Portland! It’s where I live, work, and play. It’s where the food news happens (at least most of it). This category is one of the real constants on Bridgetown Bites and is probably a part of almost every post on this blog.
As a person of a certain age, when I see the words “Grape Ape,” it catches my eye. And while this two-word phrase has been used in other Oregon-based contexts, the Grape Ape of this post is a new natural wine bar and shop with a projected opening in SE Portland of later this spring.
Some of the dumplings you can expect from 2023 Dumpling Week. Photo credit: the Oregonian
I love dumplings—and I love promoting Dumpling Week here on the blog because it’s one of my favorite themed food fests in Portland. Many thanks to the Oregonian for producing it each year. Basically you get some special dumplings for $14 or less per plate (up from $10/plate in 2019). Simple and delicious, from Sunday, January 29 to Saturday, February 4.
Cast Iron Butter Baked Eggs for the returning brunch service at The Observatory. Photo credit: The Observatory
After a sort of sleepy December on my part, I’ve been jotting down various Portland food-related tidbits I’ve encountered this week and am pleased to present this Small Bites post, replacing my usual Four Things I Learned This Week column. Enjoy the variety.
Besaws is opening back up. The Portland Business Journal reports on Eater’s news that Besaw’s and Solo Club will reopen later this month. Sounds like a variety of things have been going on to delay this good news. I’m happy to hear of this reopening—years ago, my family had brunch at Besaw’s (original location) and it was a really good time, so the place has a warm spot in my heart. 1545 NW 21st Avenue, Portland
There are a lot of food festivals in Portland but the Soup Festival (AKA Winter Soup Festival) is one of the tastiest. I’ve attended in the past and have tasted a number of delicious soups, and am eager to return for more. This year, the festival is Wednesday, January 25 to Sunday, January 29, all taking place at the Portland Mercado.
I was chatting with a neighbor the other day and she said, “I look forward to using that new app launched by Portlanders to help you find mocktails.” And I was all, whaaaa?!? This sounds awesome! “I don’t know this mocktail app! What is it called?” It’s called BuzzCutt and it’s arriving later in 2023.