When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
McMenamins Al's Den
Why McMenamins Al's Den is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Located in the heart of downtown Portland, McMenamins Al's Den offers an inviting street-level bar and music venue experience perfect for meeting friends. Housed at 303 SW 12th Avenue, this intimate and speakeasy-style space is known for its vibrant live music and comedy events, including a popular weekly Open Mic Comedy Night. The venue’s ambiance is enriched by its historic connection to Portland lore, named after Al Winter, a 1940s gambling figure. Visitors can enjoy a thoughtfully curated menu featuring locally sourced ingredients, house-baked breads and pastries from the Crystal Bakery, alongside craft cocktails and an approachable wine list. McMenamins Al's Den provides a welcoming atmosphere served by attentive waitstaff, making it an excellent choice for casual meet-ups, pre-show drinks, or evening dates. The venue also benefits from proximity to the Crystal Hotel and Crystal Ballroom, expanding the local entertainment options. With happy hour served Sunday through Thursday from 3-6 pm and a relaxed dress code requiring no reservations, Al's Den blends casual comfort with Portland's rich cultural vibe, positioning itself as a memorable gathering spot for both locals and visitors.
Here's what people think of McMenamins Al's Den
As of recent, McMenamins Al's Den holds a 4.5-star rating based on 454 reviews.
Reviews for McMenamins Al's Den generally reflect a positive experience focusing on the unique atmosphere, effective blending of local historic charm with quality dining, and engaging entertainment such as live music and comedy nights. Patrons appreciate the friendly and welcoming staff and the comfortable ambiance that aligns well with an intimate venue setting. Positive feedback highlights the quality of food and drinks, especially the use of local ingredients and inventive cocktails, as well as the vibe during events like Open Mic Comedy Night, making it a lively social place. On the other hand, some negative comments point to inconveniences such as the small size of the venue and in rare cases, issues with room cleanliness and maintenance when staying at the adjoining Crystal Hotel, which is associated with Al's Den. Despite these occasional drawbacks, the overall consensus shows that most guests find the experience enjoyable and the staff helpful, contributing to returning clientele. In summary, McMenamins Al's Den stands out as a strong community-oriented spot that successfully combines dining, entertainment, and historic character, with few criticisms not detracting significantly from its appeal.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jake Prososki
The food wasn’t very good besides the Cajun tots were really good. We saw a comedy show and it was really good and fun! Good atmosphere and drinks - although a little pricey.
Opossum C.
I first came here three years ago visiting my best friend here. She took me to a comedy show here and to meet her friends, and it was one of the best nights of the trip. The butterfly effect was the drink our tables enjoyed for the whole evening. It was so good. The environment and ambience was amazing. I finally got to visit here again, and it was everything I needed and wanted. Nate and Louis were our bartenders and were absolutely amazing. It felt like I was hanging out in a friend's living room and was so comfortable and homey. I also got to have the butterfly effect again and enjoy the food here. It was all amazing once again. The character and charm of this space can't be beat. Thank you guys for always being a fond memory! Much love
Abby Allinger
We love it here! Kat is the favorite server we have had. So sweet and attentive. Definitely ask for her when you visit. A MUST-SEE in Portland!
Sheridan Herman
What a cool stop! Loved this skinny underground building. We randomly purchased tickets to the conversational lube show and had a blast - even as a married couple! Would definitely recommend the berry Moscow mule!
James Hartenfeld
I love Al’s Den. The staff is amazing and is so good to people. I love the Wednesday night comedy at 7pm. Free show every week, awesome comedians, such a blast
How to reach McMenamins Al's Den
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Why McMenamins Al's Den may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at McMenamins Al's Den with your friends?
McMenamins Al's Den stands out as a premier destination for gathering with friends and family because it blends a warm, inviting atmosphere with rich history and delightful craft beverages in a uniquely intimate setting. Situated within the iconic Crystal Hotel in downtown Portland, Al's Den boasts a storied past intertwined with local culture and the McMenamins legacy of community-centric pubs. When you rally your group here, you’re not just meeting up at another bar; you’re immersing yourselves in a space that offers cozy surroundings, handcrafted drinks, and a sense of belonging that encourages conversation and connection. Its 4.5-star rating from over 450 reviews reflects consistent guest satisfaction, highlighting the quality of experience you can expect. The intimate size of Al's Den fosters a sense of exclusivity without feeling crowded, making it perfect for groups who want to enjoy quality time together without the overwhelming noise or hustle of larger venues. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, catching up after a long time, or simply unwinding after a hectic day, Al’s Den creates a relaxing yet lively environment tailored to enhance your social experience.
What makes McMenamins Al's Den perfect for group meetups?
Al’s Den offers a variety of features that cater specifically to groups looking to have a memorable meetup. First, the space is thoughtfully designed to accommodate socializing with friends or family without compromising comfort. There are cozy booths perfect for intimate chats, as well as seating that encourages mingling and easy interaction among guests. The ambiance is relaxed yet sophisticated, blending historic charm with modern amenities. The bar area behind the counter also offers a unique window into the kitchen, allowing guests to watch meal preparation—this can be an engaging conversation starter and adds a dynamic touch to the experience.
Another significant advantage is the menu, featuring a carefully curated list of McMenamins’ own craft beers brewed on-site and an array of cocktails that blend local flavors and inventive recipes. This focus on house-made beverages means your group can sample a variety of unique drinks that you won’t easily find elsewhere. Additionally, the kitchen serves elevated pub fare, providing sharing-friendly dishes that complement the drinks well. The combination of excellent food and drink options makes Al’s Den an ideal spot for groups to relax and indulge without having to venture elsewhere. Beyond the food and drink, the attentive staff’s welcoming nature ensures your group feels valued and well cared for throughout the visit.
What activities can you enjoy together at Al's Den?
While Al’s Den primarily operates as a cozy pub and lounge, the location within the Crystal Hotel lends itself to additional group-friendly activities. After enjoying drinks and dinner, guests can explore the striking architecture and the artistic touches throughout the hotel. The hotel itself echoes Portland’s colorful history and offers an immersive aesthetic experience worth sharing with friends. For groups interested in nightlife, Al’s Den often features live music or curated playlists that contribute to a lively yet manageable atmosphere conducive to conversation without shouting over loud music.
Moreover, because it is part of the broader McMenamins network, there are often seasonal or special events that your group can take part in if booked accordingly. These can range from trivia nights to themed parties or tasting events that can add entertainment beyond your typical bar experience. The pub’s covered outdoor seating area is perfect during milder weather, offering fresh air while socializing. This balance of indoor and outdoor spaces makes Al’s Den versatile for groups of different sizes and moods.
How does Al's Den compare to other McMenamins locations for group outings?
McMenamins is known for its diverse collection of historic pubs and hotel bars, each with its own unique flair. Among them, Al’s Den stands out for its intimacy and downtown location. Compared to larger McMenamins establishments like Edgefield or Kennedy School, which feature sprawling campuses and multiple entertainment options, Al’s Den provides a more contained, personal setting ideal for smaller groups and quieter celebrations. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want to focus on conversation and quality time rather than large events or family outings requiring multiple activities.
Al’s Den’s position inside the Crystal Hotel also adds an additional layer of charm and accessibility that benefits groups staying in or near downtown Portland. Unlike some McMenamins locations that require a drive or longer transit, Al’s Den’s urban setting allows for easy pre-or post-meeting activities around downtown. Restaurants, music venues, and other attractions are within walking distance, providing flexibility to extend your gathering or wind down the night with further exploration of Portland’s vibrant culture.
What should someone expect when visiting McMenamins Al’s Den for the first time?
First-time visitors to McMenamins Al’s Den can expect a combination of historic Portland charm woven with McMenamins’ signature style of inviting, community-focused hospitality. Upon entering, you are greeted not only by the warm lighting and wood-accented décor but by staff who cater to making your experience comfortable and enjoyable. Guests appreciate the bar’s direct view into the kitchen and the carefully created cocktail and beer menu, which showcases the local craft beer scene at its finest.
The vibe is laid-back yet refined, catering to those who want a sociable setting without excess noise or confusion. Whether arriving early evening or later at night, you will find seating arrangements that encourage friendly interactions, along with the option to settle into quieter corners for intimate conversations. Many patrons return because of the unique mix of friendly service, excellent beverages, and historic ambiance, creating an environment where groups feel they belong.
In conclusion, McMenamins Al’s Den is much more than just a bar or pub—it's a vibrant gathering spot where friends and family can enjoy quality time, delicious drinks, and meaningful conversations within a historic Portland landmark. If you want a venue that combines artisan craft beverages, great food, and a warm atmosphere, all in a unique downtown location, rallying at Al’s Den is an excellent choice for your next group meetup.