50 Best Cocktail Bars in Portland

“Delicious food every time we dine in, and fresh margaritas too. Supporting a queer-owned vegan business makes every bite and sip that much better. I would highly recommend their torta with any of their "meat". Music is a little loud, and it's a small environment. Besides that, the vibes are impeccable. We try to make it in every weekend.“

“Perfect date night with amazingly well prepared food. Appreciated that we didn’t feel rushed by the waiter or that the restaurant was trying to keep the guests revolving through as fast as they could. Was not expecting a few menu items with Asian flair, highly recommend pairing the chilled tom kha mussels and shrimp udon. Husband said oysters were the best he’s had. Really enjoyed having some different drinks to try, like skin contact wine and Amari. Will definitely be back!“

“If only someone could figure how to get Russian food right! Oh wait, these guys just did! An innovative take on Russian cuisine, modernizing it while staying true to its essence. We had a very enjoyable experience here. The staff were great, offered insightful recommendations and were very professional. The food was amazing. The lobster olivieh (on the special menu) was a star! The Zakuskis both hot and cold were amazing. The wine list was great! You can't leave without trying some vodka obviously. The ironic Soviet decorations were spot on! I've included some photos here. I'd highly recommend this spot!“

“My son and daughter in law chose this venue for the reception following their wedding. We had a group of less than 20 people in the private dining room. Fantastic experience. Everyone at the restaurant was helpful on coordinating setup prior to the event. The appetizers, cocktails, entrees and desserts all received rave reviews from the wedding guests. Service was on point and we were extremely pleased with everything. Highly recommended for a small group gathering space (the private room is the perfect size for a group of 20). We will dine here again during our next trip to Portland.“

“3.5 Stars Visited Guero on Cinco De Mayo while visiting my daughter in Portland. We chose this place since they were at the top of the Yelp rankings for 'Mexican restaurants near me' and they were open to 10 pm. We started with a 24 oz. Modelo $8 and a Mint Grapefruit soda. Ordered some chips and salsa $5 and they were above average for C&S, but not too spicy. I ordered the Carnita Torta $14. It was very tasty and loaded with veg. My daughter ordered the Masa Y Papa Torta $14. I didn't try it, but she said it was very delicious. The tortas were pretty large and after the beer and chips and salsa, we had to take half of our tortas to go. Ate them on the airplane ride home. I also ordered a side of Frijoles Negro $5 thinking it was $1 as per the menu. All in all, I enjoyed this place. I was lured by the Pozole that I saw on Yelp menus, but found out it was seasonal. Not sure why, but it was. Service was awesome. It's a little dark in the restaurant, so you may need a flashlight to read the menu. The neighborhood has a good vibe. We found street parking pretty easily. Thumbs up for Guero.“

“Scotch Lodge is the epitome of laid-back sophistication. Having swung by twice, I can attest to its charm and culinary prowess. The pistachio semifreddo dessert is an absolute must-try, guaranteed to make your taste buds sing with joy. The food, overall, is simply delicious, with each dish showcasing thoughtful preparation and quality ingredients. So, if you're looking for a cozy spot to unwind with fantastic food and drinks, Scotch Lodge is where it's at.“

“I keep coming back for the pork belly fried rice and the massaman curry. Really delicious food, great outdoor seating, and they changed their dessert options recently as well. The banana cake was great with the coconut ice cream. Definitely one of my favorite restaurants.“

“If you have anyone in your life that likes video games this is the place. Super intimate setting with private game room and open patio. This is the best place to take any gamer in your life. Food and service is top tier.Vegetarian options: Come here is you like games. Super safe and friendly environment. One of the best bars in Portland.“

“Incredible food and fun interior/ambiance, though cocktails were mediocre. Highlight of our visit to Portland and visited twice in 2 weeks.The food was unbelievably tasty — they really didn’t compromise on Texan barbecue quality with their Thai focus. The white curry with brisket burnt ends was one of the best dishes I’ve had all year. The massaman lamb curry was phenomenal too.The cocktails (Shoulda Woulda Coulda and Life of Luxury) were unfortunately overly sweet and candy-like. I would skip them and just get a cold Singha draft or their alcohol-based slushies instead.We received cold service on our first visit but super friendly and attentive service on the second. We walked in with no wait on a Monday at 4:30pm and waited 1h30 on Saturday evening at a great wine bar across the street.“

“This was on my tiki bar fanatic brother-in-law's list for his first time in Portland, and it did not disappoint! We got there right before it opened on a Friday, and it was a full house within the first half hour of being open, so I definitely recommend going early. I got two gin drinks--the Singapore sling and the moonlighter. Loved both although the Singapore sling was my favorite. My sister got the blue Hawaiian and the hurricane. My brother-in-law got the mai tai, the doctor funk, and the drink that came with the blue tiki mug. For food, we got two orders of the Hawaiian bread (had to get another order it was so good!) and the edamame. This was such a fun experience! A very welcome tropical escape from rainy Portland.“

“This place has quickly become one of my favorite brunch spots in Portland. With some of the best pancakes that I have ever had, it will be hard to stay away. My server, Branson, was awesome and provided excellent service. I will most definitely be coming back!“

“The breakfast here is out of this world! The omelets are heavenly, the pancakes are fluffy and moist. The jam should be on everything! Outdoor seating is lovely even though you're in a busy neighborhood. The folks that work there are very nice and efficient.“

“Amazing boozy brunch at Flattop & Salamander! Spanish coffee provides entertainment and is delightful! The cream sauce on the French Toast is magical. And the fried chicken & waffles was greatly enjoyed by my 15 yo boy who couldn’t stop saying how great they were ((if you have a teenage boy you know how wonderful this is)! We will be back even though it’s a good 20 minute drive for us.“

“This is an amazing local bar that I hope never becomes famous. It’s full of locals who enjoy an amazing dining experience with some great beers. The owner is one amazing lady who is fully engaged in the bar and loves her customers and it absolutely shows. I will definitely be back to this place multiple times, I had a fantastically fun night and I want to thank everybody I met there tonight. Big shout out to Amanda. It was her first night tonight and she was absolutely amazing.“

“We were visiting Portland and this was walking distance from our hotel. I'm so glad we stumbled upon it! The ambiance and decor is incredible. My daughter loved the fish tank and jellyfish wall, of course. All the staff were so friendly and helpful. I was a bit nervous because it seemed like an "adult" place, but they had a kids menu and were completely welcoming. The food was amazing. I'll dream about the brisket empanadas forever. Spicy chicken bites were another winner. Bring friends and come hungry!“

“Go here for real high level cocktails. Most ingredients are listed, but don't let them scare you. Have a conversation with the team. Flavors are balanced and often won't be overpowering. And whoever they have doing a residency in the kitchen will be good. Plan to spend some time here and enjoy it. Jiayou Adam!“

“We have been dining at Gilda’s for 6 months. Thank you to our friends Linda and Paul for introducing us to this wonderful restaurant. The food is authentic and delicious. It is a family owned restaurant and the pride of the naturally sourced ingredients is very evident. Everything is made in house. The service is exemplary! Go, you won’t be sorry!“

“The bar/restaurant is one of the best experiences Portland has to offer. The drinks are fun and tasty. The food menu might be limited but it is absolutely amazing. Every item on the menu is bold, real and will blow your mind. A true gem! The birria takes the crown!“

“Came here around 1pm on a Saturday and were able to get seated right away. The place is very cute with live plants decor and has a number of healthy food options! I got the vegan bowl with sweet potatoes and loved it! If you aren’t vegan adding an egg to it will also taste amazing! Highly recommend, will be “

“I make it a point to visit Canard Burnside on all of my trips to Portland! The unique flavors and presentations on their menu keep me coming back for more. Had the roasted beets last night for the first time and the flavor was out of this world.“

“I'm obsessed with the vibe of this place... the leather seats, snakeskin wallpaper, open fireplace, photo-op phone booth curated & comfortable all dressed up in black & gold The food is great, staff is nice, one of my favorite bars to go downtown! ✨“

“This place is in an alley off the most choice stretch of Division... It's got a pleasant cave-like ambiance with a hipster chandelier of feathers... the crowd was fun & diverse... the staff were kind... the best part, though, was the super creative wine list - that also offered some affordable options too! Didn't get to taste the food :/“

“PDX restaurants usually have atmosphere OR excellent food, Sapphire Hotel has both! The decor is cute. They played good music. The full cheese board was our favorite part. One of the few restaurants worth the cost of eating out in Portland.“

“We were pleasantly surprised to find this little gem while visit my niece in portland. My sis is a vegetarian so the food choices worked for all of us. The bartender was very friendly attentive and accommodating. Also the atmosphere was relaxed and comfortable. Perfect little spot for a drink and a bite!“

“Food was lovely, pasta had a perfect portion size if you’re just in the middle of being hungry and not. Service was good, just took a little long because it was a friday night. Atmosphere was not the best, there was a rowdy table behind my family that just put off out our whole vibe for the night and was very overwhelming for being outside around a lot of other people. (if you easily get overstimulated I suggest eating inside) Totally not the restraints fault, just an unlucky role of the dice“

“Magical energy. Delightful patio out back. Excellent selection of the best boozy products with a heavy emphasis on local brands and rainbow/bipoc+ awareness They've transformed a neighborhood eyesore into a lovely welcoming local lounge. I work at the St Johns liquor store next door; we've been so excited for this to finally happen. Welcome!“

“This place is great! The atmosphere is awesome. The owner is always out and about chatting with customers, not to mention she’s pretty funny!The food is phenomenal, we’ve had quite a bit off the menu, but the burger is ?Definitely recommend coming here and I’ll bet you’ll want to come back.“

“You've got to check this place out. Amazing mocktails, beautiful art, great selection of totally nostalgic '90s kids snacks, Pop-Tarts, muddy buddies, but seriously, what an amazing hangout spot. Comfy, cozy, and everyone was really friendly and “

“The jojos I've been dreaming of! The fried chicken sandwich was also amazing, though i might do it without the slaw next time, just a personal thing. I'll be back! The fried chicken dinner sounded good and the desserts looked great!“

“Really great experience at this restaurant. Food is fantastic and unique. The flavor profile is different than most Indian restaurants. We had Veg Pakora platter, Chicken Skewers and Veg Thali for 2, for drinks we tried the Paloma, Kashmiri Tea and Mango Coconut Lassi. Everything was cooked to perfection, and each dish had its own flavor. Chef/owner was very engaging and attentive to our needs during the meal. Highly highly recommend.“

“The vibe and cocktails are the great, the staff, especially E.J. We’re really on point. My cocktail, the pear hot toddy was amazing, and perfect for a cold rainy afternoon. The only shortfall was the food. Skip the spaghetti and go with the Harissa chicken instead.“

“I absolutely love My Vice. I live around the corner and have been in a few dozen times over the last year or so. Great little covered and heated patio to sit with my dog. The staff are always very friendly and super attentive. They usually come out with a dog treat and a bowl of water before I get seated. Then it's bloody Mary time. The food is always spot on. The breakfast dumplings are no joke and I don't know what it is about their beef but it's top notch.They've been doing dinner service on Fridays for a while now and the menu is awesome.Vegetarian options: They usually have a variety of vegetarian optionsParking: Parking lot on the side of building holds about 8 to ten vehicles“

“The food was wonderful! I wanted to get most of the menu but restrained myself and was so happy with the fried oysters and the empanada sampler. I also got to try bites of several other dishes from everyone else's plates and was impressed across the board. Even more outstanding though was the service. Amber was fantastic with our group's many dietary needs, going so far as to make SURE that the gf beer in the fish taco batter was also wheat free. She was such a gem and made the great meal even better.The only thing I would change is that the space is a bit echo-y and could use some sound absorption barriers (but also our group was certainly not improving the acoustics with our chatter). I'll be back!Vegetarian options: Clearly labeled on the menu (except the yucca fries which ARE vegan but didn't get a label)Dietary restrictions: specialize in gf but they label vegetarian and vegan options and the staff was knowledgeable about ingredients and checked for any restrictions.“

“This is my new favorite spot. The bartenders made a request I had for a Ramos Gin Fizz. It is a complicated cocktail with roots in New Orleans. It was beautifully made. I also ordered the hand pies and lamb lollipops. Chef's kiss! I know where to go for exceptional bites and crafted drinks. I went back and had two Woodford Old Fashioneds and they were divine!“

“Stopped by while bar was opening to kill some time. It's a really well designed bar, the BBQ out back smells amazing, but I was about to go out for dinner with friends, so I stuck to drinks. Bartender ended up being one of the owners and was super cool and chill to chat up. Great drinks and convo, loved the atmosphere. Will definitely be back.“

“Definitely a place for a certain type of person. The cocktails were gorgeous.There's seating inside, outside, and upstairs. It's really nice.Warning to non-smokers: there were a lot of smokers outside. Cigarette butts and ashtrays on almost every table.“

“Excellent cocktails, both of their own design and classics, even fairly niche ones. Huge selection and also a decently priced happy hour. They have table service which is quite nice, too. We've never had their food and only gone here for drinks.“

“Great food! Amazing accommodations, very helpful, kind, and knowledgeable staff who worked with my wife to ensure she had a meal with no allergies. The owner came to the table and met with us. She made up a menu ahead of our arrival so we knew what food items were safe, and checked up on us frequently. The waitress was very sincere and helped my grandparents with their orders. Cost was very family friendly, delicious absolutely delicious food! 10 STARS!!! ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ -Nate & ReeAnn Leslie“

“Went here on a Tuesday night and I'm super glad because it is fairly small. Thankfully not a lot of people came out at happy hour time for cocktails so there were only four other sets of folks in there with us. The noise level was perfect for me who is struggling with some minor hearing loss due to my 40 years of living. I like very simple drinks so I ordered an Old Fashioned. It was delicious. And they use Old Forester as their "well bourbon." I love Old Forester. Our server/bartender (doing both jobs) was very nice. He was patient with us. He also wanted to make sure I knew that the Brie was covered in a puff pastry since I said I needed cucumbers instead of bread. I have a gluten and dairy intolerance so there's not a ton of the menu I can eat. That's fine. I went for the booze. All in all it was a good experience. It's definitely not a place I would go on a Friday night. But I will definitely go back during the week. (I don't like bumping elbows with strangers. I'm too old for that crap.) I say if you like premium cocktails, you should totally try it.“

“This was an amazing find in a city filled with coffee shops. There was nothing stuffy about the place and the service was impeccable. We sat in the window and watched locals stroll in greeted by first name... and we were treated just like we were daily customers as well. If you’re in Portland and you’re near 40 LBS make it a stop!“

“Amazing creative dishes. Palm ceviche is fabulous as are all the entrees I can’t spell and the empanadas are flaky and delicious salsas aren’t really necessary but they are also incredible. Causas were wonderful. I couldn’t like this restaurant more if I was vegan. Highly recommend Epif.“

“The staff was amazing, friendly, knowledgeable, and accommodating. The cocktails were also excellent, loved the Penicillin I got. The decor in the building was also fun, but the downstairs bar was a bit humid, muggy, and was hard to be in. So we spent our time “

“I had one of the best dishes that I have ever had the pleasure of putting in my mouth. Upon the waitresses enthusiastic recommendation (she seemed really excited about it) I went with the Boscaiola with pasta instead of ravioli. Every bite I took I closed my eyes to just enjoy the explosion of flavors. Hands down best food ever. Highly recommend but don’t forget your reservation!“

“10/10 classiest bar in Foster. Come for the slushies, stay for the adult lunchablesDietary restrictions: I’m unfortunately lactose intolerant, but they have plenty of delicious options where I actually forget for a moment that I miss the taste of cheese“

“Great food (highly recommend the bacon wrapped dates, the steamed clams, the asparagus, the anchovies and the grilled octopus, which was the highlight of the night) and great service. Only a smallish wine list but with the help of our server, we were able to have some great wines to go with the meal.“

“Some friends took us for Father's day around noon, not crowded as the big breakfast crowd had left. Wonderful service. The food was incredible! We tried the empanada plate that had a variety - each yummy. It's a combo of Peruvian and Colombian food - my dish, the sopa de costillo was beyond delicious. Small place, has some outdoor dining with heat lamps which came in handy as it started to pour rain and we were warm and dry, slurping every last sip of that soup! Highly recommend.“

“We went to a SoFar event in the lounge which was closed to the public. Such a comfy, cozy, chic hotel. They have chairs and couches in addition to bar chairs with tables and chairs throughout. The plants added to the warmth and coziness. We didn't eat. The bartender was overwhelmed but he dealt with it professionally. I heard they have a rooftop bar too!!! We'll have to go back and check it out.“

“On my first visit, I went with a group and we shared nearly the entire pasta menu family-style. Before we even left, I was texting a friend about how they needed to try this place because each dish was, individually, the best pasta dish I’d ever had. On the next visit, I heard the table to the left of me say “This is the best bolognese I’ve ever had.” Earlier in the night the table to the right of me couldn’t stop talking about how the chicken cavatelli was their favorite pasta they’d ever had.So, come to Montelupo for the best pasta you’ll ever have!“

“Amazing experience! Had the best server ever, Piper. Every drink she recommended was perfect. Great enthusiasm and awesome personality. The drinks were great, but Piper really made the entire experience unforgettable! Love the ambiance as it was like drinking and eating in a haunted house.“

“Palomar Portland is THE BEST place for Cuban inspiration and atmosphere. A bar and eatery, they welcomed us with a crew of dancers from Alaska just before closing and split food and drinks so the kids could sample everything and the staff LOVED every minute of it. We were blown away. We WILL be back!“