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No expectant moms at the border: Trump's birthright Plan B

The proposal would open a new immigration battle over pregnancy, travel and citizenship.

Politics & Policy

After losing the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="birthright citizenship" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/30/scotus-rejects-trumps-birthright-citizenship-policy" data-vars-content-id="aa1b4c22-7abe-4f6c-876c-dfa82fae7181" data-vars-headline="No expectant moms at the border: Trump&#x27;s birthright Plan B" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/30/scotus-rejects-trumps-birthright-citizenship-policy" target="_self">birthright citizenship</a> case at the Supreme Court, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="President Trump" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" data-vars-content-id="aa1b4c22-7abe-4f6c-876c-dfa82fae7181" data-vars-headline="No expectant moms at the border: Trump&#x27;s birthright Plan B" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/politics-policy/donald-trump" target="_self">President Trump</a>&#x27;s aides and MAGA allies quickly pivoted to a new plan: blocking pregnant foreign women from entering the United States.Why it matters: The proposal would open a new immigration battle over pregnancy, travel and citizenship, shifting the conversation from challenging the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="rights" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/01/trump-birthright-citizenship-14th-amendment" data-vars-content-id="aa1b4c22-7abe-4f6c-876c-dfa82fae7181" data-vars-headline="No expectant moms at the border: Trump&#x27;s birthright Plan B" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/04/01/trump-birthright-citizenship-14th-amendment" target="_self">rights</a> of children born in the U.S. to restricting who can enter the country.

U.S. tries to talk Iran out of tolls as talks resume in Doha

"We have reached an understanding that we will keep things quiet for the coming week."

World

U.S. and Iranian negotiators are in Doha for talks focusing primarily on the Strait of Hormuz, with the Trump administration making the case that <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Iran" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" data-vars-content-id="7a015c45-a1fb-463f-80c9-d3872228c438" data-vars-headline="U.S. tries to talk Iran out of tolls as talks resume in Doha" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/world/iran" target="_self">Iran</a> stands to gain much more from a nuclear deal than it could generate from <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="tolls in the strait" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/29/oil-transit-rebound-iran-war-hormuz" data-vars-content-id="7a015c45-a1fb-463f-80c9-d3872228c438" data-vars-headline="U.S. tries to talk Iran out of tolls as talks resume in Doha" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/29/oil-transit-rebound-iran-war-hormuz" target="_self">tolls in the strait</a>. Why it matters: The parties gave themselves 60 days to reach a comprehensive nuclear deal, but two weeks into that window they&#x27;re still arguing over the terms of the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="memorandum of understanding" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/17/read-full-us-iran-deal-memorandum-understanding" data-vars-content-id="7a015c45-a1fb-463f-80c9-d3872228c438" data-vars-headline="U.S. tries to talk Iran out of tolls as talks resume in Doha" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/17/read-full-us-iran-deal-memorandum-understanding" target="_self">memorandum of understanding</a> they already signed. Currently, the collapse of that initial deal looks more likely than agreement on a final one.

Top central bankers are eager to rewrite the playbook

Heads of central banks meeting this week in Portugal agree that they should communicate less with the public about where policy is going.

Economy

It&#x27;s not just an American thing. Central bankers from other top Western democracies also believe that they should <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="communicate less" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/26/kevin-warsh-fed-rates-guidance" data-vars-content-id="93c47922-065a-4304-80e6-46feb55cc093" data-vars-headline="Top central bankers are eager to rewrite the playbook" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/26/kevin-warsh-fed-rates-guidance" target="_self">communicate less</a> about where policy is going.Why it matters: There was striking alignment of views among the heads of the European Central Bank, Bank of England, Bank of Canada and the U.S. Federal Reserve on display in Portugal.<ul><li>It suggests that Kevin Warsh&#x27;s ascent to Fed chairmanship is helping trigger a global turning of the page on some of the monetary policy assumptions of the last couple of decades.</li></ul>

House Dems rocked by another socialist upset: "Wake up call"

"One more case in the growing dynamic of performative politics," fumed one lawmaker.

House Democrats were staggered Wednesday by the loss of yet <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="another one of their longtime colleagues" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/07/01/colorado-primary-results-melat-kiros-beats-diana-degette" data-vars-content-id="5704d7ff-1213-456a-8221-c6b68dc8a110" data-vars-headline="House Dems rocked by another socialist upset: &quot;Wake up call&quot;" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/denver/2026/07/01/colorado-primary-results-melat-kiros-beats-diana-degette" target="_self">another one of their longtime colleagues</a> to a democratic socialist challenger.Why it matters: Rep. Diana DeGette (D-Colo.) was a staunch progressive, not a moderate, these members are privately fuming. So why did she become a target of the left?

Same alcoholic beverage, 50 different tax bills

State governments collect wildly varied amounts on that glass of wine, can of beer or cocktail.

Alcohol taxes vary dramatically from state to state, meaning the same can of beer, glass of wine or fancy cocktail can cost significantly more depending on where you order it.Why it matters: Summer travelers crossing state lines could see those differences add up, especially in places that levy some of the nation&#x27;s highest taxes on beer, wine or spirits.

Why one Oregon farm is embracing hospitality

The Ground uses lodging, restaurants and retreats to support its 500-acre farm.

News

Margins can be razor-thin for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="small farms" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/06/02/small-farms-food-program-gets-local-lifeline" data-vars-content-id="870e15ad-bce1-499e-a52e-00d5ac4c2d28" data-vars-headline="Why one Oregon farm is embracing hospitality" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/06/02/small-farms-food-program-gets-local-lifeline" target="_self">small farms</a> in Oregon, leaving some to try out a new crop: hospitality.Why it matters: As the number of farms <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="continues to decline" data-vars-click-url="https://extension.oregonstate.edu/es/node/229291/printable/print" data-vars-content-id="870e15ad-bce1-499e-a52e-00d5ac4c2d28" data-vars-headline="Why one Oregon farm is embracing hospitality" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://extension.oregonstate.edu/es/node/229291/printable/print" target="_blank">continues to decline</a>, more operators are turning to agritourism as a way to survive while connecting people with the land and the food it produces.

Super El Niño could bring wetter winter to Northwest

A rare weather pattern could boost rain and mountain snow this winter.

<figure><img alt="NOAA globe view showing sea surface temperatures: warm reds and oranges across the Pacific, cool blues in a central band; gray landmasses and a small NOAA logo bottom-left." height="720" id="b016b41d-4099-4f58-bd80-99ca942db064" src="https://images.axios.com/H4HEG6ZO-KcyPqR5qnZi8d6233Q=/2026/06/25/1782411469527.gif" width="1280"/><figcaption>Sea surface temperatures in the tropical Pacific — seen here rising between Jan. 1 and June 8 — could have counterintuitive impacts in the Pacific Northwest. Image: Courtesy of NOAA Satellites</figcaption></figure>A potential super <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="El Niño" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/04/14/el-nino-wildfire-risk-drier-season-forecast" data-vars-content-id="0f980d11-e68f-4353-b39c-172f26c67230" data-vars-headline="Super El Niño could bring wetter winter to Northwest" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/04/14/el-nino-wildfire-risk-drier-season-forecast" target="_self">El Niño</a> this winter could bring a cooler, wetter season to the Pacific Northwest, contrary to the region&#x27;s typical warm and dry El Niño pattern.Why it matters: The counterintuitive forecast could ease drought conditions after a <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="historically poor snowpack" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/03/17/oregon-snowpack-near-record-lows-warm-winter" data-vars-content-id="0f980d11-e68f-4353-b39c-172f26c67230" data-vars-headline="Super El Niño could bring wetter winter to Northwest" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/03/17/oregon-snowpack-near-record-lows-warm-winter" target="_self">historically poor snowpack</a>.

Oregon backlash to data centers grows

Concerns over tax breaks, energy use and AI are gaining momentum.

Data centers are increasingly becoming a stand-in for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="broader anger" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/05/21/portland-ai-backlash-data-centers-power-use-public-opinion" data-vars-content-id="119bcd95-5553-43c8-aaae-c8d477b942cc" data-vars-headline="Oregon backlash to data centers grows" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/05/21/portland-ai-backlash-data-centers-power-use-public-opinion" target="_self">broader anger</a> at an AI future many Americans don&#x27;t want but fear they&#x27;ll have to pay for.Why it matters: Opposition to massive energy-hungry server farms is intensifying in Oregon and beyond, fueling city council clashes, protests and legal challenges.

Best and worst traffic times around Portland for July Fourth

The busiest holiday traffic is expected to start Thursday.

This will be the busiest July 4 week for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="travel" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/29/summer-travel-prices-destinations" data-vars-content-id="cec93922-ac94-43a7-b143-f5ef8d0b8ab4" data-vars-headline="Best and worst traffic times around Portland for July Fourth" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/05/29/summer-travel-prices-destinations" target="_self">travel</a> around Portland since at least 2019, AAA predicts.Why it matters: The right departure time could save you hours in traffic.The big picture: The worst <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="July 4" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/15/trump-rally-july-4-celebration-dc" data-vars-content-id="cec93922-ac94-43a7-b143-f5ef8d0b8ab4" data-vars-headline="Best and worst traffic times around Portland for July Fourth" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/06/15/trump-rally-july-4-celebration-dc" target="_self">July 4</a> holiday traffic is expected to start Thursday, according to INRIX, a transportation data firm that works with <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="AAA" data-vars-click-url="https://newsroom.aaa.com/2026/06/72-2-million-americans-expected-to-travel-over-july-4th-week/" data-vars-content-id="cec93922-ac94-43a7-b143-f5ef8d0b8ab4" data-vars-headline="Best and worst traffic times around Portland for July Fourth" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://newsroom.aaa.com/2026/06/72-2-million-americans-expected-to-travel-over-july-4th-week/" target="_blank">AAA</a> to calculate travel times.State of play: To avoid the heaviest traffic, leave early in the day or consider driving on Monday or Tuesday, per INRIX.By the numbers: AAA expects 72.2 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles for Independence Day between Saturday, June 27, and Sunday, July 5.<ul><li>That&#x27;s up from 71.8 million travelers last year but a smaller jump than in recent years.</li></ul>Zoom in: The <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="biggest bottleneck" data-vars-click-url="https://newsroom.aaa.com/2026/06/72-2-million-americans-expected-to-travel-over-july-4th-week/" data-vars-content-id="cec93922-ac94-43a7-b143-f5ef8d0b8ab4" data-vars-headline="Best and worst traffic times around Portland for July Fourth" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://newsroom.aaa.com/2026/06/72-2-million-americans-expected-to-travel-over-july-4th-week/" target="_blank">biggest bottleneck</a> around Portland is expected between Portland and Hood River on I-84 heading east around 2:30pm Thursday.<ul><li>AAA predicts that trip will take an hour and 32 minutes, a 67% increase in travel time.</li></ul>The bottom line: Many other typical routes in and out of town will be jammed, too, so plan accordingly.

Oregon gas tax defeat leaves road funding crisis unresolved

State leaders still need a long-term plan to fund roads and highways.

Oregon lawmakers are expected to take yet another stab at tackling <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="transportation funding" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/05/20/oregon-voters-reject-gas-tax-vehicle-fees" data-vars-content-id="6334e8f0-d36d-40c9-ab49-14e408d0b7a2" data-vars-headline="Oregon gas tax defeat leaves road funding crisis unresolved" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/05/20/oregon-voters-reject-gas-tax-vehicle-fees" target="_self">transportation funding</a> next year after voters overwhelmingly rejected Measure 120.Why it matters: Most of the structural problems behind Oregon&#x27;s transportation funding shortfall remain unresolved.

Crowded GOP field targets Gov. Tina Kotek

The Oregon GOP hasn't occupied the governor's mansion since Victor G. Atiyeh's tenure ended in 1987.

Politics

Oregon&#x27;s gubernatorial primary next month features a crowded field of Republicans running for the opportunity to unseat incumbent Democratic <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Gov. Tina Kotek" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/01/07/transportation-funding-bill-kotek-repeal" data-vars-content-id="d7d12bc4-9194-4a9d-b49f-dcf6b2785fe3" data-vars-headline="Crowded GOP field targets Gov. Tina Kotek" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/01/07/transportation-funding-bill-kotek-repeal" target="_self">Gov. Tina Kotek</a>.The big picture: The Oregon GOP hasn&#x27;t occupied <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the governor&#x27;s mansion" data-vars-click-url="https://www.nga.org/former-governors/oregon/" data-vars-content-id="d7d12bc4-9194-4a9d-b49f-dcf6b2785fe3" data-vars-headline="Crowded GOP field targets Gov. Tina Kotek" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.nga.org/former-governors/oregon/" target="_blank">the governor&#x27;s mansion</a> since Victor G. Atiyeh&#x27;s tenure ended in 1987 and it doesn&#x27;t control a single statewide office.

What Portland homeowners do for a living

Rising costs reshape who can buy homes in Portland, with educators leading.

Real Estate

Those in the education and social services sectors are most likely to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="own homes" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/19/affordable-homes-metro-income" data-vars-content-id="424fc0ab-e71f-494b-88fe-e4aedea7cd6a" data-vars-headline="What Portland homeowners do for a living" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2026/01/19/affordable-homes-metro-income" target="_self">own homes</a> in Portland, according to a new analysis shared exclusively with Axios.Why it matters: Who can afford to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="own a home" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/01/27/home-down-payment-time-2025" data-vars-content-id="424fc0ab-e71f-494b-88fe-e4aedea7cd6a" data-vars-headline="What Portland homeowners do for a living" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/01/27/home-down-payment-time-2025" target="_self">own a home</a> is shifting — reflecting rising housing costs and changing job geography, per the National Association of Realtors analysis of census data.

Middle housing could help ease Portland housing crunch

Policy is just one piece as housing production overall slows.

Portland has been held up nationally as a model for building more affordable &quot;middle&quot; housing units, but recent data suggests a sharp slowdown in construction — a sign that policy is just one remedy for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="easing the city&#x27;s housing crisis" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/01/28/portland-housing-unaffordable-middle-income" data-vars-content-id="eb89a1cb-fb61-4d2b-b89e-ca3bf5fea816" data-vars-headline="Middle housing could help ease Portland housing crunch" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/01/28/portland-housing-unaffordable-middle-income" target="_self">easing the city&#x27;s housing crisis</a>.The big picture: A recent <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Washington Post report" data-vars-click-url="https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2026/03/18/portland-housing-infill-ratio-duplexes/?pwapi_token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJyZWFzb24iOiJnaWZ0IiwibmJmIjoxNzc0MzI0ODAwLCJpc3MiOiJzdWJzY3JpcHRpb25zIiwiZXhwIjoxNzc1NzA3MTk5LCJpYXQiOjE3NzQzMjQ4MDAsImp0aSI6ImYyOGEzOGExLTY1ZDUtNGMwNS1hNTE1LWQwYWQzOTUyNmZmNiIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lndhc2hpbmd0b25wb3N0LmNvbS9idXNpbmVzcy8yMDI2LzAzLzE4L3BvcnRsYW5kLWhvdXNpbmctaW5maWxsLXJhdGlvLWR1cGxleGVzLyJ9.t6_eWGOgooL-IHqkzQK0VznNvYD9r3k6-0IFrlowZAc" data-vars-content-id="eb89a1cb-fb61-4d2b-b89e-ca3bf5fea816" data-vars-headline="Middle housing could help ease Portland housing crunch" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2026/03/18/portland-housing-infill-ratio-duplexes/?pwapi_token=eyJ0eXAiOiJKV1QiLCJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJyZWFzb24iOiJnaWZ0IiwibmJmIjoxNzc0MzI0ODAwLCJpc3MiOiJzdWJzY3JpcHRpb25zIiwiZXhwIjoxNzc1NzA3MTk5LCJpYXQiOjE3NzQzMjQ4MDAsImp0aSI6ImYyOGEzOGExLTY1ZDUtNGMwNS1hNTE1LWQwYWQzOTUyNmZmNiIsInVybCI6Imh0dHBzOi8vd3d3Lndhc2hpbmd0b25wb3N0LmNvbS9idXNpbmVzcy8yMDI2LzAzLzE4L3BvcnRsYW5kLWhvdXNpbmctaW5maWxsLXJhdGlvLWR1cGxleGVzLyJ9.t6_eWGOgooL-IHqkzQK0VznNvYD9r3k6-0IFrlowZAc" target="_blank">Washington Post report</a> highlighted Portland&#x27;s success in spurring middle housing units (duplexes, fourplexes, accessory dwelling units and &quot;cottage clusters&quot;) through its <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Residential Infill Project" data-vars-click-url="https://www.portland.gov/bps/planning/rip" data-vars-content-id="eb89a1cb-fb61-4d2b-b89e-ca3bf5fea816" data-vars-headline="Middle housing could help ease Portland housing crunch" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.portland.gov/bps/planning/rip" target="_blank">Residential Infill Project</a> (RIP), which loosened local zoning laws to incentivize denser development on a single lot.

How Vancouver is winning over small businesses

New funding, partnerships and city support are making the once-sleepy suburb more attractive.

Vancouver is courting small businesses with incentives and support as its recent <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="population boom" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2024/05/20/clark-county-population-growth-oregon-exodus" data-vars-content-id="28c282ab-85a3-4f71-8a27-362f0c5d5479" data-vars-headline="How Vancouver is winning over small businesses" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2024/05/20/clark-county-population-growth-oregon-exodus" target="_self">population boom</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="multimillion-dollar redevelopment projects" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2024/06/21/vancouver-waterfront-near-completion" data-vars-content-id="28c282ab-85a3-4f71-8a27-362f0c5d5479" data-vars-headline="How Vancouver is winning over small businesses" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2024/06/21/vancouver-waterfront-near-completion" target="_self">multimillion-dollar redevelopment projects</a> reshape the city.Why it matters: Clark County <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="has led the region" data-vars-click-url="https://portlandmetrochamber.com/resources/2026-state-of-the-economy/" data-vars-content-id="28c282ab-85a3-4f71-8a27-362f0c5d5479" data-vars-headline="How Vancouver is winning over small businesses" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://portlandmetrochamber.com/resources/2026-state-of-the-economy/" target="_blank">has led the region</a> in job growth every year since the pandemic, outpacing much larger counties like Multnomah and Washington.

Oregon diners leave higher tips than West Coast neighbors

Diners are still spilt on whether they prefer tipping or paying a service fee.

Food and Drink

When dining out, Oregonians tend to leave a 19% tip or higher on average, per Toast&#x27;s latest <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="restaurant trends report" data-vars-click-url="https://pos.toasttab.com/blog/data/toast-restaurant-trends-report-coffee-prices-2026" data-vars-content-id="6a955075-8a97-426f-aae5-163cda107995" data-vars-headline="Oregon diners leave higher tips than West Coast neighbors" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://pos.toasttab.com/blog/data/toast-restaurant-trends-report-coffee-prices-2026" target="_blank">restaurant trends report</a>.The big picture: That&#x27;s about the same as the nationwide average for <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="tips" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/2025/09/01/no-tax-on-tips-jobs-trump-bill" data-vars-content-id="6a955075-8a97-426f-aae5-163cda107995" data-vars-headline="Oregon diners leave higher tips than West Coast neighbors" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/2025/09/01/no-tax-on-tips-jobs-trump-bill" target="_self">tips</a> left at full-service restaurants in Q4 2025, but higher than both our West Coast neighbors.

Blazers hire Minnesota's Micah Nori as new head coach

Portland fills the NBA's final coaching vacancy with a longtime assistant.

Micah Nori will be the next head coach of the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Blazers" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/04/29/portland-playoff-run-ends-and-questions-begin" data-vars-content-id="7f8485be-cab5-4ee3-a9cf-a39266e19f2b" data-vars-headline="Blazers hire Minnesota&#x27;s Micah Nori as new head coach" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/04/29/portland-playoff-run-ends-and-questions-begin" target="_self">Blazers</a>, according to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="media reports" data-vars-click-url="https://www.opb.org/article/2026/06/23/micah-nori-trail-blazers-coach/" data-vars-content-id="7f8485be-cab5-4ee3-a9cf-a39266e19f2b" data-vars-headline="Blazers hire Minnesota&#x27;s Micah Nori as new head coach" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.opb.org/article/2026/06/23/micah-nori-trail-blazers-coach/" target="_blank">media reports</a>.Why it matters: Portland was the only remaining team in the league with a head coaching vacancy before hiring the former assistant coach of the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday.

Oregon grass takes root at the World Cup

Seven World Cup fields started with seed grown in Oregon's Willamette Valley.

Seven <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="World Cup" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/06/09/world-cup-watch-parties-portland-bars-fans" data-vars-content-id="a5a8406f-64ac-4f56-972c-e54e223b3691" data-vars-headline="Oregon grass takes root at the World Cup" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/06/09/world-cup-watch-parties-portland-bars-fans" target="_self">World Cup</a> pitches use grass seed produced in Oregon, underscoring the Willamette Valley&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="outsized role" data-vars-click-url="https://www.kezi.com/news/local/oregon-farms-providing-grass-seed-for-the-world-cup/article_177bbcb1-ef8a-4489-8c32-014c18152893.html" data-vars-content-id="a5a8406f-64ac-4f56-972c-e54e223b3691" data-vars-headline="Oregon grass takes root at the World Cup" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.kezi.com/news/local/oregon-farms-providing-grass-seed-for-the-world-cup/article_177bbcb1-ef8a-4489-8c32-014c18152893.html" target="_blank">outsized role</a> in supplying turf for major sporting events.Why it matters: Oregon&#x27;s grass seed industry is playing a visible role on one of the world&#x27;s biggest sports stages.

Portland's biggest July events: Pride, blues and street fairs

Celebrate summer with music, fireworks, food and Pride events across Portland.

Things to Do

The clock just struck summer and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Portland" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/portland?utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=paid_search&amp;utm_campaign=national&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=23909507513&amp;gbraid=0AAAAACBUgDQ1LuDXn6oQr5u9EId2Z71yO&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjw0o3SBhBVEiwAh28-jQTnTVSlZUGd0oDUe99aP13IoEWhJ-KbzqLrl_4BrFonpNCdXg2HDBoCkL8QAvD_BwE" data-vars-content-id="50d30cb4-5cbe-45bb-a9a8-1dfc196d4795" data-vars-headline="Portland&#x27;s biggest July events: Pride, blues and street fairs" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/portland?utm_source=google&amp;utm_medium=paid_search&amp;utm_campaign=national&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gad_campaignid=23909507513&amp;gbraid=0AAAAACBUgDQ1LuDXn6oQr5u9EId2Z71yO&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjw0o3SBhBVEiwAh28-jQTnTVSlZUGd0oDUe99aP13IoEWhJ-KbzqLrl_4BrFonpNCdXg2HDBoCkL8QAvD_BwE" target="_self">Portland</a> events are in full swing, whether you&#x27;re looking to bop to some tunes, watch some explosions or celebrate Pride.The big picture: With long days and (mostly) dry weather, July packs some of Portland&#x27;s biggest annual festivals into one month. Here are some of our top picks.

Why Portland Pride is in July

For the rest of the country, Pride Month is typically in June. But in Portland, we celebrate in July (and not just because we&#x27;re fashionably late).The big picture: In 2023, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Pride Northwest" data-vars-click-url="https://www.pridenw.org/portlandpride" data-vars-content-id="0358359e-97b6-4eed-be74-905a2ae87316" data-vars-headline="Why Portland Pride is in July" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.pridenw.org/portlandpride" target="_blank">Pride Northwest</a> — the official organizer of the parade and festival — decided to extend celebrations into July so they wouldn&#x27;t compete for waterfront space.<ul><li>A myriad of popular events take place in June, including the Rose Festival, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="PDX Beer Week" data-vars-click-url="https://www.pdxbeerweek.com/" data-vars-content-id="0358359e-97b6-4eed-be74-905a2ae87316" data-vars-headline="Why Portland Pride is in July" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.pdxbeerweek.com/" target="_blank">PDX Beer Week</a>, the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Delta Park Powwow" data-vars-click-url="https://www.facebook.com/p/Delta-Park-Powwow-100064731936859/" data-vars-content-id="0358359e-97b6-4eed-be74-905a2ae87316" data-vars-headline="Why Portland Pride is in July" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.facebook.com/p/Delta-Park-Powwow-100064731936859/" target="_blank">Delta Park Powwow</a> and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Juneteenth" data-vars-click-url="https://www.kgw.com/article/entertainment/events/juneteenth-oregon-celebrates-parade-and-festival/283-aac0874d-79e7-43f4-a6d9-07cc73ac3c24" data-vars-content-id="0358359e-97b6-4eed-be74-905a2ae87316" data-vars-headline="Why Portland Pride is in July" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.kgw.com/article/entertainment/events/juneteenth-oregon-celebrates-parade-and-festival/283-aac0874d-79e7-43f4-a6d9-07cc73ac3c24" target="_blank">Juneteenth</a>.</li></ul>

10 things I've learned in 10 years in Portland

Portland still finds new ways to surprise me.

This summer marks a full decade since I moved to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Portland" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/portland" data-vars-content-id="2de0d41f-a5ac-4069-98ab-c4d09eb23229" data-vars-headline="10 things I&#x27;ve learned in 10 years in Portland" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/portland" target="_self">Portland</a>, the most beautiful and confounding city I&#x27;ve ever lived in.The big picture: I&#x27;ve seen the good, the great and the not-so-great.

The hurdles in Kotek's economic prosperity roadmap

Rethinking the state's tax structure would be the most "politically difficult."

To revive Oregon&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="sluggish economy" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/03/10/portland-economy-business-tax-safety-concerns" data-vars-content-id="19b561ad-c0b2-4355-a234-7c4d910ddd22" data-vars-headline="The hurdles in Kotek&#x27;s economic prosperity roadmap" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/03/10/portland-economy-business-tax-safety-concerns" target="_self">sluggish economy</a>, Gov. Tina Kotek&#x27;s Prosperity Council says the state needs to overhaul everything from its tax structure to its <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="regulatory system" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2025/08/20/portland-s-construction-permitting-timeline-lags-behind-vancouver" data-vars-content-id="19b561ad-c0b2-4355-a234-7c4d910ddd22" data-vars-headline="The hurdles in Kotek&#x27;s economic prosperity roadmap" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2025/08/20/portland-s-construction-permitting-timeline-lags-behind-vancouver" target="_self">regulatory system</a>.Why it matters: Business leaders have spent years warning that Oregon is losing out on jobs and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="billions of dollars in investment" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/03/09/oregon-businesses-expand-out-of-state-growth-incentives" data-vars-content-id="19b561ad-c0b2-4355-a234-7c4d910ddd22" data-vars-headline="The hurdles in Kotek&#x27;s economic prosperity roadmap" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/03/09/oregon-businesses-expand-out-of-state-growth-incentives" target="_self">billions of dollars in investment</a> due to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="red tape" data-vars-click-url="https://www.wweek.com/news/state/2026/02/12/oregons-economy-has-lagged-for-decades-some-blame-a-shrinking-workforce-and-too-much-red-tape/" data-vars-content-id="19b561ad-c0b2-4355-a234-7c4d910ddd22" data-vars-headline="The hurdles in Kotek&#x27;s economic prosperity roadmap" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.wweek.com/news/state/2026/02/12/oregons-economy-has-lagged-for-decades-some-blame-a-shrinking-workforce-and-too-much-red-tape/" target="_blank">red tape</a>, workforce shortages and high costs.

Mayor, council clash on Moda Center deal

City leaders are divided over a proposal to help fund arena renovations.

The fight over funding for renovations to the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Moda Center" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/06/11/moda-center-funding-blazers-city-council" data-vars-content-id="571e0de2-b2d7-4cef-af99-c1b08aa87861" data-vars-headline="Mayor, council clash on Moda Center deal" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/06/11/moda-center-funding-blazers-city-council" target="_self">Moda Center</a> is ratcheting up.Why it matters: City leaders were sharply divided over using public money to revamp the aging arena as their first work session on the issue began Wednesday.

Portland underuses Willamette River, report says

A new report found most river visitors stay on shore despite major cleanup investments.

Portland isn&#x27;t fully tapping into the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Willamette River" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2023/06/30/willamette-columbia-river-swimming-safety" data-vars-content-id="4c41a0bd-3aa5-458e-988a-c7543cb7c6e5" data-vars-headline="Portland underuses Willamette River, report says" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2023/06/30/willamette-columbia-river-swimming-safety" target="_self">Willamette River</a>&#x27;s full economic and recreational potential despite investing billions on making it cleaner and more accessible, according to a new report.Why it matters: The city&#x27;s central waterway attracts more than 2 million visitors a year, but the majority of those visits are to riverfront parks — including downtown&#x27;s Tom McCall — and waterfront pedestrian trails, not the river itself.<ul><li>Plus: Just 6% of the roughly $121 million in annual recreation spending tied to the Willamette comes from activities that take place on the water, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="an analysis" data-vars-click-url="https://portlandmetrochamber.com/resources/the-willamette-rivers-untapped-economic-potential-what-portland-stands-to-gain/" data-vars-content-id="4c41a0bd-3aa5-458e-988a-c7543cb7c6e5" data-vars-headline="Portland underuses Willamette River, report says" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://portlandmetrochamber.com/resources/the-willamette-rivers-untapped-economic-potential-what-portland-stands-to-gain/" target="_blank">an analysis</a> by ECOnorthwest found.</li></ul>The imbalance is obvious: More than 1.2 million people visit riverfront parks each year, while boating and fishing account for roughly 82,000 trips combined.Catch up quick: Portland spent more than $1.4 billion on <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="the Big Pipe project" data-vars-click-url="https://www.portland.gov/bes/about-big-pipe" data-vars-content-id="4c41a0bd-3aa5-458e-988a-c7543cb7c6e5" data-vars-headline="Portland underuses Willamette River, report says" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.portland.gov/bes/about-big-pipe" target="_blank">the Big Pipe project</a> in 2011 and more than $114 million on other river-related recreation infrastructure — the South Waterfront Greenway, Eastbank Esplanade and Cathedral Park Swimming Dock — over the past 25 years.<ul><li>These investments helped transform the Willamette from a polluted industrial waterway with <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a decades-long dirty reputation" data-vars-click-url="https://www.streetroots.org/news-stories/2014/08/27/safe-swim-what-experts-have-say-about-risks-taking-dip-willamette-river/" data-vars-content-id="4c41a0bd-3aa5-458e-988a-c7543cb7c6e5" data-vars-headline="Portland underuses Willamette River, report says" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.streetroots.org/news-stories/2014/08/27/safe-swim-what-experts-have-say-about-risks-taking-dip-willamette-river/" target="_blank">a decades-long dirty reputation</a> into a place where people now swim, paddle and gather.</li></ul>Yes, but: Portland has focused more on cleaning up the river and building around it than making it easier and more routine for people to get in or on it.Zoom out: Other cities paired costly river cleanup projects with attractions to get more people out on the water.<ul><li>For example, Boise built <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a whitewater park" data-vars-click-url="https://www.yahoo.com/news/videos/expert-wave-phase-two-boise-203412334.html" data-vars-content-id="4c41a0bd-3aa5-458e-988a-c7543cb7c6e5" data-vars-headline="Portland underuses Willamette River, report says" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.yahoo.com/news/videos/expert-wave-phase-two-boise-203412334.html" target="_blank">a whitewater park</a> for kayaking and wave surfing. Pittsburgh invested in floating recreation — <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="a barge venue" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/07/01/shore-thing-pittsburgh-barge" data-vars-content-id="4c41a0bd-3aa5-458e-988a-c7543cb7c6e5" data-vars-headline="Portland underuses Willamette River, report says" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/pittsburgh/2025/07/01/shore-thing-pittsburgh-barge" target="_self">a barge venue</a> with public programming like yoga and live music.</li><li>Meanwhile, Milwaukee&#x27;s <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Downtown RiverWalk" data-vars-click-url="https://city.milwaukee.gov/DCD/Projects/RiverWalk" data-vars-content-id="4c41a0bd-3aa5-458e-988a-c7543cb7c6e5" data-vars-headline="Portland underuses Willamette River, report says" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://city.milwaukee.gov/DCD/Projects/RiverWalk" target="_blank">Downtown RiverWalk</a> is a 3-mile walking path allowing public river access alongside entertainment venues, shopping districts and restaurants (something Portland is seriously lacking).</li></ul>The bottom line: To unlock more economic value from the Willamette, the report recommends the city support commercial recreation businesses and create more opportunities for people to engage directly with the river rather than just walk alongside it.

Eagle Creek Trail showcases Gorge recovery

Waterfalls, cliffside views and signs of the Gorge's recovery await.

I ventured out to the Eagle Creek <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Trail" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2023/05/30/three-off-the-beaten-track-trails-close-to-portland" data-vars-content-id="56ae491e-97db-42d3-9783-682fa83307e4" data-vars-headline="Eagle Creek Trail showcases Gorge recovery" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2023/05/30/three-off-the-beaten-track-trails-close-to-portland" target="_self">Trail</a> last week for some dramatic cliffside hiking, a reminder of nature&#x27;s resilience, and a truly unique waterfall experience.The big picture: Nearly a decade after the Eagle Creek Fire, the trail of the same name remains as iconic as ever.

Darcelle XV Plaza makes its debut downtown

This new $9.2 million park honors one of Portland's iconic LGBTQ+ figures.

Darcelle XV Plaza opens to the public Thursday, bringing new life to a downtown block that has been closed off for years.Why it matters: The new $9.2 million park is part of the city&#x27;s push to <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="revitalize downtown" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2023/11/02/post-pandemic-economic-recovery" data-vars-content-id="03adc4d6-9f35-4dce-a995-0cbd57a18eae" data-vars-headline="Darcelle XV Plaza makes its debut downtown" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2023/11/02/post-pandemic-economic-recovery" target="_self">revitalize downtown</a>.

Portland filmmaker spotlights First Thursday, skate culture

The characters encounter some strange people along the way, though.

Culture

Local filmmaker Thom Hilton&#x27;s latest 30-minute short is a love letter to two longtime Portland institutions — <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="First Thursday" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2024/04/04/first-thursday-art-walk-outdoor-market-portland" data-vars-content-id="cb164b8b-6c38-42d0-a7a9-9831289a19c5" data-vars-headline="Portland filmmaker spotlights First Thursday, skate culture" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2024/04/04/first-thursday-art-walk-outdoor-market-portland" target="_self">First Thursday</a> and the city&#x27;s skateboarding scene.The big picture: &quot;Waking Up From a Nap on a Long Day of Doing Nothing&quot; follows a painter and his friend as they skate around the city in an attempt to assuage his anxiety about his first gallery show.

Portland Pastry 10K is all about fostering connection

One Portlander is turning eating <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="pastries" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2024/03/26/women-pastry-chefs-bakers-awards-recognition" data-vars-content-id="c4d26983-b477-4df8-a690-6980c1cc5e5b" data-vars-headline="Portland Pastry 10K is all about fostering connection" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2024/03/26/women-pastry-chefs-bakers-awards-recognition" target="_self">pastries</a> into a collective endurance sport.The big picture: The sold-out Portland Pastry 10K Walk will send 100 people on a 6.8-mile route through Northeast next month, with stops for coffee, croissants, tiramisu and even lasagna along the way.

Mono Space wants to redefine how you hear music

The Pearl District listening gallery treats music as art.

Music

On a recent Friday night, roughly 50 strangers were sprawled out in front of three massive, 4-foot-tall Baltic birch wood speakers listening to Kate Bush&#x27;s 1985 album &quot;Hounds of Love.&quot;<ul><li>Some lay atop bean bag chairs, others crunched together on Togo sofas. Some cupping their hands behind their ears to intensify the sound, others with their eyes closed.</li></ul>The place is Mono Space — a high-fidelity &quot;listening gallery&quot; in the heart of Portland&#x27;s Pearl District that opened just last year, where phones are put away, shoes are kicked off and the sole focus is the music.

Top 9 Portland events to catch this May

Warmer weather and <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="later sunsets" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/04/17/portland-s-8-p-m-sunset-season-starts-tomorrow" data-vars-content-id="1ff1e35f-433d-4bda-8be6-eb16f9910d24" data-vars-headline="Top 9 Portland events to catch this May" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/04/17/portland-s-8-p-m-sunset-season-starts-tomorrow" target="_self">later sunsets</a> mean friends and family are more willing to make plans past 6pm these days. So take advantage of all that May has to offer — festivals, live music, art shows and plenty of reasons to leave the house — with these nine can&#x27;t-miss events.

Scotch Lodge, Nodoguro win James Beard honors

Two local standouts added major honors to Portland's food scene.

Portland restaurants and bars had a strong showing at the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="James Beard Awards" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/03/31/james-beard-finalists-portland-chefs-restaurants-2026" data-vars-content-id="579123b5-c99a-476c-bb83-42699805b6df" data-vars-headline="Scotch Lodge, Nodoguro win James Beard honors" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/03/31/james-beard-finalists-portland-chefs-restaurants-2026" target="_self">James Beard Awards</a> in Chicago Monday, bringing home two of the culinary world&#x27;s most prestigious honors. Why it matters: Portland has been on a hot streak over the last few years, picking up big wins in heavy-hitter categories and cementing us as an innovative food city.

Kann continues to live up to the hype

From griyo to kowosól, the menu remains impressive.

Nearly three years after the much-buzzed-about <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Kann" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2024/11/19/andrea-damewood-best-restaurants-kaede-cafe-olli-kann" data-vars-content-id="752c8120-6f92-4034-bb29-f9eb9f483f39" data-vars-headline="Kann continues to live up to the hype" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2024/11/19/andrea-damewood-best-restaurants-kaede-cafe-olli-kann" target="_self">Kann</a> opened in Southeast Portland, chef Gregory Gourdet&#x27;s ode to his Haitian lineage continues to impress.Best bites: It&#x27;s hard to go wrong anywhere on the <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="menu" data-vars-click-url="https://kannrestaurant.com/menu" data-vars-content-id="752c8120-6f92-4034-bb29-f9eb9f483f39" data-vars-headline="Kann continues to live up to the hype" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://kannrestaurant.com/menu" target="_blank">menu</a> — the whole kitchen is gluten- and dairy-free — and I&#x27;ve yet to be disappointed by a dish there.

Salt & Straw explores sale at $200M valuation

The Oregon ice cream brand is weighing a deal to support future growth.

Business

Portland&#x27;s long-running ice cream icon, <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Salt &amp; Straw" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/05/28/salt-straw-s-new-chef-collabs-look-wildly-good" data-vars-content-id="b54074e7-2646-4097-84a1-df309bd35df7" data-vars-headline="Salt &amp; Straw explores sale at $200M valuation" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/05/28/salt-straw-s-new-chef-collabs-look-wildly-good" target="_self">Salt &amp; Straw</a>, is up for sale at a valuation of roughly $200 million, per media reports.Why it matters: A sale could help fund the artisan frozen confectioner&#x27;s next phase of growth as the brand expands beyond its West Coast roots.

Fremont Garage turns old auto shop into food cart plaza

Plus: The adjacent street will close to traffic in July to pilot a community plaza.

A 100-year-old automotive garage has been transformed into a food cart pod and community plaza on a popular stretch of Northeast Fremont.The big picture: Once home to Barrett Automotive, Fremont Garage is opening just before Memorial Day and will host nearly a dozen food carts in a revamped, racing-themed space designed to feel less like a parking lot and more like a neighborhood &quot;town square,&quot; general manager Tyler Caffal told Axios.

Well-seasoned smash burgers at Southeast Portland's Steely's

Steely's pairs crisp smash burgers with beer and a relaxed hangout vibe.

Smash <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="burgers" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2025/08/11/portland-s-burger-week-2025-brings-record-100-restaurant-lineup" data-vars-content-id="cecd81bd-0727-4c29-94cf-83f51e3cc720" data-vars-headline="Well-seasoned smash burgers at Southeast Portland&#x27;s Steely&#x27;s" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2025/08/11/portland-s-burger-week-2025-brings-record-100-restaurant-lineup" target="_self">burgers</a> have become the norm in recent years, but finding a good one is still a challenge.What to expect: <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Steely&#x27;s" data-vars-click-url="https://www.instagram.com/steelys_pdx/" data-vars-content-id="cecd81bd-0727-4c29-94cf-83f51e3cc720" data-vars-headline="Well-seasoned smash burgers at Southeast Portland&#x27;s Steely&#x27;s" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.instagram.com/steelys_pdx/" target="_blank">Steely&#x27;s</a>, a new spot on Southeast Hawthorne, delivers with tasty burgers, a nice tap list of beers and ample space to take a date, watch a game or even get some remote work done.

The lines at Pipsqueak Bagels are worth it

Pipsqueak doubled production to 2,000 bagels daily after early sellouts, but you'll still want to get there early.

If you head to Portland&#x27;s hottest bagel destination — <a class="gtmContentClick" data-vars-link-text="Pipsqueak Bagels" data-vars-click-url="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/04/09/pipsqueak-bagels-opens-with-new-york-style-hype" data-vars-content-id="97383bdf-c021-4da3-948b-e7643538708d" data-vars-headline="The lines at Pipsqueak Bagels are worth it" data-vars-event-category="story" data-vars-sub-category="story" data-vars-item="in_content_link" href="https://www.axios.com/local/portland/2026/04/09/pipsqueak-bagels-opens-with-new-york-style-hype" target="_self">Pipsqueak Bagels</a> — expect pillowy sandwiches, savory schmears and lines that stretch down the block.

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