When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
McMenamins Bagdad Theater & Pub
Why McMenamins Bagdad Theater & Pub is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
McMenamins Bagdad Theater & Pub is a cherished entertainment destination nestled in Portland's vibrant Hawthorne District. Originally built in 1927 with distinctive Middle-Eastern architectural flair by Lee Arden Thomas, this historic theater was acquired and lovingly restored by the McMenamin brothers in 1991. Today it offers a unique fusion of moviegoing, dining, and community events under one roof. Visitors can enjoy second-run and first-run films in its 590-seat single-screen theater, savor craft beers brewed onsite, and sample a diverse menu at the attached pub. The venue also serves as a cultural hub hosting author readings, live music, stand-up comedy, and trivia nights, creating a lively, engaging atmosphere. Its vintage ambiance, combined with modern amenities like digital projection and upgraded seating, makes the Bagdad an inviting spot for friends to gather and enjoy a night out. The adjoining Back Stage Bar, with lofty ceilings and pool tables, adds an extra layer of social fun. With nearly a century of cinematic history and a commitment to community-driven experiences, McMenamins Bagdad Theater & Pub stands out as a memorable and multifaceted venue perfect for friends looking to mix entertainment, food, and drinks in a historic setting.
Here's what people think of McMenamins Bagdad Theater & Pub
As of recent, McMenamins Bagdad Theater & Pub holds a 4.5-star rating based on 3177 reviews.
Reviewers consistently praise McMenamins Bagdad Theater & Pub for its blend of nostalgic ambiance and quality entertainment offerings. Many appreciate the theater's historic charm and comfortable single-screen setup, highlighting the enjoyable movie-going experience enhanced by modern projection technology. The attached pub receives commendation for good food and the signature McMenamins craft beers, which many find decent to very good, contributing to a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Positive feedback also emphasizes the vibrant social vibe, with live events and the Back Stage Bar adding to patrons' enjoyment as a great place to meet friends and socialize. On the other hand, some negative reviews note that service can occasionally be inconsistent, with a few diners experiencing slower or less attentive staff. A few reviews mention that while the food is decent, it is not extraordinary, and the beer selection, though solid, might not impress craft beer aficionados seeking more variety. Nonetheless, most negative comments are relatively mild and balanced by enthusiastic endorsements of the venue's unique character. In conclusion, the Bagdad Theater & Pub enjoys a strong reputation as a beloved community spot offering a special combination of history, entertainment, and casual dining, making it a popular choice for locals and visitors alike looking for a quintessential Portland night out.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
steven hobbs
The food is okay. The cheeseburger I had was dry and the bun was hard. It was edible, but I wish I ate elsewhere. I don't regret it, but I won't visit again. The tater tots were as good as the tots at Sonic. It's cramped, too. The building is an historic building that's pretty dark in the bar and I get that it's an old building and a bar. The waiter took our number when one of us got food and then gave away some of the other food we ordered because we no longer had a number. We mentioned this and they eventually brought us the other food we ordered, but it was left half-eaten. I don't believe that you'll miss out on anything or have major regrets if you don't go. If you do, great! I visited once and that's more than enough for me.
Nicole Marie
This place is a beautiful part of Portland. The building and decor are beautiful. The theater area is very nice and comfy. Yummy foods and drinks while watching a movie, what more could you ask for? Also, McMenamins is generous and kind and hosts a free tour every few weeks that give a really great history of the theater. Highly recommend! It's at 10 am on Saturday.
stephen loudon
Beautiful theater, big screen, great sound, comfortable seats. The beer is tasty, but the food is mediocre and expensive. We spent $100 for two tickets, two 12" pizzas, a pint and a pitcher of beer.
Penina S. Finger
We stopped by for drinks in a Monday evening. There were just a few people so it was nice and quiet. I got a non-alcoholic spritzer-like drink (I'll try to update this š ) that was super yummy. My friend got the house-made version of a Guinness, also delicious (I had a couple of sips). I loved the vibe, the beautiful murals, the friendly service and the drinks. I canāt wait to go back.
Ava Johns
such nice people here and a really really cool theater! Staff let us go and peek at the theater during a period of no showings and the beer selection was great. Super cool experience.
How to reach McMenamins Bagdad Theater & Pub
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Why McMenamins Bagdad Theater & Pub may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at McMenamins Bagdad Theater & Pub with your friends?
Gathering with friends and family often calls for a venue that is more than just a spaceāit should offer a memorable atmosphere, engaging activities, and something special to talk about long after the day is over. McMenamins Bagdad Theater & Pub is precisely that kind of place, located in Portlandās vibrant Hawthorne District. Its iconic Mediterranean-inspired architecture, neon-lit marquee, and rich history dating back to 1927 create a unique backdrop that blends nostalgia with modern charm. Whether your group is into catching a classic or indie film on the grand screen, enjoying shareable gourmet pub fare, or simply relaxing in a lively atmosphere, the Bagdad meets all these criteria. Its reputation as a community gathering spot spans generations, making it a wonderful choice for meetups where you want to combine entertainment, dining, and socializing under one roof. The mix of historic grandeur, comfort, and a menu catering to diverse tastes ensures everyone in your group can find something to enjoy, making your meetup an event to look forward to and remember.
What entertainment options can groups enjoy at the Bagdad Theater & Pub?
McMenamins Bagdad Theater & Pub is well known for its dynamic programming of daily films, ranging from recent releases to cult classics and special midnight movie series. The theater itself features a large, comfortable auditorium with a revamped digital projector and an upgraded sound system that delivers an immersive viewing experience. The presence of a significant stage and a rich vaudeville history means the venue also occasionally hosts live performances or community events, offering something beyond just movies. For groups with different interests, this means your meetup can be more than simply watching a filmāit can transform into an entire outing filled with entertainment tailored to your preferences. Furthermore, the historic ambiance, including Middle-Eastern inspired decor and a grand pipe organ heritage, enriches the experience, making a film screening or event here not only enjoyable but also culturally engaging.
Why is the Bagdad Theater & Pub ideal for group dining and socializing?
Beyond its entertainment offerings, McMenamins Bagdad Theater & Pub excels as a culinary destination perfect for groups. The menu emphasizes house-made pizza, soups, and seasonal specials, providing a range of choices that can accommodate diverse dietary needs including gluten-free options. This flexibility encourages a relaxed, communal dining experience where everyone can find something satisfying. The attached pub and bar areas add to the convivial environment, letting groups linger over craft beers, cocktails, and locally sourced drinks. The Back Stage Bar, with its historic mother-of-pearl inlay and storied past, offers a unique spot for quieter conversation or casual drinks, further enhancing the venueās capacity to handle social gatherings large and small. The combination of quality food, drink, and ambient setting encourages interaction and bonding, ideal for friends catching up or families celebrating together.
What unique historical and architectural features make the Bagdad Theater & Pub stand out?
Dating back nearly a century, the Bagdad Theater is a historical landmark designed by Portland architect Lee Arden Thomas, featuring a distinctive Middle-Eastern architectural motif that is rare and visually striking. Its huge neon-lit marquee and exotic exterior decoration make it a standout on Portlandās Hawthorne Boulevard. The interior originally hosted an orchestra pit and a grand pipe organ to accompany silent films and stage acts, elements that hint at the venueās illustrious past and elevate the ambiance for today's visitors. The theaterās longstanding presence in the community is marked by notable premieres like "One Flew Over the Cuckooās Nest" and events showing iconic films, adding to its cultural significance. This rich heritage offers visitors a sense of connecting with Portlandās history every time they visit, making group meetups feel more special amid surroundings steeped in stories and artistry.
What amenities and services enhance the meetup experience at the Bagdad?
The Bagdad Theater & Pub takes care to ensure visitors have a comfortable and accommodating experience that works for groups. The theater seating was recently upgraded for comfort, with attention to sightlines and sound to make every personās view enjoyable. The food service in the pub offers not only quality selections but also knowledgeable staff who can assist with dietary preferences, ensuring inclusive meal options for all guests. The venueās layout includes multiple gathering spaces, from the main theater auditorium to more intimate bar areas, allowing groups to tailor their experience depending on the size and nature of their meetup. Accessibility is carefully considered to welcome guests of varying needs. Additionally, the venueās longstanding role in the community means it often hosts themed events, special screenings, and interactive performances that can amplify the social experience and give groups unique reasons to rally there together.
How does McMenamins Bagdad Theater & Pub reflect and contribute to the Portland community spirit?
The Bagdad is more than just a business; it is a longstanding cultural hub that has been part of Portland life for nearly 100 years. Locals recall the phrase āMeet me at the Bagdad!ā as a rallying call, a testament to its role as a central and welcoming gathering spot. Its restoration and ongoing care under the McMenamins brand maintain its historic charm while supporting the local arts and entertainment scene. The theater frequently collaborates with community organizations, hosts book tours, and promotes local talent, reinforcing its importance beyond just a commercial venue. This deep connection to the neighborhood fosters a warm and inclusive atmosphere that benefits groups wanting a place that feels both lively and authentic. By preserving a piece of Portlandās past and actively engaging with its present cultural fabric, the Bagdad offers visitors an experience deeply rooted in community pride and shared memories.
What practical tips can help groups make the most of a visit to the Bagdad Theater & Pub?
To maximize a meetup at McMenamins Bagdad Theater & Pub, consider planning your visit around one of the theaterās special screenings or events that reflect your groupās interestsāthese can add an extra layer of excitement. Arriving a bit early to enjoy the pubās food and drink offerings allows for socializing before the film or live event begins. Given its popularity and high rating, especially on weekends, reserving tickets or checking showtimes in advance is advisable to ensure seating together. Groups with mixed dietary needs should communicate preferences early to the staff so that everyone can be accommodated comfortably. If your group enjoys variety, splitting time between the main theater and the Back Stage Bar can offer different vibes to cater to everyone. Finally, encourage casual attire to match the relaxed but historic ambiance, allowing all members to feel comfortable and immersed in this unique gathering spot.
By combining historic charm, varied entertainment, quality dining, and a community-focused spirit, McMenamins Bagdad Theater & Pub offers an irresistible venue for any group gathering, making your meetup an unforgettable event.