When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Double Barrel Tavern
Why Double Barrel Tavern is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Double Barrel Tavern in Portland offers a perfect setting for friends looking to enjoy a casual and engaging outing. With its distinctive ambiance that mixes rustic, old-school décor — including deer heads, a fireplace, and vintage touches — with a lively tavern atmosphere, it delivers a warm and inviting environment. The large circular bar is a focal point, serving a good selection of local craft drafts and creative daily cocktails, giving patrons varied options to indulge their tastes. Guests often enjoy the unique back room, designed like an old rustic library, providing a cozy retreat away from the main bar area. The tavern also stands out for its collection of entertainment options, like pinball machines including a Kiss pinball game, darts, and even vintage arcade selections, fostering a fun and playful social experience. With decent happy hour prices and a menu featuring quality bar snacks such as well-liked brussel sprouts, the Double Barrel Tavern is more than just a typical bar—it's a destination to relax, socialize, and enjoy inventive drinks and classic bar games in a friendly and welcoming setting, making it an excellent meeting place for friends.
Here's what people think of Double Barrel Tavern
As of recent, Double Barrel Tavern holds a 4.2-star rating based on 181 reviews.
Reviews of Double Barrel Tavern present a mixed but generally positive picture. Many patrons appreciate the bar's unique atmosphere, highlighting the combination of an old-school vibe with modern touches and the comfortable ambiance created by the rustic décor and inviting fireplace. Positive reviews frequently praise the lively social environment, good beer selection including local drafts, and creative cocktails. Additionally, many enjoy the entertainment offerings such as pinball machines and darts, which add to the enjoyable, somewhat nostalgic experience. Customers also commend the friendly and attentive staff, adding to the welcoming feel of the tavern. On the downside, some reviewers express frustration over inconsistencies in drink quality, describing certain drinks as watered down or flat at times. A few feel that while the bar aims for an upscale feel, it sometimes falls short in execution. Despite these critiques, many return regularly for the happy hour deals and the lively, fun atmosphere, indicating strong overall appeal. In conclusion, the reviews suggest that Double Barrel Tavern is a great place to gather with friends for good drinks and entertainment, though occasional inconsistencies in service quality may detract slightly from the experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Andrew Cherny
Dim lighting, cheap drinks, pinball machines, very few a-holes. One of my fave PDX dive bars.
G C
Great patio, food, drink mixology, ambiance, in this spacious bar. HUGE TV often with a movie, and more TV's all over.. sports or whatever you want them to put on really..
Dandy-lion Dandelion
Service is top notch. The bartender offered me a free beverage and dropped some knowledge on some speciality liqueur. I got a martini and it was perfection. The music on my day was perfect chill punk. Shuffle board table is ready for fun.
Melissa Jones
I love going here for happy hour. They have a good happy hour. A good spirits selection plus beer. The wings are popular. The max and cheese had a little kick and I really enjoyed it. It's not quite a dive bar but not anything close to fancy.
wes store
Double barrel sits like a rock beside the breaking tide of seven corners. The customers sweep in like flotsam and jetsam off the sidewalk and I’m happy to be among them. I read my book and Alyssa pours my drinks. She’s a saint and knows it, but doesn’t tell anyone. She hides her halo under her hat and holds her head up high. Her smile warms hearts and I hear people talk and smile and laugh. The fireplace glows warm beside some tables and I think this is right. This is good. The pale Portland sun fades through the windows and the town breaths a sigh. Everything feels close and connected. Fat rain drops splatter on the window. This is right. This is good.
How to reach Double Barrel Tavern
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Why rally at Double Barrel Tavern with your friends?
Gathering with friends is an experience best enjoyed in a lively, comfortable, and engaging setting, and Double Barrel Tavern in Portland stands out as a prime destination for such occasions. This unique tavern effortlessly blends the nostalgic charm of a dive bar with a distinctly curated atmosphere that invites camaraderie and relaxation. The warm ambiance created by rustic decor, including mounted deer heads and a cozy fireplace, offers a welcoming backdrop where conversations flow freely. Whether you're celebrating a casual night out or a special event, the tavern's lengthy circular bar encourages social connection, making it easy to mingle or find your own group’s nook. Its reputation for a solid selection of quality local drafts and inventive cocktails ensures that everyone’s taste buds are pleased. Importantly, the tavern’s creative balance between old-school charm and modern touches, like pinball machines and other vintage games, gives guests a shared activity to bond over, making it ideal for a group meetup. Overall, Double Barrel Tavern invites friends to rally in a space where good drinks, engaging entertainment, and a relaxed vibe combine to create memorable social experiences.
What kind of activities can you enjoy at Double Barrel Tavern?
Double Barrel Tavern provides a variety of entertaining activities that keep groups engaged and spirited throughout their visit. One of its standout features is the collection of classic pinball machines, including favorites like the Kiss pinball game, which appeals to both enthusiasts and casual players. These games are perfect for sparking friendly competition or simply enjoying some lighthearted fun while sipping your favorite drink. Beyond pinball, the tavern offers darts and Big Buck HD, an arcade-style hunting game that adds interactive excitement suitable for groups wanting a break from conventional socializing. Intriguingly, the presence of a chicken and egg vending machine adds a quirky twist to the environment, sparking conversation and curiosity. Additionally, the tavern's layout includes a back and side room designed to resemble an old rustic private library, providing an intimate space for smaller groups or more private gatherings. This diversity in activities ensures that every group, whether large or small, finds something engaging, making Double Barrel Tavern a multifaceted venue tailored to social fun.
Why is Double Barrel Tavern perfect for group meetups?
Double Barrel Tavern’s ambiance and amenities make it particularly well-suited for group meetups by offering spaces and experiences that cater to social interaction and comfort. The large circular bar serves as a natural gathering point where friends can easily converse and share drinks, encouraging inclusiveness and interaction. Meanwhile, the back room’s cozy, library-like feel offers an alternative setting for groups seeking a quieter, more intimate atmosphere without sacrificing the vibrant tavern spirit. The availability of multiple game options like pinball and darts provides wholesome entertainment that brings people together, fostering friendly competition and shared enjoyment. Besides entertainment, the tavern’s thoughtfully curated drink selection, including local draft beers, inventive daily cocktails, and a strong whiskey lineup, caters to diverse preferences, ensuring that every guest finds something suitable. The tavern's warmth, from the fireplace to the approachable staff, creates a welcoming environment that feels like a home away from home, making group gatherings natural and enjoyable. Whether celebrating birthdays, casual meetups, or reunion nights, Double Barrel Tavern offers the right blend of atmosphere, entertainment, and hospitality for every group.
What kind of drinks and food can you expect at Double Barrel Tavern?
Double Barrel Tavern offers a robust selection of beverages and bar snacks that complement its lively environment and cater to various tastes. The bar features an impressive lineup of local drafts, including well-regarded beers like Migration and Boneyard, known for their quality and craft origins. This commitment to local brews pairs elegantly with the tavern’s somewhat rebellious inclusion of vintage canned beers such as Pabst, Hamm’s, and Rainier, appealing to patrons with a taste for nostalgia. The cocktail menu is inventive and changes daily, providing fresh and engaging drink options that elevate the typical tavern experience. Whiskey enthusiasts will appreciate the great selection reflecting the tavern’s name and theme, offering everything from smooth staples to rarer finds. Complementing the drinks are tasty bar snacks, including crowd-pleasers like crispy brussels sprouts, which add to the convivial dining experience without being overly heavy. This thoughtful combination of drinks and food ensures that groups can enjoy satisfying libations and bites that fuel good times at the tavern.
How does the atmosphere at Double Barrel Tavern enhance the social experience?
The atmosphere at Double Barrel Tavern is a defining factor that elevates it beyond a typical bar and transforms it into a social hub where people want to gather and stay. Its interior decor strikes a careful balance between upscale touches and dive bar authenticity, providing a sense of comfort without pretense. Rustic elements like exposed whiskey barrels, vintage furnishings, and warm lighting contribute to a cozy, inviting environment that encourages guests to relax and linger. The fireplace adds a homely charm especially during cooler seasons, creating a natural focal point around which groups can gather. This tactile ambiance is complemented by a thoughtfully curated music playlist and the presence of large screen TVs, making it easy for groups to watch games or special events together. The tavern’s division into multiple spaces, including the lively main bar area and the quiet back room, offers versatility for different social moods — whether you want to be in the heart of the action or enjoy a more secluded setting. All of these atmospheric qualities combine to craft an environment perfectly suited for meaningful and enjoyable group interactions.
What makes the staff and service at Double Barrel Tavern stand out?
Double Barrel Tavern is often praised not only for its drinks and ambiance but also for the quality of its staff and service, which play a crucial role in creating memorable group experiences. The bartenders are known for being friendly, knowledgeable, and approachable, encouraging patrons to ask for recommendations and engage in conversation. Their expertise shines through in their ability to craft inventive cocktails as well as expertly pour local drafts, ensuring that drink quality remains consistently satisfying. Beyond the drinks, the staff’s welcoming attitude helps set the tone for the entire visit, making newcomers and regulars alike feel valued and appreciated. Customer service at Double Barrel is attentive without being intrusive, striking a balance that lets guests enjoy their time freely while knowing assistance is close at hand. This level of service is essential in a group setting where multiple orders and preferences need to be managed smoothly, helping to keep the atmosphere relaxed and enjoyable throughout the visit.
Why is the location and layout of Double Barrel Tavern beneficial for meetups?
The physical location and layout of Double Barrel Tavern contribute significantly to its suitability as a group meetup venue. Situated in Portland, an area known for its vibrant social scene, the tavern is accessible and surrounded by other complementary businesses, making it an excellent starting or ending point for a day or night out. The venue itself is designed to accommodate various group dynamics, featuring a large circular bar that acts as a natural gathering spot and encourages mingling even among larger crowds. Private and semi-private rooms provide spaces for groups that prefer a more intimate setting or want to host special occasions with a distinct vibe separate from the main bar’s energy. The tavern also offers outdoor seating, allowing groups who enjoy fresh air and people-watching an alternative and relaxed environment. These spatial options, combined with the tavern’s eclectic but well-organized design, create a flexible environment that adapts to a variety of group sizes and preferences, maximizing comfort and convenience.
What people are saying about Double Barrel Tavern’s vibe and why does it matter?
Reviews and patron feedback highlight Double Barrel Tavern’s “uniquely cool vibe” that blends dive bar authenticity with a curated, almost rustic charm, which many find irresistible for social gatherings. This vibe matters because it sets expectations for patrons—creating a space where they can unwind without formalities but still feel part of a thoughtfully designed environment. The tavern manages to toe the line between an old-school bar and a modern social lounge, appealing to a broad demographic from young friends looking for fun to older groups appreciating nostalgia. The atmosphere's authenticity, combined with the warm and inviting social spaces, enhances the overall experience, ensuring guests feel comfortable being themselves. Importantly, this vibe encourages repeat visits and word-of-mouth recommendations, underpinning the tavern’s reputation as an ideal place for friends to congregate and create lasting memories.
How does Double Barrel Tavern balance nostalgia and modernity?
One of Double Barrel Tavern’s core appeals lies in its ability to balance nostalgic elements with modern bar culture to create a dynamic, enjoyable setting. The bar embraces vintage touches such as classic pinball machines, old-school canned beers, and whiskey barrels used as decorative supports, inviting patrons to partake in a retro experience. Simultaneously, contemporary influences appear through inventive cocktail menus, local craft beer taps, and updated game options like Big Buck HD, bridging the old and new. This fusion creates an atmosphere where guests of varying tastes and ages feel equally at home—whether they come to relive past favorite hangouts or explore modern bar trends. By successfully marrying these temporal elements, Double Barrel Tavern offers a distinctive cultural experience that is both familiar and fresh, making it a compelling choice for group outings seeking both fun and ambiance.
What special events or promotions enhance group experiences at Double Barrel Tavern?
While specific recurring events are not widely publicized, Double Barrel Tavern’s reputation suggests it offers occasional happy hours and daily inventive cocktails that provide excellent opportunities for groups to enjoy more for less. Happy hour pricing makes it an attractive option for friends wanting to unwind after work or kick off an evening without worrying overly about budgets. The staff’s creativity with cocktails means groups can sample new and exciting drinks, fostering a sense of discovery and shared enjoyment. The tavern’s layout and atmosphere also lend themselves well to private bookings or gatherings, which can be arranged to celebrate birthdays, reunions, or other social milestones. These elements combined make Double Barrel Tavern a flexible venue that can cater not only to casual drop-in groups but also to planned events that require attentive service and comfortable surroundings.
What unique features make Double Barrel Tavern memorable as a meetup spot?
Double Barrel Tavern’s memorable qualities emerge from its distinctive blend of atmosphere, activity options, and thoughtful curation of drinks and space. Its warmth, including the inviting fireplace and rustic decor, makes it feel like more than just a bar—it's a social living room. The wide range of games, from classic pinball to darts and arcade-style entertainment, sets it apart from many other local spots by encouraging interaction and play. The presence of unusual curiosities, like the chicken and egg vending machine, adds a quirky, conversation-starting element. Furthermore, its commitment to featuring local beers alongside nostalgic canned brews offers something for every taste, reinforcing a sense of place and community. These unique touches combine to create an experience that guests remember fondly and look forward to repeating with new and old friends alike.