July 8, 2012
Located at 3322 Mission Street, El Paisa Restaurante was an informal spot in the Mission District known for its authentic Honduran and Salvadoran cuisine, including pupusas and grilled meats. While this neighborhood favorite is now permanently closed, its sign remains a memory of the diverse culinary landscape of the Mission.
November 3, 2014
Located in the heart of Portland’s vibrant NW 23rd district, The Fireside is a cozy retreat that celebrates the bounty of the Pacific Northwest. With a focus on local, organic farms and ranches, the menu offers a true taste of the region. You can find this welcoming neighborhood spot at 801 NW 23rd Ave, where it has become a go-to for everything from weekend brunch to casual hangouts.
September 27, 2003
For over 40 years, El Pollo Supremo has been a beloved staple in the Mission District. Located at 5210 Mission Street, this family-owned restaurant, established in 1982, serves a delicious mix of Mexican and Cuban cuisine, but it’s their succulent, flavorful, char-broiled chicken that has made them famous. A true neighborhood gem, El Pollo Supremo continues to serve the community, offering a taste of tradition on Mission Street.
November 10, 2023
Big Mario’s Pizza brings an authentic taste of New York to Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood. The story begins with Mario Vellotti, who emigrated from Naples to New York in 1964 and honed his craft in the city’s legendary pizza kitchens. He eventually brought his expertise to the Pacific Northwest, opening the first Big Mario’s on Pike Street.
Known for its classic, foldable New York-style slices, a retro vibe, and a late-night slice window, Big Mario’s quickly became a beloved spot for concert-goers, locals, and everyone in between. It’s a go-to for a quick, satisfying meal in a neighborhood known for its vibrant nightlife. The pizzeria is still thriving and serving up pies at its original location: 1009 E Pike St.
October 10, 2003
Bruno’s, at 2389 Mission Street, was a legendary restaurant and nightclub that played a pivotal role in the Mission District’s nightlife. Revived in the 1990s as a retro-chic supper club, it became a cornerstone of the neighborhood’s burgeoning scene. Known for its live music, classic cocktails, and distinct circular bar, Bruno’s was a beloved institution that captured the spirit of a bygone era for a new generation before its eventual closure. The restaurant closed in 2020, but as of early 2024, there are plans for it to reopen.
October 10, 2003
La Rondalla was a well-known Mexican restaurant and cantina at 901 Valencia Street in San Francisco’s Mission District. The restaurant was famous for its distinct interior, which was decorated year-round with Christmas lights. For decades, it was a cherished local spot, known for its strong margaritas and as a gathering place for the LGBT Latino community from the 1960s to the 1980s. The restaurant permanently closed in July 2016.
October 5, 2003
Located at Nieuwe Doelenstraat 20 in the heart of Amsterdam, Café de Jaren has been a city staple since 1990. This bright and spacious grand café is famous for its beautiful first-floor balcony and sunny terrace right on the Amstel river. With its own jetty, it’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, whether arriving by foot or by boat.