Steff D.
Yelp
I'm actually pretty smitten with the Bearded Lady and would say it's one of my favorite cocktail spots in the Greater Portland area. I feel like I find myself here more than I realize (though, admittedly, first thing when they open or midweek -- so I'm not sure what a late night Friday or Saturday crowd looks like).
Here's what I love...
The lack of signage.
That I never know what to expect when I'm walking in -- the decor/flower situation changes just enough that it always feels like something is new or different; I once came when it felt like an 80's wedding had just taken place (bouquets as large as me, enormous flowing gauzy sheets hanging from the ceiling), I've also been when everything was lit up with blue and green lights and it felt like a bar under the sea. I don't know what's really going on here... and I like it. Segue:
Same is true of the cocktails. They're always changing. So don't fall too in love with something - and if you wanna try more than one you should since they actually serve half sized options (for half the price). I have never done this, but maybe you have more restraint than me. And, for goodness sake, if you have no idea what the heck something is, just ask. The bar staff here has always been really patient and informative when I've had a multitude of questions.
The snacks. I don't know what it is, but the snacks here are actually amazing. Specifically the olives, the dill crackers, and the hummus (if they still have those things, get those three things together on a plate. YUM.).
Strong drinks, cool vibe, nice staff, secret upstairs seating, fun bathrooms, not in a touristy part of town. What more could you ask for?