Paiche Closes for Good

The Oregonian reports that Paiche, one of Portland Monthly’s Best Restaurants of 2016, has closed (and is up for sale). The Peruvian eatery from chef Jose Luis de Cossio went through several, almost humorously radical changes over its lifetime. For a full breakdown, check out our Paiche timeline. According to the O, Paiche will “live on as a snack brand and a line of condiments,” while de Cossio is headed to a front of house position at Farm Spirit.

Holiday Moves Downtown

Portland Monthly’s Rising Star Restaurant of 2018 is moving from its SE Division Street location (previously home to Sorenson’s Roman Candle) to downtown at 537 SW 12th Ave, currently home to Heart Coffee, and next door to Bistro Agnes. Sorenson reached out to Portland Monthly with this explanation: “The current location on Division wasn’t sustainable and difficult to operate.” No word yet on any other changes to the menu or concept.

Pollos a la Brasa El Inka Shutters

One of our longtime favorite comfort food spots has shuttered. Here’s what we said about Pollos a La Brasa back in 2011: “This is rotisserie chicken at its finest: juicy, tender, and infused with the smoky goodness that comes only from two hours in the oven. After you finish picking the last morsels from the bone of your quarter or half a chicken, you’ll be wishing you knew the Quechua phrase for 'more, please.'”

Dawn Patrol Opens in North Portland

Rachel Wilson, a coffee talent who formerly managed the café at Coquine, has launched her coffee spot at 670 N Russell St, which shares space with nerdy beer haven Labrewatory. Local curation is the focus at her new hangout, with pastries from Confiterie, beans from Stumptown, and plenty of other Portland collaborations. 

Tope Opens Above the Hoxton Hotel

The third eatery (after La Neta and the unnamed bar serving Asian-American fare) from Johnny Leach has opened on the top floor of the Hoxton. Tope is meant to a no-reservations taco joint with plenty of tequila, mezcal, and something called a nacho Caesar salad. A summer-ready patio facing Mount Hood seems reason enough to check it out.