Old Wives' Tales Closed After 34 Years

Restaurant was a haven for activists, vegans, LGBT community

East Burnside's Old Wives' Tales closed Sunday, May 4, after 34 years in business.

Since opening in 1980, the multi-ethnic restaurant at 1300 East Burnside Street has been a gathering place for feminist, gay rights and environmental activists, and was an early refuge for those with vegan, vegetarian or gluten-free diets. It also featured an extensive children's menu.

“I’ve always understood that food is a social thing, and it can be utilized in political and social organizations,” owner and manager Holly Hart said in a recent interview with Oregon Jewish Life. 

Hart was known for serving free food to volunteers on progressive political campaigns, and giving out $35 Old Wives' Tales gift certificates to various schools and nonprofits each year. In the '70s, she was one of the organizers of the Portland Gay Liberation Front.

The restaurant put up a notice on its door that Sunday would be its final day of business. We'll post more information as it becomes available.


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