien Hong. Currently under review, the relevant permit with the city includes tenant improvements, “to remodel existing restaurant dining area with new layout, partitions, conveyor belt system, food prep counter, and reception desk; no changes to building envelope or glazing.” 6749 NE Sandy Blvd, Portland

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Tonga Room and The Heights in Portland: Some Background

Future home of Tonga Room.
Photo credit: Google.

A liquor license application for something called Tonga Room appeared online in early May, and with a name like that I could not resist looking into it. I’ve reached out to Mike Collman, the person behind Tonga Room, but am still waiting to hear back. But there is a lot going on as far as “the rest of the story” and background that’s worth writing about. Think of this as Part 1 of the story.

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Small Bites: El Pollo Chano, Pickles, Salami Mammi, and More

Chicken from El Pollo Chano.
Photo credit: El Pollo Chano.

Have you been to El Pollo Chano? I saw some enthusiastic comments online about this place, a food truck with a dedicated smoker there on-site in the parking lot by the Chill Zone smoke shop on NE Sandy and 111th. I have passed this place driving east on Sandy Blvd many times, and my interest is majorly piqued.

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Lavoratti 1938 Opens Their First US Chocolate Shop in Portland

The display at Lavoratti 1938 in Portland.

In downtown Portland, not far from Pioneer Courthouse Square, is the home of the very first Lavoratti 1938 chocolate shop in the United States. They chose Portland over places like New York City and San Francisco, which I think is a big deal. I stopped by the other day to see the shop, try some chocolate samples, and learn more about this cherished Italian chocolate company.

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The Callback (FKA Hollywood Bar & Carts) To Open This Summer in Portland

Aerial view of The Callback.
Image credit: The Callback.

[Update: The new name for the Hollywood Bar & Carts is The Callback, and we have updated this article to reflect that.]

Across the street from the Hollywood Trader Joe’s, a new project called The Callback has been in process since last year. It’s a mix of indoor and outdoor spaces, food carts, a bar, and more. And they are looking to open their doors this summer.

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