When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Cheerful Tortoise
Why Cheerful Tortoise is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Cheerful Tortoise stands out as a beloved, longstanding establishment in downtown Portland, Oregon, perfect for meeting up with friends for casual dining, drinks, and lively entertainment. With a history stretching over 60 years and continuous operation under the same iconic spirit, it offers a welcoming atmosphere particularly popular among college students and locals alike. Located at 1939 SW 6th Ave, the venue features a large menu catering to bar food enthusiasts — from expertly fried wings with over 20 different sauces and seasoning rubs, to burgers, mac and cheese, breakfast served all day, and daily specials that fit any budget. The bar boasts 18 draft beers on tap along with an extensive variety of top-shelf liquors, ensuring options for every palate. Beyond food and drinks, the Cheerful Tortoise hosts energetic events including karaoke on Thursday through Sunday nights and a popular Wicked Wednesdays DJ night, all with no cover charge. Its role as a longtime sponsor of Portland State University Athletics underscores its deep community ties. Friendly staff, a relaxed dive bar vibe, and consistent drink and food specials make it an ideal, cheerful place to gather, watch games, and enjoy fun nights out downtown.
Here's what people think of Cheerful Tortoise
As of recent, Cheerful Tortoise holds a 4-star rating based on 954 reviews.
Customer reviews commonly highlight the Cheerful Tortoise as a go-to spot for solid bar food and a lively atmosphere. Positive feedback often emphasizes the quality and variety of their wings, praised for being well-fried and customizable with many sauce options. Reviewers appreciate the affordability of the menu and drink specials, making it accessible for college students and budget-conscious patrons. The daily specials and lively events such as karaoke and DJ nights are frequently mentioned as crowd-pleasers. Friendly and attentive service, especially from bartenders and servers who mix drinks with a smile, contributes to a welcoming ambiance. However, some negative reviews note occasional inconsistencies in food flavor, such as the mac and cheese being bland at times, and occasional menu items being unavailable, like jalapeño poppers. There have also been remarks about the overall decor and cleanliness reflecting its dive bar status, which may not appeal to those seeking a more polished environment. Despite these critiques, the majority of reviews reflect satisfaction with the genuine, no-frills experience that this classic dive bar offers. In conclusion, Cheerful Tortoise maintains a strong reputation for its food, drink selections, and vibrant atmosphere, making it a beloved gathering spot despite minor drawbacks.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Neven Knows
Fantastic. First time here, but I LOVE this place already. The fish and chips are phenomenal, I will absolutely be back for more. Delicious. The bartenders are very cool people. This place embodies everything that I love about my hometown of Portland!!
Chase Dennis
Clearly someone here has never made a Shirley Temple. It wasn’t even close to period blood day 3 red. More like watermelon Gatorade. No Cherries Flat Sprite Made with 0 Love Still drank it tho because I was thirsty But the tots are fire.
Jhonen
A year ago, I was coming here with friends every Thursday for dollar beer night, and occasionally another night a week for karaoke or trivia. The bartenders were great, and KJ Kelly was a great host. Eventually, our table got moved, staff got changed, and dollar beer night ceased to exist completely- there's pretty much no reason to go here over any other bar in the area now. They seem to be trying to focus more on food and meal specials rather than embracing the dive-bar atmosphere that honestly was the reason a lot of people, especially students, were showing up. I get that inflation is a factor, but serving bucket loads of people rounds of the shittiest beer possible (without complaint) has to be alright income. I haven't been back in about 6 months now because of these reasons, and neither has my fairly large group of friends
Ian Murphy
Mid-time cheerful goer, look me up. I ordered the sliders and mini-corn dogs and they were really good, but I rushed to get out of there and left food on the table. Music was loud as hell. Literally could feel my hearing getting damaged. I asked the KJ to turn it down and they did, but by the time my food arrived, the music was louder than before and I had already decided I would be leaving asap. I know the bar gets less busy after school gets out, but it was not fun tonight. The vibe was off and I don’t like permanent hearing damage. Not every bar night is as fun as every other, but tonight was a real bummer and I will be avoiding Cheerful for a while.
Chetan Swamy
Has karaoke in the nights Wed-Fri. Karaoke’s extra fun towards the end which is 2:30AM. The place has a pool table, lots of board games and some arcade games. Great selection of beer. Service is good and the bar is open till late in the night. I highly recommend this place, especially when you are looking for a place to chill late at night.
How to reach Cheerful Tortoise
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Why Cheerful Tortoise may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Cheerful Tortoise with your friends?
Gathering at the Cheerful Tortoise offers a uniquely inviting and laid-back atmosphere that makes it an ideal destination to rally your friends and enjoy quality time together. This Portland institution is known for its convivial vibe, where mostly young and enthusiastic crowds mingle, enjoy tasty bar fare, and cheer on favorite sports teams on multiple TV screens. Whether you're seeking a casual night out or a lively spot to catch a game, the Cheerful Tortoise’s balance of great beer, good food, and friendly service delivers a consistently pleasant experience. It also keeps pace with the local culture by being open until late, perfect for those who want an extended hangout session. Affordable prices add an accessibility that encourages frequent visits—even if it’s just for a quick but fulfilling meal like their well-loved $2 breakfast special. The spot draws a welcoming community feel without pretense, making it perfect for groups looking to bond over shared interests in a relaxed pub environment. Essentially, cheering on your favorite team or simply catching up with friends at the Cheerful Tortoise becomes more than just going out—it’s about enjoying Portland’s vibrant social scene in a down-to-earth setting.
What activities can you enjoy at Cheerful Tortoise?
Cheerful Tortoise functions primarily as a vibrant sports bar, making it a prime venue for groups who want to enjoy the thrill of live sports together. With several large TV screens around the venue, you and your friends can watch a range of sporting events—from local matches to national championships—without the distraction of overcrowding from other fans. This setup is great for those who want the shared excitement of cheering loudly and debating plays, fostering camaraderie through sport. Beyond watching games, the pub offers excellent casual dining options with a menu focused on classic bar food that is both delicious and budget-friendly. You can start your day or end a late night with their popular $2 breakfast—the hearty combination of eggs, hash browns, and toast is a crowd favorite, especially after a night out. The bar’s extensive selection of beers further enhances the experience, allowing for an enjoyable tasting session or simply a relaxing drink with friends. Friendly, quick service contributes to the easygoing vibe, ensuring your group’s needs are met promptly so the fun never stalls. Together, these activities create an ideal spot for bonding over shared interests, good food, and great drinks.
Why is Cheerful Tortoise perfect for a group meetup?
Cheerful Tortoise’s spacious and comfortable interior makes it particularly suited for group meetups. Unlike some bars that get too cramped outside peak hours, this location remains roomy enough to host larger parties without feeling claustrophobic, which is especially valuable for groups wanting to talk and interact without shouting over the noise. The ambiance strikes a nice balance between casual and lively, ensuring that everyone—from sports fans to casual diners—feels welcome and relaxed. The staff at Cheerful Tortoise have a reputation for being friendly and attentive, enhancing the group experience by making sure orders are taken care of efficiently and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. The affordable prices are another big draw for meetups, allowing everyone to enjoy a meal or drinks without financial strain, which is often a sticking point for group outings. Moreover, the location is convenient for those familiar with Portland’s downtown area, adding practical ease to the social appeal. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or just catching up, the Cheerful Tortoise matches well with the needs of groups looking for a fun, affordable, and friendly venue.
What types of food and drink can your group enjoy at Cheerful Tortoise?
Cheerful Tortoise offers a selection of bar fare that caters well to groups looking for satisfying yet familiar foods. The menu, although somewhat limited, focuses on quality and value, ensuring that each dish—from breakfast specials to pub classics—is tasty and comforting. The notably affordable $2 breakfast option, which includes two eggs, hash browns, and toast, is particularly popular and perfect for groups needing a hearty start to the day or a filling option after late-night activities. Aside from breakfast, you can expect traditional pub offerings like burgers, fries, and other hand-held favorites made with care and served quickly. The beverage selection complements the food perfectly, featuring an expansive range of beers that appeal to both casual drinkers and beer aficionados. This great beer variety offers opportunities for groups to sample different brews and enjoy favorites together. Despite some mixed reviews regarding atmosphere, many customers applaud the overall good food quality and the affordability, which keeps it attractive for repeated group visits.
How does the atmosphere and service enhance the group experience?
The atmosphere at Cheerful Tortoise is one of its defining strengths, characterized by a relaxed, communal energy that brings groups together. While some find the decor and environment slightly dark or 'seedy' at first glance, this effect quickly fades as the friendly staff and welcoming crowd create a genuinely convivial space. The pub’s late hours allow for long, unhurried gatherings where groups can enjoy extended conversations, sports viewing, and dining. The bartenders and wait staff engage with patrons in a friendly, almost familial way—adding to the sense of comfort and making your group feel like regulars even on the first visit. Although the venue can become crowded during major sporting events, many find this only adds to the electric mood, fueling the collective excitement. For groups that prefer quieter times, visiting during off-peak periods reveals a roomy, pleasant environment conducive to socializing. Management’s recent commitments to improving cleanliness and making the venue non-smoking further demonstrate efforts to enhance comfort for all patrons.
What should groups consider before heading to Cheerful Tortoise?
While Cheerful Tortoise offers many positives, groups should be aware of certain aspects to ensure the best experience. Some reviewers mention the venue can feel a bit dark or dated, and during peak sports times the crowd can be overly lively, which might not suit groups seeking a quieter or more polished space. Also, past concerns about smoking and general cleanliness have been addressed recently, with management scheduling major cleanings and transitioning to a smoke-free environment, which should increase comfort significantly. Given its popularity among college students and sports fans, the vibe can swing from relaxed to raucous, so planning your visit according to the event schedule and group preferences is wise. Despite these nuances, the consistency of friendly service, affordable food, and the social atmosphere generally outweigh drawbacks for those looking for a dependable group meetup spot. Overall, understanding the environment and timing your visit can help unlock the full potential of this lively Portland pub for a truly enjoyable gathering.
In summary, the Cheerful Tortoise stands out as a go-to venue for groups wanting a mix of sports excitement, great casual food, good drink options, and a friendly vibe. Its affordability, welcoming atmosphere, and flexible space combine to support memorable meetups with friends or family. Whether it’s a casual meal, a game day rally, or an early morning brunch, this Portland staple offers an inviting environment tailored to making group outings both fun and effortless.