KOLACHES are the order of the day at the Happy Sparrow.   They originated as a semi-sweet wedding dessert in Czeckoslovakia and central Europe.  Over time they were brought over to the US, becoming popular – and enhanced – in parts of Texas, Oklahoma, Iowa and Wisconsin where local kolache festivals are celebrated.  Eventually an Asian couple raised in Texas, opened the Happy Sparrow Cafe in Portland where the only pastry served is sweet and savory kolaches.

Possibly because of the uniqueness of the kolache, and the friendliness of the owners, most customers we saw came in with big smiles on their faces.  And this carries over to their conversations.  There is a limitation to hanging out, though, and that is the cafe’s limited size.  Otherwise, the shop’s tables, games, and reading material all communicate a welcoming atmosphere.

Today’s conversation focused mostly on family histories and dysfunctions, overcoming personal hurdles, relatives who are struggling, and those who are doing well.   3001 SE Belmont   http://www.happysparrowcafe.com