The Embers Avenue

Embers is the granddaddy/lady of the gay bar scene in Portland. It may or may not be politically correct, but when I was in high school, the City was where the kids went and Embers was for the 21+ crowd. Everyone knew the gay bars had the best music, and so that's where we went, gay/straight, didn't matter if you liked to dance. I recently went to Embers for "afters" with some friends, and it's a good spot to hit up. Really it's two different venues in one: a back area bar/dance floor/nightclub, and a front area bar/cabaret stage. Both have good things going for them. Drinks are reasonably priced and well poured. Rarely had to fight for a space at the bar to order or wait for a drink, even if busy. The back dance space is solid, and the music good. As for the front bar, I've only been there when they've had a drag show and it's a hell of a lot of fun. Hard not to have a good time at a drag show. Because it's closest of the Old Town entertainment area to the Park Blocks, and easier place to find close by parking than most. Definitely on the list if you're doing an Old Town pub crawl.

Went here for my birthday and had a wonderful time. The drag show was great! All the bartenders were friendly and helpful. The atmosphere was so welcoming and not intimidating at all. Will definitely be coming back.

We went on a Friday night looking for a dance scene. The music was good and they have requests. There wasn't a whole lot going on though. If you're looking for a mixed scene, then I could see this place having potential, but if you're looking for a gay scene, I recommend going elsewhere. Also, the bar area was dead and we had to wait an exceptionally long time to get served.

i can't help but to keep coming back to this place. perfect dance floor in the heart of downtown. the music they play is top 40s so it's easily danceable and this crowd really really likes to dance! the other half is karaoke and they have a fishtank bar, so cool!

All around Party Place. If you like to dance, head to the back area let loose, no one will judge you. I personally enjoy the drag shows as they are always entertaining. There are a couple of pool tables and some Video Poker for you gamblers. The drinks are ok and the bar tenders are frisky. :) Always a good time for all.

I have had many fun dancing nights here. Drinks aren't bad. Staff is friendly. Drag shows are fun. Definitely a historic venue in Portland.

The drag shows in the place are fun! I love how big the place is! The latin night is super fun! The music is great! The wait staff was super fun! I like everything about this place. I wish it had more people in it.

$5.00 cover for their Drag Show and so-so dance nights. (Latino night is fun) If you're going for the drag show, you're better off saving your money for other drag shows around town! The drinks are ok, but the fish tank bar is really sad to look at. (It's like the alternative ending to Finding Nemo... the not so "happily ever after" one.) I normally order from the inside bar because of that!