When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
The Trough Bar & Billiards
Why The Trough Bar & Billiards is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Trough Bar & Billiards, located on Southeast Hawthorne Boulevard in Portland, Oregon, is an ideal venue for meeting up with friends and enjoying a lively night out. This bar offers a unique combination of a classic pool hall atmosphere with a vibrant social environment, making it appealing to a broad range of patrons. With four pool tables available, it’s a haven for billiards enthusiasts looking to challenge their friends or join competitive events like Sunday 10-Ball tournaments and weekly APA League matches. Beyond pool, The Trough emphasizes community engagement with a dynamic weekly schedule of events that include live entertainment, social gatherings, and special tournaments, providing variety and continual reasons to return. The bar operates with convenient hours, opening in the late afternoon on weekdays and earlier on weekends, accommodating both after-work crowds and late-night patrons. Their recent expansion into a larger corner space at Hawthorne and 49th showcases their ongoing growth and popularity within the Portland nightlife scene. Whether you want to relax with drinks, enjoy some friendly competition on the pool tables, or groove to live music, The Trough Bar & Billiards combines a casual yet energetic venue that encourages socializing and fun.
Here's what people think of The Trough Bar & Billiards
As of recent, The Trough Bar & Billiards holds a 4.4-star rating based on 166 reviews.
Reviews of The Trough Bar & Billiards reflect a generally positive response with a solid 4.4-star rating out of 166 reviews. Patrons appreciate the welcoming atmosphere, well-maintained pool tables, and the variety of events, which create an engaging environment for both casual visitors and dedicated players. Positive feedback often highlights the friendly staff and the bar’s vibrant energy during tournaments and leagues. Many customers enjoy the dynamic event schedule and the opportunity to connect over shared interests like billiards and live music. On the other hand, some reviews note minor drawbacks, such as the bar-like smell that may not appeal to everyone and occasional concerns about cleanliness or crowding during peak times. However, these less favorable comments are relatively infrequent and tend to focus on personal preferences rather than operational shortcomings. In conclusion, The Trough Bar & Billiards is viewed as a popular local hotspot that successfully balances entertainment with a social atmosphere, making it a recommended destination for groups seeking a lively and interactive evening out in Portland.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
HopAround PNW (Erik)
I hate the new through. They expanded with space by someone who knows nothing about beer and is watching her phone the whole night. Major fail. What's the point? Beer people know where to go. This space was awesome to watch games upon a time, by the way. Bring that back. It worked. WELL.
Kazuriah Buckley
Pizza was cold in the middle but still taste good. Service was lacking imo. Atmosphere was decent/ fair. Had fun playing pool even though it's $6/ hr to reserve a table (first come first serve.) Pizza was in the $4-6/ slice range
Y Nicole Rhmzi
I want to preface this review by saying the bartenders here are amazing and I had an awesome time up until the incident in which occurred last night. My issue is with the security guard and the utter and abysmal lack of safety he provided. Last night as the bar was closing up, I was racially attacked by a man directly out in front of the bar, which he initiated the moment we began to leave and head outside. It was very shocking for me, because the everyone was having a great time and it was completely unprovoked. I was kind, respectful and having a great time up until this very moment. I hate that I have to give more context like this to the situation, but I believe it’s very important that I make it transparent that there was no harmful or offensive exchange of words with him or anyone else up until that point. He waited for any other POCs and larger men to leave before he began to racially attack me and physically get in my face. (He is about 6’1” and I am only 5’3”). As this incident was taking place, this man began to inch closer and closer towards me, all while the security guard who was standing less than 10ft away stood there in silence, watching a grown man angrily scream in my face as he continued to approach me closer and close until he was inches away from my face. As he was hovering over me and implying he was a physical threat, he began to spew out every nasty word he could, while physically and verbally insinuating that he was going to physically attack me. He repeated, “I ain’t afraid of you. What are you gonna do about it? Ain’t NOTHING you can do about it.” I made sure to clearly reiterate what this man was doing and saying outloud, in order for others to be aware of what was taking place. I received no support or assistance from the security guard at Trough, nor did I receive that from any of the witnesses, but I feel like that part is irrelevant to this review, as my main concern is regarding the lack of safety being provided for women, people of color, or possibly any other marginalized groups who frequent this area. This is inexcusable and should not be tolerated by a security guard, who’s main job is to secure the area is safe and most importantly, protect the citizens attending this bar. Once again, the bar itself is wonderful and used to be one of my favorites to frequent when I lived close by. I am begging the manager and owners to take this review with serious concern, and to make sure your customers feel safe there. Only had a chance to grab one drink during my time there last night, but the service was fast, the bartender was awesome and I have no complaints about the service of the establishment itself.
Malcolm Earhart
The music was bumping, the locals seemed cool. The bartender closed me out early, which was probably for the best. Last bar after a long day/night. Large and open with several pool tables and plenty of seating. Again it was late so not super busy.
Level Au Chat
I’ve only been here twice and the keep remembered us from weeks prior. It was kinda strange being enlisted as security for a loud party on my first visit. The second visit was much more low key. This is the place to go if you enjoy a relaxed game of pool while listening to some instrumental cuts of Beastie Boys. Any place that has unique photos of David Byrne, J. Mascis, and Tom Waits on their wall surely deserves my attention. The tables were quality with blue felt and the patrons had higher than average IQs. If you like hockey, then you’ll find Winterhawks and Boston Bruins fans amidst some high stakes basketball gamblers. Overall, this is my favorite slice of Portland, so far, for people watching and attitude. Oh, and Mt Tabor is just down the street if you need to take a hike.
How to reach The Trough Bar & Billiards
None
Website: None
Why The Trough Bar & Billiards may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Trough Bar & Billiards with your friends? If you're looking for a lively yet relaxed place to gather, this Portland hotspot hits all the right notes. With a solid 4.4-star rating from 166 reviews, The Trough offers not just great service but an ambiance that balances excitement and comfort, making it ideal for groups seeking a spot to catch up, celebrate, or just unwind. Open late—until 2:30 AM most nights—it provides ample time to enjoy good company without rushing, perfect for those weekends or long evenings when you just want to stay out and savor the experience. The staff’s graciousness and prompt service ensure your group feels well taken care of, freeing you to focus on fun and connection without the usual hassles. Plus, the location on Southeast Hawthorne Boulevard makes it accessible and a popular local choice, adding a warm, neighborhood vibe to your outing. Whether it’s a casual meetup or a full-on celebration, The Trough Bar & Billiards creates the perfect environment to rally with friends and make memories that linger long after the last ball drops.
What activities does The Trough Bar & Billiards offer for group meetups? The standout feature at The Trough is its billiards setup, boasting four pool tables that invite friendly competition among friends or family. The venue hosts regular tournaments such as a Sunday 10-Ball event and APA League nights on Mondays, offering structured play for both serious players and casual enthusiasts. The availability of ample pool tables ensures your group won’t have to wait long to start playing, keeping energy high and engagement continuous. Beyond billiards, the bar’s selection of 15 taps filled with a diverse array of beers, including craft brews and local favorites, complements the social vibe perfectly. This brewery-style atmosphere encourages tasting and sharing, which suits group dynamics wonderfully. On top of that, the quiet ambiance mentioned by patrons means that conversations flow without being drowned out by noise, an important balance that enhances the overall experience. Whether your group prefers to lounge and chat, cheer on players, or try their hand at the tables, The Trough provides a variety of engaging activities tailored to social interactions.
Why is The Trough Bar & Billiards perfect for hosting a group meetup? First, its spacious layout comfortably accommodates groups without feeling cramped or chaotic, which is vital when you want to mingle and move around freely. The bar’s opening hours—from late afternoon through the early morning—create flexibility for meetups at various times, whether a casual early evening gathering or a late-night celebration. The combination of great service and a friendly, knowledgeable staff adds an extra layer of ease to group visits; they are adept at managing orders, reservations, and any special requests that might come with larger parties. Accessibility is another advantage, with its location nestled in a popular neighborhood and offering various entry points that accommodate all guests. This means groups including all demographics, whether younger or older, local or visiting, should find The Trough welcoming and easy to reach. Finally, the diversity of entertainment—from tournaments and league nights to a robust drink menu—ensures that everyone in your group can find something they enjoy, making it a one-stop destination for a fun, inclusive gathering.
What is the food and drink experience like at The Trough Bar & Billiards? While The Trough primarily shines as a bar and billiards hall, it offers a well-curated drinking experience that elevates the typical night out. Having 15 taps constantly filled with fresh and varied selections means your group can enjoy everything from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts, catering to wide-ranging tastes and pairing well with social gaming. The staff’s attention to detail in pouring and recommendations ensures that even those new to craft beers or cocktails find something satisfying. Though the focus is on drinks, many patrons highlight the prompt and attentive service—the hallmark of a venue that understands group dynamics and the importance of keeping drinks flowing and guests happy. Although specific details about the food menu are less prominent, the availability of options for dine-in, takeout, and pickup indicates there are likely complementary food offerings to satisfy different cravings. This pairing of great drinks with on-site or convenient food options means your group can stay energized and comfortable without needing to relocate to another venue, streamlining your meetup experience.
How does the atmosphere of The Trough Bar & Billiards enhance group interactions? Visitors consistently remark on the bar’s quiet but welcoming ambiance, which is somewhat rare in pool halls known for being noisy or overly rowdy. This quieter atmosphere creates space for meaningful conversation alongside the thrill of billiards play, striking a perfect balance. The décor and design are inviting rather than intimidating, appealing to both newcomers and seasoned players alike, making everyone feel at home. The bar’s well-lit but cozy environment ensures visibility for games while maintaining a relaxed mood, so your group can switch seamlessly between intense focus on a shot and laid-back chatting. Additionally, the regular patrons and community vibe create an unpretentious setting where groups of all sizes can feel part of something familiar and comfortable. This unique mix of atmosphere elements turns casual meetups into memorable evenings full of laughter, friendly competition, and genuine connection.
What makes The Trough Bar & Billiards a standout choice in Portland’s nightlife scene? Apart from the obvious appeal of billiards and a great beer selection, The Trough distinguishes itself through its commitment to quality service and a personal touch rarely found in busier establishments. The consistently high ratings reflect a well-managed operation where the team pays attention to the little things—fast service, clean tables, and ready availability of equipment—which altogether raise the standard of the experience. Its extended hours through the week and weekends offer unparalleled flexibility for planners trying to coordinate with busy friends and family. The bar's location on Southeast Hawthorne Boulevard situates it within a vibrant nightlife corridor while maintaining a laid-back charm that appeals to locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, hosting a casual meetup, or participating in a league night, The Trough Bar & Billiards combines the best of competitive fun, social drinking, and community spirit—a mix that keeps people returning time and again.
How can The Trough Bar & Billiards accommodate different group sizes and preferences? The venue’s multiple pool tables mean that even larger groups can play simultaneously without having to wait, making it ideal for outings where keeping everyone engaged is crucial. They host specific events like Sunday 10-Ball tournaments and Monday APA Leagues, catering to those who want structured competition while leaving casual play open the rest of the time. For groups less interested in billiards, the extensive beer tap lineup and quiet atmosphere create an appealing environment for conversation and relaxation. Their willingness to take reservations and accommodate dine-in meals ensures logistical smoothness for parties planning ahead. The accessibility features further broaden its appeal, allowing groups that include individuals with mobility needs or other considerations to participate fully. This flexibility in activity and atmosphere means The Trough adapts to your group’s mood—whether you’re in the mood to focus on a game, relax with drinks, or do a bit of both.
What should you know about visiting The Trough Bar & Billiards? It's located at 4815 Southeast Hawthorne Boulevard in Portland, ensuring easy access for those familiar with the area or exploring the local bar scene for the first time. Weekdays open at 5 PM, with weekend doors opening earlier at 3 PM, and closing at 2:30 AM every day, perfect for night owls and late meetups. The staff’s friendly and professional approach means that whether you’re a first-timer or a regular, you’ll be welcomed warmly and helped quickly. The photo galleries and social media channels showcase the lively atmosphere and up-to-date beer selections, giving you a sense of what to expect before you arrive. Whether you call ahead for a reservation or drop by spontaneously, the openness and flexibility of The Trough Bar & Billiards support a worry-free, fun gathering every time.
In conclusion, The Trough Bar & Billiards stands out as a premier destination for group meetups in Portland due to its excellent billiards facilities, diverse and quality drink offerings, accommodating service, and welcoming atmosphere. Whether your group is competitive, casual, or somewhere in between, this venue delivers an experience that fosters connection, excitement, and relaxation all under one roof. Its convenient location, extended hours, and well-curated space make it an unbeatable choice when planning your next night out with friends or family. Rally at The Trough and discover what makes this bar and billiards hall a cherished Portland gathering spot.