When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Hollywood Beverage
Why Hollywood Beverage is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Hollywood Beverage is Portland's oldest and best liquor store, celebrated for its extensive selection of over 1,000 local craft and imported beers, more than 650 fine wines, and a rich assortment of spirits including vodkas, tequilas, and scotches, many distilled right in Oregon and the Pacific Northwest. Its two locations, in Portland and Gladstone, offer spacious, welcoming environments where friends can easily meet up to explore high-quality beverages. The store is well-known for its refillable growlers, cocktail mixers, boutique barware, and a dedication to local products, making it a unique spot for beverage enthusiasts seeking variety and authenticity. Frequent in-store tastings on Thursdays through Saturdays provide patrons an interactive way to sample new and limited offerings, enhancing the communal and festive atmosphere. The knowledgeable and friendly staff further elevate the experience by offering personalized recommendations and excellent customer service. Hollywood Beverage’s commitment to accessibility, including wheelchair-friendly facilities and convenient parking, ensures that all guests can enjoy their visit comfortably. Whether gathering for a casual catch-up or a special occasion, Hollywood Beverage stands out as a lively hub for quality drinks and social connections in the Portland area.
Here's what people think of Hollywood Beverage
As of recent, Hollywood Beverage holds a 4.6-star rating based on 1142 reviews.
Customers consistently praise Hollywood Beverage for its vast and diverse selection of beers, wines, and spirits, highlighting the impressive inventory of local craft beers and regional distilleries. Positive reviews often mention the knowledgeable and friendly staff who provide helpful, personalized guidance that makes shopping enjoyable. Many appreciate the competitive pricing on mixers, cigars, and specialty items compared to grocery and big-box stores. The in-store tasting events receive high marks for creating a welcoming space to discover new favorites. However, a portion of the reviews note occasional dissatisfaction with the owner's demeanor, describing it as less accommodating, which some customers felt detracted from their overall experience. Despite this, the store’s strengths in product variety, helpful personnel, and community engagement through tastings contribute overwhelmingly to its strong 4.6-star rating. Overall, the reviews reflect Hollywood Beverage as a well-regarded local favorite that balances broad inventory and excellent service with minor areas for improvement in personal interactions.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Eevee DeLioncourt
The selection here is quite vast! Really appreciate the range of quality liquors here, as well as lower-end staples. The staff is very friendly and helpful whenever I have questions or can't find something. I also appreciate that they have quality mixers on hand.
gabe welch
Best liquor store in portland. Huge selection of beer, wine and spirits. Great staff, kelly is the man
Lori Rissetto
This is the type of liquor store that I’d been looking for. Everything is on open shelves and not behind counters. Every and anything you would want. Knowledgeable staff. I will be back.
Kristine Kitchens
Very wide variety of all spirits, good personnel. Always friendly and they don't lock their doors early
Nick Williams
This place has a great selection of all kinds of drinks. They are always friendly here and willing to take the time to talk to you about different drinks. I particularly like their selection of Scotch and Japanese whiskey. I would recommend this place.
How to reach Hollywood Beverage
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Website: None
Why Hollywood Beverage may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Hollywood Beverage with your friends? This vibrant and welcoming spot offers much more than just a place to grab drinks—it serves as the perfect gathering hub for friends and family looking to unwind, explore, and connect. With a stellar rating of 4.6 from over 1,100 reviews, Hollywood Beverage has built a strong reputation for excellence in both atmosphere and service. Whether your group enjoys discovering new craft beers, celebrating a special occasion, or simply picking out the perfect bottle to elevate a weekend party, this business is designed to cater to diverse tastes and preferences. The knowledgeable and friendly staff guide visitors through an extensive selection, ensuring everyone finds something suitable. Their location on NE Sandy Blvd in Portland is convenient, with street and small-lot parking available, making meetups hassle-free. Furthermore, Hollywood Beverage’s long open hours, staying open until 9 PM most days, provide flexibility for afternoon or evening plans. The venue’s welcoming, inclusive environment—highlighted by its LGBTQ+ friendliness and accessibility features—makes it an ideal place for social groups of any size and background to come together comfortably and joyfully.
What activities are available at Hollywood Beverage that make it perfect for a group meetup? Hollywood Beverage specializes in an exceptional variety of beverages, including an expansive range of craft beers, spirits, and unique drinks, making it a treasure trove for enthusiasts and casual fans alike. For groups, this means a shared experience of discovery and tasting, whether you want to sample rare brews, learn about different spirits, or compare notes on favorite beverages. The staff’s expert recommendations add an educational layer, turning a casual visit into an engaging outing where everyone comes away with new insights into beverages. The shop itself encourages browsing and interaction, which naturally fosters conversation and bonding. Additionally, the venue facilitates in-store pick-ups and quick visits, allowing groups to plan meetups that align with their preferences, whether a spontaneous stop or a planned excursion. The space’s commitment to accessibility with wheelchair-friendly entrances, restrooms, and parking ensures that no one in your group feels excluded, further enhancing its appeal as a social hub.
Why is Hollywood Beverage’s staff a highlight for groups visiting the venue? The service at Hollywood Beverage stands out due to the staff’s combination of professionalism, friendliness, and deep knowledge about a vast selection of beverages. For groups, this means that each person can receive personalized recommendations tailored to their tastes or curiosity. Whether a seasoned connoisseur or someone new to craft beers or spirits, visitors can rely on the staff’s expertise to guide them toward selections that will delight and surprise. This personalized touch elevates the group experience beyond merely shopping to an interactive and educational outing. Although some reviews mention occasional management-related attitude concerns, the majority highlight the staff’s warmth and helpfulness, making it a generally positive social environment. Their ability to explain different styles, origins, and best pairings can also inspire future group events like themed taste tests or home gatherings that replicate favorites from Hollywood Beverage.
What makes the Hollywood Beverage location and facilities suitable for hosting meetups? Located at 3028 NE Sandy Blvd, Hollywood Beverage benefits from a convenient urban setting accessible by both car and public transportation. Ample street parking and a nearby small parking lot minimize stress for groups arriving by vehicle. Once inside, the venue’s layout is customer-friendly and designed to welcome visitors of all mobility levels, thanks to fully wheelchair-accessible entrances, parking, and restrooms. These practical considerations matter greatly when planning a meetup to ensure comfort and inclusivity for every guest. The venue’s extended hours—open 9 AM to 9 PM most days, with slightly shorter Sunday hours—offer the flexibility groups need to fit meetings into busy schedules, whether a daytime gathering or a prolonged evening event. Although Hollywood Beverage is primarily a retail space rather than a traditional party venue, its accommodating atmosphere and services like on-site assistance and in-store pick-up options make it easy for groups to coordinate purchases and quickly move to other nearby meeting spots if desired.
How can Hollywood Beverage enhance your group’s social experience beyond just buying drinks? Hollywood Beverage is more than a beverage retailer; it’s a social catalyst that transforms ordinary shopping into shared discovery and celebration. The store's thoughtfully curated collection of beers, wines, and spirits opens doors for friends and families to explore tastes that they might not encounter on their own. Enjoying this wide variety together creates a communal experience, building memories and sparking conversations about flavors, origins, and brewing craftsmanship. For special occasions, Hollywood Beverage provides that crucial role of enabling thoughtful gift selections or specialty beverages that add a sense of occasion to any meetup. Its identity as a veteran-owned and LGBTQ+ friendly small business also contributes to a welcoming, community-oriented vibe, giving group gatherings a meaningful local connection. Such shared values alongside diverse product choices foster a comfortable and inclusive atmosphere that stands out for anyone looking to strengthen bonds in a relaxed, engaging environment.
What customer conveniences at Hollywood Beverage make it easy to plan your meetup here? Convenience is a key element that sets Hollywood Beverage apart for group meetups. The extensive operating hours ensure flexibility—even after work or on weekends, your group can stop by without rushing. Payment options like credit cards, debit cards, and mobile NFC payments streamline transactions no matter the group’s size, avoiding delays or complications. Services like in-store pick-up speed up shopping if your group is tight on time or prefers to browse earlier before meeting at another location. The venue’s accessibility features, including wheelchair-friendly entrances and restrooms, ensure that everyone in your group can participate comfortably. Additionally, parking availability, both on nearby streets and a dedicated lot, minimizes logistical headaches typical of urban gathering spots. These thoughtful conveniences combine to create a seamless and enjoyable meetup experience, reducing stress and allowing your group to focus on socializing and having fun.
In what ways does Hollywood Beverage create an atmosphere that fosters group engagement and enjoyment? The atmosphere at Hollywood Beverage is lively yet comfortable, making it suitable for groups seeking a relaxed and friendly environment. Positive reviews and community feedback highlight the venue’s vibrant yet non-intimidating vibe, which allows both casual visitors and beverage experts to feel at ease. The store’s design encourages exploration and dialogue, with approachable staff who are ready to answer questions or make recommendations. This dynamic contributes to a shared experience rich in discovery and social interaction. Furthermore, Hollywood Beverage’s commitment to inclusivity—evidenced by its accessibility accommodations and LGBTQ+ friendliness—ensures that groups composed of diverse individuals feel welcomed and respected. The overall ambiance supports excellent conversations and bonding, making it a favored spot to convene with friends or family before heading off to other social activities or events.
How does Hollywood Beverage compare to other venues for hosting meetups? Compared to traditional bars or restaurants, Hollywood Beverage offers a unique niche tailored to beverage enthusiasts and groups who prefer a casual, shopping-centered gathering place. Its strength lies in variety, knowledge, and convenience rather than in providing food, seating, or live entertainment. For groups interested in exploring and sharing beverage experiences without the pressure of ordering rounds or dealing with table service, Hollywood Beverage creates a relaxed alternative. Unlike crowded nightlife venues, it offers a spacious, accessible environment where people can move freely and engage at their own pace. The veterans-owned status and local small business character also lend a personal, community-focused feel that many larger chains lack. Although it may not serve as the final destination for a long event, Hollywood Beverage excels as a starting point or a shopping-centric meetup locale, especially for friends who appreciate craft beverages and social discovery.
What additional features of Hollywood Beverage support extended group enjoyment? Beyond its core offerings, Hollywood Beverage’s additional features add value for groups seeking a memorable outing. The venue supports quick visits but also welcomes longer stays, giving friends flexibility to browse and chat without hurry. Its carefully maintained selection includes local Oregon specialties and international imports, providing diverse and often exclusive options to spark conversation and tasting challenges. The store’s staff can also inform groups about upcoming releases or special promotions, which can inspire future meetups or collective buying. Being located in a vibrant Portland neighborhood offers groups easy access to nearby restaurants, parks, or entertainment venues to continue their gathering after shopping. Also, Hollywood Beverage’s dedication to customer service means groups can expect a pleasant experience where their needs and preferences come first, helping any meetup feel special and well-supported from start to finish.
With its welcoming ambiance, wide-ranging beverage selection, knowledgeable staff, and accessible location, Hollywood Beverage stands out as an excellent place for friends and family to rally together. Whether you’re looking to discover rare spirits, plan a casual weekend meet, or find that perfect drink to share, this business offers everything needed to create enjoyable, memorable social experiences. Its combination of convenience, inclusivity, and quality service ensures that group gatherings here are smooth, comfortable, and full of engaging discovery. For anyone seeking a friendly neighborhood spot with a lively yet relaxed vibe, Hollywood Beverage is an outstanding choice to host your next meetup.