Tag: Vya

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Labor Day Weekend 2026: Eats, Drinks, and Happenings in Portland

A passion fruit pie for Labor Day weekend 2026 from Bakeshop.
This pie could be yours this Labor Day weekend. Photo credit: Bakeshop.

Labor Day weekend 2026 is right around the corner, believe it or not.

This holiday celebrates and recognizes the achievements of working people and the American Labor Movement. The path to establishing Labor Day started in the 19th century, as a part of the effort to improve working conditions and challenge income inequality. Oregon was the first U.S. state to make Labor Day a public holiday (1887). Today, it is a Federal Holiday in the 50 states and the District of Columbia.

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Vya Brings Tapas, Vegan Paella, and More To Southeast Portland

Vegan paella, view from the side, at Vya.
Vegan paella at Vya.

In late February, a new tapas restaurant called Vya (pronounced “Vye-uh”) opened in the old Palomar space on SE Division. Paella—including a vegan version—is an important part of their menu. They also offer, of course, a variety of tapas, some desserts, as well as cocktails, wine, beer, cider, and no-proof drinks. We had a chance to try some, too.

I chatted with Vy and Steve Chao, the owners of Vya, to learn more about the restaurant, and here is what I learned.

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Small Bites: Cocina de Mary, Tariffs, Shorebird Bakery, and More

Chiles at Cocina de Mary.
Photo credit: Cocina de Mary.

Welcome, Cocina de Mary. This is another case of two restaurants operating in one space at different times. RJ Skillets is there from 8am to 3pm (starting 10am on Mondays) and Cocina de Mary operates 5pm to 9pm (closed Mondays). They offer Guatemalan food: cuchitos, a type of tamal; churrasco; hilachas, similar to ropa vieja; pepián; and tayuyos, similar to pupusas. They also offer familiar dishes like quesadillas, fried plantains, empanadas, burritos, and more. They officially opened on Friday, February 6. 2529-B NE Alberta Street, Portland

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