Portland, Oregon, is celebrating a new community gathering spot. The Back Patio officially opened its doors on November 15, 2025. It is located in the vibrant Cully neighborhood. This new establishment is the result of nearly three years of dedicated work. Owners Mike and Jennifer Usselman aim to create a truly welcoming space.
A New Community Hub in Cully
The Cully neighborhood is known for its rich diversity. Recent initiatives are fostering economic development in the area. The Back Patio is contributing to this growth. It occupies a former cannabis shop on Cully Boulevard. The owners desired a casual, fun, and family-friendly atmosphere. Jennifer Usselman shared that their home’s back patio inspired the name. It served as their personal sanctuary for relaxation and connection. They aspire for The Back Patio to offer a similar experience. It is designed as a place to pause and savor life’s moments.
Diverse Offerings at The Back Patio
Inside, guests will find a “shabby chic” dining room. An arcade featuring various games adds to the entertainment. The venue serves a selection of snacks and beverages. The drink menu includes wine by the glass. Patrons can also enjoy local beer on tap and in cans. Other options include cider, hard seltzer, and sake. Non-alcoholic choices feature NA beer and sparkling cider. For those with a sweet tooth, cupcakes and chocolates are available.
Food Trucks and Local Partnerships
A key feature of The Back Patio is its strong emphasis on food trucks. The space is designed to host up to six different food trucks. They maintain a policy against cuisine duplication. This ensures a varied culinary experience for visitors. Currently, Crust & Corner is serving Detroit-style pizza. A Mexican food truck named Poblano Pepper is also present. The owners have expressed interest in featuring a burger truck soon. This model fosters collaboration with local food entrepreneurs.
An Inclusive Atmosphere
The Back Patio embraces a family-friendly approach. Minors are welcome in the dining room and outdoor seating areas. However, they are not permitted to sit at the bar. This inclusive policy makes it a destination for a wide range of patrons. The outdoor area boasts fire tables and ample seating. It is thoughtfully designed for relaxation and social interaction.
Owners with Portland Roots
Mike and Jennifer Usselman are both long-time Portland residents. Their connection to the city is deep. Both owners began their professional lives in the restaurant industry. Jennifer gained extensive experience working in a local Chinese restaurant during her youth. Mike’s background includes stints at notable Portland establishments like Monte Carlo and RingSide. Their commitment to Portland is clear. They are dedicated to building community connections. The journey to opening took approximately two and a half years. Neighbors expressed considerable interest even before the doors opened. This anticipation underscored the community’s positive reception.
The Back Patio represents a notable addition to Portland’s trending scene for restaurants and bars. It successfully combines food, drinks, and entertainment. The Cully neighborhood benefits from this new, lively establishment. It offers a unique space to relax and connect. This venture reflects Portland’s dynamic and evolving culinary landscape.
