Multnomah Whiskey Library
Lounge · Downtown
1124 SW Alder St, Portland, OR 97205
Highlights
Vast spirit selection, vintage feel, craft cocktails, small plates.
Vast spirit selection, vintage feel, craft cocktails, small plates.
"In the early days of this Southwest Alder whiskey club, it was one of the city’s most exclusive bars, with non-members clamoring to spend the $25 on a “hall pass” for a reservation. Over the years, the bar has opened itself up to the public more and more, for events like derby parties and lantern festivals. The Library and its more casual, easier walk-in of a bar, the Green Room, remain destinations for whiskey nerds and cocktail aficionados, where bartenders clarify drinks and transform classics into a slushy. It’s not all gimmicks, though: These drinks are creative, balanced, and smart, without losing their sense of deliciousness." - Rebecca Roland
"This luxurious downtown Portland cocktail lounge is, of course, known for its whiskey selection, but the bar also offers a handful of nonalcoholic beverages, including a few house-made drinks. The Love at Midnight is a tropical number using a base of coconut cream, with pineapple, lime, and orange; for something a little subtler, the Out of the Woods seems to mimic a French 75, using Everleaf’s saffron-hued Forest apéritif and a sparkling nonalcoholic wine." - Thom Hilton
"Reminiscent of an Old World-style gentlemen’s club — think toasty fireplaces, plush armchairs, and crystal chandeliers — this membership-based bar is renowned for its extensive collection of whiskies, from Scotch single malts to Japanese blends. Non-members are welcome as walk-ins, or they can buy a hall pass, which allows them to make a reservation for $25." - Carrie Uffindell
"Easily the spot with the largest whiskey selection in town, members-only Multnomah Whiskey Library has floor-to-ceiling shelves that stretch across an entire brick wall and a library ladder to reach all the bottles. This downtown lounge draws connoisseurs — non-members can purchase a Hall Pass or hang in the Green Room — who know a thing or two about single barrels and private selections. It doesn’t have to be that serious, though. Order an Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da that uses Westward Whiskey Original as a base, adds Banks 7 Year Golden Age Rum, and borrows Mexican ingredients like lightly fermented tepache, cinnamon syrup, and lime. The cocktail is served on the rocks and garnished with an orange tropical flower." - Krista Garcia
"For whiskey lovers, it’s hard to beat Multnomah Whiskey Library. The stunning bar has an immense bottle collection that is impressive to even the most seasoned whiskey fans. For something a little more intimate, the bar offers the choice of three private dining areas, the largest being able to accommodate up to 100 guests. Private dining is available to book through the bar’s website." - Rebecca Roland
