8 Portland Bars for Singles or Hanging Out With Friends
- Thomas Tangen
- Apr 20
- 3 min read
Updated: May 27

Portland’s bar scene is as diverse as the city itself—laid-back dive bars, rooftop hangouts, cocktail lounges, and everything in between. Whether you're looking to meet new people or just want a solid night out with friends, these Portland bars for singles offer the right mix of good drinks, casual energy, and the kind of social atmosphere that doesn’t feel forced.
1. Century Bar - Buckman
A bar-meets-sports-club with rooftop seating, punch bowls, and a big open space that makes it easy to mingle. It’s especially lively on game nights and warm evenings.
930 SE Sandy Blvd, Portland, OR 97214
2. Teardrop Lounge - Pearl District
Known for inventive cocktails and a sleek vibe, Teardrop is great for singles who want an upscale setting without the pretension. It’s cozy but not too quiet, and the bar seating makes it easy to strike up a conversation.
1015 NW Everett St, Portland, OR 97209
3. Bye and Bye - Alberta Arts District
This all-vegan bar is relaxed, colorful, and has a spacious patio. With a younger crowd and house cocktails served in mason jars, it’s perfect for group hangs or spontaneous socializing.
1011 NE Alberta St, Portland, OR 97211
4. Victoria Bar - North Portland
Playful cocktails, giant booths, and a whimsical menu make Victoria Bar a go-to for casual hangs. It attracts a diverse crowd and has great outdoor seating during warmer months.
4835 N Albina Ave, Portland, OR 97217
5. Apex - Southeast Portland
With over 50 beers on tap and a massive patio, Apex is a great spot to meet other beer lovers. It has a community feel and often fills up on weekends without feeling overwhelming.
1216 SE Division St, Portland, OR 97202
6. Holman's Bar and Grill - Buckman
This classic dive bar has a photo booth, free popcorn, and DIY Bloody Marys on the weekend. It’s unpretentious and attracts a friendly, laid-back crowd.
15 SE 28th Ave, Portland, OR 97214
7. Hey Love - Central Eastside
Tropical vibes, lush plants, and creative drinks make Hey Love a fun spot that feels like an escape. It’s ideal for casual conversations, date nights, or group hangs with a twist.
920 E Burnside St, Portland, OR 97214
8. The Moon and Sixpence - Montavilla
This British-style pub is a cozy, lesser-known favorite with darts, a charming patio, and rotating beer options. It’s a great place for a quieter night or solo drink that could turn social.
2014 NE 42nd Ave, Portland, OR 97213
Special Mention:
Backwoods Brewing - Pearl District
Tucked into the Pearl District, Backwoods Brewing brings a laid-back mountain town vibe into the city. With woodsy decor, large communal tables, and a rotating tap list of house-made IPAs and seasonal brews, it’s a great low-pressure spot to strike up conversation with someone new. The outdoor patio is perfect for sunny days, and the casual crowd makes solo visits feel totally natural. Whether you’re looking for a post-hike pint or a relaxed evening downtown, this place keeps things social without the scene ever feeling forced.
📍231 NW 11th Ave, Portland, OR
From casual patios to creative cocktails, these Portland bars for singles strike the balance between social and chill. Whether you're going solo or meeting up with a crew, these spots make it easy to relax, connect, and enjoy a good night out.
Want a personalized bar crawl mapped to your style, location, or night of the week? I can put one together just for you.Got a favorite neighborhood or dive I missed? Drop a comment and I’ll include it in a future field report.
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