LoRell's Chicken Shack Opens New Portland Location
The restaurant relocated to a North Russell Street site to align with a nonprofit's development goals in the Albina District.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Openings & Closings
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LoRell's Chicken Shack opened its new brick-and-mortar storefront at 668 N. Russell Street in August 2026. The restaurant relocated to the space after closing its previous location at the Lloyd Center.
Why it matters
The relocation reflects a strategic shift for the small business, which moved into a development project managed by the 1803 Fund to align with the nonprofit's vision for the Albina District.
The business operates from a space supported by the 1803 Fund, which manages 7 acres of land in the area. This follows a two-year tenure at the Lloyd Center, which closed in summer 2026.
The players
LoRell's Chicken Shack
A food service business specializing in fried chicken and sides that has transitioned from cart-based and mall-based operations to a standalone location.
1803 Fund
A nonprofit organization focused on community development and property management in Portland's Albina District.
The details
Preston, the owner of LoRell's Chicken Shack, selected the site on North Russell Street after vetting several commercial offers. The 1803 Fund prioritized the business as a foundational tenant to help anchor the nonprofit's broader revitalization goals for the Albina District. The restaurant continues to focus its operations around a core menu of chicken wings, fries, and sandwiches, utilizing a modest layout featuring four tables.
Timeline
August 2026: LoRell's opened the new North Russell Street location.
Summer 2026: The Lloyd Center closed operations.
Market Landscape
This opening follows the broader development trends seen within the Albina District initiative. The site selection marks a departure from the business's previous reliance on centralized shopping mall environments.
Operators considering similar relocations should evaluate how nonprofit-backed developments can provide stability compared to traditional commercial malls. Review lease terms carefully when aligning with community-based real estate funds to ensure operational goals match the landlord's long-term vision.
The takeaway
The move highlights the importance of matching business location strategy with the mission-driven goals of property owners. Monitor the 1803 Fund's ongoing development in the Albina District to identify future commercial space opportunities in the area.
Further reading
For more on shifts in the local retail environment, see Portland Openings & Closings.
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In your community, do you believe local business development is the best path to neighborhood revitalization?
