‘Top Chef’ contestant opens new bar with French-inspired food in Northwest Portland
By Michael Russell
Published on April 20, 2026.
Former "Top Chef" contestant BJ Smith, bartender Paul Francis, and financial director Robert Thomas have opened a new neighborhood bar, Say When, which will serve French-inspired food and matching cocktails in the former Cha Taqueria space on Northwest 21st Avenue. The bar, which opens later today, features classic bistro snacks such as raw oysters, French fries, and onion soup, and sandwiches. The prices of the menu are notable, with duck confit cassoulet listed at $19 and steak or albacore tuna frites at $23. Additionally, the bar features pinball machines and pool tables.
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