In 1972, the late great Frank Hale opened what would become the iconic Hillsboro, Oregon restaurant, Hales Restaurant and Lounge. By the time Frank passed in 2013, the 40 years of success as one of our communities’ top eateries had become legendary. But his death, which left a hole the size of a giant, was not easy to move ahead from. The generational family-owned and run restaurant did just that, and his 3rd wife, Deanna, family, and loyal staff dug in and made it happen. The food has been consistently on point, with breakfast still being the strong suit.
When COVID hit, we helped get the news out that Hale’s was going to fight back, and they built an outdoor patio and focused on take-out orders. Another tragedy hit this year was when an electrical fire broke out in the office upstairs. The fire containment saved the building but flooded the downstairs. That left the owners strapped for cash and options. They survived again. Do you know how hard it is to keep a restaurant open for 53 years? Let’s say this is all but impossible to accomplish.
Since Frank passed, Deanna has been there to make things work and to act as that anchor to the past- to the glory days, if you will. Word came tonight that Hale’s will face another great challenge as Deanna Hale has passed away. The team will have to move ahead without her. She acted as the owner and face of Hale’s since Frank’s death- and now those that remain will need to rely on each other and the teachings of both Frank and Deanna. Customers and food come first at Hale’s, and they always have. If they remember that and deliver this Hillsboro original, it will be another 50 years.
A word about Hale’s past in Hillsboro: we old-timers will also remember Frank and his 1st wife and restaurant visionary, Judie. Talk about a Matriarch. She helped set up the restaurant, the Spartan Sandwich menu, and the motif and design of the place, which remains much unchanged today. Also, we remember and are very grateful for the kids, Brian and Rhonda, who made the place great for many years, learning everything from their Dad and Mom. All of them set Hale’s brand of excellence in stone and carried it forward and over to Milwaukie Hale’s, which was also excellent for decades. The memories and meals are everywhere and to be remembered. All of them, along with Deanna and her kids and staff, have made Hale’s the survivor that it is, the great eatery it is. In this case, families have been intertwined through time with the precepts of service, significant portions, and excellent cooking.
It is time to support Hale’s Restaurant and Lounge more than ever. We can all help them survive and move ahead. This place and the people remain one of the few ties to our past and rich history, and we can not afford to lose them. Please do what you can- get over there and EAT and participate in some fun things they have going on. The Lounge is also a real throwback spot that feels like a fabulous 70s hang out. We love it- and maybe a Holiday Cocktail is just what many of you need in the next week or so!
Hale’s information is right here: https://haleshillsboro.com/
A POSTING FROM THE HALE’s Facebook Page:
Dear Friends and Family of Hale’s,
It is with heavy hearts that we share the sad news of the passing of our beloved owner, Deanna Hale. Deanna was not only the heart and soul of Hale’s Restaurant & Lounge for many years but also a true friend to all who walked through our doors. Her passion for great food, warm hospitality, and community will never be forgotten.
For many years, Deanna and her late husband, Frank (who passed in 2012), worked side by side to create a welcoming place where families, friends, and neighbors could gather, share a meal, and make lasting memories. Their dedication to quality, care, and service shaped everything we stand for. Though we are deeply saddened by the loss of Deanna, we are committed to carrying forward her and Frank’s legacy, continuing to serve you with the same love and commitment they always did.
We are deeply grateful for your understanding and support during this difficult time. Our team remains devoted to providing the exceptional dining experience you’ve come to expect. The love and dedication that Deanna poured into Hale’s Restaurant will always be felt here.
Arrangements for Deanna’s celebration of life will be shared as soon as they are finalized. In the meantime, we welcome your patronage to support our grieving employees in lieu of flowers.
Thank you for being part of the Hale’s family. We will continue to honor Deanna’s memory in everything we do, and we are truly honored to have you with us during this time.
With sincere gratitude and respect,
The Hale’s Restaurant & Lounge Team
Here is Frank Hale’s Obit
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Hale’s is hands-down the best breakfast in this town and that lounge is an AM Gold time capsule that was playing Yacht Rock before the memes or documentaries.
The unwritten rule here is not to share your secret spots, but I want this one to remain open as long as time will allow. Also, the lounge staff is in the middle of a contest to see who can sell the most gift cards and holiday cocktails. Deanna seems like someone who’d be all for us celebrating her life by helping them out.
Deanna would love us to help them out. They have remained relevant and consistenly good for a long time- longer than anyone else still standing as of right now. We hope everyone far and wide helps them out. Thanks for you note, Jason! Good time to help Hale’s keep things going!
Hale’s. The menu is great, breakfast is fabulous, but that lounge…priceless! It rivals many of the new speakeasys. If you love food, drinks and atmosphere, you gotta go!