If you’ve ever waited in line at either of the Portage Bay

If you’ve ever waited in line at either of the Portage Bay Cafes for one of their amazing brunches, soon you’ll have another crowd to join because the cafe is coming to Ballard. Owners Amy and John Gunnar have had their eye on the cafe’s future location at 2821 N.W. Market Street for a long time, but it wasn’t until the couple finally decided to expand to South Lake Union that their Ballard dream spot opened up. “It was much like those families that try to have children, then end up adopting, only to find out they’re finally pregnant,” laughs Amy, who has called Ballard home for 20 years. The Gunnars think the new location will be a great fit for Portage Bay. “So much of what is happening down here is geared toward nightlife,” she says, “but we think Ballard will be a good market for a great breakfast-lunch place, especially with our focus on organic and sustainable ingredients.” They’re aiming for a January or February opening, but with the shaky state of the economy, the owners are reluctant to release a firm date. Meanwhile, their Roosevelt location celebrated its 11th anniversary recently, and they’re hoping to continue their success. “We’re excited to become equally long-term restaurateurs in Ballard,” says Amy. Find restaurant gossip like this plus local food events and great date ideas in our Big Bites e-newsletter, sent out every Tuesday. Sign up here and we promise we won’t fill your inbox with spam.