Better Half Sandwich Shop Reopening in Upgraded Portland Location

The popular meat and meat-free sandwich spot is expanding with a new, larger space and additional menu items.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 5:51pm by

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A brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen print of a single, iconic Better Half sandwich item repeated in a tight grid pattern, capturing the vibrant and inclusive spirit of the business.Better Half's expansion into a larger, upgraded space in Portland signals the resilience and adaptability of the community-focused sandwich shop.Portland Today

Better Half, a sandwich shop founded by Alan Osborn and Kelly Haarsager that offers both meat and meat-free options, is preparing to reopen in a new, larger location in Portland, Oregon this August. The new space on Northwest Thurman Street will allow the business to expand its menu with the return of breakfast sandwiches, housemade English muffins, a new ciabatta/focaccia hybrid bread, and the popular Lemongrass Tofu sandwich, as well as an expanded coffee program.

Why it matters

Better Half's reopening in an upgraded location represents the resilience of a small, community-focused business that weathered the challenges of the pandemic. The expansion also signals growing demand for inclusive, health-conscious dining options that cater to a range of dietary preferences in Portland's vibrant food scene.

The details

Better Half first opened its doors in July 2020, just as the COVID-19 pandemic was taking hold. Despite the difficulties, the business remained resilient and continued to pursue its goal of providing a welcoming space for all to enjoy delicious sandwiches. Over the past six years, Better Half has experienced significant growth and is now preparing to reopen in a new, larger location that will allow the owners to bring back popular menu items and expand their offerings.

  • Better Half first opened in July 2020.
  • The new, upgraded location is set to open in August 2026.

The players

Alan Osborn

Co-founder of Better Half sandwich shop.

Kelly Haarsager

Co-founder of Better Half sandwich shop.

Better Half

A sandwich shop in Portland, Oregon that offers both meat and meat-free options, as well as gluten-free choices.

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What they’re saying

“We strive to create a welcoming space where all of the options are delicious, and everyone can enjoy a tasty sandwich together without compromise.”

— Alan Osborn and Kelly Haarsager, Co-founders, Better Half

“Despite the challenges we faced, we remained resilient and continued to pursue our dream of opening Better Half.”

— Alan Osborn and Kelly Haarsager, Co-founders, Better Half

“We are grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the vibrant Portland community and love contributing to the culinary scene here.”

— Alan Osborn and Kelly Haarsager, Co-founders, Better Half

What’s next

Better Half's new location on Northwest Thurman Street is set to open in August 2026, and the owners are excited to welcome the community back and may even have some new merchandise available.

The takeaway

Better Half's expansion into a larger, upgraded space in Portland's thriving food scene demonstrates the resilience and adaptability of small, community-focused businesses. The sandwich shop's commitment to inclusivity and diverse dietary preferences has allowed it to build a loyal following and contribute to the city's vibrant culinary landscape.