We took a break from this column because of Salad Week, but now it’s back. I hope you dads out there have a great Father’s Day, and I lend my respect and honor to those who find meaning in Juneteeth this weekend.
Brasa Haya will close. I read the news this morning—total bummer, as I loved their food. Final service will be Sunday brunch on June 19 (this weekend). Since the pandemic there have been a number of goodbye messages from restaurant owners in this city, but I found the line, “I’m so sorry. We tried so hard.” to be particularly heartbreaking. I wish the Brasa Haya owners and their team the best and hope good things come their way post-BH. 412 NE Beech Street, Portland
Saint Simon’s second location is open. This second location has been open for a couple of weeks now—check out this photo of the interior; it looks like a nice, airy space. I’ve driven by a few times on my way from point A to point B and have always been glad to see them open. It’s a great addition to the neighborhood and I look forward to stopping by soon. They’re open 7am to 2pm, seven days a week. 2526 NE 15th Avenue, Portland
Bipartisan Cafe celebrates 17 years. Earlier this week Montavilla’s Bipartisan Cafe announced they’ve been around for 17 years, and there is no indication that they are stopping any time soon. They revealed their own trepidation when they first opened. (“I literally broke down in tears waiting at the stop light in front of Beet’s Auto wondering if I had just sunk our family.”) They are a beloved part of the Montavilla community and I wish them another successful 17 years (or more) to come. 7901 SE Stark Street, Portland
Sandwich Week starts Monday, June 20. The Portland Mercury will launch their inaugural Sandwich Week on Monday at various spots around Portland. $8 sandwiches all week. Full transparency: There was a bit of controversy over Sandwich Week that did influence some of our decisions about Salad Week. If you’d like more info on Sandwich Week, check it out here. Various locations around Portland
