When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Jake's Grill
Why Jake's Grill is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Jake's Grill is a distinguished restaurant known for celebrating traditional American cuisine with a focus on high-quality meat and seafood served in a classic, uncomplicated style. Established in 1994 and located in the historic Sentinel Building in Portland, Oregon, Jake's Grill offers an inviting atmosphere accentuated by dark wood interiors and tasteful décor. The restaurant is famous for its USDA Prime steaks such as Filet Mignon, Top Sirloin, and New York Steak, as well as fresh seafood dishes like cedar plank salmon, seared jumbo sea scallops, and Dungeness crab specialties. The menu also features mouth-watering specials including Surf & Turf, braised short rib stroganoff, and crispy fried calamari. Jake's Grill has an extensive, classic bar serving hand-crafted cocktails and a formidable selection of single malt whiskies, making it an excellent spot for socializing. Its historic setting along with nearly 30 years of experience hosting private and corporate events further enhances the appeal for friends meeting up for a memorable dining experience. The combination of superb food, exceptional service, and a comfortable atmosphere makes Jake's Grill a prime destination for quality American dining.
Here's what people think of Jake's Grill
As of recent, Jake's Grill holds a 4.4-star rating based on 2042 reviews.
Customer reviews consistently praise Jake's Grill for its excellent food quality and attentive service. Positive feedback highlights the perfectly cooked steaks and fresh seafood options, with many patrons appreciating popular dishes like lobster dinners, fish tacos, and oysters served with a variety of flavorful sauces. Reviewers often commend the restaurant's fair pricing given the high quality of the food and the warm, welcoming ambiance. Servers such as Sarah A and Mark have been specifically mentioned for exceptional hospitality that enhances the dining experience. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional issues like slightly overcooked meals or inconsistent preparation, but these concerns appear to be isolated rather than systemic. Ultimately, the majority of customer feedback reflects a high level of satisfaction with Jake's Grill, underlining its reputation as one of the top dining spots in Portland and Burlington, with a strong recommendation for those seeking classic American steak and seafood in a comfortable and historic setting.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Julie Toulas
Stayed at the Sentinel for the weekend. Happened to make a reservation at Jake’s and so glad we did!! Fantastic Happy Hour and Anthony the bartender was crushing it. What great deals for sitting in the bar area/bar! We then moved to a table for dinner. Great service and very friendly. We started with soups. Onion and NE clam. Both excellent and piping hot! I wasn’t starving after having some happy hour snacks so got the Mac and cheese and husband got the scallops. He raved about the freshness of the scallops and Mac and cheese was so so good. Absolutely fantastic experience. When back in PDX will be back!
Michael Edwards
Sarah was an amazing waiter, and made some great conversation. I had a 10oz sirloin steak, I ordered it medium rare, but it was cold in the middle, so I recommend ordering one or two heat levels higher than your normal. Ask for salt on your fries, there is very little sodium.
Alyssa Goodger
We stopped in for dinner during our stay at the Sentinel. We stopped in during happy hour and each got a cocktail. We were both happy with the drinks and the crab dip that was recommended by our server was delicious!
Christina Moore
Came here for a nice early dinner with my guy. We ordered a dozen oysters on a half shell which were very good. We had mimosas to start and then for our entree I ordered the chicken fettuccine and my guy ordered the sirloin. My fiancé raved the entire dinner about how perfectly cooked his steak was, he liked the mash potatoes but I suspect they use heavy whipping cream in the preparation which made it too heavy for his palate half way in. My fettuccine was delicious, only nitpick is, since it came in a sauce, I heavily suspect they didn't season the chicken at all. When I had bites in my mouth, it tasted very bland. But there were lots of delicious mushrooms and the sauce was good. The biggest bummer to our dinner was our server, Ellen. I, myself, am a server as well so I tend not to be an overly picky diner but this was probably the worst service I've had at any establishment in awhile. She ignored our table constantly, like she was ready to take our order and I asked how big of a portion the salmon was, she didn't know so went to ask. When she came back with the size she just spit the number at me and walked away, didn't take our order as she initially was about to do. She also had no idea about anything on the menu, which is fine I suppose but she got a drink menu for my fiancé, when she came back with my drink she promptly about faced and sped away. I said excuse me to try to get her attention, so loud the table of 10 next to me all turned and looked at me, and she still walked away like she hadn't heard me. As a result it left annoyed my companion and he ended up not ordering a drink at all. We did have a very nice woman named Jennifer who dropped our food off and was very sweet and answered our questions as to how they perfectly cooked my fiances steak. But our server actively avoided our table, we waited for her to return for 15 minutes after we finished our food and ended up having to flag another server to get boxes and a bill. I wanted to say something but my fiancé didn't want me to, I always leave a tip, 10% being for atrocious service and that's what I wanted to do but my fiancé said I should leave 15% in case they had to share with the house. Abysmal service for more of an upscale dining restaurant.
Mikayl Bristol
Good experience. We weren't pushed to finish or make decisions on food. Was very nice. The food was good, not amazing but good. I wouldn't say there was anything special about the food. The "Banana Foster" is most definitely not Bananas Foster. Portions were good and not over excessive or too small.
How to reach Jake's Grill
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Why Jake's Grill may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Jake’s Grill with your friends? Because it offers a perfect blend of classic ambiance, top-tier American cuisine, and a setting that encourages connection and celebration. Situated in the historic Sentinel Hotel in downtown Portland, Jake’s Grill stands out as a destination where friends and family can come together to enjoy excellent food in an elegant atmosphere. Whether you're catching up after a long time apart or celebrating a special occasion, this eatery’s warm, polished environment makes every gathering feel special. The restaurant’s commitment to serving the finest steaks and fresh seafood, prepared in a straightforward but refined style, ensures a meal that’s both satisfying and memorable. It’s not just the menu; it’s the overall experience—impeccable service, charming decor with classic dark wood furnishings and crisp white tablecloths, and a prime downtown location—that makes Jake’s Grill the ideal spot to host a group meetup. Simply put, Jake’s Grill combines tradition, quality, and atmosphere in a way that invites lasting memories with your closest people.
What activities await groups at Jake’s Grill to make it the perfect meetup place? Jake’s Grill is designed with group dining in mind, providing a variety of options that appeal to both casual gatherings and more formal celebrations. The spacious interior allows parties to gather comfortably around large tables, ideal for lively conversation and shared dining experiences. The open layout provides a relaxed yet sophisticated vibe where everyone can feel included and connected. Guests can savor expertly prepared steaks, fresh seafood, and classic American dishes, each offering generous portions that encourage sharing and sampling among friends. The well-curated drinks menu, featuring quality cocktails and wines, adds an extra layer of enjoyment for groups looking to toast milestones or unwind together. Beyond dining, Jake’s Grill offers private dining rooms and customizable event packages—perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or corporate meetups where privacy and exclusivity enhance the experience. This adaptability ensures that no matter the size or style of your gathering, Jake’s Grill can accommodate your needs with professionalism and care.
Why is Jake’s Grill particularly suited for group meetups rather than just regular dining? One key reason is the balance it strikes between formality and friendliness. The restaurant’s classic, stately decor creates a refined atmosphere that elevates the dining experience, making it suitable for milestone celebrations or formal reunions. Yet, the staff and ambiance remain welcoming and warm, encouraging relaxed interaction and conviviality. The extensive menu, which prominently features prime cuts of meat and fresh seafood, appeals to varied tastes, an essential factor when catering to groups with diverse preferences. Meanwhile, the restaurant’s location within the historic Sentinel Hotel places it in Portland’s vibrant downtown core, making it easily accessible for locals and visitors alike. This combination of accessibility, comfort, and quality food means that friends or family groups can arrive knowing that every detail—from the ambience to the food and service—will complement their time together. It’s a place where the joy of eating good food is matched by the joy of good company.
How does the service at Jake’s Grill enhance group visits? Many guests remark on the attentive and professional service that Jake’s Grill staff provide, which is especially important when managing group dynamics. The waitstaff is experienced in coordinating timing and special requests to ensure that large parties receive their meals efficiently and simultaneously, avoiding the frustration of staggered servings. This efficiency enhances the flow of conversation and helps maintain the celebratory mood. The servers also assist in menu selection, offering recommendations that suit the tastes and dietary needs of the group, an invaluable service when ordering for many. Furthermore, the team’s readiness to accommodate changes or special occasions—such as bringing out cakes, personalized menus, or adjusting seating arrangements—makes parties feel valued and cared for. This level of service transforms a routine dining experience into an event where guests can relax, socialize, and fully enjoy their time without worry.
What makes the environment at Jake’s Grill family- and friend-friendly for gatherings? Jake’s Grill’s interior design plays a big role in cultivating an inviting environment for groups. The warm, dark wood accents paired with formal elements like starched white tablecloths create a setting that is elegant yet comfortable. This blend means you don’t have to dress up or feel out of place; it’s upscale without being intimidating. The restaurant’s layout supports both intimate conversations and lively group discussions, with seating arrangements that can be adjusted based on group size. Seasonal and local artwork adds charm and a sense of place, giving diners something pleasant to look at as they talk and eat. Lighting is tastefully done to be both flattering and cozy, ideal for daytime brunches or evening dinners. Ultimately, the environment invites guests to linger longer, engage freely in conversation, and enjoy the shared experience of dining in a setting that balances sophistication and warmth.
Why choose Jake’s Grill over other spots for your next group event? Its long-standing reputation as a Portland institution for quality American fare gives Jake’s Grill an edge. With over 2000 reviews and a solid 4.4 rating, it clearly satisfies a wide customer base that includes both locals and visitors. The ability to cater private events of various sizes—from small dinners of 10 to large celebrations for up to 2000 people—demonstrates flexibility that many other restaurants lack. The staff’s expertise in planning and executing events ensures that group hosts can focus on enjoying the event rather than worrying about logistics. Additionally, Jake’s Grill’s focus on simple yet expertly prepared dishes allows hosts to avoid menu confusion while offering something that pleases every palate. This combination of reliability, quality, service, and ambiance makes Jake’s Grill a standout choice that can turn an ordinary meetup into a special occasion everyone will remember.
What dining options and specialties should groups consider at Jake’s Grill? Groups will find an impressive range of classic American dishes emphasizing steak and fresh seafood, prepared with care and presented beautifully. Known for having some of the best steaks in Portland, options include tender filet mignon, succulent ribeyes, and other prime cuts cooked to perfection. Fresh seafood selections—ranging from Pacific Northwest offerings to classic shellfish preparations—add variety and appeal to pescatarians or mixed-diet groups. The generous portion sizes encourage sharing and tasting multiple dishes, enhancing the social dining experience. Complementing the food, Jake’s Grill features an extensive drinks menu, including carefully crafted cocktails, wines, and beers, which can enhance any gathering, whether brunch or dinner. For groups wishing to customize their experience, private dining packages include menu customization, ensuring that dietary needs and preferences are fully addressed. This dedication to quality and choice means each group member leaves satisfied and impressed.
How does the location of Jake’s Grill contribute to its appeal for group meetups? Located in downtown Portland within the historic Sentinel Hotel, Jake’s Grill benefits from an accessible, central location that’s easy to find regardless of whether your friends are locals or visiting the city. Its proximity to various transportation options, including parking and public transit, eases travel logistics for group gatherings. Being in the heart of the city also means that after dining, groups can easily continue their outing with nearby entertainment, nightlife, or scenic walks. This makes Jake’s Grill more than a dining spot—it becomes an anchor point that can be part of a fuller social experience. The historic venue adds a sense of occasion and a connection to Portland’s heritage, lending every group meetup a uniquely memorable backdrop that other restaurants in more modern or generic settings cannot match.
Why do reviewers consistently recommend Jake’s Grill for group occasions? The consistently favorable reviews highlight several key themes: excellent food quality, attentive and professional service, pleasant atmosphere, and accommodating event options. Guests report that the food is delicious, with special praise often directed at the steaks and the drink selection. Reviewers appreciate the traditional yet relaxed vibe, where they feel their celebrations are treated with respect and care. The restaurant excels in handling large groups smoothly, minimizing wait times and ensuring everyone is served promptly. Even guests who have experienced occasional missteps acknowledge that the positives far outweigh the negatives. This strong reputation, backed by thousands of reviews from a diverse clientele, signals to anyone planning a group event that Jake’s Grill is a reliable and rewarding choice for gathering friends and family.
In summary, Jake’s Grill offers a compelling destination for any group looking to dine out together in Portland. Its combination of classic American fare, excellent service, inviting environment, and historic setting creates the perfect setting to celebrate, reconnect, and enjoy each other's company. Whether it's a special celebration or simply a night out with friends, Jake’s Grill delivers a complete, memorable experience that makes every meetup something to look forward to.