When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Bare Bones Cafe & Bar
Why Bare Bones Cafe & Bar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Bare Bones Cafe & Bar, located on SE Belmont Street in Portland, Oregon, is a beloved neighborhood hangout known for its inviting atmosphere, diverse menu, and full bar service. Owned by Ginger Vaadi since 2010, this cafe and bar offers a comfortable spot to meet up with friends any time of the day or night thanks to its long hours—from morning breakfast through late-night drinks until 2:00 AM. The cafe serves an all-day breakfast menu featuring build-your-own breakfast sandwiches made with ciabatta bread and rosemary butter, as well as classics like grilled cheese with tomato soup, chicken or soyrizo nachos, and delicious sides such as French toast and hashbrowns. The bar complements the food with custom cocktails, boozy slushies, local coffee, and a great selection of beer and wine. Bare Bones also offers a happy hour every day from 4 PM to 7 PM and all day on Mondays with discounted drinks and appetizing bar snacks like jalapeño cheese stuffed pretzels and quesadillas. The casual vibe is enhanced by amenities like free Wi-Fi, outdoor seating, televisions, and various games including pinball and shuffleboard, making it a lively yet cozy spot to gather. Its friendly staff and community feel make it an excellent place for breakfast, dinner, or a fun night out with friends.
Here's what people think of Bare Bones Cafe & Bar
As of recent, Bare Bones Cafe & Bar holds a 4.4-star rating based on 533 reviews.
User reviews of Bare Bones Cafe & Bar highlight a solid 4.4-star rating based on over 500 reviewers, reflecting a generally positive impression. Many patrons praise the cafe for its warm and welcoming environment, perfect for socializing or relaxing. Numerous reviews specifically commend the quality and flavor of the food, particularly the breakfast offerings like hearty sandwiches and traditional American fare, as well as the variety of drinks including unique cocktails and affordable happy hour specials. Customers also appreciate the bar's extended hours and the fun entertainment options such as pool tables and pinball machines, which contribute to a lively and engaging atmosphere. Positive feedback often mentions friendly service and the comfortable neighborhood vibe that makes Bare Bones feel like a local gem. On the other hand, some negative reviews occasionally mention occasional early closures on slow days and note that the bar can sometimes get a bit crowded, which might deter those looking for a quieter experience. A few reviewers suggest that the ambiance is very casual and might not fit everyone's taste, especially if they want a more upscale setting. Overall, the reviews converge on the conclusion that Bare Bones Cafe & Bar is a great value option for hearty meals, enjoyable drinks, and casual fun with friends in Portland's Sunnyside neighborhood.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
W P
While I heard ownership may have changed, I will always support this and other legacies of Portland’s food/bar scene. Hearty portions and a Halloween-arcade-y vibe all year long? How could you go wrong with that?! While Portland has changed, businesses like this should be supported tooth and nail so the Palo Alto transplants don’t sanitize the neighborhood and the city anymore than they already have. Fight it, otherwise you’ll end up having $3k minimum rent per person and the cheapest coffee will be 18 bux (but not at Bare Bones ;)
Elizabeth Gordon
Love this hidden gem! The food here does not disappoint! Iced coffee was also fantastic. Love that we can bring our dog. I always feel super comfortable and welcomed here.
Dalys Kezar
Great staff, and environment. The 2 frozen drink machines sell out daily, and get cleaned and changed into new flavors. Not a dedicated gay bar, but all are accepted. Proud sponsor to the lgbtq community, and overall a great place to enjoy and support.
Josephine Baldwin
Food was fine—just basic bar food. But the service? Unwelcoming. I get that it was St. Patrick’s Day, but as a bar, you’d think they’d be prepared. The bartenders were rude as heck, making us want to eat and leave ASAP. Worst part? When my friend closed her tab, the (not-a-girls-girl) bartender acted like her card vanished—spoiler: it was right there. Staff was also loudly trash-talking St. Paddy’s crowds. Plenty of better spots nearby with good food, service, and vibes. Wouldn’t recommend this place if my life depended on it.
Tinky Weed
I actually love this place but its so hot inside. Just started coming here during the winter of 2024/2025. Good drink prices. Friendly bartenders. Haven't had their food yet. Pool and pinball is fun. But the last couple of times I've been here it's been so hot inside that I was sweating just existing and had to cut my visits short. I'll keep coming back tho in case the temp was a fluke? I'll probably stop coming here at some point if alls I do is sweat while playing pinball everytime.
How to reach Bare Bones Cafe & Bar
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Why rally at Bare Bones Cafe & Bar with your friends? Because it offers the perfect blend of a welcoming neighborhood vibe, versatile menu options, and a lively yet cozy environment that makes gathering with friends or family genuinely enjoyable. Located on SE Belmont Street in Portland, Bare Bones Cafe & Bar has earned a solid 4.4-star rating from 533 reviews, reflecting the community’s appreciation for this spot. Whether you’re looking to kick off your day with all-day breakfast, enjoy a casual brunch, sandwiches, or unwind late into the night with specialty cocktails and boozy slushies, this place has something for everyone. The extended hours, open until 2:00 AM daily, mean your meetups don’t have to be rushed—you can linger over great food and drinks well into the night. Add free Wi-Fi, outdoor seating, and a friendly atmosphere managed by owner Ginger Vaadi since 2010, and you have all the ingredients that turn any casual outing into a memorable social experience. Simply put, Bare Bones makes it easy to connect, relax, and savor the moments with your favorite people.
What activities can you enjoy at Bare Bones Cafe & Bar? This spot is designed to cater to a wide variety of group activities, making it ideal for meetups. First, the food and drink offerings alone encourage a relaxed, social atmosphere. You can start with coffee or espresso drinks in the morning and seamlessly transition to craft cocktails, a full bar, and local beer as the day progresses. The daily specials and homemade soups offer changing options that keep things interesting when you return for repeat visits. Beyond dining, the space features televisions, perfect if your group wants to watch a game or catch up on events while chatting. The outdoor seating area provides an open-air environment for those warmer days, promoting casual conversation in a vibrant street-side setting. The availability of happy hour every day from 4 pm to 7 pm and all day Monday offers exceptional value for groups wanting to have drinks together without breaking the bank. This variety of activities — eating, drinking, watching sports, or simply enjoying each other’s company in a comfortable setting — makes Bare Bones an excellent venue for both small and larger get-togethers.
Why is Bare Bones Cafe & Bar perfect for group meetups? The combination of flexible dining times, diverse menu selections, and a relaxed atmosphere creates a unique space designed for social interaction. Unlike many places that only serve breakfast or dinner, Bare Bones serves breakfast all day, which means your group doesn’t need to rush or split up based on meal preferences or schedules. The full bar and innovative cocktails, including the popular boozy slushies, ensure that everyone in your party can find a drink that suits their tastes, whether alcoholic or non-alcoholic coffee options. There is also a strong sense of community in this Southeast Portland spot: reviews frequently praise the staff as warm and attentive, enhancing the group experience. The restaurant’s relatively casual, “bare bones” aesthetic means that people feel comfortable coming as they are — no need for dressy attire or formal reservation anxiety. Whether you’re gathering for a laidback brunch, an evening drink session, or a late-night hangout, Bare Bones offers a space where groups can really enjoy each other's presence without fuss.
How can Bare Bones Cafe & Bar accommodate diverse group needs? Whether your group includes early risers, late-night owls, vegetarians, or foodies looking for hearty American classics, this cafe and bar has you covered. The extensive menu features American comfort food staples served throughout the day, including scrumptious breakfast items, sandwiches, and daily specials that often highlight seasonal ingredients and homemade recipes like soups. Those looking for vegetarian or lighter options will find choices that don’t compromise flavor or portion size. The bar’s craft cocktails and beer selection appeal to a broad palate, and the availability of espresso means coffee lovers aren’t left out. Open until 2:00 AM every day, Bare Bones lends itself beautifully to groups with varying schedules—friends can show up early or join late without losing the fun. Plus, the large seating area offers room for groups of different sizes, and outdoor seating provides additional flexibility and fresh air. This inclusive approach makes Bare Bones not just a restaurant, but a gathering place designed to keep everyone happy.
What makes the atmosphere at Bare Bones Cafe & Bar ideal for socializing? The vibe here is described by many regulars as friendly, warm, and welcoming, as if you are stepping into a familiar neighborhood living room. The decor is unpretentious yet cozy, emphasizing comfort over formality, which invites people to linger, chat, and enjoy themselves without pressure. The bar area is well-appointed but does not cater to the typical loud "bar crowd," making it friendlier for groups that want to talk and laugh instead of shouting over music. Televisions are available but balanced so that they never overwhelm the social mood. Outdoor seating on the busy Belmont street adds an energetic urban buzz while allowing fresh air and a casual street-level experience. The multi-functional space handles a steady flow of breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late-night patrons seamlessly, ensuring groups can customize their time according to mood and preference. Together, these elements form an ambiance that encourages connection, making it an ideal choice for hosting group meetups that feel effortless and enjoyable.
How does the pricing at Bare Bones Cafe & Bar support group gatherings? Bare Bones has a menu and drink list priced for affordability without sacrificing quality, making it accessible for most budgets. This is especially attractive for group meetups, where cost considerations can often limit options. The happy hour specials—available daily between 4 PM and 7 PM and all day on Mondays—offer great deals on cocktails, beer, and certain menu items, which helps groups indulge a little more while staying within budget. The all-day breakfast and daily specials mean you don’t have to plan around expensive meals, and portions are generous enough for sharing or hearty individual meals. Furthermore, being a locally owned neighborhood spot, Bare Bones offers value through excellent service and consistent quality rather than flashy pricing or steep markups. Transparent pricing combined with tasty, satisfying food and drinks creates a no-nonsense appeal for groups who want to enjoy their time together without financial stress.
Why is Bare Bones Cafe & Bar a reliable choice for all-day meetups? With opening hours from 9:00 or 10:00 AM until 2:00 AM every day of the week, Bare Bones can comfortably accommodate any type of group event—morning coffee meetups, mid-day lunches, afternoon happy hours, or late-night hangouts. Many restaurants close early or don’t serve past dinner hours, but Bare Bones caters to the full spectrum of day-to-night social needs. This means your group can start the day there and return later for drinks or dessert, or simply use it as a flexible meeting point convenient for everyone’s schedule. The consistent quality of food and drink, friendly staff, and availability throughout the day combine to create a dependable environment for making plans that don’t have to be rushed or shifted. This kind of flexibility is a major advantage when organizing meetups with friends or family who may have varying availability.
What community and local elements add to the appeal of Bare Bones Cafe & Bar? As a locally owned business managed by Ginger Vaadi since 2010, Bare Bones carries a strong sense of neighborhood pride and connection to Portland’s Sunnyside area. This local authenticity often resonates with patrons who prefer supporting independent establishments over chains. The cafe’s commitment to fresh, homemade food and drinks, including locally sourced coffee and ingredients, adds an artisanal touch that enhances the dining and drinking experience. Regular customers feel like part of the Bare Bones family, often returning for the friendly service and consistent vibe. This community-oriented atmosphere translates into group meetups that feel more like reunions or casual family gatherings than simple restaurant outings. The combination of familiar faces, quality offerings, and a comfortable setting creates a welcoming “third place” where social bonds deepen naturally.
How accessible and convenient is Bare Bones Cafe & Bar for group outings? Situated on SE Belmont Street, Bare Bones benefits from a lively, well-connected neighborhood location that is easy for groups from across Portland to reach. The location offers outdoor seating for those who prefer al fresco dining, and the interior seating comfortably accommodates varying group sizes. It is also accessible via public transportation and has nearby street parking in many cases, which simplifies the logistics for group members. The availability of takeout options ensures that if a group prefers to move to another venue or a home gathering, the Bare Bones experience can come along. The establishment also accepts major credit cards, making payment hassle-free for groups. Free Wi-Fi enables remote working meetups or casual browsing while socializing, adding an extra layer of convenience. Altogether, these factors make Bare Bones a versatile and easy-to-access option for any group gathering.
What kinds of groups might enjoy Bare Bones Cafe & Bar the most? Given its versatile menu, extensive bar, and flexible hours, Bare Bones suits a wide range of group types. Young adults seeking a casual but quality brunch spot will appreciate the all-day breakfast and craft cocktails. Friends wanting a relaxed place for after-work drinks can take advantage of the happy hour specials. Families meeting for late breakfasts or early dinners will find the friendly atmosphere and accommodating menu welcoming. Even those looking for a chill spot to enjoy coffee and conversation can benefit from the free Wi-Fi and calm ambience during daytime hours. The mixture of food options and day-to-night offerings means Bare Bones can support diverse group plans, whether casual hangouts, birthday celebrations, or informal business meetups, making it a genuinely multi-purpose venue for get-togethers.
In summary, Bare Bones Cafe & Bar offers a blend of quality food, excellent drinks, a welcoming atmosphere, and exceptional customer service that comes together to create a superb venue for any group looking to meet, eat, drink, and enjoy each other's company. With its extended hours, happy hour deals, comfortable setting, and community feel, Bare Bones stands out as an ideal neighborhood gathering spot in Portland’s Sunnyside area. Whether your group is large or small, early birds or night owls, lovers of breakfast or craft cocktails, this establishment has the right combination to make your meetup memorable and stress-free.