When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Ponderosa Lounge & Grill
Why Ponderosa Lounge & Grill is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Ponderosa Lounge & Grill in Portland is a vibrant spot perfect for friends looking to enjoy a genuine country western experience. Known as Portland's biggest and best original Country Western Bar, it offers a lively atmosphere with a large dance floor ideal for line dancing and social dancing. This venue features live bands playing a broad spectrum of music genres, from classic country tunes to rock and roll, complemented by DJ nights and karaoke sessions. The ambiance is enhanced by a welcoming and social crowd, making it an excellent place to meet people and celebrate special occasions such as birthday parties. Their menu serves typical bar food favorites, including nachos and appetizers, paired with a full bar that keeps guests refreshed. Open daily with extended hours on weekends, the Ponderosa Lounge & Grill is a staple for those seeking fun, music, and community in Portland's nightlife scene. The staff is attentive, often noted for excellent service that complements the venue's energetic vibe, making it a memorable night out for locals and visitors alike.
Here's what people think of Ponderosa Lounge & Grill
As of recent, Ponderosa Lounge & Grill holds a 4.3-star rating based on 1586 reviews.
Reviews of Ponderosa Lounge & Grill paint a picture of a lively and entertaining venue, though opinions vary. Many customers praise the atmosphere for being fun and authentic, especially highlighting the quality of the live music and the friendliness of the staff. One reviewer shared an enjoyable experience as a solo traveler, appreciating the welcoming environment and the attentive service from bartenders. Positive feedback often mentions the great dance opportunities such as line dancing lessons and the venue’s status as a top spot for country western music fans. On the other hand, some guests have expressed concerns about customer service and billing issues, including incidents with misunderstanding charges and slow or inconsistent service. Food quality is usually seen as typical bar fare, adequate but not exceptional. Despite some negative remarks, the overall consensus is that Ponderosa Lounge & Grill offers an enjoyable night out centered around music, dancing, and socializing. The combination of lively entertainment, a spacious dance floor, and a dedicated country western vibe continues to attract a loyal crowd looking for a good time in Portland.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Robert
I saw Johnny Wheels and the Swamp Donkeys at the Ponderosa May 10 /25 Great blues band!!!! Had a Jeff Healy Band feel…. And thats a compliment!!!! Between Johnny s vocals and harmonica play!!!! The drummer sang as well as Johnny!!! Guitarist was phenomenal as well!! Bass player didn’t miss a beat!!! Crowd was great!!! Didn’t wait long for a drink!!!! Staff was amazing!!!! Definitely be coming back!!!
DonDawn Cheek
Food was great. Took a long time before I was helped. Service was slow the entire time I was there. I could understand if the place was busy. 1st time here and the last.
Talia Richmond
I’ve enjoyed going to Ponderosa for years now. They hosted a event called electric rodeo last weekend. When I purchased the tickets I did so for my birthday so I got a VIP table and two VIP bar seats. Because I know everyone does the minimum at their jobs I went ahead and called and said could I request to have the two bar seats next to the table so that we’re all together. They said absolutely we will make note of that now and the two bar seats will be by the table. I show up and the VIP table is at the opposite end of the two bar seats. But we’re the first ones there so I go down and ask them why they didn’t do what I requested. The woman looked at me and said you certainly can just pick it up and move it so that you all are together. So I did so. Then security and the event planner had so much attitude and came up and spoke with me. They were very inconvenienced by my request and didn’t have good customer service at all. It’s literally their job to have people want to show up to an event and I was being talked to like I was in an inconvenience. She looked at me and said what are you talking about? Whoever you talk to isn’t even the person who runs the event, I RUN THE EVENT. Then most of the night we shoved in a corner and every time that a waitress would come up to the section. She would physically push us into our table, which I guess meant we were taking up too much space… Which were not we’re all tiny women that respect our surroundings so… Honestly, it’s making me not want to ever celebrate my birthday or any event at the Ponderosa because of how absurdly disrespectful The whole situation was. Which is insane because I am super nice, I’ve been in customer service my entire life. Whoever the event planner woman is, she’s an old woman with long gray brown hair that was wearing a huge black and white top… Is the worst to deal with. If you are an event planner, it goes beyond planning an event. You actually have to be pleasant and allow people to attend the event in whatever manner they would like. Absolutely horrific experience with her and honestly, it’s making me not want to support Ponderosa ever again- so that’s a bad look for her.
Emanuel Malan
The steak was nasty. The meat had no seasoning, not even salt. At $60 I was super disappointed. The waitress was slow. She didn't care about her customers. Also the morning waitress was the same.
Jennie Smith
Where does one start? The atmosphere was just amazing and of course clean. I like that country music feel it has. The waitress we had was just a sweet lady and very outgoing and helpful. The food was fantastic. My husband and I had burgers and fries and some appetizers (loaded potato skins are just amazing). My husband is a truck driver & I travel with him- he has even said this place is one of the cleanest he's seen and really likes this restaurant. We're both looking forward to the next time we're here.
How to reach Ponderosa Lounge & Grill
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Why rally at Ponderosa Lounge & Grill with your friends? Because it offers an unbeatable combination of vibrant atmosphere, live country music, delicious food, and late-night fun, making it the ideal spot to gather and create unforgettable memories. This lounge isn’t just a bar or grill; it’s a go-to destination where friends and family can enjoy a lively country-western vibe right in Portland. Whether you want to dance the night away, enjoy live performances from renowned country stars and local talent, or simply hang out and savor satisfying American cuisine, the Ponderosa Lounge & Grill has it all. Its extended hours mean your night doesn’t have to end early, giving you and your group ample time to celebrate and connect. Add the welcoming décor of reclaimed wood and a spacious dance floor to the mix, and you have a perfect venue for a group meetup that combines entertainment with comfort and a genuine sense of community. It’s a space that invites you to kick back, enjoy great company, and make each meetup exciting and engaging.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy at Ponderosa Lounge & Grill? The Ponderosa is renowned as Portland's premier country bar, offering a wide range of activities specifically tailored for group enjoyment. Regular live music events from local, regional, and national country stars take center stage every Friday and Saturday night. This includes both classic country hits and modern renditions, spanning rock, blues, and Americana genres, ensuring there’s something for every music lover. For those who love to dance, the large, renovated dance floor offers plenty of space to show off your moves, especially on Thursday’s Ladies Night and during the "Ponderosa Unplugged" performances on Tuesdays. Sunday afternoons are perfect for nostalgia with “Pure Country” shows that celebrate legendary country music, creating a welcoming environment for singalongs and dancing. Beyond music, the expanded VIP lounge and multiple bars provide excellent social spaces for chatting, celebrating, and relaxing. The Ponderosa also hosts themed nights and special tribute shows, making it a dynamic venue that keeps your gatherings fresh and varied.
What makes Ponderosa Lounge & Grill perfect for group meetups? The combination of its spacious layout, extended opening hours, and diverse entertainment offerings makes it incredibly suited for groups looking to convene. The lounge has been thoughtfully renovated to include a large dance floor and an elevated VIP lounge, providing areas that can accommodate both lively partying and more intimate gatherings within the same venue. Its extended hours—open from morning through late night across most days—mean you can meet early for brunch, lunch, dinner, or come later for a night full of live entertainment. The multiple bars facilitate easy access to a wide variety of drinks, perfect for those casual catch-ups or celebratory rounds. Additionally, the authentic country-western theme creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that encourages relaxation and enjoyment for groups of all ages. Whether it's a family reunion, a friends’ night out, or a special occasion, Ponderosa’s blend of music, comfort, and space ensures your meetup will be memorable.
How is the food and drink experience at Ponderosa Lounge & Grill? The Ponderosa offers a quintessential American menu that complements its lively musical and social atmosphere. You can enjoy hearty meals from breakfast through dinner, making it an ideal spot to come at various times of the day with your group. The grill serves up classic dishes that are crowd-pleasers, perfect for sharing and savoring with friends or family. Their drink menu is equally robust, featuring a wide range of cocktails, local beers, and spirits that cater to diverse tastes. The combination of good food, drinks, and music ensures that every member of your group—whether they’re there for the dance, the food, or the fun—will have a satisfying experience. The availability of food late into the night means you don’t have to worry about hunger interrupting the flow of your gathering.
What kind of crowd and vibe can you expect at Ponderosa Lounge & Grill? The lounge attracts a lively, friendly crowd that shares a love for country music and fun times. Visitors often describe the atmosphere as authentic and welcoming, with a down-to-earth country charm that stands out in Portland’s nightlife scene. It’s a place that invites dancing, singing, and socializing, with many patrons returning regularly for the excellent music and vibrant energy. The venue hosts a mix of locals and visitors, bringing together diverse groups that create an inclusive community feel. Whether you’re a seasoned country music fan or new to the scene, the ambience encourages everyone to unwind, let loose, and enjoy a night of entertainment and camaraderie. The seasoned live acts and themed event nights add special flair, drawing in enthusiastic crowds that pump up the energy and make your group’s meetups lively and dynamic.
How accessible is Ponderosa Lounge & Grill for your group? Located at 10350 N Vancouver Way in Portland’s Jubitz Marketplace, the venue benefits from easy access and ample parking, making it convenient for groups traveling from various parts of the city. Its extended and flexible hours—from morning until the early hours of the next day on weekends—allow for versatile planning no matter your group's schedule. The lounge is family-friendly during earlier hours while transforming into a more energetic nightlife spot later, allowing group organizers to tailor the experience to their needs. Accessibility to public transport nearby also makes it a good choice for groups who prefer not to drive. This combination of location, timing, and atmosphere supports a smooth and enjoyable meetup experience without logistical stress.
Why is the Ponderosa Lounge & Grill considered a top choice for country music lovers? Over the years, this venue has earned a reputation for hosting some of the best country music performers, including national stars like Miranda Lambert, Brooks & Dunn, and Keith Urban. The Ponderosa sustains this tradition with regular live shows featuring both established names and up-and-coming artists, offering a continuous pipeline of top-tier country entertainment. For fans, this means every meetup comes with the possibility of experiencing high-quality performances in an intimate setting. Beyond music, the dedication to authentic country culture is expressed through décor, themed nights, and special event programming that honors the genre’s roots. This deep connection to country music makes Ponderosa a beloved hub and cultural hotspot, a place where fans can rally, celebrate the music they love, and create a shared sense of belonging.
What special events and features make meetups at Ponderosa Lounge & Grill unique? The lounge’s schedule includes popular weekly events like "Ladies Night" on Thursdays and acoustic "Ponderosa Unplugged" performances on Tuesdays, both of which add variety and excitement to regular meetups without additional cover charges on most evenings. Weekend nights bring a cover charge but also feature headline acts and band performances, transforming the venue into a vibrant concert space. The recently renovated interior, featuring reclaimed wood décor and modernized lounge spaces, enhances the experience by providing a cozy yet lively backdrop. These well-curated special nights give groups plenty of reasons to return again and again, keeping your outings fresh and engaging each time. The Ponderosa’s thoughtful blend of affordable, no-cover nights alongside big-ticket shows means there’s something to suit every group's mood and budget.
In summary, Ponderosa Lounge & Grill stands out as an exceptional venue for group meetups, blending live country music, excellent food and drinks, and a warm, spacious atmosphere. Its strategic location, flexible hours, and consistent lineup of entertainment make rallying here with friends or family an easy and exciting choice. Whether you come for the dance floor, the live bands, or the friendly vibe, you will find everything you need to make your gathering special, lively, and memorable.