When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
McMenamins St. Johns Theater & Pub
Why McMenamins St. Johns Theater & Pub is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
McMenamins St. Johns Theater & Pub, located at 8203 North Ivanhoe Street in Portland, Oregon, offers a distinctive venue that is perfect for meeting up with friends, whether for a casual meal, a drink, or a movie event. This establishment beautifully combines the charm of a neighborhood pub with a first-run movie theater, creating a lively community gathering place. Visitors can enjoy Northwest-style pub fare made with fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from local and regional producers. The menu includes house-made pizzas, soups, and rotating seasonal specials, catering to a variety of tastes. The pub atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed, featuring indoor and outdoor seating; the patio even allows pets, making it a friendly spot for all kinds of groups. The theater showcases current film releases at reasonable prices, with matinee and evening rates that are accessible for adults, kids, seniors, and military personnel. Moreover, McMenamins St. Johns emphasizes accessibility for all guests by offering closed captioning for films and assistive audio devices for those with hearing or vision impairments. The combination of quality food, crafted beverages including ales, wines, ciders, and spirits, alongside a unique entertainment experience, makes McMenamins St. Johns Theater & Pub an excellent destination to enjoy time with friends and family in a comfortable, community-focused environment.
Here's what people think of McMenamins St. Johns Theater & Pub
As of recent, McMenamins St. Johns Theater & Pub holds a 4.5-star rating based on 1642 reviews.
The overall reception of McMenamins St. Johns Theater & Pub is strongly positive, as indicated by its 4.5-star average from over 1600 reviews and additional ratings around 4.1 to 4.08 from various sources. Reviewers frequently praise the unique blend of a pub and movie theater, highlighting the value offered by affordable ticket prices for quality first-run films. Positive comments emphasize the inviting atmosphere, great customer service, and the fresh, locally inspired menu that enhances their dining and viewing experience. Many guests appreciate the availability of handcrafted ales and diverse drink selections that complement the food and entertainment. The provision of accommodations for guests with hearing and vision impairments also receives commendation for inclusivity. Negative reviews, while fewer, sometimes mention issues such as occasional noise levels from the pub environment impacting the movie experience, limited parking options, or variability in food preparation during busier times. Some patrons have noted that the outdoor seating, although pet-friendly, may have limited protection from weather elements. In conclusion, the majority of patrons find McMenamins St. Johns Theater & Pub a compelling and enjoyable location that successfully marries dining, drinking, and cinema, with minor areas for improvement that do not detract significantly from the overall positive experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Michael “Wolfy” Howes
Had a nice experience taking kids to a movie on a Friday afternoon. The service was friendly and timely. They could do a little better cleaning up piled up trays and trash but overall do a good job. The food was good for a movie theater and the beers/cocktails are a bit pricey but good. Overall I’d recommend coming here with kids to watch a show and have a meal… nice experience.
D W
Very fun atmosphere and a beautiful theater! They have a small parking lot that probably fills fast when they are busy.
Geo Vittoratos
I’ll admit we only tend to go to the flagship McMenamins but we got a gift card so went to our local neighborhood one. The burger was great, service was friendly and the vibes of all McMenamins are really unique. My only complaint is I feel like I need a filing system with all the different menus, so much paperwork! >_
Jessica j
This place is so cool!! There is a bar and restaurant with a movie theater inside. You order your food and drinks and they give you a number to take into the theater with you. They bring your food right to you as you're watching the movie. The decor is super unique and so cool to look at all the different things they have in there. In the movie theater, there is a dome up above that is super cool as well. The theater chairs are nice and big and give you lots of room. They have tables connected to the chairs in front of you for your food. We love this place and will definitely be coming back and recommending to others.
RJ Ryan
Oh what a depressing place this restaurant and pub has become. This pub was amazing even 5 years ago. Today I went in, more servers than patrons. Yet it took 45 minutes to get an order in. Employees were on their phones and ignoring anyone that came in. And then when we finally got a server to come to our table after we had to go multiple times to the bar to ask for service, they blamed it on us. What a joke this place has become sadly. Be better.
How to reach McMenamins St. Johns Theater & Pub
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Why McMenamins St. Johns Theater & Pub may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at McMenamins St. Johns Theater & Pub with your friends?
Gathering your friends or family at McMenamins St. Johns Theater & Pub is an exceptional choice for a memorable meetup because it perfectly blends entertainment, dining, and a cozy neighborhood pub atmosphere all under one roof. This unique venue offers a welcoming environment where groups can relax, enjoy a wide variety of activities, and share quality time together. Whether your group prefers catching the latest first-run film in an intimate theater setting or savoring fresh Northwest-inspired pub fare crafted from local seasonal ingredients, St. Johns delivers it all at a reasonable price. The theater’s large seating capacity and inclusive amenities, such as closed captioning and special headphones for guests with hearing or vision impairments, make it accessible and comfortable for everyone. Complementing the movie experience is an extensive selection of handcrafted ales, wines, ciders, and spirits, allowing your group to toast to good times while enjoying your favorite drinks. Its friendly, laid-back vibe, combined with indoor and pet-friendly patio seating, ensures every member of your party will feel right at home. In short, McMenamins St. Johns Theater & Pub offers an exceptional, all-in-one destination where fun, food, and friendship effortlessly come together.
What activities can you enjoy at McMenamins St. Johns Theater & Pub?
McMenamins St. Johns Theater & Pub is a hub of diverse activities perfectly suited for group gatherings. First and foremost, its main feature is the theater showcasing first-run film releases at very reasonable ticket prices—matinee tickets are only $7 for adults and kids, while evening shows are $9 for adults, with discounts for children, seniors, and military personnel. This allows a group to enjoy the latest cinema without the high cost often associated with movie outings, providing both entertainment and value. Beyond movies, the pub offers an engaging dining experience with a full menu specializing in Northwest-style pub fare. The food is mouthwatering and made using the freshest seasonal ingredients sourced from local growers and producers, with house-made pizza, soups, burgers, and seasonal specials that appeal to varied tastes within any group. Indoor and outdoor patio seating options foster a social environment where friends can linger over a meal or drinks, while the pet-friendly patio makes it convenient for those who don’t want to leave their furry companions behind. Additionally, the pub provides a carefully curated selection of McMenamins’ handcrafted ales, ciders, wines, and spirits, adding a flavorful dimension to your meetup.
Why is McMenamins St. Johns Theater & Pub perfect for group meetups?
The venue’s layout and community vibe make McMenamins St. Johns Theater & Pub ideal for get-togethers of all sizes. Its friendly staff and comfortable seating arrangements accommodate groups comfortably, whether you're looking for a casual catch-up, a lively celebration, or a low-key evening out. The theater’s accessibility features, including closed captioning on movie showings and hearing/vision impaired devices, demonstrate a thoughtful inclusivity that helps every guest feel welcome and fully engaged in the experience. The generous spread of food and drink choices caters to diverse preferences and dietary considerations, including vegetarian-friendly options, ensuring all party members find something to enjoy. Moreover, the pub’s location in the St. Johns neighborhood of Portland offers ample parking and easy access, making it convenient for everyone to arrive and depart without hassle. The laid-back, neighborhood pub atmosphere encourages social interaction and intimate conversations that often get lost in larger, more commercial venues. With its rich combination of entertainment, food, drinks, accessibility, and ambiance, McMenamins St. Johns Theater & Pub is a well-rounded spot that supports memorable, hassle-free gatherings.
What kind of food and drink options does McMenamins St. Johns Theater & Pub provide?
Dining at McMenamins St. Johns Theater & Pub is an experience steeped in the rich flavors of the Pacific Northwest. Their menu emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from regional local farms and producers, reflecting a commitment to quality and sustainability. You can expect comforting pub fare with a gourmet twist, including signature house-made pizzas baked fresh onsite, hearty burgers, fresh salads, and flavorful soups, alongside daily and seasonal specials that keep the menu exciting. The kitchen’s careful crafting ensures that meals pair perfectly with their drink offerings, creating a harmonious tasting experience. The pub’s beverage menu is particularly impressive, boasting a full range of McMenamins’ handcrafted ales, including some exclusive brews, alongside select wines, ciders, and specialty spirits. Whether you prefer a crisp beer, a refreshing cider, or a crafted cocktail, there’s something to suit every palate and complement your food. Moreover, the service style is relaxed yet attentive, making dining with your group feel like a comfortable homecoming.
How does McMenamins St. Johns Theater & Pub support an inclusive and accessible experience?
One of the standout qualities of McMenamins St. Johns Theater & Pub is its dedication to accessibility, ensuring that all guests can fully enjoy the entertainment and social atmosphere. Their movie theater is equipped with closed captioning on all showings and offers individual Captiview closed caption devices that fit into cup holders, enabling deaf or hard-of-hearing patrons to follow along seamlessly. For guests requiring amplified dialogue or audio descriptions of the scenery and action, the pub provides two types of headphones tailored to hearing-impaired and visually impaired needs. These accommodations are available upon request before showtime, reflecting a thoughtful approach to inclusivity. Such features not only enhance the movie-going experience but also send a clear message that everyone’s comfort and engagement matter at St. Johns Theater & Pub. This commitment makes it easier for diverse groups of friends and family to come together and celebrate shared interests without barriers.
What makes the atmosphere and location of McMenamins St. Johns Theater & Pub special for social gatherings?
Located in the vibrant St. Johns neighborhood of Portland, McMenamins St. Johns Theater & Pub offers more than just entertainment and food—it provides an inviting and nostalgic ambiance that enriches every visit. The building itself carries historical significance and exudes a charming vibe that many guests enjoy exploring while dining or waiting for a movie. The interior balances classic pub warmth with modern comfort, featuring cozy seating areas where groups can chat easily. The option of outdoor patio seating invites guests to soak up pleasant weather while still enjoying the pub’s food and drink offerings, and it’s one of the few pet-friendly patios in the area. This combination of historical charm, cozy environment, and pet-friendly outdoor space creates a welcoming setting that encourages lingering, laughter, and connection among friends and family alike. The pub’s operating hours from morning through late evening also make it flexible for day or night meetups.
In summary, McMenamins St. Johns Theater & Pub is much more than a venue; it’s a local treasure designed to foster community spirit, celebrate good food and drink, and provide accessible entertainment. It offers an affordable and enjoyable way to rally friends or family for a lively movie night, a hearty meal, or simply a relaxed social outing in a welcoming atmosphere that embraces everyone. If you seek a place where laughter flows as freely as the pints and every visit feels like a gathering of close companions, St. Johns Theater & Pub is the perfect destination.