The dynamic landscape of Oregon’s food scene is undergoing a period of transition, marked by the closure of beloved establishments, exciting new partnerships, and festive celebrations. From long-standing bars and breweries to innovative ice cream ventures, the state’s culinary scene continues to evolve, showcasing the resilience of the Oregon food scene.
Closures Amidst Economic Headwinds in the Oregon Food Scene
Portland’s oldest cider house, Cider Bite, is set to close its doors on October 19th after a decade in business. Owner Jeff Hanneson cited significant financial challenges, including rising operating costs, a decline in tourism, and increased rent as the primary reasons for the closure. Similarly, Upright Brewing, a respected name in the craft beer community for sixteen years, announced it will cease production by the end of 2025 if a buyer for its NE Portland brewery space is not found. While the brewery taproom will remain open through December, its satellite location, the Upright Beer Station, will continue to operate and transition into a taphouse featuring beers from various breweries. These closures highlight broader industry struggles, with rising wholesale food costs, inflation, and lingering effects of the pandemic impacting bars and restaurants across Oregon. Reports indicate that wholesale food costs in Oregon have risen by 18% annually since 2020, contributing to the shuttering of hundreds of restaurants statewide, a significant challenge for the Oregon food scene.
In Springfield, Squacho’s Bar & Grill will close its brick-and-mortar location by the end of October, with hopes to transition back to its food cart origins. Owner Josh Beard cited the high rent of $6,000 per month as a major factor in the decision, impacting the local Oregon food scene.
Innovative Partnerships and Sweet Treats in the Oregon Food Scene
Amidst these challenges, exciting collaborations are capturing the attention of food enthusiasts. Salt & Straw, the Portland-based ice cream purveyor, has partnered with Taco Bell to launch “The Tacolate.” This unique dessert features a hand-pressed waffle cone shell filled with cinnamon ancho chili ice cream, dipped in single-origin chocolate, and studded with toasted brown rice. It is served with custom Taco Bell-inspired sauce packets, including Mango Jalapeño and Wildberry Cinnamon. The Tacolate is available starting October 3rd in Salt & Straw shops across several states, including Oregon, and for nationwide shipping. This partnership builds on Salt & Straw’s previous explorations into ice cream tacos, dating back to 2016, further diversifying the Oregon food scene.
Local Eateries and Celebratory Events in Oregon’s Food Scene
Local establishments are also offering unique dining experiences. Cowfish, a dance club, is providing a free spaghetti and meat sauce dinner to patrons on October 3rd. Meanwhile, BJ’s Brewhouse is hosting a five-course “Spooktoberfest” beer dinner on October 6th, featuring a selection of Oktoberfest-style lagers paired with various dishes, culminating in a Hard Root Beer float, showcasing the diverse Oregon food scene.
Celebrating Culinary Milestones in the Oregon Food Scene
Bergerac, a bistro inspired by the Dordogne region of France, is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a weeklong event from October 13th to October 19th. Guests will receive complementary chef’s choice amuse-bouches and have a chance to win tickets to future November events. Bergerac has been a celebrated addition to Portland’s dining scene, known for its authentic French cuisine and welcoming atmosphere, even adapting seamlessly to takeout service during the pandemic, a testament to the adaptability of the Oregon food scene.
The “Salmon Homecoming” event, mentioned in the initial context, is part of a broader theme of seasonal celebrations and culinary events that often occur in Oregon, though specific details were not available in the provided search results for a particular event of this name in early October. However, the presence of such events underscores the vibrant community engagement within Oregon’s food and beverage sector, contributing to the rich tapestry of the Oregon food scene.
As Oregon’s food and restaurant industry navigates rising costs and evolving consumer preferences, these ongoing developments highlight a resilient spirit, marked by both significant closures and innovative new ventures that continue to shape the state’s culinary identity and the overall Oregon food scene.
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