When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
The Ambassador Restaurant & Karaoke Bar
Why The Ambassador Restaurant & Karaoke Bar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Ambassador Restaurant & Karaoke Bar, located in Portland's Rose City Park neighborhood, is renowned as a lively blend of a traditional Chinese-American restaurant and a vibrant karaoke lounge. With over three decades of history, it has become a beloved spot for friends to gather, enjoy engaging karaoke sessions, and savor comforting, classic dishes such as sweet and sour pork, chow mein, and various fried rice plates. The venue offers a warm, dive-bar ambiance that sets the tone for a casual and fun night out. Operating daily from 11 AM until 2 AM, and hosting karaoke from evening until the early morning hours, The Ambassador caters to late-night crowds looking for entertainment and satisfying meals. The extensive karaoke song list supports a wide range of musical tastes, making it an inclusive environment where both seasoned performers and newcomers can enjoy singing. The friendly staff and family-friendly aspects, such as allowing children to sing karaoke on Sundays, make it a versatile destination for social gatherings. Overall, The Ambassador balances culinary comfort with lively nightlife, making it an excellent spot for friends seeking a night of food, music, and camaraderie.
Here's what people think of The Ambassador Restaurant & Karaoke Bar
As of recent, The Ambassador Restaurant & Karaoke Bar holds a 3.8-star rating based on 832 reviews.
Customer reviews of The Ambassador Restaurant & Karaoke Bar reveal a predominantly positive sentiment, emphasizing the venue's role as a local favorite for both dining and entertainment. Many reviewers appreciate the extensive karaoke selection and the lively, welcoming atmosphere that encourages guests to sing their hearts out, with some noting it as a top choice for karaoke in Portland. Positive feedback often highlights the quality and taste of traditional Chinese-American dishes, with specific praise for items like hot and sour soup, chicken fried rice, and sweet and sour pork. The friendly, accommodating staff and the venue's family-friendly policies, particularly on Sundays, further contribute to its appeal. On the other hand, some negative comments focus on inconsistencies such as occasional impressions of watery drinks, food freshness issues (e.g., one report of not-so-fresh wings during a late night bar visit), and pricing that some consider on the higher side for entrees. A few patrons mention the ambiance as a classic dive bar, which might not appeal to everyone. Despite these critiques, the general consensus is that The Ambassador provides a fun, unique experience that combines enjoyable karaoke sessions with solid, comforting food offerings. Its long-standing presence and consistent late-night hours make it a staple destination for Portland locals and visitors alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Isabel Iboa
I’ve been looking for a great Chinese restaurant, and Ambassador is it!! The owners are incredibly kind, and the food was amazing. I had the General Tso’s Chicken and Beef Chow Fun—both were SO GOOD. Also, I’m usually picky about spring rolls, but these were perfect—crispy outside, not mushy inside. 10/10 experience!!
Chong Han
More of a Lounge karaoke than restaurant - but surprisingly good food. Sauteed Chkn Chow Fun - not wide noodles - but still good, lots of green onions. Twice cooked pork - lots of veggies and good sauce - side of rice - and my Theme: no plastics for togo Orders. Maybe call to order. 😊
Kelley Coleman
I would not be writing this review had management returned my call 5 days ago to discuss this matter. I was promised a call back the next day after I talked to the on shift manager, who reassured me that upper management would reach out to me, they did not. We went to the Ambassador a week ago to get dinner to go. I have no complaints about the service from the bar, she was great. We placed an order to go of: Sweet & Sour Chicken, Broccoli Beef, Pork Fried Rice and Crab Puffs. I asked for chinese mustard & red sauce to be included. Our dinner total came to $91.00, a bit of a surprise. We got home with our to go order and everything was basically un-edible. The sweet and sour chicken (sauce on the side) which consisted of about 10 small pieces of deep fried chicken was laying soggy on a bed of white rice. The pork fried rice was very oily and what little bit of pork that was in it was charcoal black and the sparse veggies were some frozen peas and carrots, the crab puffs were hard and the filling cold, lastly, the broccoli beef was in a pool of brown gravy with over cooked broccoli, we did not get our mustard either. We ended throwing it all away. I am beyond disappointed all the way around, we are not only out the $91, they haven't even given us the courtesy of a return phone call. Disappointed!
Ana
Terrible TOGO service. Hosts dont know what they’re doing and will hand out any order to delivery service without double checking the name. Paid $50 dollars just to receive a completely different order and when we called they told us we can come the next day to get our correct order. As if we didn’t want our food when we ordered it.
william strycharz
Super fun bar always an experience! Great Chinese food also!
How to reach The Ambassador Restaurant & Karaoke Bar
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Why The Ambassador Restaurant & Karaoke Bar may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Ambassador Restaurant & Karaoke Bar with your friends?
Gathering friends for a fun and memorable outing often means finding the right place that combines entertainment, great food, and a vibrant atmosphere—and The Ambassador Restaurant & Karaoke Bar in Portland delivers on all fronts. With a solid rating of 3.8 from over 800 reviews, this longstanding establishment has become a favored karaoke destination for groups looking to bond over music and socializing. The key appeal lies in its unique blend of a lively karaoke bar and a full-service Chinese restaurant, making it an excellent spot to rally your friends. Whether you and your group are casual singers or aspiring stars, the diverse selection of karaoke songs available guarantees that everyone can find something to enjoy, including family-friendly options on Sundays where even kids can join the fun. Along with its welcoming vibe and approachable staff, The Ambassador offers a relaxed environment where you can cheer on performers or take the stage yourself, creating shared moments of laughter and applause. So if your goal is to reconnect, celebrate, or simply unwind together, this venue fosters the perfect blend of good food and entertainment to keep the night lively and engaging.
What activities are available at The Ambassador Restaurant & Karaoke Bar?
The cornerstone activity at The Ambassador is, without doubt, its karaoke experience. The venue offers an extensive song library that spans various genres and decades, appealing to diverse musical tastes. This makes it ideal for groups with mixed preferences, allowing each person to pick their favorite tracks and perform in front of friends. Karaoke contests and themed nights periodically add excitement, encouraging friendly competition and audience participation. Besides singing, guests can enjoy socializing in the lounge area, where the vibe is casual and inviting, promoting interaction and group bonding. The presence of a well-trained security team ensures that everyone feels safe, adding peace of mind to the enjoyable atmosphere. In addition to these entertainment options, the restaurant’s menu complements the experience by offering generous portions of flavorful Chinese dishes, perfect for sharing among friends. The combination of tasting great food and enjoying interactive performances creates a multi-dimensional outing that keeps the energy high and the conversation flowing throughout the evening.
Why is The Ambassador ideal for group meetups and gatherings?
When planning a meetup with a group of friends or family, finding a place that accommodates various needs and moods is essential—and The Ambassador excels in this regard. Its spacious layout and welcoming ambiance mean groups can comfortably gather without feeling cramped, allowing for easy conversation and movement between singing and dining. The staff at The Ambassador is known for being friendly and attentive, often going out of their way to make group experiences smooth and enjoyable. For families, the fact that children can take part in karaoke sessions on weekends adds an inclusive dimension rarely found in nightlife venues. Pricing is generally reasonable, with portions designed to satisfy group appetites, making it easier to share dishes and sample a wide array of menu offerings. The mix of entertainment and dining under one roof eliminates the need to hop between destinations, making it a convenient and time-efficient choice for a night out. Overall, the welcoming environment combined with entertainment and good food creates a perfect setting for creating lasting memories with your loved ones.
How does the ambiance contribute to the experience at The Ambassador?
The atmosphere at The Ambassador Restaurant & Karaoke Bar is a significant factor in why groups return to this hotspot. It strikes a balance between a lively social club and a cozy dining venue, creating a dynamic yet comfortable setting. The lighting and interior design encourage relaxation but also energize the crowd as the night progresses, fostering an inviting environment for both new visitors and regulars. Music, naturally, is central to setting the mood, and the sound system—though sometimes described as basic—facilitates clear and enthusiastic performances that get everyone involved. The friendly interaction between staff and guests further elevates the experience by making participants feel valued and welcomed, rather than just customers. Security presence is discreet but reassuring, which helps maintain an environment conducive to fun and safety alike. Together, these elements nourish an atmosphere where groups can freely express themselves through singing, socializing, and dining, enhancing the overall enjoyment of each meetup.
What makes the food at The Ambassador a good complement to the karaoke experience?
While The Ambassador is best known for its karaoke, the food is an equally important aspect that rounds out the night. The menu features classic Chinese dishes, celebrated for their flavorful preparations and generous portions, ideal for sharing among a group. Signature items, like the General Tso’s chicken, come highly recommended and add a comforting yet exciting culinary element to your gathering. Unlike some karaoke bars that focus solely on drinks and music, this restaurant ensures guests don’t have to compromise on quality dining. The balance between flavor, portion size, and price means that the food supports an extended visit, keeping energy levels high through the night’s festivities. This culinary backbone encourages guests to linger longer, enjoying both the social and gustatory experiences without rushing. The food also caters to a wide variety of tastes, making it easy for groups with different preferences or dietary needs to find satisfying options.
How does the staff contribute to the overall group experience at The Ambassador?
The staff at The Ambassador Restaurant & Karaoke Bar plays a crucial role in enhancing the group dynamic and overall enjoyment. Users consistently mention the friendliness and attentiveness of the team, which helps set a positive tone from the moment guests arrive. Whether you are there to perform karaoke or just support your friends, the staff ensures the experience is smooth, from taking orders efficiently to managing the flow of performances on stage. This encouraging environment is particularly important for those who might feel shy or nervous about singing in front of others. Additionally, the staff’s ability to handle groups of varying sizes without sacrificing service quality means that your party can enjoy a stress-free night. Their role in coordinating karaoke sessions and maintaining a welcoming atmosphere makes The Ambassador a dependable venue for repeat group visits and celebrations.
What practical features support group events at The Ambassador?
Several practical features make The Ambassador suitable for hosting meetups and group events. Seating arrangements include booth and table options that accommodate various party sizes, giving flexibility in how groups are organized. The karaoke system itself is user-friendly, allowing smooth transitions between singers, which keeps the energy flowing without interruption. The venue’s location on NE Sandy Blvd provides easy access for residents throughout Portland, making it convenient for attendees to arrive and depart. Parking availability and security presence further reduce logistical concerns that groups might face when planning an outing. These practical details ensure that the focus remains on enjoying the company, music, and food rather than worrying about operational hiccups. The Ambassador thus positions itself as a hassle-free venue option to host birthday parties, casual get-togethers, or karaoke contests among friends and family.
Why choose The Ambassador Restaurant & Karaoke Bar over other karaoke venues?
Choosing the right karaoke venue involves weighing factors such as song selection, atmosphere, food quality, and inclusivity—all of which The Ambassador delivers in a balanced way. Its family-friendly policies, like allowing kids to sing on Sundays, broaden the venue’s appeal beyond typical adult-oriented nightlife spots. The flavorful Chinese cuisine sets it apart from karaoke bars that only offer standard bar snacks, providing a more satisfying dining experience. The consistent positive feedback about the welcoming staff and security adds confidence for those looking for a safe and enjoyable environment. While some critics note that the sound system could be better and food prices slightly above average, many patrons find the overall package—good music, tasty food, and vibrant social setting—well worth it. For groups prioritizing an all-in-one experience with room to sing, eat, and connect, The Ambassador offers a unique and memorable night out in Portland.
In summary, The Ambassador Restaurant & Karaoke Bar is an excellent venue for anyone looking to host a lively and inclusive meetup with friends or family. Its combination of karaoke fun, flavorful meals, friendly service, and practical amenities makes it a standout choice in Portland’s nightlife scene. Whether you're rallying your crew for a night of singing or celebrating a special occasion, The Ambassador provides a vibrant space to create shared memories ripe with laughter, music, and great food.