Bars
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Why Are There So Few Legit Speakeasies?
August 25, 2026 – Michael KeyWhat is a speakeasy?Dictionary: A hidden, illicit bar that originally sold alcoholic beverages during the American Prohibition era. In 1920 the 18th Amendment outlawed the manufacture, sale, and transportation of intoxicating liquors. It was repealed in 1933. These mysterious bars have been immortalized in period movies as somewhat glamorous versions of what were most likely…
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Holy Ghost
August 1, 2026 – Michael KeySouth Central Portland A bartender I know who is familiar with my palate recommended this watering hole in Portland. The joint has a pleasing, funky vibe with mood lighting. The bar is well stocked and capable of producing some craft cocktails. The menu features a few original recipes that strive to be clever, along with…
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Best Rooftop Bars
July 25, 2026 – Michael KeyA rooftop bar is a great place to be when the weather is warm and the rain is on hiatus. Some are true rooftops, while others are simply elevated balconies. Either way, if you want to take advantage of the sunshine and fresh air, these are the spots you’ll want to visit. 1. Departure Restaurant…
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The Driftwood Room
January 7, 2026 – Michael KeyClassy Joint The Driftwood Room in the Hotel Deluxe is an old-school yet stylish, dark bar that plays groovy music and serves excellent craft cocktails. It’s a cozy joint that seats only about 15, but it’s one of the best hotel bars I’ve encountered. The typical hotel watering hole has decent base spirits but cuts…
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Best Dive Bars in VanPort
December 30, 2025 – Michael KeyThe term “dive,” in regard to a business, dates back to the late 1800s, when it referred to a disreputable, low-end establishment. “Dive bar” began being used in the 1940s. By the late 20th and early 21st centuries, “dive bar” had, for some, transformed into a positive or affectionate label. It’s often a badge of…
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The Lost Lounge
October 3, 2025 – Michael KeyOn The Down Low There’s a new speakeasy in Vancouver, and it’s in an unlikely place—inside McMenamins at 164th & 18th. It’s called The Lost Lounge, and the entrance is a door marked “Employees Only,” tucked behind the restaurant’s bar. Once inside, and after your eyes adjust to the low light, you’ll find a small…
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Bible Club PDX
September 21, 2025 – Michael KeyOn The Down Low There’s a nondescript house in a Sellwood residential neighborhood that doesn’t look like anything special. You might wonder if you’re at the right place, but step inside the front door and you’ll discover a cool speakeasy with a fabulous Prohibition vibe. The décor is vintage, with items like an old-school mechanical…
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The Elbow Room
September 20, 2025 – Michael KeyDive! Dive! The Elbow Room is a bar inside Paul’s restaurant. It has a dive bar vibe, but if you’re savvy, you’ll discover that the self-deprecating bartender—who could easily pass as a gas station attendant in Oklahoma—is actually cloaking his superpowers. In reality, he’s a superb mixologist, born and bred in Vancouver. That’s because The…
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Scotch Lodge
August 27, 2025 – Michael KeyOn The Down Low Scotch Lodge is something of a speakeasy. You could walk right past it and never know there’s a bar inside. The décor is refined, with dark woods and dim lighting that highlight the colorful bottles and inspire cozy conversation. Scotch Lodge’s mixologists and bar stock are top-notch, which is why it’s…
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The Neighborhood Refuge
August 23, 2025 – Michael KeySpirit Filled Every desert has an oasis. The Neighborhood Refuge is the oasis of Ridgefield. The venue began life as a traditional church, complete with stained-glass windows, vaulted ceilings, and dark woods. Although much of the vibe has been retained, it carries a different spirit now. Instead of pews, guests lounge in plush leather chairs…
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