“It's usually eh, for the most part. It's hit or miss when you go there although you get some pretty different crowd in there as well. You just never know what it's going to turn out to be like. There is pool though if you want to play pool. They keep their tables pretty nice and have a DJ.“
“Without a doubt one of the best sandwich joints in Portland. Absolutely everything made here is created with a passion for delicious food, and you can certainly tell when you taste it. From the smoked chicken wings, to the burgers, to the properly layered and piled high nachos, you will not be disappointed with anything you get on the menu. Pair anything with their extensive liquor selection and great tap list, along with amazing cocktails they make in house. I feel like when I’m inside, it’s like I’m back in my grandparents basement. It’s cozy and has a great feeling. Patio is great for the summertime. I can’t recommend this place enough.“
“Classic dive bar atmosphere. Big! One gaming area, then bar area then a large video lottery/pool table area. Piper the bartender was very nice and attentive, great service! I went in at 2 on a Monday and there was quite a few people. Seemed like people here were really into pool and had a system playing each other. Extensive menu and good food! Basically checks all my boxes and I find it to be perfect“
“Another stop along my tour, multiple locals have specifically mentioned this bar. It was an early Friday afternoon when we stopped in, and it already had a decent lively crowd. Vibes were friendly all around and the kitchen was humming. Only had a beer, jello shot ($5 card limit!) and a convo before we moved to the next. I might come back for that chicken. Men's restroom doesn't latch so you may see/show some things.“
“The staff are friendly as far as bartenders go! But if you cause trouble, they won't hesitate to kick you out. The regulars are great company. The food is your baseline OLCC required sustenance, lol. Nothing at all to write home about. Drinks are good, nothing fancy. This is a "meat and potatoes" bar with 0 pretense. Mind your manners and you'll be welcome for a lifetime!“
“Very chill! Came in around 4PM on a Friday.Been here a few times with my sweethearts always good music, fav atmosphere. Super big thank you for having tea (which they got TODAY!) right at the beginning of the year for us with that sober start goal for the year but still want to enjoy the bar! Love playing pinball here and last time I stuck $20 in the video lottery I won’t $180 which was a fun time. The Standard is awesome.“
“The Firkin Tavern is hands-down one of the coolest spots in town, especially on nights when my band, Izy Kactus, hits the stage. It’s like this hidden gem that just explodes with energy and good vibes every time we play. The place packs out, creating this electric atmosphere that’s hard to find anywhere else.What sets The Firkin Tavern apart isn’t just the crowds, though. The bartenders are legends—quick with a drink, always smiling, and somehow make you feel like you’re the only person they’re serving, even when the place is bursting at the seams. It's the kind of service that makes a night unforgettable.But it's more than just a bar; it's a community hub. It doesn’t matter who you are or where you come from; the moment you step through those doors, you're part of the Firkin family. It’s got this great neighborhood vibe that’s welcoming to everyone, making it the perfect spot for a casual night out or to catch some live music.Whether you're there for the tunes, the drinks, or the company, The Firkin Tavern delivers. It’s become our go-to spot not just for gigs but for any night we want to guarantee a good time. If you haven’t been yet, you’re missing out on one of the best experiences the city has to offer.“
“Okay... I don't just give 5 stars away. But, this place and these people are charming, and if you made it in for the Crab Benedict special, you'd know what it's like to have your tongue tickled in all the best ways. This historic holdout has a place in my heart.“
“If you are into the 'dive bar', this gem this is the place for you. The bartender knows the 'regulars' drinks without asking and will strike up a great conversation with any newcomers, highly recommend for a down to earth place. We always look for these local places, the owner was there and super friendly, amazing place and a piece of recent history, 18 years young.“
“I found this place randomly before class… started every great novel, never. But if you’re looking for a great spot to have a quick drink, grab some potato chips and feel safe - this is it.Great service and reasonable prices means this should be your go to spot whenever you’re in the area.“
“The best of the best. A neighborhood institution. One of the only bars that generally stays up until 2/2:30 nightly. You will talk to interesting strangers, run into old friends, and maybe end up in a small dance party. Hot dogs are there to keep you going. Go forth and enjoy.“
“Classic dive. Friendly folks. Great patio (though no heat). Wifi and they don't care if you work. Phone chargers on the bar are a nice touch. Food cart connected and they're happy with anyone bringing food in from any nearby establishment. Free pool 6-midnight everyday. Pinball. Several TVs. Always people at the bar if you wanna chat, but also plenty of tables around if you wanna chill.“
“So I’ve eaten here a few times and it’s always been awesome. Beer is very good! Monday and Friday are the best days to go for sure. Celebrated two birthdays here as well. I let them know about loud people outside(I could hear them yelling from my house.) They continued to immediately handle the issue and as a kindergarten teacher I was able to sleep peacefully. They aren’t just a bar with good food but also good people that care.“
“This neighborhood bar is a gem. The bar is spacious and inviting, with a wonderful bartender ready to pour to your liking. The drink menu has great suggestions if you are feeling a bit overwhelmed, so choose the drink for a cause and you can't go wrong. Our group joined the Whiskey Club, where you enter a different whiskey that you have consumed while visiting. They keep the list on file and there is no expiration date, so drink at your leisure. What do you get other than a scarred liver? A t-shirt proclaiming your Whiskey Club Crowning at Brooklyn Park Pub, $1.00 off all whiskey drinks for life, and bragging rights. The patio out back has plenty of room to gather with friends. Enjoy this bar, I wish I had this in my neighborhood. Great service and a fun time was had by all.“
“This was my first ever drag experience, and I wouldn’t have had it any other way. I went for Treetop Trivia. The service was amazing, everyone was so friendly, and it was obvious that the team had such love and support for one another. The drag performances were amazing. Everyone there was so beautiful and even more importantly, so respectful. Thanks to the whole staff for such a wonderful experience, I will definitely be back for the next trivia night. <3“
“Great spot for karaoke and get togethers! I really liked the layout of the building as well! There is a lower dining area and bar with a spot towards the front for karaoke, including a designated DJ alcove. Further in is a raised level area with two pool tables (.50 per game) that acts as a lounge area, featuring long couches and side tables, along with a few smaller tables for snacks and shareable dishes. Through the back is a long outdoor patio; this area has picnic tables with ashtrays, ideal for smokers or folks who need to step away from the crowd for a moment or two. It is fenced and looks out onto sandy Blvd, so there is some traffic noise, but not a ton (especially later in the evening).“
“Didn't eat but smelled good. Sweet dive, good vibe, pool table, board game table, low lighting, 50's style diner grill that you can see them cooking up the goods on. I didn't drink but they have a good selection of whisky and they have beer on tap.Update: Burger was great too“
“Whatta cool dive bar!Things you should know:I. PARKINGThere's free street parking availableII. SERVICEFood and drink are ordered at the bar. They'll give you a number to take back to your table if you order something to eat. The menu is simple pub grub and they're timely at bringing out the food.III. QUALITYThe beer is typically served in chilled glasses and the food is standard bar food. What makes this tavern so great is the pool tables, arcade games, and sports games on the TVs. Lots of entertainment!IV. CAPACITYFairly low crowd of people at 9, but definitely gets packed and lively as the night progresses.“
“A true gem of Portland. I used to come here 25 years ago when it was “tavern” called the Watertrough. It’s cool that someone who loves pool (Dan) saw the magic in this place, grabbed it and kept the amazing parts about it the same but took it to the next level. If you appreciate pool you should check it out!“
“One of Hawthorne's OG no-frills dive bars. They've got beer, wine and liquor. Pinball, pool and terrible carpets. Worth crawling into for a few once in a while. The food comes from the greek spot next door which is actually pretty good!“
“Have made it summer priority to do a dive bar tour of the St Johns Neighborhood (and vicinity.) On scorching hot summer days, it's a joy to walk into a dark and well air conditioned hub after a decent walk, covered with sweat. Pinball machines, lotto or whatever people play on the big screen with numbers and a nice long old fashioned counter top is what you encounter here. Having been here 5 times now, I recognize some of the regulars; and actually I've witnessed some of the 2 Point regulars at other bars on N Lombard. Bizarre coincidence is that I've met 3 guys named "John" here. If you want a good IPA, PBR or Corona with lime reasonably priced, this is your spot. Good conversation with the regulars is what stood out for me, this place is seasoned with authentic characters. Faith the new owner takes great pride in her efficiency and making sure the patrons feel at home. Good old fashioned rock-n-roll provided a nostalgic sound scape.“
“It was 10pm, hanging out with awesome friends, and My Father's Place's breakfast menu is exceptional! Pancakes were the best I've tasted in months!Although my taste buds were outraged by the suppleness of its texture and insulted by its perfect balance of flavors, I kept eating.If that wasn't bad enough, my mouth was straight-up nutted by the rich hot maple syrup and whipped butter in a flanking position so OP, that i had to wash it all down with another Guinness!I had the short stack btw (pictured), and it kicked my a$$, with me doing the splits on it at the end. I regret every decision I've made to avoid this place like a plague, and rightfully so, the person who I thought was the bouncer was just some guy who admired I.D. holograms and liked to play with his pocket flashlight.Overall, the atmosphere is your typical dive bar vibe, with a 5 star chef in the back!I kept the atmosphere rating to 1 because they earned it, and should be proud of such an achievement!Bring friends and tip everyone there!“
“I kind of wish we had stayed for another drink. We were both enjoying this bar, talking to the regs. But as we were on a mission to squeeze in as much as (super)humanly possible we only had one. I don't even remember what I drank, yellow beer? She enjoyed her Shirley temple with half a jar worth of cherries. Something about hearing someone's near death experience over drinks just hits different. The copper/brass bar is a super nice touch. This looked and felt old school Portland. We should've came After the PICA, I needed all kinds of beer then.“
“This is a great local bar. Good bar food, a couple of pool tables, never dead but never too busy to grab a seat and a drink. The rotating tap list is on a couple of big screens. The bartenders are great, the regulars are great, I’ve only had the burgers and wings but those are both excellent. They do pub quiz, karaoke, and other things throughout the week. You get all ages in here from college students to working people to retirees. They’re usually playing good music here like 77 punk or 2tone or reggae but they don’t make a thing out of it.“
“Roscoe’s is a fun dive bar with pool, drinks, and serves sushi from the restaurant next door-Miyamoto’s.When we first arrived, there wasn’t any seating so we played a round of pool. The table takes quarters, so you may need to head to the bar to grab coins. A table quickly opened up next to the pool table so we grabbed it. It was busy for a bit, but the place did empty out after a while. There’s also some pinball to play.If you are wanting to buy Miyamoto’s sushi from Roscoe’s, you do need to purchase something from Roscoe’s as well. I think this can be food, alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks. We ended up buying the chicken strips appetizer. It was good, but I do wish the chicken was crispier.Bathroom is sketchy and dirty, hold it in if you can!Overall a chill place that I would return to and grab a drink.“
“Food is amazing, drinks are great and the staff/bartender very nice people. The pot stickers and the steak bites are my favorite and the pork fried rice. Weekends they are suppppeeerrr busy but still worth it, I frequent this place as much as I can.“
“Comfortable, light and easy going atmosphere. Cheerful, attentive bartenders and full bar selections available. Standard bar/tavern food options. Video poker machines. Small crowd of friendly regulars; it's never been overly crowded when I've been there yet there are always plenty of people to socialize with.Kid-friendliness: No minors , sports bar, alcohol is servedWheelchair accessibility: Ramp up entrance .“
“It was my first visit there, I don't know why I waited so long to go, I remember as a youth driving past that odd named bar, laughing at the name wondering what really went on in a place with a name like that. And with my best friend Brooke leading the way she showed me one of Portlands best kept secrets. Visit it today, you surely won't be disappointed, classically PDX weird.“
“Nicer than Yamhill Pub but not as nice as My Father's Place, this joint is a classic Portland dive that has the typical PDX barflies: young punk rockers in back hoodies, local day drinkers of all ages, lottery addicts, and neighborhood folks. The food isn't particularly good (as expected) here but you could do worse. The bartenders aren't nearly as surly as some other dives.“
“I love Shanghai Tunnel Bar, mostly for its bartenders/staff, food, and atmosphere. I've never had a bad experience here yet, and will be coming back for a long time to come. If you're looking for a cozy dive bar in downtown Portland, I couldn't recommend this place enough!“
“Came in Friday and y’all got to start coming to Dots. Tucked away on Clinton off Division this is one of the best places in the city to hang at. Always a great vibe and the 2 bartenders are total cuties that are there to make sure everyone is having a good time. Great food and a very helpful server that took care of our table. Then they got some fun pinballs. Plenty of seating for big groups. 2nd time there and look forward to many more“
“Was stuck in Portland for a bit, and this place was genuinely the only bright spot of my time in the city. I love a good dive bar, and the bartender Wendy was very friendly. 4 stars for food because I didn't have any and can't accurately review.“
“I went there for NFL kickoff opening night and Rocky was my bartender. Turns out that the cook decided to quit that night. However, Rocky seriously rocked it! She was bartender and cook and although it was busy I still got my food and drinks in a timely manner!... and the wings were good!The draft beer is super cheep too!I'll be back and would recommend...“
“This place really undersells itself with their slogan "the most okest bar in Portland", because in reality they are much better than that. Great atmosphere, service, and lots of live music. It's my number one local bar, and I can't recommend it highly enough. 10/10“
“Cheapest prices in this country. Shots, beer, & bar food are priced 1980s. Take advantage of this place as long as it last. Wont be around much longer as it attracts borderline hobos & other folks that only come out at night. I absolutely love this sleezy but top spot preflight! 4 drinks limit.“
“Holman’s is an institution. Historic old weird knick knacks all over. Large rooms each hold a different look and feel. Classic bar food. Flexible about vegan/vegetarian substitutions. They’ll put on the Blazers if you ask. Diverse non-alcoholic beers.“
“??? KARAOKE BABY! ???Parking: hit it miss in the parking lotalways street parking reasonably close to the front door. That is... as long as you don't mind getting harassed by the neighborhood's endless "OVER-THE-TOP DO-GOODERS" and the overpopulation of menacing "VIGILANTES without-a-clue" on their e-bikes or whatever.***ALWAYS worth it for THE TRAP!“
“Dive bar for sure. A lot to look at including the graffiti on the walls. The place has character. Cheap drinks, generous pours. The bartender was precious. Bags of chips and jerky sticks plus a menu of things cooked in a microwave oven. I didn’t try any food but I would if I was hungry.“
“Great little hole in the wall that is so much bigger inside then you realize! Sabrina is always there Tues-Sat to meet you with a happy face, kind word and a cold drink.Have you heard about bathrobe Sundays? Yeah that's an actual thing. But only here!“
“Hidden gem for those who love a neighborhood pub. Small but well curated line up of traditional and craft beers. The bestdarn tomato soup I've had at a pub, the grilled cheese is on thick French bread, lots cheese. Not dry at all. Excellent French dip and tots, I didn't opt for the added swiss cheese and grilled onions but they offer it. Prices are working-human affordable for a quick meal at the end of the day. My new neighborhood choice. Prime rib dinner on Mondays, I'll be back to check it out.“
“This place is incredible! However, I'm gonna give it a 4.8 out of 5. Mostly because their soda water doesn't have enough bubbles. I mean. When you think about it, shouldn't soda water have the right bubble to liquid ratio, or is it just me. At any rate, this place is great! Just can't get over the soda water. Man... like. Ugh. When someone finds the right place to get soda water, PLEASE FOR THE LOVE OF GOD LET ME KNOW!!!“
“Amazing selection of both beer and liquor and staff that care and treat you well. One of my go-to's for a bite to eat and a drink with a great atmosphere. During those warmer days, it's nice to have the outdoor patio seating as well!“
“I can literally never go back here again -- went with friends and the bartender was amazing, the food was great, and it was actually super cute. Perfect "dive bar" vibe without being dirty or poorly run. The drinks were great especially for the price, which is why I will never be able to come back, because I got so drunk. 10/10 would recommend to anyone!!“
“Julie was our server and was the absolute best. Our drinks were top notch! I recommend the Salty Dog and jello shots! We had a blast making Christmas sweater ? ? cookies and laughing with Julie all night! Will be back ASAP and asking for her! Thanks Julie ❤️“
Pubs • $
“Always a great place daytime for laid back casual and nights for the variety of people watching...good food fun games...alot more than just lottery pool buy the hour darts shooting games pinball...great variety of fun... stop buy and sing a song on Fri or sat night it's a blast“
“Shout out to my guy Quinn for holding it down and cleaning up the aftermath of great times. Really appreciate people + service that validates the reviews, experiences, and expectations for folks enjoying Portland. Quinn, your energy and diligence to a clean and responsive environment will not go un-noticed or under appreciated. Thank you for setting the bar and leaving it up there for everyone to reach. Love Sandy Hut because of people like you. Thank you!“
“I've passed by this place a lot since I work in downtown Vancouver, but I've never stopped by until last week! Now I've been here a couple of times and would highly recommend the restaurant. The service is top-notch and all the waitresses are super sweet and seem to care about their customers. I am not a regular yet, but they are so kind especially to the friendly faces that they see often! It's very much an all-American diner feel on the inside, but I like how clean it is compared to other local diners. Best of all, the food is awesome. Their soups are fresh and tasty, and they have a lot of lunch favorites in big servings at great prices! Their chicken tenderloins have a satisfying saltiness to them, and I especially love the French fries. Would highly recommend.“