Scotch Lodge
Cocktail bar · Buckman
215 SE 9th Ave #102, Portland, OR 97214
Highlights
Whiskey-focused bar with inventive cocktails & PNW-inspired small plates
Whiskey-focused bar with inventive cocktails & PNW-inspired small plates
"The bar suggests considering coffee as an additional awards category, pointing to robust coffee cultures in cities like Portland and Chicago that merit recognition." - Sam Nelson
"Scotch Lodge arrived on the Buckman craft cocktail scene with instant approval ratings guaranteed by its owner–legendary Portland bartender and Scotch whisky advocate Tommy Klus. But beyond its vast collection of grain spirits and impeccably executed beverages, the loungey subterranean dwelling has become a destination for chef Tim Artale’s innovative approach to modern Pacific Northwest dining. Guests watch cooks in the open kitchen artistically plate scallop and ahi crudos with unexpectedly harmonic garnishes of black grapes, hibiscus, and red yuzu kosho, which change out periodically depending on the chefs’ latest interests and seasonal availability. A visit to Scotch Lodge can be a casual weeknight with friends, characterized by plates of dill pickle-spiced fries and avocado-dolloped arancini; its moody interior also warrants a romantic occasion. In either circumstance, while not necessary, it’s worth making a reservation during prime dining hours." - Katrina Yentch
"This subterranean cocktail bar is home to an A-Team of bartenders, who bend, twist, and expand what we expect of whisky. Pulling from a truly jaw-dropping list of spirits, bartenders milk-wash vodka with coconut milk before combining it with orange liqueur, cranberry, and pomegranate, or take smoky scotch and pair it with mezcal and lapsang souchong sweet vermouth in the Loch Stock. The food menu is full of stunners, as well, be it a pumpernickel-rolled fried brie with verjus syrup or a bowl of pasta with seaweed butter and candied duck. Scotch Lodge takes a few walk-ins, but it’s best to get a reservation." - Rebecca Roland
"An acclaimed bar recognized for its exceptional beverage offerings and service." - Erin DeJesus
"There’s something about taking a date down a flight of stairs into a subterranean spot that feels particularly clandestine in a romantic way. The below-ground Scotch Lodge is such a spot, a hidden-away library of whiskies from around the world, though the drams are hardly the main draw here. Lauded bartenders mix drinks with everything from genmaicha to coffee vermouth, pulling bottles of Ardbeg and Teeling 17-year, cognac-finish single-malt as additions. The food is equally matched with the beverages — think granita-topped oysters, scallop crudo with rambutan, and pappardelle slick with seaweed butter." - Katrina Yentch
