Saffron Colonial: Controversial North Portland restaurant changes name

OregonLive ^ | April 8, 2016 | Samantha Bakall

[hiho hiho]

A North Portland restaurant that sparked outrage, protests and drew criticism for weeks for its historical associations with English colonialism has changed its name.

The month-old Saffron Colonial, opened by Portland native Sally Krantz, will now be known as the British Overseas Restaurant Corporation, or "BORC" for short.

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Controversy quickly broke out over the Saffron Colonial name and menu, which included a Plantation Punch. At least two protests gathered outside the restaurant, hoping to force Krantz to change the name. Vendors such as Ristretto Roasters and Steven Smith Teamaker cut ties with the restaurant.

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In an email Friday, Krantz shared why she changed the restaurant's name:

My intention in opening this restaurant was not to be divisive, exclusionary or hierarchal. I have no interest in recreating colonialism, racial prejudice or bias.

My journey has always pointed towards inclusion, discussion and sharing of all viewpoints. I have spent 20 years traveling and absorbing lots of different cultures, not just through business, but also through literature, architecture, art, and of course, food. As a chef, this is critical. My direction in life has always been about exploring and celebrating other cultures, learning about them and trying to express this co-mingling through food.

Clearly the name Saffron Colonial did not convey this, but rather became divisive, which was not the intent. I have never had a problem changing the name, but also wanted to take some time to develop the right name. I feel B.O.R.C. reflects both what I am trying to do with the food and will not separate us, but will hopefully allow us to move forward together.

[hattend]

At least two protesters gathered outside the restaurant, hoping to force Krantz to change the name.

There fixed it as it is probably closer to the truth

And, unfortunately, the state of the American body politic nowadays.

[lefty-lie-spy]

That is so bizarre. All these years I could have sworn it was a Donovan. Funny how memory can play tricks on you. I’ll have to find the version I remember and see who really recorded it. I’m guessing it will the Manfred Mann version. Thank you.