ABOUT

My name is Nicholas Albice, and I am the General Manager of Bamboo Sushi in downtown Bend, which has quickly become one of the busiest restaurants in the city. I have more than 20 years of leadership experience in the hospitality industry, managing everything from fast-casual concepts to fine dining restaurants and luxury hotels. Throughout my career, I have opened new restaurants, led large teams, improved operations, and built strong relationships with guests and the communities we serve. Although I recently relocated to Bend full-time, this community has been a part of my life for nearly 20 years. My mom has lived here for almost two decades, and I have been visiting Bend regularly throughout that time. I also have a sister and extended family here, so this move was about more than a career opportunity—it was about coming home and putting down roots in a community I have grown to love over the years. Working in one of downtown's busiest restaurants gives me a unique perspective. Every day I interact with hundreds of locals and visitors, hear firsthand what they enjoy about downtown, and see opportunities to continue making it an even better place to live, work, and visit. I believe I can bring a collaborative, business-minded perspective to the Downtown Bend Business Association. I enjoy building relationships, solving problems, supporting local businesses, and finding ways to strengthen the community. I would be honored to serve on the Board of Directors and contribute my experience, energy, and passion to helping downtown Bend continue to thrive.

WHAT ARE DOWNTOWN’S THREE GREATEST ASSETS?

Sense of Community – Downtown Bend has a unique ability to bring people together. Whether it's local events, farmers markets, live music, or simply people enjoying the streets, there is a genuine sense of community that makes downtown feel welcoming to both residents and visitors. Strong Local Business Community – One of downtown's greatest strengths is the diversity of locally owned restaurants, shops, galleries, breweries, and service businesses. That mix creates a vibrant destination where people can spend an entire day exploring while supporting local entrepreneurs. Walkability and Overall Experience – Downtown Bend is easy to explore on foot, with beautiful streets, public spaces, and access to the Deschutes River nearby. The combination of the natural surroundings, downtown atmosphere, and concentration of businesses creates an experience that is unique and keeps people coming back.

WHAT ARE DOWNTOWN’S THREE GREATEST OPPORTUNITIES?

Expanding Year-Round Activity – Bend has an incredible downtown, but there is an opportunity to continue creating events and experiences that encourage people to visit throughout the year, not just during the peak tourist seasons. Supporting local businesses during slower months benefits the entire downtown community. Collaboration Among Businesses – I believe there is an opportunity to strengthen collaboration between restaurants, retailers, hotels, and other local businesses. Cross-promotions, shared events, and open communication can create a stronger downtown experience while helping all businesses succeed together. Thoughtful Growth While Preserving Downtown's Character – As Bend continues to grow, there is an opportunity to welcome new businesses and investment while preserving the local charm, walkability, and sense of community that make downtown special. Finding that balance will be important for the long-term success of downtown.

WHAT ARE DOWNTOWN’S THREE GREATEST CHALLENGES?

Workforce Recruitment and Retention – Like many communities, downtown businesses continue to face challenges attracting and retaining quality employees. Affordable housing, transportation, and the overall cost of living all play a role in maintaining a strong workforce. Balancing Growth with Downtown's Identity – Bend continues to grow rapidly, and one of downtown's biggest challenges is embracing that growth while preserving the character, local businesses, and sense of community that make it such a special place. Maintaining a Vibrant Downtown for Everyone – Ensuring that downtown remains clean, safe, welcoming, and accessible for residents, visitors, and businesses alike is an ongoing challenge. Continued collaboration between local businesses, community organizations, and city leaders will be essential to maintaining a thriving downtown experience.

WHY DO YOU WANT TO BE ON THE DBBA BOARD OF DIRECTORS?

I want to serve on the Downtown Bend Business Association Board because I genuinely care about the future of downtown Bend and want to be an active part of shaping it. As the General Manager of Bamboo Sushi, I have the opportunity to interact with hundreds of residents and visitors every week. Those conversations give me a unique perspective on what people love about downtown and where there are opportunities to make the experience even better. I believe that perspective, combined with more than 20 years of leadership experience in the hospitality industry, allows me to bring practical ideas and a collaborative approach to the Board. Although I recently relocated to Bend full-time, my connection to this community goes back nearly 20 years. My mom has lived here for almost two decades, and I've been visiting regularly throughout that time. I also have family here, so Bend has long felt like a second home. Now that I'm here permanently, I want to give back to a community that has meant so much to my family. I believe the best downtowns are built when businesses work together rather than independently. I enjoy building relationships, solving problems, and finding ways to support the success of others. I would be honored to contribute my experience, energy, and passion to helping downtown Bend continue to thrive for residents, visitors, employees, and local businesses alike.