The Pink House Café can be found in downtown Independence, where it stands as an example of the growing elegance of small Mid-Valley towns.

The biggest advertisement for the café is the building that contains it. Directly across from Independence’s new cinema, the Pink House Café is difficult to miss. Narrow and delicately pink, it is the house of storybook grandmas - sweet and inviting.

Inside as well as out, the house is an expertly renovated 1870’s home. The owners purchased it in a dilapidated condition from the city, and moved it to make room for the new theater. Then they gave it a rebirth. The atmosphere is meant to be that of grandmother's house, with charming mismatched plates and tasteful old decor. But not the grandma of stale hard candy and uncirculated air. This grandma had class.

The seating is café style, tables and chairs placed around the connecting rooms. The décor is sparse and graceful, dark prints meant to evoke the house’s first prime. It all comes together to form an approachable sophistication. The staff is personable. Patrons are likely to meet the owners of the cafe and can easily believe they have a personal investment in their customers' enjoyment.

In good weather, the renovated house offers three separate dining porches. The views aren’t great, but everyone's too busy looking at the food to mind. The menu is small, the food is simple and light. Ingredients are all of higher-than-standard quality. The chicken in the Greek Chicken Salad, springy and savory. The breads that make the array of offered sandwiches are artisan, the meat that fills them is thick and fresh. Winter seasonal entrees carry a beautiful balance of cozy and chic. Try the butternut squash ravioli with sweet pepper-cayenne sauce, or the Mt. Angel Sausage Co.’s Bratwursts with Applekraut. Try anything, it's all delicious. The Pink House is also one of the only local venues to offer the famous Stumptown coffee.

Within walking distance from the movie theater and Independence shops, the Pink House can provide the dinner for an easy night out. It is equally appropriate for a comfortable romantic breakfast. Atmosphere, ease, and quality food are all waiting inside The Pink House.

The Pink House is located at 242 D Street, in Independence, between 2nd and 3rd Street. It is open Wednesday-Saturday 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information call 503-837-0900.