Ota Tofu is set to open its doors at a second location, with its original being transformed into a cafe at 812 SE Stark St sometime at the end of this year, according to a recent article from Oregon Live.
A representative of Ota Tofu did not immediately return What Now Portland’s request for comment.
While the official opening date and location for the secondary location have yet to be confirmed, for over a century, this small, family-owned business has been crafting the finest and freshest tofu, earning a reputation as America’s oldest tofu company.
Ota Tofu’s commitment to providing quality, healthy, and flavorful ingredients has made it a hidden gem in Portland’s vibrant food scene. As the city continues to evolve as a hub for culinary innovation, Ota Tofu finds itself at the forefront, combining tradition with exciting new tofu uses and recipes that cater to a diverse and discerning clientele.
Tofu, a soybean curd with roots dating back over a thousand years, has a storied history that spans continents. Introduced to Japan several hundred years after its inception in China, tofu found its way into the American consciousness thanks to Benjamin Franklin, who mentioned it in a letter written in 1770. In 1911, the Ota family seized the opportunity to provide a taste of home for Portland’s burgeoning Japanese immigrant community. What began as a way to cater to the Japanese community soon evolved into something much greater.
Ota Tofu’s journey as a business took an unexpected turn during World War Two when Japanese Americans faced internment. Like many others, the Ota family was forced to give up their homes and businesses. However, a sympathetic landlord ensured the preservation of their original location in Northwest Portland. With the war’s end, the Ota family resumed their tofu production, becoming a mainstay for Portland’s Asian-American community.
In 2019, Ota Tofu experienced a change in ownership as the Ogata family took the reins. Maintaining Ota Tofu’s roots, the Ogatas’ ensured the continuation of its history and identity as a cherished family-owned business. With a dedicated team of employees, some with over 25 years of experience, Ota Tofu upholds its commitment to excellence, according to the company website.
