Paul Mallory, the co-founder, smiling face and sharp wit behind beloved downtown Portland restaurant Higgins , has died, family and friends confirmed Friday. He was 71.

In a message posted to social media late Thursday, chef Greg Higgins called Mallory the “quiet force behind so much of what made Higgins what it is.”

“From day one, he poured his soul into this restaurant,” Higgins wrote. “His humor, smarts, loyalty and unwavering belief in our mission made Higgins possible. He cared for our staff like family, and offered a warm welcome to everyone who crossed our threshold. He stood beside me through every high and low—and there were many. I truly could not have asked for a better partner in this life’s work.”

Mallory first teamed up with Higgins in 1994, when the duo opened their res

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