Previously Zell’s Cafe, Grass Rabbit Eats will open a new restaurant concept in Buckman located at 1300 SE Morrison St, confirmed by its owner Robert Grant.
“We will be opening a new concept sometime soon,” Grant told What Now Portland, “Our new concept will be paying homage to the previous space that was there for 50 years.”
While information is limited, Zell’s Cafe was previously established in 1983 by Tom Zell, although Zell’s Cafe had changed hands multiple times over the years. The most recent transition occurred in 2022 when new owners took the reins while pledging to honor the cafe’s legacy and introduce fresh culinary experiences and traditions.
Despite the limited information on the new venture, Zell’s Cafe had left a mark. In 2019, The Oregonian/OregonLive bestowed the distinction of one of the top 10 corned beef hashes in the city upon Zell’s, while in 2010, it proudly crowned the cafe as the best breakfast restaurant in town.
The publication’s glowing review highlighted Zell’s Cafe as a charming corner establishment, graced with ample window space and serving delights such as delicate, angel-light miniature scones, fragrant press pots of loose black tea, and luscious omelets and frittatas. Notably, their Hangtown Frittata, packed with plump oysters, savory bacon, creamy Asiago cheese, and a sprinkle of scallions, left a lasting impression on diners.
As the breakfast spot has closed its doors, patrons and locals alike reflect on the cherished memories and delightful flavors that Zell’s Cafe has shared with the community throughout its impressive four-decade journey, according to a recent article from Oregon Live.
