Delicious, Seasonal Menu and Intimate New Spot Open in Portland’s East End

Portland's dining scene has a new addition with the opening of Sweetfern Geometer, chef William Justice's latest restaurant at 122 Washington Ave. According to Portland Food Map, the restaurant officially opened on Wednesday, July 29, after Justice completely renovated the former Bake Maine Pottery Cafe space into a 50-seat restaurant with a 20-seat bar.

What to Expect

Sweetfern is currently open Wednesday through Sunday from 5–9 p.m. and is starting with counter service and a limited menu before transitioning to full table service. Early dishes include Scallop Crudo with kielbasa, cucumber, scallion mayo, green oil, and red currant, a summer potato salad, marinated chicken or tofu, and more! The beverage program currently focuses on beer and wine, with cocktails expected once the full menu launches.

The Vision Behind Sweetfern

When the full menu is introduced, Sweetfern will center around family-style meals built with seasonal ingredients and tailored to guests' preferences, including vegetarian and seafood options. Justice brings a diverse hospitality background to the project. He began with an underground catering business in California before opening a farm-to-table restaurant and bookstore café in Kansas. He later moved to New York City, where he served as chef and co-owner of Tannat Wine & Cheese. Earlier this year, he also opened the neighboring bakery and café, Mourning Cloak.