Memoz Dessert Cafe

Build-Your-Own Dessert Bar Memoz Will Open in North Portland April 22 - Eater Portland

"Memoz, a new build-your-own pastry shop on the corner of Fremont and Williams, lets customers design their own pastries, with several vegan, gluten-free, and kid-friendly desserts. Walking into Memoz, customers choose between a selection of $4 cookies or $6.50 pastries, from gluten-free peanut butter oat cookies to vegan crumb cake. Then, customers walk down a line of various free add-ins — anyone can add two tablespoons’ worth of mix-ins, whether it’s peanut butter chips, candies like Sour Patch Kids, fruits like cherries or pears, or savory add-ins like Thai chiles, blue cheese, or smoked salt. There are more than 40 different additions, so those daunted by the possible combinations can choose from a list of pre-designed combinations — for instance, the Southeast comes with coconut, lemongrass, peanut butter chips, and Thai chiles, and can work in any number of the bases. For those feeling particularly extra, Memoz offers a few finishes for an additional price, like a Baked Alaska topping with ice cream and meringue. Memoz comes from husband-wife team Aaron Allina and Julie Allina; he grew up in Seattle’s restaurant world, where his grandparents owned and worked in restaurants. The two hired Erica Stephensen, a Moonstruck Chocolate alum, to design the desserts and flavor combinations, including a silky dairy-free drinking chocolate made with oat milk. The 28-seat cafe is designed for family outings, with board games available for folks eating in, and beer and wine for parents who maybe just need a minute to relax, okay? Non-drinkers can get a quick fix with nitro cold brew and chai, well-matched with a chipotle-almond brownie. Memoz opens April 22 at 3494 N Williams Avenue." - Brooke Jackson-Glidden