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Portland, OR

Launching a farm-to-table French-inspired bistro in Portland’s St. Johns neighborhood.

• Led by award-winning chef Althea Grey Potter with over 25 years of experience.
• Menu inspired by French cuisine and locally sourced seasonal ingredients.
• Proven demand demonstrated through a successful 2025 pop-up concept.
• Located in vibrant St. Johns near Cathedral Park.
• Enhancements planned for branding, furnishings, tableware, and décor to elevate guest experience.

Bar Nouveau is a forthcoming full-service bistro in Portland’s St. Johns neighborhood, offering French-inspired cuisine rooted in farm-to-table principles. Led by Chef Althea Grey Potter, the restaurant will feature a menu driven by seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, creating a dining experience that blends elevated flavors with a welcoming, neighborhood feel. Initially open for happy hour and dinner five nights a week, Bar Nouveau will expand to include weekend brunch within its first few months. The restaurant’s location near Cathedral Park positions it as an accessible spot for both locals and visitors seeking high-quality, thoughtfully prepared meals in a vibrant setting.

Funds from this raise will be directed toward enhancing the restaurant’s identity, atmosphere, and guest experience. Planned investments include professional branding, updated furnishings, and quality tableware to elevate presentation. A high-quality sound system and thoughtful décor updates will contribute to a warm and inviting environment. These upgrades aim to establish Bar Nouveau as both a neighborhood gathering spot and a dining destination, combining Chef Althea’s award-winning culinary expertise with a distinctive, comfortable space designed to leave a lasting impression.

Company Info

Bar Nouveau is a Portland bistro offering French-inspired, farm-to-table dining led by acclaimed chef Althea Grey Potter.

Bar Nouveau is a full-service bistro in Portland, Oregon, offering French-inspired cuisine grounded in farm-to-table principles. Located near Cathedral Park in the St. Johns neighborhood, the restaurant is designed to appeal to both locals and visitors seeking high-quality, seasonally driven dining experiences. Led by Chef Althea Grey Potter, the menu will integrate French culinary techniques with locally sourced ingredients, highlighting the best of the region’s produce and artisanal products. Bar Nouveau will initially operate for happy hour and dinner service five nights a week, with plans to add weekend brunch service after its first three months.

The restaurant’s concept grew from a successful pop-up launched in March 2025, which quickly gained community support and demand for a permanent establishment. Chef Potter, recognized for her inventive flavors and experience in some of Portland’s top dining venues, brings over 25 years in the culinary industry and national recognition from outlets such as Portland Monthly and Food Network. The space will be enhanced with professional branding, comfortable furnishings, high-quality tableware, and a sound system, alongside décor updates that create a welcoming atmosphere. Bar Nouveau aims to serve as both a neighborhood staple and a destination for elevated farm-to-table dining in the greater Portland area.