I will have you know that I suffered quite a lot in order to properly write this article. Because I consider it my personal responsibility to give you only the very best information, I really had no other choice than to party it up at Portland’s many many nightspots. So in order to help you the next time you’re having one of those “where should we go?” nights, I have created a mood specific going out guide that may alleviate the headache (or hangover, in my case) of choosing a spot for nightlife in Portland.
If you are in an “I’m in the mood to perch fabulously on a bar stool while sipping my gorgeously garnished drink of choice and chat with friends” state of mind then I recommend…
Una Wine Bar and Lounge (Fore street) Una is the very definition of urban chic. While primarily a wine bar, they have a fabulous ‘tini menu that will give any monogamous Cosmo drinker an urge to cheat. It’s terribly sleek and understated, and offers a most delightful “Una Plate” that includes plump Greek olives, yummy cheeses and warm fresh breads.
The Top of The East (The Eastland Park Hotel, High Street) Ok, so you’re actually sinking into large inviting armchairs and leather couches as opposed to perching, but the gorgeously garnished drink and chatting bit still remains. But be forewarned that this is not a place to see and be seen; between the panoramic views of downtown Portland, the candlelight, soft jazz playing in the background, and its decidedly old school, rat pack-esque charm, the environment is most conducive to intimate talk and privacy. The Top of the East boasts an impressively extensive drink list, so whether your taste is beer, wine, mixed drinks, a snifter of bourbon or the much-loved martini, you can rest assured you will find something to delight the Frank Sinatra in you.
If you are in an “I want to get wild” mood, may I suggest…
Wharf Street, Old Port
This cobblestone side street is home to a variety of bars/clubs that will satisfy many a wild need. You can pull a Coyote Ugly and dance on the bar at the Iguana, shake a tail-feather at the hip hop sports bar Headliners, rock out to 80’s music at Liquid Blue, or, if you’re feeling truly risqu?, you can enter a wet t-shirt contest at the Oasis.
The Pavilion, Middle Street
Umm, don’t I mean the Roxy? No. If you were confused by the name change (as was I), fret no longer, my little social monarch; the Pavilion has recovered from its identity crisis and still retains its status as the largest club in Portland. This is “the” place to come if you’re looking to be seen in all of your going-out glory. The thumping base and bumping bodies don’t foster much in the way of conversation, but if you want to dance the night away to current top 40 hits and old faves (Saturday is Polyester night), you’ve come to the right spot.
If you’re in a “Give me beer and bands” kind of mood, then why not try…
The Ale House, Market Street
This comfortable bar not only offers beer and fantastic live music, but there are swings at the bar! What use do you have for a swing, you ask? Uh, do you really need one?
Free Street Taverna, Free Street
Great local bands and beer specials are a constant at this popular bar/Greek eatery. The vibe here is unquestionably chill and relaxed. Feel free to groove to the bands, play a hand of video poker at the bar, or, if you want to catch up with friends but still hear the music, you can move the party upstairs onto the deck overlooking Free Street (weather permitting, of course).
Bull Feeney’s, Fore Street
This authentic Irish pub has two floors of fun for your listening and gulping pleasure. The beautifully painted walls on the top floor serve as a frame for the numerous windows that feature the lamppost lit sidewalks of the old port.
If you’re in an “Take me out to the ballgame, er, bar” mood, then I would propose…
Gritty McDuff’s (Gritty’s), Fore Street
Locals flock here to have their member mugs filled with Gritty’s very own microbrews (and to howl in unison at the latest Red Sox game). Share a long wooden table with some friends or situate yourself at the stools in front of the large windows facing Fore Street for some entertaining late night people watching.
The Stadium, Brown/Congress Street
Try your hand at drunken simulated golf at this cavernous sports bar. Two floors, two bars, various video games and several pool tables adorn this sports-themed adult playground. The servers wear their Boston allegiance on their sleeves (literally) by sporting Red Sox jerseys.
Ok, so there it is, a starter list of mood appropriate places to party (or not) in Portland. I have no doubt that I neglected to include a few favorites, but for heaven’s sake people, every liver has its limits. Here’s to wishing you many safe and fun filled nights in Portland, no matter what your mood. Cheers!