Small Bites – NA Drinking, Brunch, Awards, Vegan Milkshakes, and More

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

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Top 5 Posts on Bridgetown Bites, February 2022

Data Analytics Chart

It’s always interesting to see what readers especially like on this little blog—food news dominates, and it’s heartening to see you all like dumplings as much as I do. So here’s what got the most traffic in February 2022. As always, thanks for reading!

5. City Bridge & Tunnel Bar to Open Downtown in the Spring

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A new bar opening in downtown Portland? Maybe the pandemic really is slowing down. In any case, it’s a good thing—City Bridge & Tunnel, a cocktail bar in the old Shift Drinks space is looking to open this spring, hopefully in March.

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Boozy Brunch Spot Flattop & Salamander Opening in the Buckman Neighborhood

Flattop & Salamander is coming to the Buckman neighborhood. Photo credit: Flattop & Salamander

Back in 2018, we learned about Flattop & Salamander, a brunch spot that was to open in the Lents neighborhood that September. Fast forward to 2022 and you should see them open in the Buckman neighborhood with a cocktail-heavy menu and brunch stalwarts like french toast and biscuits & gravy.

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Get Ready for Portland’s Newest Culinary Bookstore from Vivienne

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Vivienne back in 2017.

I knew Vivienne, the little cafe next to the Hollywood Theatre, was going to make some changes (i.e., the end of brunch) but I didn’t anticipate they would be on as high a level as they are. On Friday, September 3, Vivienne’s owner Robin Wheelright sent out an email announcing the changes—departing from being a full-time cafe and turning into a culinary bookstore to be located in what has been their dining room.

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Four Things I Learned This Week (November 15)

It’s been a crazy week in Bridgetown Bites land, but I still have time to share with your four things I learned this week. It’s straight up restaurant news, and good stuff, at that.

Chameleon has a new menu. According to their Facebook page, Hollywood District mainstay Chameleon has a new menu. Owner Pat Jeung is back in town after some culinary travels: “After my little adventure to the middle east and Europe, I had an amazing time and got to cook with the locals in Beirut and Bucharest. Met some incredible new friends and feeling so grateful to be able to do what I do. Please come by soon to sample some of our new dishes on our menu!”

Brunch arrives at the Goat. Hogan’s Goat Pizza is now offering brunch. There are a number of egg dishes on the menu, but what caught my eye was the Breakfast Lasagna: “Eye opener lasagna featuring a crispy tater crust, layered with scrambled eggs, bacon, Italian sausage, and cheddar cheese. Accompanied by tomato slices.”

The Sudra has reopened on 28th Ave. According to their Instagram page, they are open in the new location: “We’re open! More space! New menu items! Same Sudra staff that you know & love.” They are now occupying the space that was home to Tapalaya for years, 28 NE 28th Avenue.

Wajan serves lunch! This wonderful new Indonesian restaurant has launched their lunch service. Stop by on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday from 11:30am to 2:30pm.