There was a time not too long ago when a $15 cocktail was a wild idea. Fast forward to 2025 — past the mustachioed “mixologist” cliche — and the passion of local bartenders has turned Portland into a bona fide cocktail utopia.
With so many options to choose from, we spoke to Alex Frane, associate food and drink editor at Portland Monthly and our resident cocktail expert, to narrow down some of the best cocktail bars in Portland.
Wilder | Concordia
If you dream of being a regular at a cool local spot where everyone knows your name, look no further. Owner Ben Preacher has magically merged the feeling of a comfy corner bar with a food and cocktail menu rivaling the fanciest of establishments. Plus, the patio is a great summer hang.
🍸 What to order: Blood Meridian. Bonus points if you pair it with the house-made veggie burger.
Teardrop Lounge | Pearl District
We can’t talk about the cocktail scene without paying homage to Portland’s original dedicated cocktail bar. The talented folks at Teardrop make their own bitters — and some of the city's most adventurous drinks. “I can’t think of a better bar west of the Willamette for cocktails,” says Frane.
🍸 What to order: Liquid Swords for the bold, Paramour for the summer vibes.
Rum Club | Buckman
This is probably your favorite bartender’s favorite bar. Not only are the vibes immaculate, but there’s a show-stopping cocktail on the menu for whatever mood strikes you.
🍸 What to order: Rum Club Daquiri, duh.
It’s the first time I’ve seen this cocktail-in-a-bird from Malpractice and I’m a lifelong fan now. (Alex Frane / Portland Monthly)
Malpractice | Buckman
Opened less than a year ago in the former Great Ape space, this tiny bar is doing big things. Owner Rick Monroe launched the concept as a series of pop-ups and now makes what Frane lovingly calls “the weirdest” cocktails. Monroe pours his passion and love of the craft into every concoction for those lucky enough to grab one of the four seats at the bar — the entire space fits around 16 people.
🍸 What to order: Under the Volcano, which was crafted to taste the way a sunburn feels.
The Midnight | Sunnyside
For my fellow metal-heads and goths. This spot occupies that rarefied space of housing both a good music venue and a bar with great cocktails, all crafted with house-made syrups.
🍸 What to order: Hallowed Hands, a mix of rum, sherry, and brandy with a hint of sea salt and bitters.
The list is long, so listen to our full conversation with Alex Frane for even more of Portland’s best cocktail bars. Plus, why 2007 was the year Portland’s cocktail scene really popped off.
