Oregon’s first Blue Foods Forum brought together chefs, scientists, artists, and entrepreneurs to explore new ways of connecting ocean health with coastal livelihoods. In the months since, that gathering has sparked real change, launching new seafood products, creative collaborations, and innovative ventures that are redefining what it means to build a truly sustainable blue economy on the Oregon Coast.

On the evening of Thursday, February 20, 2025, at the cozy venue Union Pine in Portland, we celebrated the final act of our three-day Blue Foods Forum with the Seafaring Speakeasy — a spirited, sea-centric gathering of community, creativity, and culinary craft.

In February 2025, Oregon’s first Blue Foods Forum brought together an extraordinary mix of chefs, economists, artisans, food innovators, marine scientists and ocean advocates for three days of hands-on industry collaboration and culinary inspiration.  

Set against the creative backdrop of the Ecotrust Redd East event venue in SE Portland, this action-driven gathering invited participants to explore how Oregon’s ocean-based foods — from wild seafood to regenerative seaweeds — can contribute to a more sustainable, resilient, and delicious local food future.