When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
The Knock Back
Why The Knock Back is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Knock Back in Portland, Oregon, is a top choice for meeting up with friends thanks to its inviting atmosphere, delicious food, and excellent drink options. This friendly neighborhood spot offers both indoor and outdoor seating, where guests can enjoy great music and people-watch alongside some adorable dogs. The menu features crowd-pleasing items like wedge salads, cheesus sandwiches, veggie burgers, and fried egg sandwiches, all praised for their delicious flavors. Their beverage selection is equally impressive, with refreshing choices such as cold Rainier beer, Pacifico, Miller, and creative watermelon slushies, providing a variety of options to suit different tastes. The staff are known for being welcoming and attentive, enhancing the overall experience and making customers feel at home. Whether you're looking to share a meal or unwind with drinks, The Knock Back delivers a casual, enjoyable environment perfect for social gatherings. Highlights include the relaxing outdoor seating, delicious food options, excellent drink menu, and friendly service, making it a standout destination in Portland’s dining and social scene.
Here's what people think of The Knock Back
As of recent, The Knock Back holds a 4.6-star rating based on 401 reviews.
Reviews for The Knock Back consistently reflect high customer satisfaction, with an impressive 4.6-star rating over 401 reviews. Patrons often praise the outstanding food quality, noting favorites like the wedge salad, cheesus sandwich, fried egg sandwich, and veggie burger as flavorful and satisfying choices. The drink menu, featuring cold beers like Rainier and creative slushies, also receives frequent positive mentions. Many reviewers appreciate the friendly and fabulous staff who contribute to a welcoming and enjoyable dining atmosphere. Outdoor seating is highlighted as a favorite spot for relaxation and people-watching, often accompanied by the pleasant presence of friendly dogs. Positive reviewers highlight the relaxed vibe, delicious food, well-curated drink options, and exceptional customer service, all contributing to memorable visits. On the downside, very few negative comments appear, but some guests mention waiting times during busy hours and the limited indoor seating space. Despite minor drawbacks, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly favorable, with guests eager to return for the tasty food, great drinks, and enjoyable social ambiance. The Knock Back is thus an excellent choice for both casual meetups and relaxed dinners with friends.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kristen Schwartze
If you need a great cocktail and snack late at night, this is your place. Great service, delicious bar food and unique atmosphere. Had the grilled cheese with fries, hits the spot! Bartender can offer suggestions if needed. Easy place to hang out and enjoy some drinks.
Jeanette Kotecki
Phenomenal happy hour and delicious food. A vegan Reuben sandwich. Flavored popcorn, flavors constantly changing. So good!!!!!
Jacob Lucero
Heard good things about the vegan reuben. When I ordered, the bartender was very condescending and acted quite annoyed and inconvenienced by me, even though there was not a single person except for me and the other bartender there. He definitely did not give off a welcoming vibe, so much so I immediately regretted being there. The vegan reuben was pretty good, but I don’t think I’d go back, I’m not a fan of spending money to be treated like an annoyance, especially considering there’s plenty of good vegan food in this neighborhood served by people who will be at least be slightly respectful to their patrons.
Jeremiah Wulf
Dog friendly. On this hot Portland sunny day, I enjoyed the water misters that line the outdoor seating area of this venue with filtered sunlight. This, was a very nice experience. The two young men that supported their duties for this venue were bright and smiling and friendly. The venue has a smaller menu but deceivingly, fresh and interesting. For example, I ordered the wedge salad with the grilled chicken. the salad turned out to be plump and fresh. The lettuce was nicely picked through and only the best pieces were given . The kitchen was bright and clear clean. I enjoyed the smile of the bartender and his willingness to oversee his room thoroughly and quickly. Good customer service.
Charlie Te
I really like the updates that have been done here. There are plenty of seating area outside that's covered and a fire pit. The inside is pretty clean. You can order some beer on tap or some cocktails. They have a decent selection of spirits. The bartenders are pretty quick and friendly here. I'll definitely come back to try the food next time when there isn't a special event going on.
How to reach The Knock Back
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Why The Knock Back may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Knock Back with your friends? Because it offers a vibrant, laid-back atmosphere that is ideal for creating memorable moments with your group. Located on NE Alberta Street in Portland, The Knock Back is much more than just a bar—it’s a social hub where friends can gather to unwind, catch up, and enjoy excellent food and drink in a welcoming setting. The vibe is casual yet lively, making it a perfect spot to kickstart an evening or simply spend a relaxed afternoon. Whether you're craving inventive cocktails, craft beers, or delicious bites, The Knock Back caters to diverse tastes. Its outdoor seating area, featuring a covered patio and fire pits, adds a cozy ambiance that encourages lingering conversations and good times, even on cooler evenings. The attentive and friendly staff enhance the experience by providing excellent service that makes everyone feel at home. With a strong 4.6-star rating based on over 400 reviews, guests consistently praise the cocktail selection, outdoor vibe, and welcoming atmosphere, making The Knock Back an unbeatable meetup spot for any group of friends or family looking to connect and enjoy themselves.
What activities can you enjoy at The Knock Back that make it perfect for group meetups? First and foremost, it offers an impressive selection of high-end spirits and craft cocktails that appeal to cocktail enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. The drink menu is thoughtfully curated, featuring unique concoctions such as watermelon slushies and carefully crafted classic cocktails to suit any palate. Beyond drinks, the food at The Knock Back is a significant draw—guests rave about the delicious meals including options like the fried egg sandwich, veggie burgers, wedge salads, and the renowned French onion sandwich. These plates are perfect for sharing or pacing your meal alongside drinks during a long, lively gathering. Additionally, the outdoor seating with fire pits creates a relaxed environment where groups can enjoy fresh air and warmth while chatting away late into the evening. This mix of excellent drinks, tasty food, and a great atmosphere encourages group interaction and fosters a sense of celebration. The casual table service and bar ordering system keep things easy and informal, enabling groups to focus on enjoying each other’s company without fuss.
Why is The Knock Back ideal for hosting social events or meetups with family and friends? Its location on Alberta Street places it within a lively neighborhood that is easy to access and known for its eclectic charm. The establishment’s hours extend late into the night, especially on weekends, giving groups the flexibility to gather when it suits them best—whether a late lunch, an early dinner, or late-night drinks. The covered outdoor seating and fire pits offer a unique setting that can accommodate groups seeking a comfortable and intimate space to gather. Many reviews highlight the friendly and attentive staff who maintain a cheerful demeanor even during busy hours, adding a personal touch that makes guests feel welcomed and valued. The vibe at The Knock Back is both fun and relaxed, striking the perfect balance between energetic socializing and chill hangouts. Whether your group seeks a casual evening to chat over drinks or wants to celebrate an occasion with good food and lively ambiance, The Knock Back can easily adapt to your needs.
What makes the ambiance and service at The Knock Back stand out for groups? The atmosphere is consistently noted for its mellow yet upbeat energy, which resonates well with groups looking to have fun without the overwhelming noise of larger venues. Inside, the space is designed for socializing with an open layout and plenty of seating options. Outside, the covered patio with fire pits creates an inviting environment that encourages guests to linger comfortably, even as the temperature drops. Adding to this is the excellent customer service—staff members are praised for their attentiveness and friendly attitude, which helps maintain a positive mood among guests. Many patrons mention the staff’s ability to keep things running smoothly during busy periods without losing their warmth and approachability. This combination of well-crafted cocktails, quality food, and thoughtful service in an inviting setting provides a seamless experience that groups appreciate, making The Knock Back a reliable choice for casual gatherings or lively nights out.
How does The Knock Back compare to other social venues in Portland for group events? With a 4.6-star rating and over 400 reviews, it ranks highly among Portland’s eclectic bar and restaurant scene. It has garnered a reputation for being a place that blends high-quality drinks with an inviting outdoor space, something not all venues in the city offer. The focus on craft cocktails, complemented by tasty menu items and well-maintained outdoor seating, creates a distinctive experience. While some venues might lean heavily into either food or drink, The Knock Back offers a balanced combination that appeals broadly. Additionally, its location on NE Alberta Street situates it in a culturally rich neighborhood known for supporting local businesses, which adds to its charm and appeal. Compared with other hangouts that may get crowded and hectic, The Knock Back is praised for its vibe that allows meaningful social interaction without overwhelming noise—ideal for conversations and bonding. All of these factors make it a top contender for anyone seeking a reliable, fun, and comfortable place to gather in Portland.
What should you expect during your visit to The Knock Back with your friends or family? Expect to be greeted by a welcoming atmosphere and a great sensory experience, from the aroma of fresh food to the sight of innovative cocktails. Guests usually start by ordering at the bar, which sets a friendly tone where bartenders are eager to recommend drinks and chat, helping make your visit feel personalized. Sit back in their indoor or outdoor seating, with groups often choosing the patio to enjoy fire pits and the fresh air. The food arrives promptly and is consistently praised for quality and flavor, so sharing plates among friends or family works well. Music adds to the energy without overpowering conversation, ensuring a lively yet comfortable scene. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, having a casual reunion, or just looking to spend quality time together, The Knock Back is equipped to make your visit enjoyable and memorable with attention to detail in every aspect of service and offerings.