Portland is known for being a melting pot of flavors—funky fusions, gluten-free goods and crafty cocktails are hot on the restaurant scene, and Broder is no novice to this trend—their traditional Nordic menu offers patrons a flair of unique flavors to treat the palate.
With two locations (and slightly differing menus) in Portland, Broder Café SE on Clinton Street and Broder Nord in North Portland off Interstate Avenue, are must-try eateries for brunch any day of the week. Each location is open from 8 am to 3 pm, with menus boasting of traditional Scandinavian breakfast delicacies as well as midday meals. Fortunately for those who solely dine out in the evenings can now taste through Broder Nord’s new happy hour and dinner menus. Might I suggest the “Smorg Asbord”—a $25 tasting menu served in the tradition Swedish style for the whole table.
I am a firm believer that brunch is the most important meal of the day, and the weekly line that is commonly snaking out the door of Broder Café SE before noon proves I am not the only practitioner of this philosophy. The good news for thirsty guests with a craving for Scandinavian brunch so fierce that they are willing to withstand an hour wait and a growling stomach is that Savoy Tavern, also owned by Broder’s owner Peter Bro, opens its neighboring doors and spends the first half of the day as Broder’s own personal waiting area. Not only is comfortable seating and warmth available but, best of all, they serve all of Broder’s sought after beverages—and, trust me, a Swedish Coffee will make the wait plenty more bearable.
I am quite a fan of the sweeter, Spanish coffee but the Swedish coffee offered a fun, new take on my favorite caffeinated wake up call—boozed up with aquavit and Kahlua added to Stumptown drip, this drink offers a more savory pick me up. Those who prefer to cure a headache with tomato juice and a kick must order the Danish Mary—a house-made Mary mix full of fresh herbs paired with Vodka or an array of aquavit is sure to brighten any day. Fruitier cocktails and bubbly beverages full of Swedish norms, like lingonberries, also grace the menu waiting to be ordered.
Drinks are certainly a very important aspect of brunch, but just as important is the actual meal you order. Be it you are in the mood for savory or sweet, the Swedes have developed a dish to sate any craving, but be warned that pronouncing the menu items is no easy feat. “Aebleskiver,” otherwise known as Danish pancakes (which look nothing like traditional American pancakes but rather are fluffy balls of sweet dough), are served with your choice of house-made lemon curd, lingonberry jam, apple sauce or syrup. Those on the hunt for a heartier meal should give the “Pytt I Panna,” or Swedish hash, a try—the smoked trout option was delicious but braised beef short ribs and smoked ham didn’t sound too bad either. The menu also boasts of egg scrambles, seasonal fritters and various “bords” of breads, cured meats and cheeses.
No matter the occasion, take the opportunity to dine through Broder’s delicious dishes and go home feeling a touch more cultured.
Broder Nord || 2240 N Interstate Ave., Portland
Broder Cafe SE || 2508 SE Clinton St., Portland
broderpdx.com
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