When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
The Jack London Revue
Why The Jack London Revue is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Jack London Revue stands out as a premier jazz club in downtown Portland, Oregon, offering a unique blend of classic and contemporary music experiences. Located beneath the Rialto Poolroom Bar and Cafe in the historic Alder Building, this venue embodies the intimate atmosphere of a speakeasy jazz club with modern amenities, making it an ideal spot to meet up with friends. With its 220-seat capacity, visitors can enjoy deliciously close-up performances accompanied by a full bar and an appealing food menu. The club features a diverse range of jazz-inspired music, celebrating the rich heritage and global influence of jazz. Regular weekly shows include performances from the Northwest's most talented players alongside national, international, and regional touring acts, ensuring a dynamic and vibrant music scene. Its convenient downtown location, combined with a warm, inviting ambiance marked by red velvet drapery and top-notch sound quality, makes the Jack London Revue a must-visit venue for jazz enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Here's what people think of The Jack London Revue
As of recent, The Jack London Revue holds a 4.6-star rating based on 348 reviews.
Reviews of the Jack London Revue are overwhelmingly positive, reflected in its strong 4.6-star rating from over 340 reviews. Patrons frequently highlight the club's intimate atmosphere, which allows for close proximity to artists, creating a memorable and personal live music experience. The quality of performances is consistently praised, with many appreciating the venue's commitment to showcasing both local talents and renowned touring jazz musicians. The full bar and food offerings also receive positive remarks, contributing to an all-around enjoyable night out. On the downside, some reviewers note the club's relatively small size can lead to a crowded feeling during popular events, occasionally making seating limited and parking challenging due to its downtown location. A few mention that ticket prices can be steep for certain shows. Despite these minor drawbacks, the general consensus affirms that Jack London Revue delivers a high-quality jazz experience with excellent acoustics and a welcoming vibe. Overall, the reviews underscore the club’s reputation as Portland’s new home for jazz, combining tradition with a contemporary edge that keeps patrons returning.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Sam Marconett
Had a great time seeing Steve Smith. The drinks were a little pricey and I would only go back if I could reserve a table, which you can. We were very lucky to get the last unreserved table at the back of the bar but we couldn’t see much because of the pillars running through the center of the room. The drinks were expensive and not great, but the sound was good and the staff was cool.
Billy Martin
Underground jazz club that features the Mel Brown B3 Organ Group twice a month on Thursdays. Recommend reserving the 2-top table for front row seating. Music is great as is the staff. A Portland classic.
Alan Strozier
This is a great place for live jazz. It’s downstairs from a pool hall and the setting is dark and intimate. I’d go back and snag a seat in the lounge area to the back. The only issue was the bar was short-staffed. He did the best he could considering the circumstances!
Rod Gilchrist
Interesting venue in the downstairs of a pool hall. Kind of an old time vibe. They get some awesome jazz players. Didn't try the food. There are some unfortunately placed pillars that can block some views, but what can you do, right!?
Nick Meyer
Great place. Come for the jazz, stay for the extremely fun burlesque show on Saturday! Also, the drinks are solid. It isn't a bougie cocktail bar, but they know their way around a negroni and that's all I need.
How to reach The Jack London Revue
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Why The Jack London Revue may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Jack London Revue with your friends?
The Jack London Revue offers an unmatched atmosphere that makes it the perfect place to rally with friends. Nestled in downtown Portland’s historic Alder Building, this jazz club combines the charm of a classic speakeasy with vibrant, modern energy. Its cozy basement location beneath the Rialto Poolroom Bar and Cafe creates a unique, intimate setting where the warm glow of red velvet drapes and close-up live performances bring everyone closer together. With a 4.6-star rating from nearly 350 reviews, guests consistently praise the club’s welcoming vibe, excellent acoustics, and top-tier talent, making it an ideal spot to share memorable moments. The venue’s capacity of 220 suits groups both large and small, allowing for private conversations or lively group interactions without losing the intimacy of the space.
Beyond ambience, The Jack London Revue’s full bar and food menu ensure that everyone’s tastes are accommodated, adding to the relaxed yet sophisticated feel. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just craving a night out with friends, the venue’s blend of excellent music, stylish decor, and attentive service sets the stage for fun and connection. The convenience of its downtown location, easily accessible by public transit and within walking distance of numerous hotels and eateries, makes gathering here hassle-free. These factors make The Jack London Revue a compelling choice to rally friends for an evening filled with entertainment, great food, and unforgettable jazz, all in a setting that fosters social bonding.
What activities can you enjoy at The Jack London Revue?
At The Jack London Revue, your group can immerse itself in thrilling live jazz performances that span a variety of styles inspired by the rich jazz diaspora. From traditional jazz to contemporary and experimental sounds, the carefully curated lineup showcases some of the Pacific Northwest’s best talents as well as guest artists from around the country. Scheduled shows take place regularly, often featuring soul, funk, and blues influences that make every night dynamically different. This musical variety ensures that all group members, regardless of preference, find something that resonates with their tastes. The intimate setting, with seating arrangements that bring audiences close to performers, creates an engaging experience that turns passive spectatorship into active appreciation and conversation starters among friends.
Besides live music, the venue offers a full bar serving craft cocktails, fine wines, and local beers. The bartenders are known for mixing creative drinks that complement the sultry mood of the jazz sets. Ordering from the food menu adds another dimension to the night – guests can enjoy light, tasty bites designed to pair with their drinks and keep the energy flowing. Whether you’re indulging in a late-night snack or a full meal, the dining options cater to group sharing, which encourages mingling and communal enjoyment. The club’s friendly staff and attentive service further enhance the stay, helping groups relax, celebrate, and feel genuinely taken care of during their visit.
Why is The Jack London Revue perfect for group meetups?
The Jack London Revue’s design and ambiance are intentionally welcoming to groups, making it an excellent destination for meetups with friends or family. The 220-seat capacity strikes a balance between lively conviviality and cozy intimacy, allowing groups to converse comfortably without competing against overwhelming noise or crowd crush. The layout includes tables and booths that accommodate everything from small clusters to larger parties, encouraging interaction and shared experiences over dinner and drinks. Its basement, speakeasy-style location encourages close social engagement and a sense of privacy despite being centrally located in the heart of Portland. This fosters an environment where conversations flow naturally alongside the music, essential for gatherings focused on reconnecting or celebration.
Moreover, the accessibility of the venue is another major advantage for group outings. Located at 529 SW 4th Avenue in downtown Portland, the club benefits from proximity to public transit options like TriMet, reducing parking hassles which can often dampen group plans. Being under the Rialto Poolroom Bar and Cafe also means guests can combine visits or explore adjacent establishments before or after shows. This flexibility adds to the event's appeal, turning the night into an extended social adventure for groups. Friendly staff cater to the needs of parties, offering attentive service that helps coordinate orders and seating, allowing everyone to focus on enjoying the moment. These logistical and atmospheric qualities make the Jack London Revue a natural hub for organized or spontaneous meetups.
What should you expect from the ambiance and overall experience?
Expect a warm, intimate, and stylish jazz club atmosphere that feels like stepping into a modern-day speakeasy. The venue’s interior boasts red velvet curtains, subtle lighting, and tasteful décor that create an inviting yet sophisticated mood. Unlike larger concert halls, the Jack London Revue maintains a close proximity between audience and performers — this setup intensifies the experience and makes the music feel personal and immersive. Whether you sit at the bar or at a table, you are enveloped in the sound, the vibe, and the communal feeling of shared appreciation for live art. The staff contribute to the ambiance with polished but approachable service, reinforcing the club’s reputation for friendliness and professionalism.
The experience extends beyond just music: the full bar and food offerings complement the jazz performances perfectly, encouraging patrons to linger and socialize. This blend of excellent entertainment, tasteful surroundings, and attentive hospitality has garnered the club a loyal following, with many reviewers highlighting repeat visits as a testament to its consistent quality. The sound system and acoustics are tailored for jazz, allowing the intricate rhythms and melodies to fill the space crisply and warmly. Customers can expect a carefully curated lineup of events, ranging from solo artists to trios and full bands, giving variety and authenticity to each night’s experience. Altogether, the Jack London Revue offers a vibrant, luxurious, yet welcoming setting ideal for those who seek meaningful time with friends over great music.
How accessible is The Jack London Revue for downtown Portland visitors?
Located in the historic Alder Building at 529 SW 4th Avenue, the venue is right in the core of downtown Portland, making it highly accessible for both locals and visitors. Its downtown location places it within easy reach of hotels, restaurants, and other entertainment options, which is convenient for tourists or out-of-town groups. Public transportation options, including numerous bus lines and light rail services operated by TriMet, stop nearby, allowing guests to bypass parking difficulties altogether. For those who prefer driving, there are several parking garages and street parking options within a short walk of the club. This accessibility maximizes convenience for group gatherings, where transportation logistics can often complicate night plans.
The venue’s proximity to other downtown attractions also means that groups can build full evenings around their visit to the Jack London Revue. Guests might enjoy dinner elsewhere beforehand or plan post-show meetups at neighboring bars and cafés to continue the social experience. This ability to seamlessly integrate a night at the club into bigger outings increases its appeal as a hub for group entertainment. The club’s schedule, with performances mainly starting in the evening, fits well with after-work or weekend plans, enhancing its attractiveness as a meetup point. Overall, the location and accessibility of the Jack London Revue help ensure that organizing outings—whether casual or celebratory—runs smoothly and adds to the enjoyment.
What makes the Jack London Revue stand out among Portland’s live music venues?
The Jack London Revue is distinguished by its combination of historical ambiance, quality jazz programming, and intimate setting. It honors Portland’s rich jazz tradition by continuing the legacy of iconic venues while innovating with modern sound and design elements. The club emerged shortly after the closing of Jimmy Mak’s, which was a beloved jazz landmark, and quickly established itself as the premier jazz venue in the Pacific Northwest. Its aesthetic—echoing the feel of a classic basement juke joint fused with red velvet luxury—creates a unique ambiance not found in typical live music bars or concert halls. This commitment to an immersive atmosphere ensures fans of jazz feel a sense of authenticity and deep musical connection.
Furthermore, the Jack London Revue’s curated schedule showcases a wide variety of jazz styles and related genres, keeping its offerings fresh and attended by a diverse crowd. The quality of musicianship, sound engineering, and attentive service elevate it beyond a simple bar or club experience to a cultural destination. The venue’s owners, Frank Faillace and Manish Patel, maintain high standards in both facility upkeep and event programming, which has contributed greatly to its glowing reputation. This attention to detail makes every visit special and reinforces the sense that the venue is more than just a place to hear music—it's a place to experience jazz as a communal, captivating art form, ideal for group engagement.
How can groups plan the perfect meetup at The Jack London Revue?
Planning a successful group meetup at the Jack London Revue involves considering the size of your party and timing your visit to match the event calendar. The club seats up to 220 guests, so small to medium-sized groups can comfortably reserve tables or booths. For larger parties, it’s best to contact the venue in advance to inquire about availability and possible accommodations. Checking the event schedule online will help ensure your group attends a show that fits everyone’s taste and availability. The Jack London Revue hosts a range of artists and genres, so coordinating your gathering around the desired performance adds to the shared experience.
When arriving, allow extra time to organize seating and orders, as the club encourages a relaxed, unhurried atmosphere. Take advantage of the full bar and curated food menu to keep everyone satisfied and socializing. It’s also helpful to consider transportation options, especially if your group includes out-of-town guests or relies on public transit. Using TriMet or rideshare services can avoid parking frustration and let everyone focus on the night’s entertainment. Finally, communicate clearly with your friends or family about the plan and dress code, which tends to be smart casual to match the classy yet approachable vibe. With thoughtful preparation, The Jack London Revue can be the perfect backdrop for a memorable, musically rich, and convivial gathering.