When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
John's Marketplace
Why John's Marketplace is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
John's Marketplace is a distinguished retail gem located in Portland and Beaverton, Oregon, that specializes in an expansive and unparalleled selection of craft beer, wine, and cider. Founded in 1999 and revitalized by brothers Rob and Paul Petros since 2016, this marketplace has evolved from a traditional convenience store into Oregon's largest selection venue for beer, wine, and kegs — a true candy store for adult beverage enthusiasts. The original Multnomah Village location and its expanded Beaverton outlet cater to both casual buyers and aficionados with offerings that include kegs to-go, craft brews from micro and nano breweries, domestic favorites, and imports. The addition of a deli and a beer bar, complete with outdoor seating, at the Beaverton shop greatly enhances its appeal as a social hub, providing a vibrant space where friends can gather, enjoy fresh food alongside diverse beverages, and soak in a welcoming atmosphere. John's Marketplace's evolution into a multi-location establishment with modern amenities reflects its commitment to meeting the tastes and social habits of its community, making it not only a retail destination but a favored meeting place for friends and beer lovers alike.
Here's what people think of John's Marketplace
As of recent, John's Marketplace holds a 4.3-star rating based on 401 reviews.
According to customer reviews, John's Marketplace holds a strong 4.3-star rating from over 400 reviews, indicating general satisfaction among patrons. Many positive reviews highlight the vast and diverse selections of craft beers and wines, the knowledgeable and friendly staff, and the inviting atmosphere of the newer deli and taproom, especially at the Beaverton location. Customers appreciate the thoughtful curation of both local and international brews, their specialty kegs, and the seamless blend of a retail bottle shop with an in-house beer bar and outdoor seating, which makes for a fantastic social experience. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional issues such as limited parking space, busy times leading to crowding, or the challenge of navigating through an extensive selection for newcomers. A few patrons noted pricing that can be higher than average convenience stores due to the specialized nature of the products but still found the quality justifies the cost. Overall, the positive sentiments about product variety, ambience, and service outweigh the negatives, positioning John's Marketplace as a premier destination for beer and wine enthusiasts seeking both purchase and social engagement opportunities.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Brett Hull
Every time I visit John’s, I’m impressed! I usually go in for a few things, but their selection is so great that I always find more. They really know what customers want, and I appreciate how they work hard to bring in products people ask for. Amazing team and fantastic service—highly recommend! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Kaye
This grocery store has everything you need. Produce, dairy, snacks and even a bakery with fresh baked cookies, fresh take and bake pizza, fresh bread and more. They also have a large variety of supplements and herbs. Their toy section is full of fun things for the kids. They have all you will ever need in household cleaning products. It's a great place to stop for all your household needs.
David Laws
A fun little grocery store where you never know what you'll find! I love their local ice creams and Albanese gummy bears. Decent prices during case lot sales, too.
Tenille Tsujimoto
Not normally out in this exact area, but we stopped in to get a few groceries after passing by it. They have a little deli area that will make food to go. Decided to have dinner prepped for me. Got pizza and a salad. The salad is weighed, but you can choose your own toppings. The pizza is a flat rate. Was a bit slow to wait for them to prep my pizza. But we just walked around the rest of the grocery store. I'm sure you could call ahead and have it ready when you get there. I just happened to walk in and see it. It appeared the worker struggled a bit finding the right containers. The lid on the salad didn't fit so she just taped it to the bottom. It's a smaller grocery store, but they have all the essentials and are competively priced.
Laura
Super friendly staff! I love going to John’s Market! They have a lot of bulk items and a really awesome fruit and vegetable section. I noticed the fruits and veggies section is priced lower than other grocery stores AND has a BETTER, more juicier, full selection . If this is not your experience when you go, go back in a week, and it’s freshly restocked. (Their stuff runs out fast!!!! When I go, The products are either close to empty or packed full ) When you walk in, it always smells like a freshly baked batch of cookies. I also love the organic options, healthy alternatives, and sugar-free bakery. It’s so nice that when I need help with anything or wish something was different, I can ask anyone that works there and they’re genuinely happy to help and you can see their efforts go a long way.
How to reach John's Marketplace
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Website: None
Why John's Marketplace may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
John’s Marketplace is more than just a store; it’s a vibrant hub that naturally draws people together around a shared love of craft beverages, good food, and community spirit. If you and your friends are searching for a welcoming venue to unwind, explore, and make memories, John’s Marketplace stands out as an ideal rallying spot. Boasting a 4.3-star rating from over 400 reviews, the place radiates a distinctive charm that sets it apart from ordinary hangouts. The atmosphere inside this Portland institution effortlessly blends a spacious, warehouse-style ambiance with a friendly, unpretentious vibe that makes every visit feel like a warm gathering of old friends. The expert and approachable staff add a personal touch, helping you navigate an expansive selection of beers, wines, and ciders that you won’t easily find anywhere else. Whether you’re a craft brew enthusiast or just looking for a relaxed place to catch up over killer sandwiches and rotating taps, John’s Marketplace offers a unique blend of variety and conviviality. It’s no surprise that many visitors call it Portland’s "Beer Mecca," and it provides an exciting, comfortable setting to make your group meetup memorable and fun.
What kind of activities and experiences does John’s Marketplace offer for group meetups?
John’s Marketplace creates a rich, engaging environment that goes well beyond a typical market experience. For starters, the sheer variety of beer, wine, and cider available is overwhelming in the best way possible. They carry an impressive range of local Oregon favorites alongside rare and regional finds, ensuring there’s something for every palate within your group. This colorful spectrum of beverages encourages exploration and shared discovery, perfect for tastings and friendly debates among friends about new favorites or old classics. The store also features rotating taps, allowing groups to sample fresh, limited-run brews right on-site. This is a fantastic way to keep visits dynamic, making each meetup fresh and exciting as you try new flavors together. The physical space is roomy and well-organized, with wide aisles and clear shelving, which means large groups can comfortably browse without feeling cramped — an important detail for keeping everyone's mood upbeat during a visit. Beyond drinks, John’s Marketplace offers a small but delightful food menu, featuring sandwiches like their much-praised turkey sandwich — a budget-friendly, flavorful bite that adds something substantial to the outing. Altogether, this combination of excellent drink options, tasty food, and a spacious, welcoming environment makes John’s Marketplace a perfect place for groups looking to share casual, enjoyable moments.
Why is John’s Marketplace the perfect setting to host a party or celebration?
Hosting a party or celebration at John’s Marketplace means tapping into a space that naturally invites connection and enjoyment. The marketplace’s friendly, knowledgeable staff contribute significantly to this experience by being enthusiastic partners in helping group organizers select the best drinks to suit their guests’ tastes. Their expertise helps bring cohesion to an occasion — whether it’s coordinating a lineup of craft beers or curating a wine selection to pair with the food you bring or order onsite. The venue’s location and layout also facilitate easy mingling and movement, vital for parties where guests want both to relax and engage. With a warehouse-style interior that feels open and accessible, it accommodates groups large and small without a sense of overcrowding. Moreover, because John’s Marketplace emphasizes Oregon-crafted beverages alongside diverse options, it also caters to guests who appreciate local flavors and artisan quality, adding a special touch to your event’s identity. For those who want a laid-back celebration where good drinks, good food, and good company are central, this marketplace ticks all the boxes.
What makes the food offerings at John’s Marketplace stand out for meetups?
While John’s Marketplace is renowned primarily for its exceptional drink selections, its food offerings are an equally compelling part of the meet-up experience. The menu focuses on quality sandwiches made with care, including the crowd-favorite turkey sandwich that many patrons consider a steal for both price and flavor. Each sandwich is crafted thoughtfully, providing satisfying flavors that complement the beverage choices perfectly. Having quality food options on-site means groups don’t need to go offsite for a meal, which helps keep the group together and the vibe continuous along the day or evening. The casual, no-fuss food selection pairs naturally with the casual atmosphere and wide beverage variety, creating an ideal balance that lets everyone focus on conversation and enjoyment rather than fussing over complicated menus. Whether your group prefers a quick bite or a more leisurely snack, the food at John’s Marketplace serves to delight and sustain everyone, making the hangout feel complete and well-rounded.
How accessible and accommodating is John’s Marketplace for group gatherings?
John’s Marketplace shines in its thoughtful accommodation of visitors, especially those arriving with friends and family for a group outing. Its location is easy to access, situated along a major road with convenient parking options, which simplifies logistics and favors spontaneous drop-ins or planned gatherings. The spacious, clean, and well-lit interior is laid out to facilitate easy browsing without congestion, a key factor for groups who want to move around freely and interact with the wide selection of products. Staff are consistently praised for their friendliness and willingness to assist, helping large or small groups navigate the store efficiently and enjoyably. The mixture of open floor space and organized shelving allows groups to cluster comfortably without disrupting other visitors, striking a nice balance between a lively and considerate environment. Importantly, John’s Marketplace accommodates a broad range of group types—from casual friends’ meetups to family outings celebrating special occasions—ensuring everyone can feel welcome and comfortable as they enjoy their time together.
What kind of community and social atmosphere does John’s Marketplace promote?
John’s Marketplace is much more than a store — it’s a community gathering place where locals and visitors alike come together around a shared passion for great beer, wine, and food. The atmosphere encourages relaxation, discovery, and exchange, making it an excellent venue for social bonding. Visitors often describe the staff as highly knowledgeable and friendly, fostering a welcoming vibe that makes even first-time guests feel at home quickly. Because the marketplace features a mix of local Oregon craft beers and other unique finds, it brings a sense of place and pride to the experience, allowing groups to feel connected not only to each other, but also to the broader regional culture. This social spirit is enhanced by opportunities to engage with rotating taps and limited-edition brews, which act as conversation starters and points of shared excitement. In essence, John’s Marketplace is a place where great products and a warm community spirit come together, making every meetup feel like an event worth repeating.
How does John’s Marketplace compare to other venues for meetups in Portland?
When positioning John’s Marketplace against other gathering venues in Portland, it stands apart primarily because of its unique focus on beer diversity combined with a community-oriented market setting. Unlike typical bars or restaurants, the marketplace offers an unmatched breadth of beer, wine, and cider options, handpicked to suit connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. Its unpretentious, welcoming atmosphere calls back to the charm of old-school hobby shops but with a modern twist dedicated to craft beverages. Unlike some trendy or crowded venues, the spaciousness of John’s Marketplace means groups can visit without feeling cramped or rushed. The added advantage of great food at wallet-friendly prices rounds out the experience, giving it a competitive edge for groups prioritizing both quality and value. This makes it a go-to spot for anyone in Portland looking to combine exploration, excellent products, and social comfort in one place, setting it apart from many other local gathering options.