YUI, a Returning Thai Restaurant, Opens in 2026 in Portland

Lots of dumplings at Yui.
Photo credit: YUI.

Good news: YUI, the celebrated Thai restaurant from Chalunthorn “Yui” Schaeffer, is reopening in the new year. They will occupy the space that Musashi’s Sushi and Teriyaki Grill held for about five years on SE Belmont. I had heard so many wonderful things about Yui’s work in the past, that I wanted to have a chat to find out more about this next phase in restaurants for her. Here is what I learned.

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Sure Shot Burger Will Open a Restaurant in 2026 in Portland

Gorgeous cheeseburger. Photo credit: Sure Shot Burger.

The celebrated burger cart Sure Shot Burger that operates alongside the Oakshire Beer Hall on NE 42nd Avenue, is looking forward to some changes in the new year. They’ll be transitioning to a brick-and-mortar restaurant located just feet away—the space that has been home to Taqueria Los Pepitos Locos since 2016.

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New Year’s Eve 2025 in Portland

Thinking about New Year's Eve 2025 in Portland with this sunset off the Oregon Coast.
A sunset off the Oregon Coast. 2026 is almost upon us.

New Year’s Eve 2025 is about two and a half weeks away, if you can believe it. Parties and celebrations are the name of the game this time of year, and NYE is a great excuse to party. Here are some of the places offering dinners and parties in Portland.

We will continue to update this piece when details on additional events cross our desk.

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Small Bites: Kismet in Vancouver, Boriken, Raclette, and More

Eggnog donut. Photo credit: Mikiko Mochi Donuts.

Kismet in Vancouver is open. They opened to the public yesterday, December 11. Operated by Eric Gallanter and Kim Sinclair, they offer a three-course prix fixe menu with things like crab cakes, risotto, gravlax, scallops, duck breast, and beef tenderloin (see photos of their menu on Google). 909 Main Street, Vancouver

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The Back Patio Is Open in Portland

Looking toward at The Back Patio.

After two and a half years of work, preparation, and wrangling with City of Portland’s various processes, The Back Patio in Cully is open. Located in a former cannabis shop on Cully Blvd, this little local spot offers snacks, wine, beer, and NA drinks in what they call a “shabby chic” dining room; as well as an arcade, food trucks, and yes—a back patio. I sat down with owners Mike and Jennifer Usselman to learn more.

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