A Delicious Deep Dive Into FIKA Desserts in Portland

Joe Futschik, owner and operator of FIKA in SE Portland.
Joe Futschik, founder and creator of FIKA making his chorizo potato cheddar empanadas

At Bridgetown Bites, we’ve long been fans of FIKA desserts, a sweet (literally and figuratively) cottage bakery tucked into the heart of inner SE Portland. Founder and creator Joe Futschik is the talent behind an impressive lineup of treats—from yeasted pastries and scones, to empanadas, cream buns, cakes, tarts, cookies, and an array of handmade truffles. One scroll through his menu gallery and you’ll find yourself fully tempted. Joe’s creations are perfect for celebrations, gatherings, or simply treating yourself!

We recently had the chance to visit Joe in his charming home bakery, where we got to see his craft and creativity on full display. It was also great to sit down with Joe for a more detailed chat about his growing business. Read on for a delicious deep dive into FIKA.

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Pinolo Gelato Drops “Melody” for Gelato Day in Portland

Melody, the gelato flavor for Gelato Day in Portland.
Melody, gelato flavor of the year, for Gelato Day at Pinolo Gelato. Photo credit: Pinolo Gelato.

On Tuesday, March 24, European nations celebrate Gelato Day—short for European Artisanal Gelato Day—honoring the excellence of artisanal gelato. Each year, the occasion is marked with a special gelato flavor—and this year it comes with a melodic twist! Additionally, it should come as no surprise that Pinolo Gelato, home to authentic Tuscan gelato, is celebrating Gelato Day in Portland, too.

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Carina’s Bakery Brings Standout Flavor to Beaverton’s Vegan Scene

Kneeling by the counter at Carina's Bakery.

As January comes to a close, there’s still opportunity to try Portland’s vibrant vegan food scene in celebration of Veganuary. If you’re new to the concept, Veganuary is a global movement inviting people to explore vegan food—and a plant-forward lifestyle—throughout January and beyond. Think of it as a delicious, clean way to start the year, and an ideal place to begin is with Carina’s Bakery in Beaverton, featuring delightful vegan treats.

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Small Bites: Jim & Patty’s Return, Kolaches, Bonta Gelato, and More

The Pig Newtons are back! Photos credit: Jim & Patty’s.

The Jim & Patty’s return. It’s true, they posted the news this week on their socials: “BIG NEWS, PORTLAND!!! Jim & Patty’s Coffee is BACK!! (under new ownership).” From what I can tell, Paul Ceserani, owner of Spielman Bagels & Coffee, is the new Jim & Patty’s owner. They opened yesterday, August 14, at their previous location on NE Fremont. 4951 NE Fremont Street, Portland

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Sweet Salad Success: Portland Kids Take Over Salad Week

Edie Rich and their candy salad, plus Buddy the dog.

Beyond spotlighting Portland’s incredible culinary talent in the world of salads, we wanted to mix things up by handing the reins over to a couple of local Portland kids for the day. We asked them to share their own playful takes on salad.

While these next two creations may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word “salad,” we love how imaginative, whimsical, and fun they turned out. After all, they’re straight from the minds of a seven and nine-year-old, which makes them as authentic as they come.

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