John Gorham’s back, though it’s not like he’s really been anywhere, given that he’s been running Toro Bravo, Tasty n Sons, Tasty n Alder and Mediterranean Exploration Company—now he is adding Plaza del Toro to his portfolio. It’s not a straight-forward restaurant, but one of those ‘spaces’ that will hold events, house a test kitchen and let Gorham have some fun (it's the equivalent of a successful rock star buying a guitar shaped swimming pool).

From the photos it looks spacious and attractive—tomorrow night (Friday the 17th) there’s a chance to check it out in person at a free launch party. There will be nibbles, a cash bar and DJ entertainment. The first dinner event on the April 18 is substantially more upscale, a formal 12-course collaboration with Cameron Winery. They will be raiding their cellars for some rather special vintages, which is reflected in the price: $175 a head.

However, there are more reasonably priced events planned, with a family-style Spanish meal on April 24, which is $60 all inclusive, and there will be musical events and even "craftsman days" that mix food and artisan workers. In May, a prix-fixe brunch called Sunday Service will start, which will feature pastries, oysters and champagne. The space will also house a test kitchen, which Gorham wants all his restaurants to use to develop new recipes and expand their creativity. Plaza del Toro, 105 SE Taylor, launch party April 17, 7-10 pm. For all other events visit plazadeltoropdx.com