About Us
VanPort Insider
At VanPort Insider, we live and breathe food culture. Founded by seasoned globetrotter and food critic Michael Key, our mission is to spotlight the very best of the Vancouver/Portland dining and nightlife scene. Whether you’re a local foodie, a curious visitor, or a restaurateur aiming to stand out, you’re in the right place.
VanPort Insider offers expert reviews, curated lists, insider news, pricing insights, and industry tips backed by decades of experience. For our readers, it’s a trusted resource. For restaurants and bars, it’s an opportunity to reach an engaged and discerning audience that values authenticity, quality, and discovery…on both sides of the river.
Discover VanPort. Dine Better. Drink Smarter.
Our Team
Michael Key
Founder
Two time Emmy Award winner, Michael Key spent over two decades traveling the globe during his career in the motion picture industry, producing trade shows and publishing a magazine, logging more than 140,000 miles annually and dining in over 16 countries. From craft cocktail bars in Sydney to Michelin-starred spots in Paris, he developed a refined palate and a sharp eye for quality and service. He is a Level 9 Google Maps Local Guide with over 1,000 detailed reviews and more than 230 million views on his food and venue photography.
Rooted in the VanPort area since 2004, Michael brings that global perspective to local favorites and hidden gems. With over 600 spots on his personal “Want-To-Go” list, he’s on a tireless quest to uncover the best the region has to offer—and share it with you.
Andy Ziesemer
Coffee Evangelist
Andy is the President and Chairman of the Board for Nations Outreach. His duties take him around the world as a missionary. He’s an author as well as the host of the a docuseries, Into The Nations. Andy has a passion for coffee and has developed a refined pallet sampling the many great brews from all over the globe.
Monica Scheerer
Monica is a retired health care professional, eagerly awaiting her husband’s retirement so they can embark on more adventures! They love to travel, especially going on outdoor adventures! Amateur gardener, good cook, and great shopper would probably be an accurate description of her favorite activities when home! She loves to explore new places, especially restaurants, wineries and stores.
