Strange-bird is taking flight from its popular food cart to establish a permanent brick-and-mortar home in Southeast Portland. The beloved eatery, known for its distinctive approach to wood-fired food and hand-tossed pizzas, is set to open its doors at a new location, continuing its culinary journey in the heart of Portland’s vibrant food scene. This move represents a significant milestone for co-owners Tyler Robb and Katie Danz, who have cultivated a loyal following since operating as a food cart.
Key Highlights:
- Strange-bird, a well-established Portland food cart, is expanding into a permanent brick-and-mortar restaurant.
- The new location will also be situated in Southeast Portland, a familiar territory for the brand.
- Co-owners Tyler Robb and Katie Danz, who are also partners in life, previously worked at Cellarmaker Brewing in San Francisco.
- The name “Strange-bird” was chosen for its visual and auditory appeal, intentionally separating the concepts of “strange” and “bird” to avoid association with fried chicken.
- Tyler Robb’s childhood experiences in Indiana, including a bar/cafe named “Strange Bird,” may have influenced the choice of name, with potential connections to Kurt Vonnegut.
From Food Cart to Fixture: The Evolution of Strange-bird
A New Nest in Southeast Portland
The transition from a food cart to a brick-and-mortar establishment is a dream realized for Strange-bird co-owners Tyler Robb and Katie Danz. Having operated as a food cart in Southeast Portland since last year, the duo is now set to open a permanent restaurant in the same vibrant neighborhood. This strategic move places them adjacent to Rhinestone, another Portland food venture that began as a pop-up. Robb shared insights into their journey, expressing excitement about establishing a more permanent presence in the city.
The Partners Behind the Plate
Tyler Robb and Katie Danz are not only business partners but also partners in life. Their shared passion for food and hospitality led them to Portland approximately two years ago. Danz hails from the Bay Area, growing up in Pacifica, while Robb moved to the Bay Area in 2014, spending about a decade in Oakland. Their professional journey began at Cellarmaker Brewing in San Francisco, where Robb served as the kitchen operations manager and Danz worked as a beertender. This experience laid the foundation for their entrepreneurial venture, Strange-bird.
Decoding the Name: “Strange-bird”
The unique moniker, “Strange-bird,” invites curiosity, and its origins are rooted in both aesthetic preference and intentional separation of concepts. Robb explained that he “liked the way that it looked and sounded,” and importantly, he wanted to visually and conceptually “separate the idea” of “strange” and “bird.” This distinction was crucial to avoid any immediate association with fried chicken, a common assumption for names that include “bird.” The name also holds a potential connection to Kurt Vonnegut, an Indiana native like Robb. Robb recalled a “Strange Bird” bar/cafe from his childhood in Indiana, suggesting a possible, albeit indirect, link to Vonnegut’s literary themes, which often feature avian references.
Culinary Vision: Seasonal and Wood-Fired
Strange-bird is celebrated for its commitment to “Seasonal wood-fired food & hand-tossed pizzas.” This philosophy ensures a dynamic and evolving menu that highlights the freshest ingredients available. While specific menu items for the brick-and-mortar are yet to be fully detailed, their past offerings and operational approach suggest a continuation of their creative and high-quality culinary offerings. The brand’s self-description as “different from what is usual, ordinary, or expected” further underscores their dedication to unique and memorable dining experiences.
The Business of “Strange”
When asked about the unusual spelling of “Strange-bird,” Robb humorously noted his appreciation for wordplay. The chosen spelling was intentional, designed to create a distinct visual identity. The core concept behind Strange-bird revolves around offering food that is “different from what is usual, ordinary, or expected,” a philosophy that permeates their menu and overall brand. This commitment to distinctiveness, coupled with their culinary expertise, has positioned them for success in Portland’s competitive food landscape.
FAQ: People Also Ask
Q1: What is Strange-bird known for?
A1: Strange-bird is known for its seasonal wood-fired food and hand-tossed pizzas. They aim to offer dishes that are “different from what is usual, ordinary, or expected.”
Q2: Who are the owners of Strange-bird?
A2: The owners of Strange-bird are Tyler Robb and Katie Danz, who are also partners in life.
Q3: Where did the owners of Strange-bird meet?
A3: Tyler Robb and Katie Danz met while working at Cellarmaker Brewing in San Francisco.
Q4: Why is the restaurant called “Strange-bird”?
A4: The name was chosen for its aesthetic appeal, and to intentionally separate the words “strange” and “bird” to avoid associations with fried chicken. There may also be a connection to Kurt Vonnegut.
Q5: What was Strange-bird’s previous operational model?
A5: Strange-bird operated as a food cart in Southeast Portland prior to opening its brick-and-mortar location. Liquor license paperwork also indicated plans for a new Strange-bird at 2114 SE Clinton St.
