Danny Wong does a bit of everything, from taking deliveries to doing meetings and the books, for the East Garden restaurant. A bit of everything, except the cooking.

That most essential job is left to his father who, Danny says beaming with pride, “is an excellent cook” of dishes you’d find in Guangzhou (formerly Canton), where the Wong’s immigrated from to join family in Portland in 1989. And for about a year, they have been the sole owners of East Garden at 12424 SE Division St.

East Garden’s food leans toward “a little more original Chinese,” according to Danny, and you can try it out yourself at the Festival of Nations on Sept. 17. For a second year, East Garden will feature restaurant favorites, such as lo meins, fried rice and other popular items. Like last year, the East Garden is a festival sponsor, sponsoring at the Silver Level.  Read More

People – Places– Things on the spot at Festival’s food tent
Volunteer Spotlight
By Ann Ereline

A lot of ingredients are needed to make the Taste of Nations tent a rousing success year after year. The food part is handled by the remarkable chefs from our diverse local communities.

The organization and communications are also in the hands of experts from People – Places – Things. Sheila Gibbons takes the helm as lead coordinator and will be assisted by five group leaders. Patrik McDade will hand out helpings of assistance to groups as they prepare their dishes. 

Sheila and Patrik as well as People – Places – Things are a perfect match for the Taste of Nations, this year bringing together delicacies from Russia to Mexico, Somalia to China, and Iraq, Bhutan and Myanmar. Read More