When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Katie O'Brien's
Why Katie O'Brien's is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Katie O'Brien's is a well-loved sports bar and restaurant located in Portland's vibrant NE Sandy Boulevard area. Known for its cozy and welcoming neighborhood atmosphere, it offers a perfect setting for friends to gather for both casual meals and lively evenings. The menu features breakfast and lunch options, making it a versatile spot open from early morning through late night, with especially extended hours on weekends. Patrons enjoy a great beer selection, happy-hour specials, and food served even at the bar, ideal for those looking to relax while watching their favorite sports. The bar's LGBTQ+ friendly environment and availability of outdoor seating make it accessible and comfortable for all. With a 4.4 rating across over 600 reviews, it stands out as a popular destination for locals seeking a mix of hearty meals, drinks, and sports entertainment in a friendly, relaxed venue.
Here's what people think of Katie O'Brien's
As of recent, Katie O'Brien's holds a 4.4-star rating based on 677 reviews.
Customer reviews of Katie O'Brien's Portland location reflect a strong appreciation for the warm, neighborhood feel of the bar and the quality of its offerings. Many users praise the friendly staff, fast service, and the excellent selection of beers and cocktails. Positive reviews frequently highlight the dynamic sports bar vibe combined with quality brunch and lunch menus—perfect for groups or casual outings. Visitors also note the pleasant outdoor seating as an added advantage. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to occasional inconsistencies in service speed during busy times and limited parking availability, which can detract from the overall experience. A few reviews mention that while the food is generally good, certain menu items might not meet everyone’s expectations. Despite these critiques, the overall sentiment remains positive, with most reviewers recommending the place for its lively atmosphere and friendly community feel. Collectively, the reviews depict Katie O'Brien's as a dependable, approachable spot to meet friends and enjoy good food and drinks while cheering on sports.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
N R
Food is decent for a dive bar, little excessive on the onion on the burger but they did give me a disgusting amount of pickles and i loved that. The bartenders are always so kind.
J L
DOWNRIGHT DAZZLING DIVE Food can be good or can be bad. This is proper for a dive bar… My food has been good and bad. The corned beef hash breakfast has been my fave and the soggy Reuben sandwich my least. Comfy seats at bar, lots of TVs, and great divey atmosphere. Try it out!
Joaquin Diaz
My son and I went there and the server completely ignored us. It was a horrible experience. The server saw us numerous times and just kept walking by and served other people. The server was intentional, it made us question whether it was some form of discrimination. I don't want this restaurant to reach out to me or respond to this.
Lonnie Danger
One of Portland's great old divey bars in a uniquely shaped building. No parking lot, so parking is challenging at this busy intersection. Lots of beer/drink choices, good food, good service.
Nani
Loved this bar, but hate the stupid women who bartend. They attend only to the seedy men paying compliments to them and it's cringy to be around. Wildly inept. Dive bar? More like dive out of the way to not come here .. and yeah, don't get any meat. Thankfully my buddy has an iron gut but the steak bites were literally moving on the plate. Couldn't do it after a few bites, I knew I'd regret. Pay attention to the bad reviews for this place. It'll show the truth lol
How to reach Katie O'Brien's
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Why Katie O'Brien's may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Katie O'Brien's with your friends? This cozy neighborhood tavern in Portland offers the perfect blend of a relaxed atmosphere, great drink options, and hearty food that makes it a prime spot for social gatherings. Whether you're a sports fan looking to catch a game, a craft beer enthusiast eager to explore a vast array of taps, or simply seeking a convivial place to unwind, Katie O'Brien's accommodates all these desires. The venue boasts a warm and unpretentious vibe that invites you to linger comfortably, with oversized swivel chairs at the bar and a spacious multi-level layout for groups to spread out. More than just a bar, it's a place where the character is authentic and the service friendly, encouraging long conversations and laughter. With breakfast served all day and generous portion sizes, you can meet early or late and still enjoy satisfying meals. The reasonable pricing further removes barriers to indulging, making it an accessible choice for group outings. For those who appreciate a blend of tradition and variety, Katie O'Brien's charm lies in its unpretentious embrace of classic pub culture infused with a modern craft beer selection and plenty of entertainment, making it an excellent location to rally with friends or family when you want a dependable, welcoming setting.
What activities can you do at Katie O'Brien's that make it great for a group meetup? Gathering at Katie O'Brien's means you can enjoy a variety of engaging activities tailored to groups of all sizes. Foremost, the bar's extensive lineup of craft beers—featuring dozens of taps—invites tasting sessions and lively drinks conversations among friends who appreciate diverse brews. The presence of multiple TVs makes it an ideal spot for watching sports together, from local games to major events, giving your group a shared, energetic experience. For those who like a bit of friendly competition, Katie O'Brien's offers a pool table, which can serve as a central activity to break the ice or keep energy high during your visit. The large, comfortable seating areas and roomy ambiance allow groups to sit together without feeling crowded, fostering easy conversations and festive spirits. The all-day breakfast service is a unique bonus that lets you start your meetup early and enjoy hearty meals while socializing. Whether you want a casual hangout with drinks, an energetic game night, or a leisurely brunch meetup, Katie O'Brien's versatile environment supports these activities well.
Why is Katie O'Brien's perfect for group meetups compared to other pubs? Katie O'Brien's stands out due to its combination of character, space, and inclusivity that others often lack. Its ambiance is chill and low-key, avoiding the overwhelming noise and crowds typical of busier city venues, which makes it ideal for groups that want to talk and reconnect without distractions. The pub’s multi-level layout offers plenty of room for larger parties to gather comfortably while maintaining an intimate feel. Unlike places that might prioritize trendy presentation over substance, Katie O'Brien's delivers solid food and generous portions—especially their breakfast and classics like the Reuben sandwich—which are economical and satisfying for group dining. The extensive craft beer menu caters to all tastes, from traditional lagers to more innovative brews, supporting varied preferences within one gathering. Moreover, the large number of TV screens means no one misses out on sports excitement, a common draw for friend groups. Added amenities, such as the pool table and the friendly, attentive staff, create a welcoming environment that encourages lingering and enjoying the evening. This balance of value, comfort, and entertainment makes Katie O'Brien's a standout destination for hosting meetups with friends or family.
What food and drink options enhance the group experience at Katie O'Brien's? Food and drink at Katie O'Brien's significantly enhance why it excels as a group-friendly venue. The menu is known for generous portions and comforting dishes, suited for sharing or filling appetites after activity-filled meetups. Patrons frequently highlight staples such as the Irish Reuben, club sandwiches piled high and served with mountains of chips, fish & chips, and classic hamburgers, all prepared with a satisfying heartiness that supports casual social dining. Breakfast is served all day, an uncommon treat that lets groups meet early or late according to schedules, with selections like massive breakfast plates that pair perfectly with their well-known Bloody Mary cocktails. On the drinks front, the extensive tap list offers a broad selection of craft beers—more than you’d expect from a neighborhood tavern—including ales, lagers, cider, and even mead, ensuring multiple tastes are accommodated within the same visit. Specials on drinks further encourage trying new options and prolong group enjoyment. This combination of rich flavors, reliable portion sizes, and diverse beverages ensures that whatever your group's cravings, Katie O'Brien's meets and often surpasses expectations.
How does the atmosphere at Katie O'Brien's foster memorable meetups? The atmosphere of Katie O'Brien's is central to why guests return with groups for recurring meetups. It steers clear of the polished, sometimes sterile vibe of “reinvented” urban pubs, instead embracing a genuine, character-filled environment that feels comfortable and lived-in. The space is adorned with old-school beer signs and a warm wood-paneled bar featuring cozy swivel chairs that invite guests to relax and stay awhile. The multi-level layout provides a roomy feel so groups don’t compete with crowds for space, and the presence of numerous TVs adds entertainment without overwhelming conversation. This balanced setup supports both lively banter and quiet one-on-one catch-ups. Parking is plentiful on the nearby streets, an often overlooked but critical detail that enhances convenience for group leaders arranging meetups. The staff contribute to the welcoming environment with attentive, friendly service that makes every guest feel valued. For those seeking a welcoming neighborhood pub to reconnect with friends or host casual celebrations, Katie O'Brien’s offers an inviting mix of laid-back charm and social energy that fosters warm, memorable gatherings.
What makes Katie O'Brien's a convenient and accessible meetup spot? Katie O'Brien’s garners appreciation not just for its warm personality, but also for how it enhances convenience for visitors coming as a group. Its location on NE Sandy Boulevard places it in an accessible part of Portland with easy on-street parking nearby, which simplifies arrival logistics for multiple cars—a vital factor when gathering friends or family. The establishment’s hours, serving breakfast from early morning until late, offer flexibility that few pubs provide; this makes it an ideal venue regardless of the time your group is available. The pricing is reasonable across both drinks and food, allowing groups to indulge without concern for overspending. Furthermore, its no-frills, chill vibe welcomes all kinds of groups—whether you want a quiet brunch, a casual lunch, or an evening of craft beer and pool. The seating options range from booths to bar stools with comfortable maneuverability, accommodating people who prefer either a lively or a more reserved setting within the same space. Altogether, these practical and thoughtful considerations make Katie O’Brien’s a dependable and stress-free venue for organizing group meetups.