PORTLAND, Ore. — GeekEasy Cafe, an anime-inspired eatery, is set to open in Portland’s Old Town Chinatown, aiming to revitalize the area and build community.
Co-founders Tommy Ly and A.T. Nguyen, both second-generation Asian Americans, have deep ties to Chinatown. Ly’s parents once worked in a neighboring restaurant, and he fondly recalls visiting the area in his youth. “Old Town was hit hard by the pandemic, and many businesses closed,” Ly said. “We want to bring life back.”
Ly, who also runs the nearby anime store Stumptown Otaku, designed the cafe’s anime-themed interior, which includes memorabilia, a custom mural, and a menu inspired by Studio Ghibli films.
Business consultant Sarah Shaoul believes Ly’s experience gives him an advantage. “Building multiple businesses creates a stronger community,” she said.
The cafe’s soft openings have drawn interest from locals, including Stumptown Otaku customers. Its grand opening on March 22 will feature an outdoor vendor market to further promote Chinatown’s revitalization.
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