Where to Drink on Labor Day Weekend in Portland
For those in Portland who aren't retired, on a perpetual vacation, or in the bar and restaurant industry, Labor Day is a much-needed day of rest. In anticipation of that extra day, check out these Portland bars to meet up with your fellow freedom drinkers, and don’t forget to tip your bartender a little extra.
EastBurn: For Labor Day brunch on September 2, Burnside adult playground EastBurn will offer $2 mimosas and a build-your-own Bloody Mary bar from 10 AM–3 PM (1800 E Burnside St.; 503-236-2876).
Portland Meadows: Since its rebranding, the track is always full of holiday bustle. Celebrate the facelift with Portland Meadows' commemorative 16-oz. jockey boot glass, which comes with a free pour after purchase. For another cheep thrill, tack a Stiegl Radler onto your bill (1001 N. Schmeer Rd.; 503-285-9144).
Fremont Ridge: For neighborhood vibes and a selection of craft beer on tap from brewers like Boneyard and 21st Amendment, head to Fremont Ridge. You won’t have to wait in line for a drink or a 5 ¼-lb. Ridge Cheese Burger (5103 NE Fremont St.; 503-384-2118).
Lost and Found: This new Overlook bar has a lineup of Champagne cocktails drinks named for the Golden Girls and a large patio perfect for spending your extended weekend outdoors (5226 N Gay Ave.; 503-477-7313).
Church: There may be no better way to celebrate a hard-earned day off than with glazed pork belly and corn bread, hush puppies, or fried green tomatoes, all washed down with a holy grail of punch from the "communal" punch bowl (2600 NE Sandy Blvd.; 503-206-8962).
Roe: Hole yourself up in Roe (hidden behind Block + Tackle, previously Wafu) for modern seafood and drinks with an emphasis on wine, sake, sherry and cider (beer too). Make reservations now, and spend Monday recovering from your excursion (3113 SE Division St.; 503-236-0205).
Photo by Danya Henninger