Portland breweries, with a spotlight on microbreweries and micropubs, are a large part of this city's landscape. In fact, Portland has 39 breweries, all within the Portland city limits. Making and drinking beer around here has become not only quite the social scene, but has stirred many an entrepreneurial spirit.
Here's a pop quiz: What state has the most breweries in the entire country? Portland, Oregon, of course!
Who was named America's Best Beer City by Travel + Leisure? Portland again! You're really good at this! ;)
At the rate that Portland microbreweries appear, if prohibition were instituted again, our economy would take a hefty hit in the back pocket, not to mention leave a good many people crying in their beers (or lack thereof). With our climate as it is, it's conditions are perfect for the growing of hops and barley which then is transformed into the brews that have made Portland famous around the entire country.
The brewery business hit the streets, running, in 1985 when the Oregon legislature passed a law that enabled brewers to peddle their barley and hops concoctions directly to the thirsty public. Two brothers, Mike and Brian McMenamin, saw opportunity when it knocked and opened a local tavern and brewery, which has rapidly spread into over 50 such establishments. Many other business people took the cue and a trend was born to greatness. Portland now boasts the largest craft brewing market in the United States.
Not only are Portland breweries putting out beer by the barrels, but, in true Portland style, they're sinking money back into the community, continuing to make the Rose City the great place that it is. When you patronize a pub here, you're not walking into a seedy joint of sea captains and rough and rowdies. You'll find bright and welcoming places, serving many variations of beer to choose from (like ordering your double latte with soy milk and blah blah blah), with the added treat of a full-menu of edible delights. Of course, not all microbreweries and micropubs carry the same things, but that tends to be the overall feel of it.
The Portland breweries and pubs often go out of their way to be family-friendly and, as long as they also double as a restaurant, children are allowed in up until 10pm.
On top of all the Portland pubs, we have events each year, such as the Holiday Ale Festival, Widmer Oktoberfest, and the Oregon Brewer's Festival, celebrating our Portland brew and the beer drinkers who loves it. If you fall into that category, you're going to be in Portland Brewery Heaven here! ;)
If you are the proud owner of an Android Smartphone, check out the Portland Breweries app in your Android Market. It uses Google Maps to pinpoint all The Portland craft breweries throughout the city. Never miss a spot to down a cold brew ever again! ;)
Below is a growing list of some really great microbreweries and pubs around the Portland area. Enjoy!
Amnesia Brewing 832 N Beech St, Portland The place to grab a great brew, kick back on the patio and watch the day go by. Dog-friendly. Read more about Amnesia Brewing....
Bridgeport Brewpub 1313 NW Marshall St, Portland As the oldest craft brewery in the city (circa 1984), Bridgeport has a German-pub motif with a fine selection of beer and some great pizzas. More info and reviews...
Deschutes Brewery 210 NW 11th Ave, Portland Voted one of the Best Green Brew Pubs in the U.S., Deschutes serves up beers brewed on site and tasty food for the hungry. Read the Deschutes Brewery reviews
Green Dragon Bistro and Brewpub 928 SE 9th Ave, Portland Popular Portland brewpub on the southeast side of town. Good selection of beers and munchies when you need them.
Hopworks Urban Brewery 2944 SE Powell Blvd, Portland One of the most popular Portland breweries. Smooth, organic beers, appetizers, pizza, burgers and a lot more. Read the reviews on Hopworks Urban Brewery....
Laurelwood Public House & Brewery 5115 NE Sandy Blvd, Portland Serving great organic beers with a full menu of burgers, sandwiches, entrees and more. See what others are saying...
Mc Menamins Pub 618 SW Nebraska St, Portland Owned by the McMenamins. Very comfortable with a wide selection of beers. Read the reviews.....
Rock Bottom Brewery and Restaurant 206 SW Morrison Ave, Portland Extremely popular place for the downtown after-work crowd. Good menu and great food and beers. Read what others are saying...
MORE TO COME.....
So You Have A Favorite Brewpub in Portland?
Tell us about your favorite place in Portland to grab a brewskie? What is the attraction? Do they have a good selection? What types of foods are served? Are the prices good? Let us know so we can join you. ;)