7 Best Bars near Junction City

“I have driven by this place many times on way to and from EUG. Each time I would smile. Why? Because it has the same name as a place that I spent a good deal of time in my mid-20s (in a different state). A few weeks ago, I was picking up a close friend from those times and considered taking him there. But, alas, it wasn’t to be. Then, on the return trip to EUG, a couple of places I was considering were either closed or a bit too far off our route. So, it was time to stop in and see what was what.

From the highway, it is easy to miss this place. The sign is just a bit too small and the building is nondescript, crowded by industrial buildings on the outskirts of Junction City. The inside is as you would expect: high ceilings, lots of alcohol nick-knacks, a long central bar to the right, tables to the left, and a smoking sections outdoors in the back.

First thing first, the bartender was amazingly friendly, literally thanking us for stopping in! The other people at the bar seemed like regulars. And, like regulars, they weren’t interested in coming over and shaking our hands. Then again, why would they!?!? The other staff member who arrived as we were sitting there was also friendly and attentive.

We ordered a couple of beers from their fairly generous selection. We also decided to order some food (two burgers, some sides, a salad). Those burgers, even if they were pre-formed, were ½ pound delights! Juicy (hard to do with a pre-formed burger), with just the right amount of condiments and veggies. The onion rings? Winners. The salad? Basic, but fresh. The fries? Just the right amount of salt and, though not crispy, with a good chew. The prices were exceptional, considering the quality and quantity of food we received.

At one point, we ventured out to the smoking section. While enjoying our final drinks, another worker came out to have a smoke break. Turns out, she was the cook. Had a great conversation with her. We thanked her for the food, chatted about life, and then proceeded to leave. As we did, the bartender came out and shaked our hands! He thanked us again for coming by and urged us to come back again.

Trust me, the next time I am either coming or going from EUG, I will make a special stop. This is the sort of place that deserves success. Great food. Good drinks. Great prices. Friendly staff.

Thank you for making our first visit a great one. We appreciate it.

PS: Most of the negative reviews? Very old and/or from people you can assume would get negative reviews if there was a Google site for cranky folks who don't realize they are the problem.“

“Fun sports bar. Servers were friendly and fast. We just had apps and drinks but the main menu looked great. I’m sure on football Saturday and Sunday it’s a fun place to be!“

“Great dining and drinks! Staff are friendly and knowledgeable. Has become a consistent watering hole when visiting Eugene for horse events. Just down the road from the Oregon Horse Center. Make this a stop on your horse show weekend. Note, it is adults only.“

“such a cool bar. very comfortable place to go and chill. the staff was very polite and courteous. I know that if I want to go somewhere and be left alone and play some games, I can do that here. and if I need good food and good service, same place. I 100% definitely recommend Embers.“

“I had the reuben with onion rings... very filling. husband had the Rib-eye it was just how he wanted it. Service was great,and they were full of customers.“

“Shayla is the bestest! Her hospitality is amazing! Her drinks are fabulous! There has never been a better bartender at Delta!“