Sad Valley

Bar · Humboldt

Sad Valley

Bar · Humboldt

832 N Killingsworth St, Portland, OR 97217

Highlights

Sad Valley is to bars what the McMansion is to the Palace at Versailles. A shrine to kitsch. A facetious retrospective of Western Civilization in the Humboldt neighborhood. We sell cheeseburgers, fine spirits, t-shirts, snacks, and beer. A far cry from squalor, but maybe a few notches down from opulent.

832 N Killingsworth St, Portland, OR 97217 Get directions

sadvalley.com

@saddestvalley

@eater

"Sad Valley will continue its tradition of hosting a Halloween costume contest on October 31. A DJ will be on deck to throw down some eerie-yet-dance-friendly vibes, plus cash prizes for best costume, and free candy." - Rebecca Roland

Portland’s Best Events Celebrating Halloween and Día de los Muertos, 2024 - Eater Portland

View Postcard for Sad Valley

@eater

"Jayden Nyx describes working an evening service at Sad Valley where the heater broke, leading to a cold environment for patrons and an early closure for the establishment." - Brooke Jackson-Glidden

‘You Could See Your Breath in the Bar’: What It’s Like Working at a Restaurant During an Ice Storm - Eater Portland

View Postcard for Sad Valley

@eater

"Drinkers sip cocktails named for John Waters characters under a mounted coffin at this memento mori of a North Killingsworth bar. Paintings depicting images of rapture and grief hang on the walls, while David Lynch’s Dune plays on a TV by the bar. Drinks incorporate fruity flavors like passionfruit and apricot, as well as nostalgic spirits like Hpnotiq." - Brooke Jackson-Glidden

The Best Haunted and Spooky Bars and Restaurants in Portland, Oregon - Eater Portland

View Postcard for Sad Valley

@eater

"Sad Valley is a new bar owned by Jeremy Alexander, themed around the concept of the afterlife with a sense of optimism. It features funeral home florals, a coffin disco ball, and commissioned art pieces depicting themes of reunion and resurrection. The cocktail menu, developed by celebrated bartender Megan Radke, includes unique drinks like marionberry margaritas and rye-passionfruit cocktails, alongside classic cocktails. The food menu, managed by Chef Patrick Carney, offers comfort foods like cheeseburgers, buttermilk chicken strips, and a notable vegan sandwich with mushroom and seaweed broth." - Brooke Jackson-Glidden

Death-Themed Bar Sad Valley Opens in Portland, Oregon - Eater Portland

View Postcard for Sad Valley

@eater

"A new cocktail bar with death-themed decor serving cocktails like marionberry margaritas and rye-passionfruit cocktails conceived by celebrated bartender Megan Radke." - Eater Staff

Portland’s New Bar, Restaurant, and Food Cart Openings - Eater Portland

View Postcard for Sad Valley

Bailey Eckert

Google

The perfect bar if you’re looking to go to a disco funeral set in the 1980’s. Decor and ambiance were extremely committed to the bit. Good drinks - love the devils bargain - a mini high life and shot for $8 is definitely a deal. The burger was nice - lots of bun and arugula compared to other ratios, but still tasted good. We sat inside, but they have some outdoor seating as well. Bartender was nice and helpful.

Denycia Haley

Google

Loved the vibe. Loved the decor. Bartender was kind. Drinks were good. For a small place they really utilize the space really well so there's plenty of room and places to sit.

James Schick

Google

I can't rate any of their bar snacks, but I will happily update upon my return. Their drinks are proper, and the service is better than average for Portland (your mileage may vary). The styling and vibe are absolutely on point, from the funereal arrangement in the corner over the bolstered booth, to the inverted casket and funeral flower arrangements overhead, over to the framed paintings depicting various afterlife-inspired moments.

Nicole

Google

Beloved daughter ⭐⭐⭐⭐ - fruity and refreshing Persephone ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - sweet but light ❤️Blue velvet ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - blue jolly rancher Berry jello shot ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - it's blue Burger ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ - would have liked less pickles - it's what you'd expect but it's executed well! Macaroni and cheese + fried chicken⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ - good texture - really needed the fried chicken - chicken tender vibes Sweet potato fritters with chimnichurri ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - loved it - not that many fritters Fries ⭐⭐⭐ - what you'd expect - they're solid Onion ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ - crispy - flavorful

Baptiste Lefebvre

Google

I came here for my spouse's birthday. The bar crew were super on top of coordinating the birthday cake I had brought in the afternoon prior and were super discreet about it, brought it with ice cream and made sure that would be fine before doing it. they were really great with the service, the food was A-MA-ZING. And the vibes from the decoration to the music to the bar tenders are unmatched.

Joey Salloum

Google

The bar has a unique vibe and likely the reason most people visit. The menu is well curated and adds to the energy around "sad valley". However, if you pay attention to details, you'll notice the discrepancy in prices for a cheeseburger w/fries vs ordering them separate ($16 vs $9+$6). Word to the wise- save the $7 or $6 and do without the fries, they were sub-par. The makeover the bar received appears great under the mood lighting, but at its core it could be another diner.

Kar Wing Ho

Google

#PortlandBurgerWeek The faith healer was delicious. I paired it with a blackberry cider. As for Sad Valley, it was my first time there. Very interesting decor especially what’s hanging from the ceiling.

Njoki Mwithi

Google

This place is awesome. Only been a few times now but a stellar experience every time. All of their sides are out of this world (I think I'd get their onion rings over Tulip Shops across the street!), TRY THE FRITTERS!! Service is excellent and the atmosphere is so fun and unique. Love how they play old funky movies to enjoy if youre alone. Would be so fun for any party!!

Michael M.

Yelp

was in for 'wing' week cuz they in my hood and the ya solo operation - the space and vibe are very cutesy, I'm sure to be loved by many - the people are very kind and real... I've been in twice and you should go too, maybe before wings are gone cuz not on regular menu - dry rub in house and tasty

Michelle R.

Yelp

Found this place on yelp, first coming in I loved the vibe but that quickly went away. The bartenders name we ordered food and drinks through was Sunshine, which he severely lacked LOL. Maybe because the bar name is sad? Anyway We sat at the bar top but had to get in line to order drinks because he did not come by and check on us. He's also looking at a "cheat sheet" for specialty drinks so maybe he is new? Doesn't matter. We got cry baby shots, not bad! Then tecate's, my friend got the Mexican squirt with tequila, it was exactly that it was. Angel wings I ordered, the dipping by sauce was so Light it literally tasted like nothing, the wings were not spicy, too much cumin and skin rubbery. My friend got the BLAT add fried chicken, his fries came out cold, the service was so slow we decided to not say anything and just air fry it at home later. Sad that this place wasn't the vibe, I'll stick to tulip tavern across the street.

Jason C.

Yelp

This is such a fun spot! I've wanted to come for years and finally came by happenstance. They have a solid tap list and a wonderful ambience. Lexy was super attentive and knowledgeable about fun things to explore around the bar. Look forward to coming back some time!

Melia F.

Yelp

I've been here a few times and I'm excited to see the menu has expanded! Food is yummy, I'm a big jalapeño poppers fan so was psyched to see them added to the menu. Drinks are fun and priced just about the same as everywhere else, weird Paloma is a fav. Service is quick, decor is cute, no complaints! Match boxes are a nice touch, I love how cute the design is!

Jeannie D.

Yelp

It's an open space that is clean and the decor is unique. I really liked it, well put together. The bartender was attentive and kind. The menu was small, like very small. Here's where I got impressed tho - I ordered a sandwich asked for no bun. The cook himself came out to ask me if he could alter my food in another way. I agreed, and was so glad I did. He personally brought the food out and explained a little further what he did. Hats off to you buddy, you made my experience. I feel like there is so much impersonal about how we receive our food nowadays. Appreciate this level of service. Good mocktails, na beer options, fun decor, just give it a visit!!

Wen Q.

Yelp

Chill, friendly staff, good drinks. Wish they had more snacks/apps options. It does get busy but overall still recommend checking it out!

Steph S.

Yelp

Walking into this bar felt like a treat for the eyes. Colorful, eclectic and curated for the creatives looking for a beautiful beverage. The bartender was super sweet and helpful. The booth we sat in allowed us to take in the space and appreciate all the details. We don't live anywhere near this bar but knew we had to check it out. Looking forward to coming back when we are in that part of town!

Jammie R.

Yelp

Loved the morbid ambiance. Very cosy. The service was friendly. The menu is smaller but they do everything very well. We will be back!

Raymond R.

Yelp

This place is amazing, great martini, comfy seating, inspiring decor. I will for sure be back, it's only a few blocks from my house. I wasn't impressed with the undercooked fries, but I'm for sure going to give that another chance.

Zac H.

Yelp

Fun atmosphere. Good is good but not glorious. (Apparently my review needs 85 characters to post).

Scott L.

Yelp

I had been waiting for this spot to open and glad to say the wait is worth it! The first thing I noticed that this place is a funeral home theme and they nailed it. On the cieling sits a white coffin with a rotating disco ball in it. The bar area has some really colorful cieling lights and all if the walls are in this almost Florida like pastel. The tv was playing the original Poltergeist movie followed by some other 80's horror. In the back is a taxidemied fox and a photobooth near the bathrooms. Moving to food and drinks. I ordered a mocktail with ginger which they came up with something that worked well. The quesadilla was very impressive. The size was great for almost three people and had delicious cheese with broccoli and peppers. Can't wait to visit this place again and take unsuspecting friends who want something on the more unique experience side of Portland.

Adam K.

Yelp

The gimlet was excellent. In fact, I think they may be using the name ironically because we had a great time. You may come in sad but you'll leave happy.

Matt B.

Yelp

I really like this spot! They just opened up and it's really vibey in here. Food and drinks are delicious too!

Michelle D.

Yelp

The sad valley is here for me. Best bar food- fried chicken strips are moist white meat with super crispy outside. Excellent ambiance and free tampons!

G. S.

Yelp

The space is utterly beautiful and the drinks were just next level. Not only did they taste good but they had a lovely aesthetic. Bartenders were real friendly and the homemade seitan made this vegan's day. Love that this new bar in my neighborhood - it's my new daily go to.

Denise T.

Yelp

I wasn't planning on leaving a review; I figured everyone could figure out themselves how disappointing this place is. The food and drinks are bad and the decor is disjointed. However, they don't have AC. That's whatever, it's Portland, it's not hot most of the year. But they remove comments from IG that state they don't have AC... which just seems kind of shady and weird??

L A.

Yelp

Decor is pretty neat, but vibes are all off. The music is blasting in a barely occupied bar that feels more like a restaurant. Service is slow (same as other bars) and the seating configuration is incredibly odd with almost exclusively booths. It seems like they can't decide if they're a bar, a party spot, or a restaurant and kinda tried for all 3. Drinks are weird and some were very tasty. They're trying very, very hard to be unique with their drink menu - for better or worse. Wouldn't recommend for a date night but might be ok for a small group that can fit into a booth (that's most of their seating) if you can overcome the awkwardness of the vibes.

K G.

Yelp

Rad. Intriguing ambiance, Great burger, service, happy hour and tap list. New neighborhood institution.

Nicholas V.

Yelp

I have been following the owner, Jeremy, since Neon Boots in Seattle. Jeremy has done an even better job in Portland. The Sad Valley isn't just a bar, it is an atmosphere. Jeremy is a great artist an has an eye for aesthetics. Also Megan has curated a great cocktail menu that is thoughtful and great. Both of them are wonderful people. I think it is just the right amount of kitsch and thoughtfulness without overdoing it and and making it seem not genuine. I'll be back, even all the way from Olympia.

Chantel B.

Yelp

Where has this bar been all my life. Sad valley is of the most memorable bars in Portland. The second you walk through the door you're in a whole new world. It's like a 1970s fever dream funeral parlor come to life? impossible to fully describe, you just really have to check it out for yourself. Bartenders are friendly and knowledgeable, they even came around to the table to check on us a few times. And the food and snacks never disappoint. This place is truly special. Do yourself a favor and make a night of it - walk down the street to check out tulip shoppe and Florida room while you're at it. Ok that's all - Party on, Wayne!

Tom S.

Yelp

Came here to check the place out after the great reviews. The space itself is really cool--fun theme, super awesome interior and fun horror movies playing. The service was good--but there was only one person behind the bar when we were there. We ordered fries which were good--but maybe could have used another minute in the fryer. The cocktail selection looked good; we ordered two different ones. Both were waaaaay spirit forward. One was supposed to have apricot liquor and lime--both seemed completely absent. In fact, it tasted closer to a gin and tonic than what was described in the menu. Another drink we ordered had marionberry listed but it was more for color than for taste. If the cocktails could find some flavor balance and not be so boozy, I would come back in a heartbeat.

Laura W.

Yelp

Excellent venue to ponder your unceasing hurdle toward your inevitable demise. The photo booth in the back will remind you that you'll never again be as young as you were that day. I recommend the margarita.

S M.

Yelp

The atmosphere needs some serious work. If this is the beginning of the decor then fine, but really it is kinda wimpy. Drinks are so so. I would give it a hard pass.

Herschel R.

Yelp

This place is amazing! I'm so glad they opened up. I'm always brining friends and colleagues here. The drinks are great and so is the selection of food. Just what you need on a chill night out.

teresa m.

Yelp

we've been meaning to come to this place for dinner with a friend, and finally did so last evening....we had read up on it and the history with the owner....as soon as we walked in, we loved it, as the coffin on the ceiling with rotating disco ball beckoned us......we sat in a booth, and it was so comfy and neat............we each had a 2 buck hamms draft, and our friend had a red wine......the place celebrates ''unhappy hour'' hahahaha......the music is excellent, nice and laid back...................next, we shared the green salad, and mac/cheese...our friend had the fritters, burger/fries...the fries, our friend shared some of them, were superb as they were real crispy..........the bartender was great, the food was good, and it was beginning to fill up...we love the decor with the foto automatica booth, the hearst in a painting, and everything else...the food is affordable too...the only thing missing was a veggie patty or cheese sandwich for us veggie lovers....we will be back with friends and try the photo booth....thx so much....

@eater

Portland’s Best Events Celebrating Halloween and Día de los Muertos, 2024 - Eater Portland

View Postcard for Sad Valley

@eater

"Jayden Nyx describes working an evening service at Sad Valley where the heater broke, leading to a cold environment for patrons and an early closure for the establishment." - Brooke Jackson-Glidden

‘You Could See Your Breath in the Bar’: What It’s Like Working at a Restaurant During an Ice Storm - Eater Portland

View Postcard for Sad Valley

@eater

The Best Haunted and Spooky Bars and Restaurants in Portland, Oregon - Eater Portland

View Postcard for Sad Valley

@eater

Death-Themed Bar Sad Valley Opens in Portland, Oregon - Eater Portland

View Postcard for Sad Valley

@eater

"A new cocktail bar with death-themed decor serving cocktails like marionberry margaritas and rye-passionfruit cocktails conceived by celebrated bartender Megan Radke." - Eater Staff

Portland’s New Bar, Restaurant, and Food Cart Openings - Eater Portland

View Postcard for Sad Valley

Bailey Eckert

Google

Denycia Haley

Google

Loved the vibe. Loved the decor. Bartender was kind. Drinks were good. For a small place they really utilize the space really well so there's plenty of room and places to sit.

James Schick

Google

Nicole

Google

Baptiste Lefebvre

Google

Joey Salloum

Google

Kar Wing Ho

Google

Njoki Mwithi

Google

Michael M.

Yelp

Michelle R.

Yelp

Jason C.

Yelp

Melia F.

Yelp

Jeannie D.

Yelp

Wen Q.

Yelp

Chill, friendly staff, good drinks. Wish they had more snacks/apps options. It does get busy but overall still recommend checking it out!

Steph S.

Yelp

Jammie R.

Yelp

Loved the morbid ambiance. Very cosy. The service was friendly. The menu is smaller but they do everything very well. We will be back!

Raymond R.

Yelp

Zac H.

Yelp

Fun atmosphere. Good is good but not glorious. (Apparently my review needs 85 characters to post).

Scott L.

Yelp

Adam K.

Yelp

The gimlet was excellent. In fact, I think they may be using the name ironically because we had a great time. You may come in sad but you'll leave happy.

Matt B.

Yelp

I really like this spot! They just opened up and it's really vibey in here. Food and drinks are delicious too!

Michelle D.

Yelp

The sad valley is here for me. Best bar food- fried chicken strips are moist white meat with super crispy outside. Excellent ambiance and free tampons!

G. S.

Yelp

Denise T.

Yelp

L A.

Yelp

K G.

Yelp

Rad. Intriguing ambiance, Great burger, service, happy hour and tap list. New neighborhood institution.

Nicholas V.

Yelp

Chantel B.

Yelp

Tom S.

Yelp

Laura W.

Yelp

S M.

Yelp

The atmosphere needs some serious work. If this is the beginning of the decor then fine, but really it is kinda wimpy. Drinks are so so. I would give it a hard pass.

Herschel R.

Yelp

This place is amazing! I'm so glad they opened up. I'm always brining friends and colleagues here. The drinks are great and so is the selection of food. Just what you need on a chill night out.

teresa m.

Yelp

Sad Valley

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