Truly Legendary Bob’s Red Mill Cafe and Retail Shop in Milwaukie Is Closing After 22 Years

Bob’s Red Mill is shutting down its customer-facing outposts in Milwaukie after 22 years selling bags of gluten-free oats to the people of Central Oregon. The cafe closed on Sunday, February 9, and the retail operation will follow on Monday, February 17. The move comes as the company expands further into grocers and distributors around the country. CEO Trey Winthrop told the Portland Business Journal this shuttering means 44 workers will lose their jobs, but that cohort is encouraged to apply for new roles within the company.

These closings will not impact the two manufacturing and packaging facilities, also in Milwaukie. Bob Moore’s company is still based out of the city, swelling to become one of the largest whole grain companies in the world. Moore himself died in February 2024, at the age of 94. He was known to play piano at Friday music jams in the iconic red building where the cafe and retail were housed. That building itself will go up for sale. “We know it’s going to be really sad for the community,” says Winthrop of the closings.

Big Portland chef opens new restaurant

When Quaintrelle closed at the end of 2024, few realized chef Will Preisch’s pop-up in mid-November would be a portent of things to come. That’s what the Oregonian reports, as now Preisch — known for his time at Holdfast Dining — will open a new restaurant in the space. On Wednesday, February 19, he will open 82 Acres at 2032 SE Clinton Street. Preisch told the paper the menu and the name invoke Abbey Road Farm, where he’s worked since Holdfast closed in 2020.

Just-unionized pizza parlor closes

The original Sizzle Pie, which has gone on to become a hit throughout the Pacific Northwest, will close for good after service on Sunday, February 23. The Oregonian reports the closing comes just a month after staff voted to unionize. The paper covers the sordid recent history of the company, noting the Sortis Holdings acquisition of Sizzle Pie during the worst of the pandemic. Eater reached out to the union to see if staff have been offered work at other Sizzle Pie locations.

NE Glisan Cuban restaurant rings in 25 years

The second weekend of February is more than just Valentine’s Day weekend, for those who observe. It’s also the 25th anniversary for Pambiche, a mainstay for Cuban and Creole cuisine. From Friday, February 14 through Sunday, February 16, guests can order the fittingly-priced $25 chilindrón de carnero special, a braised lamb shank served with beans, rice, plantains — and a glass of sangria. There’s also complimentary birthday dessert: tres leches, alfajores, or café con tres leches. A new breakfast menu will debut at the restaurant following this anniversary celebration.