When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Paymaster Lounge
Why Paymaster Lounge is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Paymaster Lounge in Portland, Oregon, offers a unique blend of historic ambiance and modern bar culture, making it an ideal spot to meet up with friends. Originally known as Moonshine Kitchen & Lounge, the establishment pays homage to its building's history linked to the Paymaster Check Writers & Signers Swingline Business Machine Company. The lounge features a heated outdoor patio with ample seating, perfect for year-round gatherings regardless of the weather. Guests can enjoy a diverse selection of hard cider, spirits, craft cocktails, and a well-curated beer menu. The atmosphere is cozy and trendy, with casual vibes that invite both intimate meetups and group celebrations. Indoor entertainment options, including pool tables and other bar games, add to the lively social experience. Paymaster Lounge also offers happy hour specials on drinks and food, delivering reasonable prices and fast service that appeals to the local crowd. The venue is wheelchair accessible and welcoming to all, including being recognized as a transgender safe space. Its Northwest Portland location is convenient yet pleasantly tucked away with some free street parking. Overall, Paymaster Lounge stands out as a dynamic destination where history, comfort, and a vibrant social scene converge.
Here's what people think of Paymaster Lounge
As of recent, Paymaster Lounge holds a 4.4-star rating based on 767 reviews.
Visitors and patrons consistently commend Paymaster Lounge for its inviting atmosphere and excellent outdoor heated patio, which enhances comfort throughout the year, even in Portland’s cooler months. Many reviews highlight the great selection of cocktails and hard ciders, as well as the fun indoor games like pool, which enrich the social environment. The friendly and fast service is frequently mentioned as a positive aspect, contributing to a welcoming vibe that attracts a diverse crowd including groups and locals alike. The lounge is also praised for its reasonable pricing and lively happy hour offerings, making it a favored hangout spot in Northwest Portland. Conversely, some negative feedback centers on occasional inconsistencies in food quality, with a few guests finding the menu mediocre. Additionally, the outdoor smoking area and proximity to smokers can be off-putting for some patrons sensitive to smoke. Despite these criticisms, the overall sentiment remains positive, with many reviewers appreciating Paymaster Lounge’s cozy yet trendy setting and its historical character. The bar’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility further elevates its reputation, making it a beloved fixture in Portland’s bar scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Dianne Namgung
I always enjoy coming here. Im not in this area often because I live and usually go around SE but if youre over on west side id check it out. They have angry hour until 6pm with some great deals! Great selection of cocktails and they always have fun jello shots that I have to get every time I come here. Food is great. I usually get their hotdogs (both kielbasa and vegan options are delicoous). Its a great option for meet ups of larger groups because it's pay at bar so people can just close out as they come and go.
Jahanna Azarian
Solid drinks at reasonable prices. Great smash burger—I got it on happy hour so it was only $6 or 7$. Chill vibes. Only one TV if you’re looking for sports, but otherwise fun activities and a good outdoor space.
Nathan Hale
Great spot, low key with all the right vibes. Definitely check it out and eat their food.
Sarah Cowley
“Sometimes you wanna go where everybody knows your name…” and for me, that’s Paymaster. This place is the real-life Cheers. The staff not only knows my name—they know my whole crew’s names and our regular orders. That kind of personal touch is rare and makes every visit feel like coming home. Also, let’s talk about the kale power salad—it’s ridiculously good. I crave it constantly. Whether I’m stopping by for a quick bite or settling in for a night with friends, Paymaster always hits the mark.
Aden davis
Paymaster is easily the best bar in NW Portland. The service is quick and efficient, the staff is very hospitable and kind. The food is great and the bartenders treat you like family. Highly recommend 10/10.
How to reach Paymaster Lounge
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Website: None
Why rally at Paymaster Lounge with your friends?
Gathering your friends at Paymaster Lounge in Portland offers an incomparable blend of atmosphere, amenities, and unique charm that makes any meetup memorable. With its cozy yet vibrant setting, Paymaster Lounge provides a perfect balance of casual comfort and energetic buzz ideal for socializing. Whether it's the inviting indoor maze-like layout or the spacious, heated outdoor patio, this lounge invites groups to relax and engage without feeling cramped. The dependable high rating of 4.4 from over 760 reviews reflects consistent customer satisfaction and a crowd-pleasing experience. Guests repeatedly praise the friendly and efficient service, making every visit smooth and enjoyable. The venue’s non-sports-focus atmosphere roots it in quality music and socializing rather than just background noise, encouraging genuine connection and conversation. Add to this a diverse range of drinks from craft beer to slushy cocktails, together with tasty bar food options—including vegan choices—and you have an ideal spot to rally and celebrate friendship or family bonds.
What activities does Paymaster Lounge offer for a group meetup?
Paymaster Lounge stands out by catering to groups who want more than just drinks. Entertainment is a key feature, with multiple arcade games such as three pinball machines and a Pacman game creating a lively, nostalgic vibe that appeals to all ages. Pool tables on the heated outdoor patio also elevate group interaction, providing friendly competition and plenty of fun. The thoughtful design of indoor seating—structured almost like a cozy maze with different sections—ensures that groups can find their own nook for private conversations or lively gatherings. This layout helps keep the atmosphere dynamic but intimate, catering well to both small and large groups. Additionally, the extensive bar offers great cocktails and a notable beer selection, supporting a relaxed but festive environment to unwind or celebrate. The presence of a full bar with carefully prepared food options such as burgers, sandwiches, hot dogs, and vegan-friendly meals guarantees that everyone in your group can find something satisfying to eat and drink while socializing.
Why is Paymaster Lounge perfect for hosting meetups with friends or family?
Several factors combine to make Paymaster Lounge one of the best venues for gatherings with friends or family. First, the spacious yet cozy heated outdoor patio offers a seasonal comfort that extends usability year-round, ensuring your group can enjoy fresh air regardless of temperature. The covered patio with heating lets you plan outdoorsy meetups even in less-than-ideal weather, a huge plus for Portland’s climate. Secondly, the vibe itself is a magnet for middle-class, safe, and welcoming clientele, which sets a tone of respectfulness and casual enjoyment rather than rowdiness. This makes it easier for everyone—families included—to feel comfortable and at ease. Furthermore, Paymaster Lounge is wheelchair accessible, reflecting an inclusive philosophy welcoming guests of all abilities. Although parking can be a challenge during peak times, the availability of free street parking nearby compensates somewhat, and planning ahead can help your group avoid inconveniences. Lastly, the bar’s commitment to fast service and a transgender-safe space fosters a welcoming environment for diverse groups wishing to enjoy quality time together in a comfortable, safe setting.
What about food and drinks at Paymaster Lounge?
Food and drinks are at the heart of Paymaster Lounge’s appeal as a group meetup hub. The menu, while not gourmet, is solid and diverse enough to please different tastes and dietary needs. You can enjoy classic comfort bar food like burgers, hot dogs, and sandwiches, with vegan-friendly options thoughtfully included to accommodate plant-based diets. This variety ensures your group can gather without food-related hassles. As for drink options, the bar offers a full selection of spirits, a great assortment of beers, and the popular slushy cocktails that add a fun twist to your usual drink choices. The slushy cocktails are especially favored for their refreshing yet potent character, making socializing more lively. Customers have noted the consistently great cocktails and fast service, contributing to the overall enjoyment of the experience. The food may occasionally receive mixed reviews regarding quality, but most agree it complements the drinks and atmosphere well enough for a casual, enjoyable outing.
How accessible and comfortable is Paymaster Lounge for groups?
Accessibility and comfort are major strengths of Paymaster Lounge, helping it stand out as a group-friendly venue. The lounge has a wheelchair-accessible entrance and toilet, ensuring inclusivity for guests with varying mobility needs. The ample indoor and outdoor seating allows groups to spread out comfortably, taking advantage of both cozy indoor configurations and open-air enjoyment. The outdoor patio is covered and heated, which means you can comfortably host gatherings even when the weather is chilly or rainy. Although there is just one unisex bathroom, as noted by some visitors, groups can manage with some planning. The lounge’s casual and trendy atmosphere combined with a safe, middle-class clientele ensures a relaxed and welcoming social setting. Moreover, it accepts reservations, which helps groups secure seating ahead of time, reducing the stress of arrival during busy evenings. The establishment’s payment flexibility—inclusive of credit cards—adds to convenience, supporting hassle-free group billing.
What should you expect about parking and location?
Located at 1020 NW 17th Ave in Portland’s Northwest District, Paymaster Lounge benefits from being in a lively neighborhood known for its vibrant social scene. This prime location makes it an attractive destination for locals and visitors alike looking for a dependable spot to hang out. However, as with many popular venues in bustling districts, parking can sometimes be challenging to find during peak hours. Street parking is free but limited, which means arriving early or considering alternative transportation options can ease your group’s arrival experience. Despite this minor inconvenience, the lounge’s central location means it's also accessible by bike or public transportation, supporting eco-friendly travel choices for your group. The overall accessibility of the neighborhood and proximity to other entertainment options can also make Paymaster Lounge part of a larger night out, allowing for flexible plans with friends or family.
Why do people keep coming back to Paymaster Lounge?
Consistent positive reviews and a dependable rating of 4.4 stars from hundreds of reviewers demonstrate why Paymaster Lounge enjoys loyal patronage. Guests frequently cite the warm and attentive service from bartenders and staff who contribute greatly to a welcoming atmosphere. Regulars appreciate the combination of good music, a diverse drink menu, and a comfortable, interesting physical layout that blends indoor warmth with outdoor fresh air. The unique blend of arcade games, pool tables, and a non-sports-bar vibe distinguishes it from competitors, making it a special gathering place for people seeking quality social interaction rather than just watching games on TV. Its inclusivity as a transgender-safe space further endears it to a wide and diverse clientele. Although the food may not be the main culinary destination, its offerings adequately support social dining and enhance the overall lounge experience. In sum, Paymaster Lounge delivers a dependable setting where groups feel at ease, entertained, and eager to return for their next meetup.
In conclusion, Paymaster Lounge shines as a group-friendly destination with its combination of warm ambiance, thoughtful amenities, engaging activities, and solid food and drink options. Whether you're seeking a casual place to gather with friends or a comfortable site for family outings, it provides a reliable atmosphere that fosters connection and fun. From games to cocktails, indoors to a heated patio, it covers the essentials for an enjoyable social experience in Portland’s vibrant Northwest District.