When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Cliffs PDX
Why Cliffs PDX is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Cliffs PDX, located at 128 NE Russell Street in Portland, Oregon, offers a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for meeting up with friends. This vibrant bar and eatery is housed under the Wonder Ballroom, blending Southern charm and Midwestern friendliness into a unique Portland experience. Guests can enjoy a variety of seating options including a heated and covered patio, indoor bar and table seating, or conveniently order food and drinks to go for pickup or delivery. The menu features a delightful mix of food and cocktails that have won the hearts of locals, making it an appealing destination for both casual outings and lively evenings. Cliffs PDX is typically open Tuesday through Saturday from 4 PM to 11 PM, and also on nights when the Wonder Ballroom hosts shows, making it a lively hub for socializing around concerts and events. This combination of excellent food, drinks, friendly service, and its strategic location near popular venues makes Cliffs PDX a great place to enjoy quality time with friends in a relaxed yet energetic setting.
Here's what people think of Cliffs PDX
As of recent, Cliffs PDX holds a 4.9-star rating based on 286 reviews.
Reviews for Cliffs PDX overwhelmingly highlight the welcoming atmosphere and friendly service, contributing to its high rating of 4.9 stars from 286 reviews. Many patrons appreciate the inviting Southern and Midwestern hospitality brought by the co-owners, Josh Luebke and Sierra Kirk Luebke, which creates a cozy and genuine ambiance. Positive feedback frequently mentions the tasteful cocktail selection and flavorful food offerings, praising the establishment as a perfect spot to unwind or celebrate with friends. Customers also enjoy the option of outdoor heated patio seating, adding to the comfort during Portland's cooler months. On the other hand, a small number of negative reviews point to occasional wait times and limited seating during busy hours, reflecting the popularity and intimate size of the venue. Nonetheless, these criticisms are minor compared to the abundance of positive comments around the quality of drinks, food, and customer experience. In summary, Cliffs PDX is well-regarded for its charming vibe, attentive staff, and excellent menu, solidifying its reputation as a delightful place to gather and enjoy Portland's nightlife and culinary scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Hugh Williams
went here on a whim because the steak fries looked delicious online. bellied up to the bar and erin said i was too late and had to order off the late night menu. i got the smoked chicken sandwich and no lie it was one of the best i probably ever had!!! erin was a friendly, sweet, and attentive bartender and was a plus to my dining experience. i’ll be back for sure!!!
angie stauffer
I’m on a mission to find the best nachos in Portland, and Reddit brought me here. Next time I’ll get them with no meat, they are just that good. Something about the chips is what put this one over the top, but the toppings did not fall short whatsoever. Everything was added with a purpose & a clear vision was understood eating my first chip. From the chipotle flavor in the beans, to the multiple layers of cheese, pickled red onion, jalapeño, radish, crema & chives, even the toasted pepitas & cabbage I was initially skeptical of. Everything tied together wonderfully. Absolutely solid! Easily the best we’ve had so far, & we loved the ambiance too. Highly recommend.👌
Corey Frazier
The other reviews weren't kidding! Fries: some of the best in town! Smoked Fried Chicken sandwich: AMAZING! Pulled Pork Nachos: Piled high and delicious! Ballroom Burger: Flavorful! My family and I stopped by Cliffs PDX on a whim and we were blown away! The owners were incredibly friendly and attentive - even while being short-staffed for the day. We will definitely be back!
Jessica A
Super friendly staff and yummy food! Prices are super reasonable and the place gives off local dive bar vibes with a friendly welcoming flare! Definitely worth the stop in.
Alexander Pekar
Without a doubt one of the best sandwich joints in Portland. Absolutely everything made here is created with a passion for delicious food, and you can certainly tell when you taste it. From the smoked chicken wings, to the burgers, to the properly layered and piled high nachos, you will not be disappointed with anything you get on the menu. Pair anything with their extensive liquor selection and great tap list, along with amazing cocktails they make in house. I feel like when I’m inside, it’s like I’m back in my grandparents basement. It’s cozy and has a great feeling. Patio is great for the summertime. I can’t recommend this place enough.
How to reach Cliffs PDX
None
Website: None
Why rally at Cliffs PDX with your friends?
Cliffs PDX stands out as an unbeatable spot to gather with friends and make lasting memories, thanks to its warm, inviting atmosphere and top-tier service. Rated an impressive 4.9 from nearly 300 reviews, this restaurant has clearly mastered the art of hospitality and quality, providing an ideal setting for any group gathering. Whether you're planning a casual night out or a special celebration, Cliffs PDX’s combination of a welcoming vibe, excellent food, and accommodating staff ensures everyone will feel comfortable and valued. The venue offers diverse seating options—including a heated and covered patio, cozy indoor bar, and spacious table seating—allowing groups to choose the perfect spot based on their mood and size. Additionally, its location in Portland’s vibrant NE Russell Street neighborhood makes it a convenient meeting place that is lively without being overwhelming. With flexible hours and an option for takeout or delivery, Cliffs PDX adapts effortlessly to your group’s schedule and preferences. In sum, if you want a place where laughter, delicious food, and good times come together in an atmosphere made for connection, rallying your friends here guarantees a fantastic experience.
What activities and experiences can groups enjoy at Cliffs PDX?
At Cliffs PDX, you’re not just visiting a restaurant; you’re stepping into a social hub designed to enhance group interactions through a variety of activities. The primary draw is, of course, the food—Cliffs’ menu features a wide selection of shareable plates and hearty meals that encourage communal dining and conversation. This focus on shared plates creates an interactive dining experience where friends can explore and enjoy flavors together, making the meal much more than just sustenance. Beyond the food, the space itself supports lively socializing with its heated and covered patio that’s perfect for outdoor gatherings regardless of weather conditions. The bar area is ideal for groups looking to enjoy expertly crafted cocktails and a curated selection of beers, facilitating a relaxed environment for chatting or celebrating. They also accommodate minors until 9 p.m., so family groups or younger friends can comfortably join the fun earlier in the evening. To further enhance your meetup, Cliffs PDX often aligns its hours with nearby live music events at Wonder Ballroom, giving groups the perfect launchpad for an evening of entertainment right after dinner. The combination of versatile seating, diverse dining options, and proximity to local nightlife ensures that every group will find something to suit their vibe.
Why is Cliffs PDX perfect for a group meetup?
Cliffs PDX excels as a group meetup location primarily because it balances comfort, accessibility, and quality in a way that few venues do. The restaurant’s thoughtful design offers different environments within one space—If your friends want a vibrant bar scene, the bar seating delivers just that, while those seeking a quieter meal can retreat to table seating or the outdoor patio. This versatility lets groups tailor their experience according to their preferences, whether that’s enjoying a casual drink or a full celebratory dinner. Reservations and call-ahead options simplify organizing large parties, eliminating wait times that might disrupt your plans. The attention to customer experience, confirmed by the stellar 4.9 rating and hundreds of positive reviews, highlights how well the staff manages to keep everyone happy and attended to. Plus, its central Portland location makes it conveniently accessible without sacrificing neighborhood charm or atmosphere, which is important when gathering people from different parts of the city. Lastly, the option to order takeout or enjoy delivery means that groups who prefer to stay in can still rally around Cliffs PDX’s renowned food, maintaining the sense of togetherness even outside the venue.
How does the menu at Cliffs PDX support a fun and communal dining experience?
Cliffs PDX offers a menu carefully curated to promote sharing and discovering new flavors with your group, making dining an interactive and engaging part of your meetup. Featuring a variety of appetizers, entrees, and drinks, many of the dishes are designed for easy sharing, which naturally encourages conversation and connection around the table. The menu’s mix of creative cocktails, craft beers, and diverse food options ensures everyone in your group will find something appealing, from adventurous eaters to those with more familiar tastes. This wide appeal is crucial in making sure that all friends or family members feel included and satisfied, which is often a challenge for group dining. Because the food service is attentive and thoughtfully paced, it supports a relaxed, linger-worthy experience that lets groups savor their time together without feeling rushed. This focus on communal dining at Cliffs PDX transforms an ordinary meal into a memorable event where food enhances social bonds.
What makes the atmosphere at Cliffs PDX ideal for friend and family gatherings?
The atmosphere at Cliffs PDX strikes a perfect balance between casual and stylish, making it an ideal backdrop for any group occasion, whether it be a casual meet-up or more formal celebration. Its heated and covered patio extends the usable space outdoors year-round, providing fresh air and natural ambiance without sacrificing comfort—important factors when bringing a larger group together. Inside, the mix of bar and table seating caters both to those who want to socialize actively and to those who prefer a quiet chat over drinks or dinner. The friendly and attentive staff contribute heavily to the welcoming environment, making sure guests feel cared for, which in turn helps groups relax and enjoy their time. The venue’s proximity to music venues like Wonder Ballroom also means you can easily combine dining with entertainment, adding an extra layer of fun to your gatherings. Overall, the atmosphere promotes connection and enjoyment, crucial elements when rallying with friends or family.
How can Cliffs PDX’s location and hours enhance your meetup plans?
Situated at 128 NE Russell Street in Portland, Oregon, Cliffs PDX benefits from a vibrant neighborhood setting that offers both convenience and a lively environment for group meetups. Being centrally located, it is easily reachable by various modes of transportation, which reduces logistical hassle when assembling friends from across the city or even from out of town. The venue’s flexible hours—generally open Tuesday through Saturday in the evenings with extended hours on Friday—allow groups to plan meetups after work or as part of a weekend outing. This availability is key for accommodating different schedules, especially for larger groups with varying commitments. Additionally, minors are welcome until 9 p.m., making it a suitable option for family gatherings with children earlier in the evening. The option to call ahead for reservations or check table availability adds an extra layer of convenience, which is invaluable when coordinating group visits. This combination of accessibility, convenient timing, and flexible policies ensures that planning a meetup at Cliffs PDX fits smoothly into your friends’ and family’s busy lives.
What special considerations make Cliffs PDX a reliable venue for celebrations and events?
Cliffs PDX is not only a great casual hangout but also a dependable venue for celebrations and special events due to its attentive service and accommodating space. The staff are experienced in managing groups and celebrations, providing personalized attention to make your event memorable and stress-free. The multiple seating areas—including tables, bar, and patio—enable flexible arrangements that can fit intimate or larger groups comfortably. Their policy of taking reservations and encouraging call-ahead orders means you can secure the ideal setting ahead of time to ensure everything runs smoothly. The outstanding reputation, reflected in the near-perfect rating from hundreds of reviewers, indicates consistent customer satisfaction and reliability. In addition, its location near live entertainment venues provides easy options to extend your celebration beyond dining. Whether it’s a birthday, reunion, or casual get-together, Cliffs PDX delivers a dependable, joyful setting that elevates any special occasion.