When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Bucket Brigade Sports Bar & Restaurant
Why Bucket Brigade Sports Bar & Restaurant is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Bucket Brigade Sports Bar & Restaurant in Southeast Portland is a top choice for sports fans and friends looking to gather in a lively yet comfortable setting. Boasting a 4.2-star rating from over 500 reviews, this hotspot features a spacious heated and covered patio where guests can bring dogs along, making it a welcoming place for all. With 15 to 21 beers on tap ranging from local brews to infused vodkas as well as a full bar offering jello shots and more, there’s a wide selection to satisfy all tastes. The menu spans breakfast, lunch, and dinner, serving house-made quality meals that keep patrons coming back. Highlighted weekly specials such as Taco Tuesday and free pool on Mondays add to the engaging atmosphere. The venue operates long hours, from 10 AM to past midnight on weekdays and late into the night on weekends, allowing flexible timing for meetups. Sports lovers enjoy watching NFL, UFC, Blazers, and MLB games on big screens, earning Bucket Brigade a reputation as one of Portland’s best sports bars. Friendly staff and a welcoming vibe complete the experience, making this bar and restaurant an excellent destination for hanging out with friends any day of the week.
Here's what people think of Bucket Brigade Sports Bar & Restaurant
As of recent, Bucket Brigade Sports Bar & Restaurant holds a 4.2-star rating based on 547 reviews.
Reviews of Bucket Brigade Sports Bar & Restaurant generally reflect strong approval and enjoyment among visitors. Positive feedback frequently highlights the extensive beer selection, with up to 21 taps including craft and infused options, complemented by a full menu that covers breakfast to dinner with delicious, house-made meals. Patrons appreciate the spacious heated patio, especially the dog-friendly policy, and mention the lively social atmosphere during game days and weekly events like Taco Tuesday and free pool on Mondays. Staff friendliness and the welcoming environment are also common praises, contributing to a vibrant experience ideal for groups and sports enthusiasts alike. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to occasional slow service during peak hours and a few inconsistencies in food quality or drink preparation. Crowds during popular game nights can sometimes lead to a noisy environment, which might not suit those looking for a quieter outing. Despite these few criticisms, the majority of customers feel the positives outweigh the negatives, citing overall enjoyment of the venue’s vibe, variety, and value. In conclusion, the reviews depict Bucket Brigade as a well-loved local sports bar that delivers a memorable and accommodating experience for friends meeting up, especially for those keen on sports and good social energy.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Gary Subijano
What an awesome, low-key friendly bar! 3 beef corn tortilla soft tacos for $4 all day on Tuesdays, and the bartenders and regulars are so down to earth! The tacos are kinda small, but very flavorful and filling! The house made salsa really makes it more than worth it. All of their sauces are house made, and that is a huge deal breaker with bar food. Great menu top to bottom! Will definitely be back!
Salad Days
If I could rate it lower, I would. I ordered boneless wings to go, three different flavors. They were cold, dry, and tasteless, and it looked like someone just poured dressing on them rather than tossing them. The food was literally the worst experience I've ever had from a restaurant. 30$. The bartender was nice enough but the food was laughably bad. I never write reviews. This place inspired me.
Ricardo Diaz
Friendly service and big portions of food, it's becoming a great place to take my mom and she always has more than enough leftovers for dinner. (Edit : no longer bring my mom here but that's because I can't...... still come here and still amazing server's and looking out for their people that come, (the chicken strips is a new updated photo). Change from 4 to 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌟 Update (11/19/22) Haven't really had a Burger from here but was debating either the rodeo Burger or the fire chief Burger and i must say the fire chief Burger is a must get!!!! Thick hame and over all delicious🍔🍔🍔🍔🍔🍔 (added photo) Update (7/6/24) Still has a good staff and food it's good also so my rating stay the same.
Kameia West
My husband and I walked into this bar to have a quick drink today about 4:20 to kill time before our movie. We were not greeted by the bartender she was making a drink and didn’t acknowledge us at all we waited 5 minutes . And still no Hi hello I will be right with you or anything of that nature so we decided to leave. We felt very uncomfortable and treated like we were being discriminated against.
Joshua Pena
Great place, spacious bar, plenty of space to sit outside and friendly staff. Audrey and Tess were wonderful barmaids. Seems like an older person's bar the couple of times I have been there. There are also a few slot machines, too.
How to reach Bucket Brigade Sports Bar & Restaurant
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Why Bucket Brigade Sports Bar & Restaurant may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
Bucket Brigade Sports Bar & Restaurant in Portland, Oregon, is the ultimate destination to gather with friends and family when you want to enjoy a lively, welcoming atmosphere combined with great food and drinks. Whether you're looking to watch a big game, celebrate a special occasion, or simply catch up over a few drinks, Bucket Brigade provides the perfect setting to rally your group for a memorable outing. Its approachable yet vibrant environment appeals to sports enthusiasts and casual diners alike, creating an energy that makes every visit feel like a shared celebration. The staff’s friendly and attentive service ensures that every guest feels like part of the community, while the bar's extensive selection of beverages caters to all tastes, enhancing the social experience. Open late into the night, the venue accommodates your group’s schedule comfortably, whether you’re meeting for an early lunch or a late-night hangout. The spot’s spacious, heated, enclosed seating area is ideal for larger parties, combining comfort with a buzzing sports bar vibe. When you want a place that brings people together effortlessly, Bucket Brigade makes rallying with your crew not just easy but genuinely enjoyable.
What makes Bucket Brigade Sports Bar & Restaurant perfect for group meetups?
Bucket Brigade stands out as an excellent meetup location due to its spacious layout and accommodating hours, welcoming guests daily from morning until well past midnight. This flexibility means groups can gather for brunch, lunch, dinner, or late-night drinks without feeling rushed. The bar's ambiance strikes a perfect balance between casual comfort and spirited excitement, making it easy for conversations to flow while providing plenty of entertainment. The venue boasts multiple big screens that broadcast all the major sports events and UFC fights, ensuring everyone in your group can keep tabs on their favorite sports or matches. Happy Hour specials, running daily from 4 PM to 7 PM, offer a great opportunity for groups to enjoy discounted drinks and bites, making it a budget-friendly option for extended meetups. Furthermore, the friendly and professional staff are experienced in handling larger groups, providing attentive service that keeps the experience smooth and enjoyable. The covered, heated seating area ensures comfort year-round, letting your group linger even on chillier days or evenings. This combination of features makes Bucket Brigade a go-to spot for both casual get-togethers and lively celebrations.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy together at Bucket Brigade?
When you and your friends come to Bucket Brigade, you get much more than just food and drinks; you tap into a vibrant scene filled with activities that make the time fly. Watching sports is the core attraction here, with all major games—including all sports and UFC fights—broadcast live on multiple big screens visible from nearly every seat. This setup encourages shared excitement and friendly banter as your group cheers for your favorite teams. Beyond just watching, Bucket Brigade fosters a social environment where you can grab a round of drinks from the full bar, try house-made food specialties, and engage in conversations fueled by great service and an energetic crowd. For those interested, the venue also features lottery games, adding a bit of fun and potential winnings to your outing. The inviting space encourages mingling and camaraderie among guests, making it easy to connect and create memorable moments together. Whether you want to focus on the game, enjoy hearty meals, or simply relax in the lively bar setting, Bucket Brigade delivers a well-rounded experience ideal for groups.
How does the food and drink menu accommodate groups?
The food and drink offerings at Bucket Brigade Sports Bar & Restaurant are thoughtfully crafted to satisfy the varied tastes of a group setting. The menu features a range of hearty, house-made dishes made from quality ingredients, perfect for sharing or enjoying individually during your meetup. Traditional sports bar favorites such as wings, burgers, and nachos provide familiar comfort foods that pair excellently with the bar's extensive drink selection. The full bar offers an array of beers, including local craft brews, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options, ensuring that every member of your group finds something to suit their preference. Happy Hour specials further enhance the value, allowing groups to enjoy discounted drinks and appetizers during prime social hours. The staff is knowledgeable and eager to recommend food and drink pairings to enhance your experience. Importantly, the spacious seating means everyone can be served promptly and enjoy their meals without feeling cramped, turning any gathering into a relaxed and satisfying event.
What is the atmosphere like at Bucket Brigade for social gatherings?
Bucket Brigade Sports Bar & Restaurant exudes a welcoming and casual vibe that is ideal for social gatherings of all sizes. The atmosphere strikes a comfortable balance between lively and relaxed, catering to those looking to immerse themselves in the excitement of live sports as well as those who simply want a stress-free place to chat and unwind. Many visitors comment on the friendly staff and the ease with which the venue creates a communal feel, making visitors feel right at home from the moment they arrive. The space features an enclosed, heated seating area, which makes it inviting year-round, even in Portland’s cooler months. The interior’s design, with its multiple screens and classic sports bar decor, builds energy and excitement without overwhelming conversation or comfort. This combination makes it an excellent setting for everything from casual reunions to celebrating special occasions with family or friends.
What are the operating hours and accessibility for groups planning a meetup?
Bucket Brigade Sports Bar & Restaurant offers very accommodating operating hours that suit a wide range of meetup plans. From Monday through Thursday, the venue is open from 10 AM until 1 AM, giving plenty of time for lunch, early dinner, or late-night gatherings. On Fridays and Saturdays, hours extend even further, until 2:30 AM, catering well to weekend socializers and those who want to keep the party going past typical dining hours. Sundays are also covered, with opening hours starting at 9 AM and closing at 1 AM, perfect for brunch meetups or watching weekend sports. This broad range of availability means groups can plan around their schedules without hesitation, whether meeting early in the day, during afternoon games, or late at night. Its accessible location on SE Powell Blvd is convenient for transportation and parking, making it easy for your entire group to arrive without hassle. The venue’s welcoming policy and smooth service make even larger meetups manageable, ensuring a stress-free experience from arrival to departure.
How does Bucket Brigade enhance the sports viewing experience for groups?
One of Bucket Brigade’s strongest draws for groups is its exceptional sports viewing environment. Featuring multiple large-screen TVs positioned strategically throughout the bar and restaurant, guests never miss a moment of the action no matter where they are seated. The venue broadcasts all major sports, including NFL, NBA, MLB, and especially UFC fights, which are popular draws for group outings seeking intense, live competition. The communal nature of watching games in this setting creates shared excitement and a dynamic atmosphere, perfect for bonding over wins and losses. The staff often keeps the vibe lively and engaging, enhancing the crowd’s enthusiasm with timely service of drinks and snacks. This immersive experience makes Bucket Brigade not just a bar to eat at but a true sports hub where groups can come together to enjoy their favorite teams in prime company.
What makes the customer service at Bucket Brigade stand out for group events?
Customer service at Bucket Brigade Sports Bar & Restaurant consistently receives positive feedback, particularly in the context of group events and meetups. The staff is attentive, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic about creating a welcoming environment for every guest. They understand the dynamics of hosting larger parties, managing orders efficiently without sacrificing friendliness or quality. From recommending menu items to accommodating special requests and ensuring timely delivery of food and drinks, the team goes above and beyond to facilitate smooth experiences. Their proactive approach helps reduce wait times and allows groups to focus on enjoying the occasion rather than logistical concerns. This high level of service, combined with the bar’s relaxed vibe, makes Bucket Brigade a stress-free choice for groups wanting to gather, celebrate, and unwind.
Why is Bucket Brigade a great choice beyond just watching sports?
While sports viewing is a key feature at Bucket Brigade, the venue offers much more that makes it attractive for groups seeking an all-around fun outing. The diverse and inviting atmosphere appeals to people who enjoy a mix of dining, socializing, and entertainment in one location. The inclusion of lottery games adds an unexpected twist of excitement where guests can try their luck between watching games or chatting. The menu’s range of house-made food ensures satisfying dining that appeals to various tastes and dietary preferences. Additionally, the bar’s full liquor license and extensive drink options support a festive mood for celebrations like birthdays, anniversaries, or casual get-togethers. Its combination of all these elements makes Bucket Brigade more than just a sports bar — it is a lively community spot where groups can create shared memories beyond the scoreboard.
How can groups maximize their experience at Bucket Brigade?
To get the most out of a meetup at Bucket Brigade Sports Bar & Restaurant, groups should consider planning their visit around Happy Hour from 4 PM to 7 PM to enjoy some of the best deals on drinks and appetizers. Reserving a spot or arriving early can be beneficial during major sporting events to secure preferred seating near the big screens. Engaging with the friendly staff can also enhance the experience, as they can recommend menu specials, craft beers, or cocktails tailored to your group's taste. Mixing watching the game with social activities like lottery tickets or sharing a variety of house-made dishes will keep everyone entertained and satisfied. Lastly, taking advantage of the heated outdoor seating during colder months allows your group to stay comfortable while maintaining the lively bar atmosphere. With thoughtful planning, every meetup at Bucket Brigade can transform into a memorable social event filled with great food, drinks, and camaraderie.