When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Gracie's
Why Gracie's is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Gracie's stands out as a dynamic gastro-pub that offers an ideal setting for friends to gather, enjoy live music, and savor quality food. The venue's fast-paced and lively atmosphere creates an energetic environment that is perfect for socializing. With a focus on delivering excellent customer service, Gracie's caters to multiple large parties simultaneously, ensuring that every group's needs are met with attentiveness and care. The establishment is recognized as a family-owned and operated business, fostering a creative and welcoming vibe that extends from the staff interactions to the marketing and aesthetic presentation. Guests are often drawn to the vibrant live music, which enhances the experience, making it not just a place to eat but a great destination for entertainment and camaraderie. Whether it's a casual evening with friends or celebrating a special occasion, Gracie's offers a combination of good food, engaging ambiance, and a community feel that encourages repeat visits and a sense of belonging.
Here's what people think of Gracie's
As of recent, Gracie's holds a 4.2-star rating based on 418 reviews.
Reviews from employees and customers depict Gracie's as a bustling and engaging workplace with a strong emphasis on teamwork and customer satisfaction. Positive feedback highlights the supportive team environment, with many noting that coworkers are helpful and social, contributing to a pleasant working atmosphere. Employees also appreciate the creativity involved in daily operations, including marketing and sales aspects, reflecting a stimulating workplace beyond routine tasks. Conversely, some negative reviews point to challenges such as long hours (often 10-12 hour shifts) and a high-pressure environment that can be physically and psychologically demanding, including mentions of passive-aggressive behavior among staff which can detract from the otherwise family-like atmosphere. Pay and benefits ratings suggest room for improvement, and work-life balance can be difficult due to the demanding pace. Despite these issues, many employees reflect positively overall, describing Gracie's as an educational and creatively fulfilling place to work. In conclusion, while Gracie's has areas that may benefit from enhancement, it remains a popular and vibrant establishment known for quality service, lively music, and an inviting environment ideal for social gatherings.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jason Van Camp
My wife and I attended the Glamorama drag brunch, and had a pretty fun time. The food was excellent, particularly the avocado toast; service was competent, although they seemed to be scrambling to keep up most of the time (not surprising, since it was a packed house), and there were a couple minor flubs; we received the house salads with champagne vinaigrette (which were awesome!) instead of our avocado toast at first...but then ALSO received our proper order shortly thereafter, so that is a mistake in our favor - no harm, no foul. The menu is a fixed, three-course deal: appetizer, entrée and dessert, for $100 ($200 for VIP meet-and-greet with the queens after the meal, if you feel so inclined), and runs (ostensibly) from 10:00am to noon, although our particular event started and ended late. Good thing, because we were a little late ourselves! Between the two of us, we also ordered the fried rice (excellent!) and the benedict (also excellent!), and were both stuffed before the third, and final, dessert course arrived. Multiple boxes were needed to take home the leftovers to our toddler son, who devoured everything we brought to him! Bring a wad of $1s, because you're going to need them! There will be multiple queens doing their thang, multiple times, over the whole two-hour affair, so come prepared! Street parking is available, if you are lucky; otherwise, there is a private lot charging $30.99, reduced to .99 cents with validation from the hotel (requires an event ticket or room reservation).
roman p
Overall the food was pretty good. One of the people at my table said they had the best avocado toast they’ve ever tried.
J L
HIGH TEA IN PORTLAND Our party of 5 had their high tea on a Sunday and all of us thought the majority of the food was excellent. My favorites were the scone with clotted cream & jam, the cucumber sandwich, ham toasty, and chocolate tart. I did not finish the shortbread cookie or lemon bar. I loved their Smith tea selection and opted for the Lord Bergamot. They have sugar cubes and some sort of dairy product to go with the tea. It was delightful to sip the tea while eating the sweet bits, The host was rude to our elderly mothers because they arrived 5 minutes before their scheduled reservation and made it clear our party could not be seated prior to the exact time. Their delivery was snotty and clearly without regard to the customer. The dining room was mostly empty and our table was clean/set. Very odd for a “posh” experience. None of us ordered anything extra and we paid $78 per person including tip.
Amanda Ferguson
Every time I come to Portland, I stay at the hotel deluxe. And I mostly stay there because of this restaurant. Their breakfast fried rice is the best in the game. I can eat at five days in a row if I’m here for that long. Everybody’s super friendly and they also have amazing cinnamon donuts. And good coffee, if you haven’t been here, come check it .
Drew Gorelli
We had an awesome brunch at Gracie's. The hotel feeling was mellow and a great start for our day. It's not always easy to find good spots for mid-week brunch, so this was perfect. The food was exactly as it should be. The radicchio salad is different in a good way. Service was perfect, knowledgeable and timely. Will def come back. We were a few bites in when we took the salad pic 🙄😁
How to reach Gracie's
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Why Gracie's may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Gracie's with your friends?
Gracie's is an outstanding destination for gathering with friends, offering a blend of exceptional cuisine, inviting ambiance, and attentive service that makes every meetup memorable. With a strong reputation and a 4.2-star rating from over 400 reviewers, it consistently delivers an experience that combines comfort with culinary excellence. The restaurant's warm atmosphere encourages casual conversation and celebration alike, providing a perfect backdrop for groups looking to reconnect or commemorate special occasions. Whether it’s a weekend dinner, a spontaneous night out, or a more formal event, Gracie’s flair for hospitality ensures that every guest feels valued and well cared for. Its carefully curated menu boasts sophisticated dishes ranging from expertly prepared foie gras to perfectly cooked duck, appealing to diverse tastes and elevating the dining experience. Additionally, thoughtful touches such as personalized celebrations with complimentary sparkling wine and attentive waitstaff create an environment where friends feel truly welcomed and appreciated. All these factors make Gracie’s an ideal rallying point for friends seeking both culinary delight and a convivial setting.
What activities does Gracie’s offer for a group meetup?
Gracie’s is primarily a full-service restaurant that offers a refined dining experience perfect for groups. The core activity is enjoying a meticulously crafted meal together; their menu features a variety of gourmet options that cater to different palates, including rich offerings like foie gras, gnocchi appetizers, halibut, and duck dishes. Besides the food, the location features a stylish and comfortable interior space that promotes relaxation and conversation among groups, making it ideal for socializing over dinner. For larger groups or celebrations, Gracie’s provides private dining options where guests can have exclusive use of a room equipped with a private bar, offering an elevated level of intimacy and convenience for events such as rehearsal dinners or special parties. The attentive service team is skilled at customizing meal choices and accommodating special requests, which adds flexibility and makes organizing group events more seamless. Additionally, Gracie's features an extensive wine list curated to complement the menu, and knowledgeable staff help in selecting the perfect pairings, turning the meal into a shared discovery for friends who appreciate fine wines.
Why is Gracie’s perfect for hosting celebrations and formal gatherings?
Gracie’s reputation extends beyond casual dining to hosting special events like rehearsal dinners, anniversaries, and celebrations, making it an exceptional venue for formal group gatherings. The restaurant's private dining room comfortably accommodates groups up to about 100 guests, offering ample space for mingling and a private bar that allows for tailored beverage service away from the main dining area’s bustle. Clients and reviewers often highlight the extraordinary level of service during such events, including flexibility with menu adaptations and the personal attention to detail that helps each guest feel special. This capacity for elegant event hosting is buttressed by Gracie’s ability to tailor menus and even offsite catering for unique occasions, adding versatility for group meetups that may extend beyond the restaurant’s walls. The combination of exquisite food, attentive staff, and a beautiful venue makes it easy for event hosts to create a memorable atmosphere, ensuring that every aspect from appetizers to desserts reflects thoughtfulness and quality. Moreover, the experience is designed to be effortless and enjoyable for hosts, reducing stress and allowing them to focus fully on their guests.
How does Gracie’s atmosphere enhance group socializing?
The ambiance at Gracie’s plays a significant role in why it is a favored spot for groups to gather. The thoughtfully designed dining space features a warm, sophisticated décor that encourages relaxation and friendly interaction. Soft lighting, comfortable seating, and an inviting layout create an intimate yet lively environment suitable for a range of social events, from casual dinners to celebratory meals. Guests frequently remark on the welcoming vibe and the ease with which groups can engage in conversation without feeling rushed or crowded. The staff contribute to this ambiance by providing discreet, attentive service that enhances the dining experience without interrupting the flow of interaction. This combination of space, service, and mood makes Gracie’s ideal for occasions where connection and conversation are priorities, enabling friends and family to feel at ease and fully enjoy their time together.
What makes Gracie’s menu well-suited for diverse taste preferences in groups?
Gracie’s menu impresses with its balance of sophistication and accessibility, catering skillfully to diverse palates, which is essential when dining with a group. The restaurant’s chefs pay careful attention to crafting dishes that are simultaneously creative and comforting, using high-quality ingredients that shine in every bite. Signature dishes such as melt-in-your-mouth foie gras and tender duck contrast nicely with lighter options like fresh halibut and seasonal appetizers, providing choices that appeal to meat lovers, seafood enthusiasts, and those seeking vegetarian-friendly fare. The menu also features thoughtful pairings like herb butter focaccia and delicate desserts, demonstrating a full-course dining experience designed for sharing among friends. Gracie’s responsiveness to dietary restrictions and preferences—endorsed by numerous reviews noting accommodating service—makes it a safe and appealing choice for any group. By offering an array of tastes and textures alongside an expertly curated wine selection, Gracie’s ensures that everyone in the party can find something to enjoy, thus enhancing the overall group dining experience.
How does the service at Gracie’s contribute to a successful group meetup?
Service quality is a cornerstone of Gracie’s ability to attract and retain groups looking for a reliable and pleasant dining spot. The staff at Gracie’s are highly praised for their professionalism, friendliness, and attentiveness, all of which contribute significantly to hosting smooth and enjoyable gatherings. From the moment guests arrive, the service team is attentive yet unobtrusive, anticipating needs and accommodating requests with patience and precision. Several testimonials emphasize the staff’s expertise in recommending wine pairings and adjusting to special dietary needs, which reflects their training and dedication to customer satisfaction. For group events, the team goes beyond standard service by efficiently managing course timing, providing personalized touches such as celebratory sparkling wine, and ensuring that the event flows without glitches. These efforts reduce stress for guests and hosts alike, allowing everyone to focus on enjoying their time together. This high-caliber service transforms a simple meal into a carefully curated social occasion, elevating the appeal of Gracie’s as a group meetup venue.
What feedback do guests commonly give about Gracie’s overall experience?
Overall, guests consistently praise Gracie’s for combining excellence in food, atmosphere, and service to create a deeply satisfying dining experience. Many reviewers note that the restaurant maintains a high level of quality even years after opening, signaling reliability and strong management. Tributes to the culinary team’s skill are balanced by admiration for the ambiance and staff, resulting in a well-rounded appeal that works especially well for groups. Couples recount intimate celebrations, and event hosts share how Gracie’s helped make key milestones memorable with personalized attention and flawless execution. Even occasional critiques tend to acknowledge that the positives outweigh any minor issues, which speaks to the establishment’s commitment to customer satisfaction. The rich variety on the menu, seamless private dining options, and accommodating service also ensure that returning guests continue to bring friends and family back for subsequent visits. This positive guest sentiment confirms Gracie’s as a prime location for anyone looking to host a meaningful and enjoyable meetup.
What are the practical considerations for hosting a meetup at Gracie’s?
Planning a group gathering at Gracie’s involves practical factors that contribute to a smooth experience. First, the restaurant's operating hours should be noted; it is open primarily for dinner service in the evenings from Wednesday through Saturday, closing on Mondays and Tuesdays and only open limited hours on Sundays. Reservations are essential, especially for larger groups or private room bookings, to ensure availability and allow the staff to prepare adequately. Pricing for events such as receptions or catered dinners generally starts at around $9,000, reflecting the venue’s quality and exclusivity for significant occasions, though smaller group meetups can be accommodated at standard menu pricing. Accessibility for guests and parking options should also be considered, and communicating any special menu requests or dietary needs ahead of time helps the kitchen deliver a perfect experience. Finally, Gracie’s attentive planning assistance ensures events proceed effortlessly, making it a low-stress choice for both informal and formal group gatherings.
In summary, Gracie's standout qualities in cuisine, atmosphere, service, and versatility make it a superb spot to rally friends or family for memorable social events. Whether it's a casual night out or a milestone celebration, Gracie’s delivers an experience that every guest can enjoy and remember fondly.