Blini Feast at Portland's Katchka for Russia’s Butter Week – ACLU Benefit

Katchka's Bloody Mary
Credit: Carly Diaz

Following Portland’s uncharacteristically cold and stormy winter, Kachka will celebrate Maslenitsa, the Russian folk holiday that marks the end of winter, with a one-time brunch centered around blini. During Maslenitsa, or “Butter Week,” large, round blini made with butter (similar to pancakes) are eaten to symbolize the round, golden sun that arrives with spring. The blini will be served family-style with a bounty of traditional sweet and savory accompaniments: a board filled with cured fish, roe, fruit and preserves, as well as Machanka, a Belorussian gravy of braised meats.

“In its origins, Maslenitsa is a Pagan holiday which bids farewell to winter and welcomes in spring — a time when darkness turns to light,” says Chef/Co-Owner Bonnie Morales. “We wanted to honor that by creating an event that shuts out hatred and bigotry and welcomes in respect, inclusion, and equality by raising money for the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).”

Kachka’s Maslenitsa brunch meal is $45 per person which includes coffee, tea and a “vitamin shot” (see below). Proceeds from the brunch will be donated to the ACLU of Oregon. Kachka will also offer additional brunch cocktails à la carte, including the return of Kachka’s “Bloody Masha” (Horseradish vodka Bloody Mary). Reservations are available between 10am and noon on February 26th, and can be made by emailing reservations@kachkapdx.com.

When

Sunday, February 26th between 10am and noon

Where

Kachka, 720 SE Grand Ave., Portland, Ore., 97214

Details

The set menu will be served family style, of abundant amounts of blini with sweet and savory accompaniments. The meal is $45 per person and includes coffee, tea, and a “vitamin shot” of Kachka horseradish vodka, beet juice, apple juice and celery bitters upon arrival. Additional beverages will be available for purchase and gratuity is not included.

Reservations

Reservations are recommended, and can be made by emailing reservations@kachkapdx.com. 

Information courtesy: Katchka