Portland, Oregon – January 9, 2026 – The vibrant Oregon Food Scene continues its dynamic evolution, offering a complex mix of news for bars and restaurants as January unfolds. Several establishments face closure, while others are launching new initiatives, and a significant debate over animal welfare is gaining traction, all contributing to the ongoing narrative of the Oregon Food Scene.
Shifting Tides in Local Eateries and the Oregon Food Scene
The Minnow, a Portland eatery known for its local and seasonal focus, will close its doors on January 18. Unsustainable costs prompted this difficult decision for this establishment within the Oregon Food Scene. Their mission to serve responsibly sourced food became financially unviable, marking the end of an era for the Northwest Portland spot and a notable change in the Oregon Food Scene.
Interurban, a popular North Mississippi Avenue bar and restaurant, also announced its closure. It will cease operations on January 18 after 15 years. Co-owner Dan Hart cited familiar reasons for closing, noting that “the story from our other friends about closures, and Interurban’s isn’t much different,” a sentiment increasingly heard within the broader Oregon Food Scene.
New Food Ventures in the Oregon Food Scene
However, not all news is about closing. Sometimes, a coffee service provider will begin offering its brews inside Pan Con Queso. This pizzeria draws inspiration from Mexican and Pacific Islander heritage and will use Passenger coffee beans and teas, showcasing emerging elements within the Oregon Food Scene.
Old Pal is resuming evening service, closing its lunch service. The restaurant will be open Thursdays through Sundays from 4 pm to 9 pm, stating that nighttime is the right time for their corner spot. Old Pal is also highlighting January specials, including $2 oysters all month and numerous non-alcoholic (NA) drink options, reflecting growing Oregon food trends.
A Growing Focus on Non-Alcoholic Options in Oregon
Dry January Oregon is in full swing. The Dry January Drink Festival is scheduled for tomorrow, January 10, at John’s Marketplace Multnomah. Attendees can sample non-alcoholic beers, wines, and mocktails, highlighting a trending shift in the Oregon Food Scene. Americans are increasingly seeking alcohol-free beverages, with a recent poll showing a significant decline in alcohol consumption. Festivals like this showcase the expanding variety and quality of NA drinks available across Oregon, a key development for the Oregon Food Scene.
The Foie Gras Ban Debate Intensifies within the Oregon Food Scene
A contentious issue resurfaces in Portland, impacting the Oregon Food Scene. City Council member Mitch Green is proposing a ban on foie gras. This measure has seen previous discussions with Commissioners Carmen Rubio and Mingus Mapps. Animal rights group Animal Equality has been a strong advocate for such a ban, describing the production process as cruel. This debate is a significant point of discussion for the Oregon Food Scene.
However, the proposal faces debate. Some city leaders have expressed concerns about prioritizing such an issue, citing broader economic challenges facing Portland. Critics argue the ban is political theater and distracts from more significant economic or animal welfare concerns. Some note that other agricultural practices may cause more harm, adding complexity to the discussion surrounding the Oregon Food Scene.
Development and Expansion within the Oregon Culinary Scene
Fast-food giant In-N-Out continues its pursuit of a location near Portland International Airport (PDX), with several permits currently under review. The project involves developing a drive-thru restaurant. This expansion signals the chain’s growing interest in the Oregon market, contributing to the diverse Oregon culinary scene.
Discussions are also underway for new food ventures. A new food cart pod is being considered for NE Alberta Street. Additionally, there are potential retail space conversions planned, including a former 7-Eleven on N Killingsworth, further enriching the Oregon Food Scene.
New Ownership for a Notable Winery within Oregon’s Food and Drink Industry
Winderlea Vineyard & Winery in Dundee has new owners. The Ricci family, led by Joth Ricci, executive chairman of Burgerville, has purchased the estate. This marks a family-to-family transition. Ricci, a fifth-generation Oregonian, has a deep connection to the state’s food and beverage industry. The sale represents a continuation of multigenerational stewardship within the Oregon Food Scene.
A Dynamic Culinary Scene: Keeping Up with Oregon Food Trends
Oregon’s bars and restaurants are constantly adapting. From restaurant closures and new partnerships to ongoing policy debates and significant investments, the state’s culinary scene remains highly active and trending. These developments reflect a robust and ever-changing market, making the Oregon Food Scene a captivating subject for all involved. The discussions around the Foie gras ban Oregon and the growing popularity of non-alcoholic drinks Oregon also highlight key Oregon food trends shaping the landscape.
