When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
The Lair Bar and Grill
Why The Lair Bar and Grill is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Lair Bar and Grill, located in Portland, Oregon, offers a charming and nostalgic atmosphere that makes it an excellent spot for friends to meet up and unwind. Known for its casual vibe and friendly staff, The Lair features a full bar with a variety of drinks alongside a menu filled with comfort food favorites. Highlights include the popular $4 family-style breakfast served every Sunday, featuring eggs, biscuit and gravy, sausage, and potatoes — a hearty option that guests consistently praise. The bar also hosts a Blues jam every Thursday night, creating a lively ambiance that appeals to music lovers without overwhelming the casual nature of the venue. Patrons appreciate the strong mimosas and drink selections that complement the food offerings perfectly. With open hours starting from 9 AM extending late into the night, it suits early breakfasts as well as late-night gatherings. Despite sometimes having limited seating availability, the staff's attentiveness and welcoming spirit help maintain a relaxed, comfortable environment that feels like an easygoing home base for community and friendship.
Here's what people think of The Lair Bar and Grill
As of recent, The Lair Bar and Grill holds a 4.4-star rating based on 621 reviews.
Reviews of The Lair Bar and Grill highlight its friendly atmosphere and quality food, especially noting the value and taste of the Sunday family-style breakfast and the variety of drinks available. Positive feedback often mentions the warm, sociable staff, the nostalgic and casual setting, and the lively Thursday night Blues jams which provide an engaging live music experience. Many guests describe the venue as a comfortable and dependable hangout spot, praising the food and drinks as yummy and well-prepared. On the downside, some reviewers have expressed frustration with limited seating availability at busy times and occasional menu restrictions, such as the French dip sandwich being available only on Fridays. A few visitors noted that events on Saturdays are infrequent, which may limit entertainment options for some. Overall, the reviews paint The Lair Bar and Grill as a beloved neighborhood spot with a strong sense of community, good food, and a welcoming staff — ideal for casual meet-ups and enjoying classic bar and grill fare.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Valerie Hughes
I ordered the Jalapeño Popper Burger and a Huckleberry Lemon Drop and I was so impressed! The drink was so flavorful and delicious and the burger and fries were fresh. This is one of my new favorites in the area! If you have a small appetite, I’d recommend sharing the burger with someone, but otherwise, amazing bite to eat! Good energy, fun on karaoke night, and friendly servers!
Sarah Gunderson
This place is your classic dive! Well kept, but cozy, 2 great covered outdoor spaces, awesome bartenders! Say hi to Evan, she's fantastic. Karaoke, live music, and friendly regulars! The food is simple but good!
Brian K
Great neighborhood bar. I stopped in to the Liar or a lazy Saturday and it did not disappoint. They had sports on the TVs. Friendly bartender, and a nice relaxed environment. I had a Bloody Mary, and it was made well and tasted good. I didn’t try the food, but food I saw come out looked good. They have lotto too. They are following all of the current COVID-19 guidelines as well which I appreciate. Definitely stop by The Liar if you’re in the area.
Howard Becker
Local bar serving good food and drinks Very friendly people who welcomed us in conversation and we enjoyed the great food they have
Sharon Stone
You TRUE neighborhood hangout! Come join us. Make some life-long friends! Enjoy a drink or brunch or lunch or dinner! Daily specials and great bar-staff and owner!!!
How to reach The Lair Bar and Grill
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Website: None
Why The Lair Bar and Grill may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Lair Bar and Grill with your friends?
Gathering with friends is always more memorable when the venue offers a perfect blend of great atmosphere, delicious food, and engaging activities. The Lair Bar and Grill provides all these elements and more, making it an outstanding spot to rally your friends and enjoy quality time together. With a rating of 4.4 from over 600 reviews, this popular Portland establishment has earned its reputation as a casual and fun destination where everyone feels welcome. Its nostalgic vibe, coupled with friendly staff and a full bar, creates a warm and inviting environment, ideal for groups seeking a relaxed yet lively night out. Whether you're planning a casual catch-up, celebrating a special occasion, or just looking to unwind, The Lair offers something for every type of gathering. The mix of yummy food, strong drinks, and live music events adds layers of entertainment that foster memorable shared experiences. Plus, the regular live blues jam sessions and occasional shows bring a unique cultural flair that can turn a simple meetup into a vibrant, music-filled evening. All these factors make The Lair Bar and Grill a magnet for social gatherings and a perfect platform for fun, connection, and relaxation.
What activities can groups enjoy at The Lair Bar and Grill?
The Lair Bar and Grill offers a variety of activities that cater to diverse group interests, ensuring that meetups are always engaging and fun. One of the standout features is their weekly blues jam night every Thursday, which invites local musicians to perform and encourages patrons to get involved in a shared musical experience. This live music event is an excellent opportunity for groups to soak in some soulful sounds while enjoying their favorite drinks and meals. Occasionally, the bar hosts infrequent shows on Saturday nights, adding a special entertainment element that can make weekend gatherings extra special. Beyond live music, the venue serves a full bar with a variety of beers and cocktails, allowing groups to sample quality drinks throughout their visit. Sundays bring the popular $4 family-style breakfast, featuring hearty classics like eggs, biscuits & gravy, sausage, and potatoes, perfect for a late morning meetup or recovery meal after a night out. The friendly bartenders and attentive staff enhance these activities by providing approachable and personalized service, making group members feel right at home. Together, these elements create a multifaceted social environment suited for everything from casual hangouts to celebratory events.
Why is The Lair Bar and Grill perfect for a group meetup?
The Lair Bar and Grill’s welcoming atmosphere and spacious layout make it an ideal venue for hosting groups. Many patrons have commented on the challenging but exciting nature of finding a table during busy times, a testament to its popularity and lively environment. The venue’s casual and nostalgic feel sets it apart from more generic bars, offering a comfortable and unpretentious spot where groups can relax and be themselves without fuss. Its location on SE McLoughlin Boulevard is accessible, making it convenient for friends and family coming from different parts of Portland. The combination of good music, a well-stocked bar, and tasty, reasonably priced food means that a group can enjoy a full evening without needing to move from place to place. The bar’s menu, known for its generous portions and classic flavors, supports sharing and communal dining – ideal for groups who want to sample multiple dishes together. The mix of breakfast offerings, lunchtime meals, and dinner options ensures that The Lair can accommodate meetups at any time of day. Friendly, efficient staff facilitate smooth service even when the place is busy, so groups can focus on each other rather than logistics. All these qualities contribute to making The Lair a flexible and dependable choice for gatherings of friends and family.
What kind of food and drink options can groups expect?
Groups meeting at The Lair Bar and Grill can look forward to a menu designed to satisfy a variety of tastes with generous and comforting portions. Many reviewers highlight their appreciation for the quality and price of the food, especially the family-style breakfasts on Sundays, which include hearty staples like eggs, sausage, biscuits with gravy, and potatoes – dishes that can nourish a group and kick off a relaxed morning. The kitchen also serves favorites such as sandwiches, burgers, and classic bar fare, with some specialty items available only on certain days, like the French dip sandwich on Fridays. The drinks menu is equally robust, featuring a range of bottled and draft beers, house cocktails, and a full bar capable of mixing strong, flavorful drinks that add to the festive atmosphere. Patrons frequently praise the bartenders for their friendliness and cocktail skills, which enhance the overall experience for groups looking to unwind after work or celebrate special occasions. The vibrant bar culture combined with full meal service allows groups to plan their visit around meals and drinks seamlessly, whether it’s a brunch gathering or an evening night out. Flexibility in dining choices makes it easy to accommodate different preferences and dietary needs within a group.
How does live music contribute to the atmosphere for group gatherings?
Live music plays a central role at The Lair Bar and Grill, providing a dynamic and interactive backdrop that enriches the group meetup experience. The regular Thursday night blues jam sessions transform the space into a lively hub of musical creativity, where both performers and audience members can enjoy authentic, soulful sounds. For groups, this means more than just background music; it creates a shared cultural event that encourages conversation, dancing, and a collective emotional experience that strengthens social bonds. Occasional Saturday night shows add extra excitement and variety, offering something special for groups looking to make their outing memorable. The music lineup’s focus on blues and diverse genres reflects the bar’s inclusive spirit and artistic flair, distinguishing it from typical bar environments. This musical environment complements the casual and nostalgic vibe, encouraging groups to stay longer, engage more deeply, and make the most of their social time together. It also offers an excellent conversation starter and a reason to return regularly, supporting ongoing friendships and communal rituals.
What kind of crowd and overall vibe can groups expect?
The Lair Bar and Grill attracts a diverse crowd, ranging from longtime local regulars and visiting music lovers to biker enthusiasts and families taking advantage of weekend breakfasts. This mix contributes to a vibrant, inclusive, and relaxed vibe where everyone can find their niche. The establishment is often described as feeling like a “comfortable pair of old jeans” — familiar, unpretentious, and welcoming. Groups will appreciate the friendly bartenders and staff who treat patrons like friends, adding a personal touch that enhances the communal atmosphere. The place sometimes gets busy, especially on music nights, but that lively buzz adds to the overall allure rather than detracting from comfort. This energetic but casual environment is perfect for groups who want a venue that encourages socializing without the pretentiousness of trendier spots. It’s the kind of place where conversations flow as easily as the drinks, making it easy to enjoy time together. The Lair’s reputation for good service, reasonable prices, and a no-frills approach means groups won’t feel pressured or rushed, allowing for relaxed gatherings that can stretch from afternoon through night.
How accessible is The Lair Bar and Grill for group meetups?
Conveniently located at 17720 SE McLoughlin Boulevard in Portland, The Lair Bar and Grill is easily accessible by car and local transit, making it suitable for groups coming from various parts of the city. Parking availability and proximity to main roads help reduce logistical hassles when organizing group outings. The venue is open to anyone 21 and older, fostering an adult-friendly environment with a full bar and lively entertainment options. Its spacious interior can accommodate medium to large groups, although it’s wise to plan ahead for peak times to secure seating, given its popularity. Accessibility considerations are complemented by a staff dedicated to accommodating group needs, offering attentive service that assists with seating arrangements and order management. Whether your meetup is a casual lunch, an afternoon break, or an evening celebration, The Lair’s flexible hours and accommodating team make organizing group visits straightforward and stress-free. These accessibility factors make it easy to rally a diverse group of friends or family without worry.
What do customers say about their group experiences at The Lair?
Customer reviews consistently highlight positive experiences when coming to The Lair Bar and Grill as a group. Many note the friendly and attentive service that makes coordinating a group visit effortless and enjoyable. Patrons frequently comment on the great value of the menu offerings, which allow groups to enjoy plentiful, delicious food and drinks without breaking the bank. The lively atmosphere — fueled by live music and a bustling bar scene — is frequently mentioned as a standout feature that enhances group socialization. Some reviews talk about the strong and well-crafted cocktails as a highlight, especially when paired with the hearty breakfasts or classic bar snacks. While occasionally busy, the staff’s ability to manage group needs smoothly ensures that wait times remain reasonable and that everyone feels welcomed. This consistent pattern in customer feedback builds a strong case for The Lair as a dependable, enjoyable destination perfect for gathering friends and family. Overall, the experiences shared by many reinforce its reputation as an ideal meeting place that balances good food, music, and a great vibe to foster lasting memories.