Basics Market on NE Sandy Blvd Is Closing

One of the most popular parts of Basics Market on NE Sandy is the meat department. Photo credit: Basics

Yesterday a neighbor posted on Facebook that the Basics Market on NE Sandy Blvd in the Hollywood District is closing, much to the dismay of folks in the area. I’ve heard a lot of praise for Basics, especially about their meats, so it’s a real bummer to see it close and leave a sizable storefront empty. The last day of business is Saturday, January 22.

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Chameleon Restaurant & Bar to Close by End of 2021

I’m sure gonna miss you, crispy potatoes.

While perusing Facebook on Sunday night I came across the news that Chameleon Restaurant & Bar will close by end end of the year. I have had a bunch of great meals there and good memories with friends over the years—while enjoying one of best backyards in Portland—and I am very sorry to see them go.

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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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Goodbye Saima Thai & Sushi, Hello ChiMcking

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Photo credit: ChiMcking

Last Sunday I was doing a little research on Portland Thai restaurants and it became clear that Saima Thai & Sushi in the Hollywood District has closed. They opened originally in early 2018. Turns out a new restaurant is moving into that space: ChiMcking, a franchise that offers “Korean Style Chicken & Fresh Beer.” That’s right—an expansive menu of Korean fried chicken is coming to the Hollywood District. Continue reading “Goodbye Saima Thai & Sushi, Hello ChiMcking”

Top 5 Posts On Bridgetown Bites, February 2021

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Here’s the content you enjoyed in the month of Februrary 2021—lots of food news. As always, thanks for reading!

5. The Bulgogi + Du Kuh Bee Connection

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In the “that’s news to me” category, it has only become clear (to me) recently that The Bulgogi Korean restaurant in the Hollywood District is managed by the Du Kuh Bee family.  I had seen the signage on The Bulgogi’s window for a long time about their offering Du Kuh Bee’s famous noodles, but I was unaware just how close the two businesses are. In fact, the official name of the restaurant is now “The Bulgogi + Du Kuh Bee.” Continue reading “Top 5 Posts On Bridgetown Bites, February 2021”