Search Portland Bars
With options all over town — from chic cocktail bars to neighborhood watering holes, rowdy taprooms to tropical hideaways — Portland bars are guaranteed to quench your thirst.
With its abundance of excellent bars, Portland is one of the country’s best cities for drinks out on the town. In fact, it can be hard to pin down what kind of bar experience is Portland’s most iconic. Is it a glass of Willamette Valley’s finest in a wine bar? A perfectly poured draft beer in a taproom? A classic cocktail in an elegant speakeasy? Good news: When it comes to Portland bars, there’s no wrong answer.
Local Tip: Bars in Oregon are required to serve food, which means you’ll find at least a few menu items — from chef-curated bites to dive bar staples like tater tots and wings — at every bar in Portland.
Must-Visit Portland Bars
Whether it’s because they started hallowed traditions or broke all the rules, some Portland bars just demand a visit. Established in 1879, downtown institution Huber’s Cafe is Portland’s oldest restaurant and bar. Though the Spanish coffee didn’t originate here (it has roots in Mexico and shares similarities with the carajillo, a popular cocktail in Spain, Latin America and elsewhere), Huber’s is where the classic cocktail rose to prominence in the 1970s. You can still experience the theatrical table-side preparation today. When a craft cocktail renaissance swept the nation in the 2000s, the Teardrop Lounge led the charge in Portland — it opened in 2007 and has remained relevant (and delicious) ever since, launching the careers of some of the city’s best bartenders. Grab a seat at the circular bar, put your fate in the hands of the experienced staff and take in the show. Rum Club is another Portland classic, offering tropical drinks (among other options) in fun, low-lit environs. Of course, a bar that advertises a love of rum in its name must serve a daiquiri capable of converting the Caribbean liquor’s skeptics; Rum Club delivers.
More recent spots have helped reshape and revitalize the Portland bar scene. Palomar is a bright and colorful ode to Havana, whose floor-to-ceiling windows and checkered floors are paired with owner Ricky Gomez’s family portraits on the walls. Shaken libations like the Floridita Daiquiri remind patrons of the bar’s Cuban-inspired heritage; frozen cocktails like the Mango Lassi are a nod to other tropical regions. You’ve likely heard of Gregory Gourdet’s internationally renowned Haitian restaurant Kann — but you may have yet to visit Sousòl, Kann’s subterranean sister bar. This pan-Caribbean cocktail spot serves top-notch drinks (and dishes) in an inclusive, stylish setting, attracting its own share of accolades.
The Best Areas for Bar Hopping
Bars in Downtown Portland
The heart of the City of Roses is a classic spot to strike out on a bar crawl. Hit the Xport Rooftop Lounge while the sun shines to enjoy hand-crafted cocktails while taking in striking urban views. Abigal Hall is another downtown cocktail bar offering a pleasing blend of chic decor and cozy vibes. If a homey Irish pub is more your speed, look no further than Paddy’s, where you can find the perfect beverage for every occasion — choose from their massive selection of spirits, grab a glass of local wine or go for the classic: a pint of Guinness. Continue the party with a stop at Scandals, a long-running hub for the LGBTQ+ community that calls itself “Portland’s Gay ‘Cheers.’” They host frequent events, including DJ sets, industry nights and karaoke, so be sure to check their calendar.
- Garnish With: Divey fun at Kelly’s Olympian, one of the oldest bars in Portland.
Portland’s Quadrants
Explore the six “quadrants” (yes — there are six of them!) that make up the City of Roses.
Bars on Northeast Alberta Street
The Alberta Arts District in Northeast Portland is known for its Last Thursday summer street fairs, rich history and abundant art galleries — add can’t-miss bars to the list. The Bye and Bye’s eponymous mixture of peach-flavored bourbon and vodka, cranberry juice, lemon juice and soda is a classic Portland cocktail. Like the Bye and Bye itself, it’s a refreshing beverage that typifies much of Portland’s drinking culture: fun, affordable and greater than the sum of its parts. Just one block up the street, you’ll find Radio Room, a popular Portland lounge known for great drinks, art deco style and delicious, no-frills food — not to mention two options for imbibing outdoors: a street-level garden and a rooftop patio. When you need a bite, head to the Knock Back for hearty pub fare (don’t miss the sandwiches) and, of course, another round.
- Garnish With: Awesome events — like live music, comedy and trivia— at Alberta Street Pub.
Bars on Mississippi in North Portland
North Mississippi Avenue is a popular destination for live music (among other cool stuff, including stellar restaurants and only-in-Portland shops). So why not start your adventure at Mississippi Studios, a “musician’s music venue” and a great place to catch a show? If you prefer less of a venue and more of a “bar bar,” go next door to … Bar Bar! This lively watering hole offers an excellent burger and an expansive all-season patio. Head north to Interurban, a two-story bar specializing in pre-prohibition cocktails and the best local brews. Nearby neighborhood spot The Rambler pours drinks inside a converted bungalow from the 1920s, so you’re sure to feel right at home. They also have two dog-friendly patios and a terrific happy hour.
- Garnish With: The food carts at Prost Marketplace (and a stop at Prost! itself for one last drink).
More Portland Bars
Find more bars in your favorite style, from long-running dives to classic Irish pubs.
Gay Bars, Lesbian Bars and More LGBTQ+ Nightlife
LGBTQ+ bars in Portland run the gamut from colorful nightclubs to mellow neighborhood pubs. The central city is a perfect place to start exploring the scene. One of Portland’s oldest gay bars, CC Slaughters, has been an Old Town Chinatown institution since 1981. It’s a lively dance club that guarantees a good time, with events just about every night. Across the Willamette River, Doc Marie’s in the Central Eastside is a “lesbian bar for everyone” — stop in for a fun environment, satisfying pub food and even more exciting events.
Head to Northeast Portland for more great Portland gay bars. Back2Earth burst onto the scene in 2023, quickly drawing attention for its creative decor, bright cocktails and busy events calendar. East of 82nd Avenue, the fun continues: Live performances are the star at Misfits Bar + Lounge, and they take many forms, including bands, drag shows and karaoke nights. If a neighborhood pub is more your style, head to Escape Bar & Grill for local brews, board games and a welcoming vibe.
Sports Bars in Portland
Whatever your favorite team, from the Timbers to the Thorns to the Trail Blazers (or even if you’re just in it for the wings and beer), finding the perfect spot to catch the game is a must. Spirit of 77 (an homage to the Trail Blazers’ 1977 NBA title) is a permanent pep rally for fans of all stripes. Grab a seat at a communal table as the game plays on a wall-to-wall projection screen. Try Jackie’s for a stylish, upscale take on the sports bar experience, complete with spacious patios and signature cocktails. The Sports Bra is a fun, welcoming bar dedicated to women’s sports. They play every available Portland Thorns match, all the WNBA action you can handle, women’s college athletics and more.
Cozy up on the sofa with a plate of signature avocado fries at The Fields Bar & Grill, a Pearl District favorite that serves a seasonal, made-from-scratch menu to accompany its 13 sports-dedicated screens. In North Portland, the Portland Pickles Public House is the home base for Portland’s favorite baseball team — it’s a perfect, spacious place to grab a beer and catch a Portland Pickles game (or your other favorite team).
Portland Sports
Portland sports are a blast, whether you love baseball or football or no ball at all.
A Complete Guide to Portland Baseball
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Portland Soccer: Timbers and Thorns
Level up your football fandom with our guide to all things Portland soccer, from the Timbers and Thorns themselves to top-notch soccer bars in Portland.
Rose City Rollers Roller Derby
Feel the rush of Portland’s Rose City Rollers: thrilling roller derby bouts, energetic crowds and a diverse, inclusive community.
Portland Cocktail Bars
From the Roaring ’20s to the martini boom of the ‘80s to the revival of the early 2000s, the cocktail has enjoyed many a fine moment — and it continues to wow in Portland today. One of the most celebrated all-around cocktail bars is Northeast Portland’s Expatriate. Opened in 2013, the chic lounge showcased a variety of eclectic cocktails (and some delectable drinking snacks). Another notable spot in Northeast, Angel Face, forgoes a traditional cocktail menu. Just share your preferred flavors and the expert bartender will tailor a perfectly balanced beverage to your tastes (of course, you can also order the classics).
In Southeast Portland, nationally recognized Scotch Lodge specializes in whiskey-centric libations (be sure to order at least a bite or two from the tempting Pacific Northwest menu). After a stint as a hot pop-up, Deadshot took up permanent digs in the Central Eastside in 2018 and has remained a reliable destination for inventive drinks ever since.
On the west side of town, you’ll find no shortage of standouts: At Pink Rabbit, enjoy clever, satisfying drinks in a trendy neon-lit setting. This is another spot serving food you don’t want to miss, so be sure to make their menu of Asian fusion cuisine part of your plan. You may have heard of the Multnomah Whiskey Library and its 2,000+ bottle collection of the world’s finest spirits. Tucked away downstairs, the Green Room is another treat for those in the know, offering a similar feel and quality in a slightly more laid-back setting. In North Portland, The Garrison delivers a variety of vibes, from cozy, dimly lit nooks to outdoor seating around a lively fire pit. The environment is welcoming; the house specialties are inventive and excellent.
Portland Restaurants and Food Carts
Hungry? Explore Portland's renowned food scene, from top restaurants to popular food carts.
Food Cart Pods
Portland is one of the world’s great street food cities — explore international flavors and unique new food concepts (without the wait of a sit-down restaurant) at Portland’s many food cart pods.
Portland Restaurants
Portland is a renowned culinary destination, and Portland restaurants run the gamut — no matter your budget, your location or the cuisine you crave, your next great meal awaits you in Portland.
Portland Food Trucks, Carts & Pods
Portland has 500+ food carts and a legendary street food scene — use our Food Cart Finder to filter carts by cuisine, offerings, special diets and more.
Fun Bars and Themed Spots
Tropical Bars
From houseplant jungles to frosty drinks laden with Caribbean rum, these Portland bars will transport you to a distant oasis, no matter the season. Alberta’s Bar Cala pays tribute to Latin culture — spirits like tequila, mezcal and cachaça are highlighted in cocktails like watermelon margaritas and pisco sours. Hale Pele exudes the aesthetics of 1930s Americanized tiki culture while retaining the qualities of properly made cocktails. Under the glow of multicolor lights, bartenders serve time-honored tropical libations alongside Hawaiian fusion fare. Further south, Hey Love’s disco balls and houseplant-filled interior create a playful jungle atmosphere — find refreshing drinks with sassy names like the Baller Old Fashioned (with spiced grapefruit syrup) and the Tropical Contact High.
Take a Sip
Explore more popular Portland libations, including spirits, beer, wine and more.
Keeping Portland Weird
Tired of the same old spirits lists and standard lounge settings? It wouldn’t be Portland without an abundance of bars that do things a little bit differently. Tighten your corset, lace up your boots and get ready to dance at the Coffin Club, Portland’s premier horror-themed bar. Live and DJed goth, industrial, new wave and electronic music fills the eerily lit space centered on a small dance floor. Just a few blocks south, Creepy’s is a singular Central Eastside bar that promises to give customers “something to look at at all times.” Mission accomplished — at Creepy’s, some of the stuff even looks back. Circus monkeys clap sporadically, questionable taxidermy lends an air of quietus, and a riot of clown imagery rounds things out.
The Midnight on Belmont is a rock and roll cocktail bar and venue with a gothic, moody style. Order a seasonal cocktail or a tallboy and catch a show: Garage, electronica, post-punk and more are on the calendar. Downtown’s Raven’s Manor pairs haunted mansion vibes with a full bar, light fare and a great happy hour. Other options for a dose of only-in-Portland oddness include Sad Valley (a death- and funeral-themed spot), The Uncanny (award-winning weirdness in North Portland) and Hallway (a “The Shining”-themed karaoke bar — yes, really!).
Portland Speakeasies (Shh!)
Speakeasies specialize in cocktails — meaning they live and die by the quality of their recipes. Here are three such recipes, all of which will grant visitors access to a guaranteed good time:
- The “Bible Club”
- Two parts Southern speakeasy serving cocktails featuring premium liquor, locally sourced ingredients and house-made flourishes
- One-part Southern Pre-Prohibition-era Museum
- Garnish with antique bar tools, cut crystal goblets and delicate lace doilies
- Serve on a site that dates back to 1922
- The “Voysey”
- 1.5 ounces atmospheric bartender’s bar (designed with a chic cocktail crowd in mind)
- 1-ounce creative signature drinks (accented with a small-bites menu)
- Served up in a historic building in Southeast Portland (which doubles as a unique pop-up and event venue)
- (Shaken, not stirred)
- The “2NW5”
- 1/2 cup inventive takes on vintage cocktails
- 1/4 cup low-lit basement bar beneath the stylish Hoxton hotel
- Add tempting drinking snacks to taste
Hotel Bars in Portland
Portland's hotel bar offerings range from airy rooftop perches to dark, stylish hideaways.
Bars With Live Music & Other Events
Portland Bars With Live Music
What’s even better than taking the first sip of a well-made drink? Taking the first sip of a well-made drink while a killer band hits that first chord. Laurelthirst Public House is a Kerns neighborhood classic, hosting bands and touring acts since 1988 — best of all, most shows are free. Another long-running spot for live music, the Goodfoot takes a two-tiered approach: Upstairs, visit the pub for microbrews, a full bar and small bites. Downstairs, boogie to a perfect blend of live bands and DJ sets. Turn! Turn! Turn! leans local, experimental and DIY, making it a perfect venue for a city like Portland. In addition to hosting music, the space is also a bar, record store and community gathering place.
Portland has no shortage of jazz clubs, so be sure these bars make your list: Voted one of the world’s 100 best jazz clubs by DownBeat magazine in 2023, The 1905 would be a hit anywhere — let’s just be grateful it’s in Portland. The Jack London Revue is housed in the basement of a historic building in downtown Portland. Drop by for touring acts, local favorites and speakeasy vibes.
More Music in Portland
Portland's many music festivals and variety of venues make it a great place to catch a show.
Live Music Venues in Portland
From gritty rock to velvety jazz, Portland’s live music scene offers tunes for all types.
Music Festivals in and Near Portland
Looking for a tuneful way to enjoy your time in Portland? Get your tickets now for these exciting annual celebrations.
Niche Live Music Venues in Portland
These hidden gems are havens for jazz, punk, bluegrass, funk and more.
Other Events at Portland Bars
Portland bars have events to offer beyond live music. Kenton’s Mayfly is a beer bar and bottle shop where it’s a good bet something is happening, any given night — from wine showcases to trivia nights to book clubs, the events calendar is fun, varied and community-focused. The Funhouse Lounge has an untamed circus vibe. Drop by for fringe theater, comedy, improv, burlesque and more. In Northeast Portland, the Spare Room wears a lot of hats: Music venue? Check. Karaoke bar? Yep. Occasional bingo hall? Roger that. Dive bar? You better believe it.
Portland Karaoke Bars
Done with listening for the night and ready to make some music of your own? Get to one of Portland’s popular karaoke bars and belt out a tune. Baby Ketten is an only-in-Portland option in the Brookyln neighborhood, where you can stray from karaoke classics and explore an impressive songbook packed with deep cuts and unexpected mash-ups. The Ambassador Lounge calls itself “Portland’s Longest Running Karaoke Spot.” Dating back to 1990, they offer karaoke seven nights a week, including occasional contests and spontaneous dance parties. Speaking of history, the Alibi Tiki Lounge is one of the oldest tiki bars in the country, but that’s not their only claim to fame: They also host awesome karaoke nights every Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Westside options run deep too, including great spots like Hallway, Suki’s Bar & Grill, and Twenty First Ave Kitchen & Bar.
Country Bars in Portland
Are you a little bit country or a little bit rock and roll? If you lean toward the former, Portland has options: Landmark Saloon hosts live music most nights, and shows are always free. The tempting drinks (like the Tumbleweed Tea cocktail and Texas beers), bar food and spacious patio help sweeten the deal. The long-running Ponderosa Lounge & Grill, where you’ll find great tunes, an expansive dance floor and affordable beverages, has been in action since 1969. The Showdown joined the scene in 2024, giving Portland a proper honky-tonk — get on the dance floor while acclaimed touring acts take the stage. Speaking of dance floors, Dixie Tavern in Old Town Chinatown offers line dancing every Thursday.
Dive Bars in Portland
You’ve had your carefully balanced cocktail. You’ve sipped your fine wine. Now you just want to loosen your collar and have a shot and a tallboy. Fear not — Portland has dive bars galore. Opened in 1923, few places have been in the dive bar biz as long as the Sandy Hut. Reel M Inn is another iconic Portland dive with all the fixings: cheap drinks, Jell-O shots, pool tables and more (including some of the city’s best fried chicken). For friendly vibes and Christmas lights, try out the Slammer Tavern, which also offers Skee-Ball, plenty of outdoor seating and sports on the screens. Head to the Roseway neighborhood to find the Sandy Jug, which puts a slightly elevated spin on the classic dive bar formula.
Rooftops and Patio Bars
The Pacific Northwest may have a rep for rain, but locals and savvy travelers know how beautiful a Portland summer can be. And when the sun’s shining, you’ll want to find the nearest bar patio, stat. You’ll go to North Mississippi Avenue’s Prost! for the awesome patio, but you’ll stay for so much more: the delicious German beer, the friendly vibes, the German fare and the exceptional food cart pod right next door. From its lofty perch on the 15th floor, the rooftop lounge of Departure peers over downtown and Mount Hood. (Pro tip: The bar stocks one of the largest sake collections in town.) Other excellent rooftop spots include the seasonal Roof Deck at Belmont music venue Revolution Hall and Noble Rot, a popular fourth-floor wine bar.
Karaoke, Dives and Patios
Find more awesome spots to keep the fun going.
Portland Karaoke Bars and Nights
Choose from private suites, pop-up events, tiki drinks and Chinese food as you select your ideal Portland karaoke venue from among the city’s top spots.
Celebrating the Dive Bars of Portland
Local dive bars are a part of the culture in Portland. We take you inside some of the city’s best-loved, dimly lit dives — from Reel M Inn and its famous fried chicken to century-old legends like Kelly’s Olympian.
Outdoor Dining in Portland: The Best Bar and Restaurant Patios
Many Portland bars and restaurants offer outdoor dining on scenic rooftops and spacious patios — find top spots where the view’s as good as what’s on the table.
Wine Bars in Portland
Oregon is an internationally recognized destination for wine, and Portland has a multitude of wine bars (in a multitude of styles) where you can taste the best vino the state has to offer. In Northeast Portland, you’ll find Dame, a collective that takes a creative approach to wine and food service. For food, you’ll enjoy rotating restaurants in residence, meaning the ideas (and the dishes) are always fresh. Wine service is focused on exceptional natural wines. Bar Nina and Big Salt Bar form a single business offering a one-two punch in the Alberta Arts District: Bar Nina is an intimate underground spot where you can sip top-notch Oregon wines and a selection of international favorites (with a particular emphasis on orange wines). Big Salt Bar, a seasonal pop-up, keeps things intimate but shifts the vibe upstairs and outdoors — enjoy more wine (and a little fresh air) in an enchanting private garden.
- Pairs Well With: A stop in North Portland for a flight or a glass at Stem Cafe & Wine Bar (they also host live music on Fridays).
Southeast Portland is home to Division Wines, in the happening food-and-drink district of Division/Clinton. Since 2011, they’ve offered a charming hybrid space — part wine bar, part wine shop — where you’ll find over 800 bottles. Popular Southeast Belmont Street has become a must-visit strip for oenophiles, including several up-and-coming wine bars. Standouts include Company, a hip-but-unassuming wine bar and bottle shop in a converted garage, and Nil. Wine Bar, a cozy minimalist spot specializing in natural wines, not to mention fun events like karaoke nights and DJ sets.
- Pairs Well With: A trip to Vino Veritas in the Montavilla neighborhood, where you can peruse over 400 bottles while enjoying small plates and fun events.
More Oregon Wine
Explore myriad award-winning Oregon wineries, in the Portland region and beyond.
Wineries Near Portland
Sample excellent wine at Willamette Valley wineries near Portland, where you can enjoy spectacular views, budget-friendly flights and more.
Wine Tours Near Portland
Let someone else do the driving while you enjoy wine tasting and vineyard views.
Sip and Savor Willamette Wine Country
Just south of Portland lies the Willamette Wine Valley, a rich wine country known for premium pinot noir, rolling hills and stellar bucolic views.
Top-Notch Bar Food in Portland
A long day of bar hopping can work up an appetite — fortunately, Portland has no shortage of bars serving food that rivals offerings at restaurants and food carts. Tulip Shop Tavern serves one of the best burgers in the city. The menu also features sandwiches, salads and sides (think loaded fries and baskets of double-fried wings). A wine bar in Northwest/Nob Hill, Bar Diane serves drinking snacks, heartier fare and a dessert menu, all cleverly made with sustainable ingredients. Northeast Alberta Street haunt, the Bye and Bye, specializes in Southern-inspired vegan food, with offerings like a barbecue brussels sprouts bowl and an Impossible meatball sub with oat cheese spread and topped with almond parmesan. Another vegan spot, XO Bar serves tropical cocktails alongside plant-based bites like jackfruit vindaloo spring rolls and sesame ginger soy curls. Experience it all in an airy atmosphere, where floor-to-ceiling windows open up to the sunny, flowered patio — you’ll be transported to a cozy café in Southeast Asia in no time.
Upcoming Food & Drink Events
Find events celebrating Portland food and drink, from tastings to markets to tours and more.
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