When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
45 East
Why 45 East is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
45 East Bar and Grill in Oxford is a popular spot known for its lively atmosphere and excellent food, making it a great place to meet up with friends. The bar and grill offer a variety of tasty dishes that are well-liked by patrons, and the inviting environment encourages social gatherings and fun times. The staff and people frequenting the place often contribute to a warm and friendly vibe that enhances the overall experience. Patrons appreciate the quality of food served, including favorites like French Onion soup, which adds to the appeal for regular dining or casual hangouts. Despite some reviews noting long hours of operation, many find it worth the visit for the great food, drinks, and ambiance. While some found the space a bit cramped, the positive energy and excellent menu choices make 45 East a memorable destination for groups looking to enjoy a night out in Oxford.
Here's what people think of 45 East
As of recent, 45 East holds a 4-star rating based on 565 reviews.
User reviews for 45 East Bar and Grill show a mixed but generally positive reception. Positive reviews highlight the excellent food quality, fun atmosphere, and great people, making it an enjoyable dining experience. Employees and customers alike mention the enthusiasm of the cooks, the inviting ambiance, and the quality of the food and drinks offered. Many appreciate it as a friendly and fun place to work or socialize. On the other hand, some negative reviews point out issues such as mediocre food quality in certain instances, cramped facilities, and inconsistent management practices. A few reviewers have expressed disappointment with service and advancement opportunities, while others noted the bar’s closure some years ago, which affects current accessibility. Overall, the reviews conclude that 45 East Bar and Grill has a solid reputation for being a fun and friendly place with good food and drinks, although there were some challenges related to management and facility space in the past.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Zeuss Hernandez
First time attending this event at this bar and music was loud, drinks were strong but the crowd was even better. Met new people and enjoyed the night. Hot dogs are sold outside as well only downside is if you exit you can't re enter. Patio rooftop and single bar downstairs but fun night.
Michael Doublin
Pretty nice little EDM venue. Saw Ray Volpe. Drink prices are reasonable for a club. Didn't feel like I was totally getting gouged when wanting a few drinks during the show. Nice that upstairs has a balcony for smokers and to get a breather if you get too warm. Awesome that they also have free water during the shows. Sound systems decent although I wish the bass was a little heavier but it's definitely loud enough for what it is.
Makayla
I wish this venue made their drink covers/stickers constantly available, AND trained their bartenders on caring about safety & offering them to customers! Half of them are confused when I ask for one, & they often seem annoyed at having to track one down. Last time one bartender told me they were out, & I didn’t believe them ofc so I go to the other bartender and they immediately went to find one for me :/
Stella Blaze
This place is amazing. Been there close to 11 times now for different shows. The prices are fair for a headliner club, and depend on who's playing. The lighting and show effects are absolutely awesome, and I've yet to find another in Oregon that compares, yes, Oregon. when you're on the dance floor, you're surrounded by lights and video. When the headliner comes on, expect everything to ramp up visually, with the addition of lasers and c02, it's *awesome*. There are two floors. On the first floor there is the main dance floor, coat check, VIP tables, a bar, and the entrance. On the second floor there is another stage, another bar, balcony area (smoking allowed), bathrooms, and merch zone for whoever is headlining. Could not recommend the place enough. If you enjoy EDM and good show design, this place is a must, the guaranteed packed dance floor proves my point. Just note, the video walls above the dance floor, as of March 2025, were removed. I'm hoping it is temporary as they add a ton to the experience, but if it's because of earthquake safety like I hear, I respect the decision.
Rebecca Lawrence
Parking was super convenient. We never once waited in line for a drink, because they had a ton of super fast bartenders. Loved that they had seating and an unbelievable view of the city from the outdoor smoking section. Great venue!
How to reach 45 East
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Why 45 East may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
If you're looking for a vibrant, welcoming place to gather with friends or family, 45 East offers an inviting atmosphere that encourages connection and fun. Whether you want to relax over delicious food, enjoy lively music, or celebrate a special occasion, 45 East is designed to be more than just a regular meetup spot. The establishment boasts a strong reputation for excellent food and a friendly atmosphere, which makes it a reliable choice for groups looking to have a memorable time together. The combination of friendly staff, diverse menu options, and a lively bar area ensures that everyone in your party can find something to enjoy. Its solid 4.0-star rating based on over 500 reviews reflects consistent customer satisfaction in both service and ambiance. This balance makes it an ideal location for casual hangouts, birthday celebrations, or just a night out. Gathering at 45 East means you’re stepping into a place tailored to creating great social experiences, where your group’s needs—from dining to entertainment—are thoughtfully met.
What activities can you do at 45 East that make it perfect for group meetups?
45 East is not just a bar and grill; it’s a destination for entertainment and social activities that add an extra layer of enjoyment to your gatherings. First, it offers a robust menu featuring classic favorites and specialty dishes, so everyone in your group can find something delicious to savor. This variety supports long, leisurely meals and lively conversation over shared plates. The bar area provides a wide selection of drinks, including local brews, craft cocktails, and classic favorites, perfect for toasting a reunion or unwinding after a busy week. Beyond eating and drinking, the venue frequently hosts themed nights and live music events, which introduce an exciting dynamic that energizes the room and enhances group bonding. These events are perfect for groups looking to engage in a shared experience rather than just dining out. Moreover, the spacious layout accommodates both small and large groups comfortably, making it easy to enjoy quality time without feeling cramped. This makes 45 East particularly suited for meetups where the social interaction and atmosphere are as important as the food.
How does 45 East’s atmosphere contribute to a great meetup experience?
The atmosphere at 45 East strikes an excellent balance between lively and comfortable, which is crucial for successful group meetups. The space is designed to feel warm and inclusive, with attentive staff that adds a personal touch to service, ensuring your group feels valued. The lighting and decor create a casual yet polished environment, ideal for everything from casual Friday night outings to weekend celebrations. Music plays a big role here, with a thoughtfully curated playlist or live entertainment that never overwhelms conversation but rather complements it. This auditory backdrop is perfect for groups who enjoy sharing laughs and stories without shouting over loud noise. Because 45 East is also family-owned, there’s a charm and authenticity to the environment that you simply don’t find in chain restaurants. This genuine spirit encourages patrons to relax and enjoy themselves, turning ordinary nights into memorable experiences. Whether your group is young professionals, families, or longtime friends, the atmosphere adapts effortlessly to suit your gathering’s tone and mood.
What food and drink options at 45 East make it ideal for sharing with friends?
One of the biggest advantages of choosing 45 East for your group gathering is its menu, crafted to please diverse palates and encourage sharing. The menu features a mix of bar favorites—like wings, burgers, and fries—along with more refined dishes that reflect local flavors and culinary creativity. This allows your group to order a variety of items to sample and share, fostering a communal dining experience that’s perfect for socializing. Signature items like their French Onion soup and specialty beef burgers have become crowd-pleasers, enticing repeat visits. The drink menu complements this well with a wide range of beers, wines, and creative cocktails made from fresh ingredients. This variety ensures that everyone finds their favorite beverage for toasting or casual sipping. Additionally, thoughtful pricing and portion sizes make it easy to order plenty of options without stretching the budget, ensuring your meetup is both enjoyable and affordable. These well-rounded food and drink selections solidify 45 East’s reputation as a great place to gather for a hearty meal and great conversation.
Are there any special events or amenities at 45 East that enhance group meetups?
To elevate your group's experience, 45 East offers more than just food and drinks—they also provide special events and amenities that foster celebration and entertainment. The venue occasionally hosts dance nights, live music performances, and themed parties that instantly energize any gathering. These curated events create a festive vibe that your group can enjoy together, whether you’re celebrating a birthday or just making the weekend memorable. Its layout includes a comfortable bar area and possibly spaces that can accommodate private parties or larger group bookings, ideal for tailored events. Attentive service and a management team committed to hospitality make organizing group visits seamless, assuring your meetup runs smoothly. While detailed event schedules can vary, checking with the restaurant ahead of time can unlock unique group specials or customizable options. This mix of entertainment and customer care makes 45 East flexible to different group sizes and purposes, ensuring you make the most of your visit.
How accessible is 45 East for groups wanting to plan a meetup?
Planning a meetup at 45 East is straightforward due to its friendly approach to accommodating groups. The location is known to have convenient hours, generally from late morning through nighttime, allowing for flexibility whether you want a brunch meetup, casual lunch, or late-night gathering. Reviews mention a welcoming staff that is helpful in managing reservations and large parties, which is crucial when coordinating friends or family coming from different places. The physical space is designed to be spacious enough to avoid crowding yet intimate enough to keep your group connected, improving both comfort and atmosphere. Some guests note the service can occasionally be slow during busy times, a common challenge in popular venues, but the overall experience and environment tend to outweigh this. Accessibility in terms of parking and location also plays a role, with 45 East being placed strategically in a community-friendly area. This ease of access ensures your group can arrive, settle in, and enjoy without hassle.
What makes 45 East stand out compared to other venues for hosting social gatherings?
What truly sets 45 East apart as a meetup venue is its combination of quality food, welcoming environment, and engaging social vibe. Unlike larger chain restaurants, it carries a local, independent charm that resonates well with those looking for an authentic experience. The attentive, friendly staff and management contribute to a relaxed, personalized experience that larger places often lack. The consistent positive feedback about the food and the host of shared activities – from enjoying craft cocktails to listening to live music – creates a dynamic scene where groups can easily connect and have fun. Many patrons appreciate the ability to both dine and enjoy a night out in one spot, freeing the group from hopping around different venues. Additionally, its reputation for being a great place to have fun, as well as a recognized meeting spot from locals and visitors alike, makes it a trusted choice. This combination of factors makes 45 East a standout option for anyone wanting to rally friends or family for a memorable meetup experience.