Wayfinder Beer
Brewery · Buckman
304 SE 2nd Ave, Portland, OR 97214
Highlights
Craft lagers & ales, comfort food, huge patio w/ fire pits
Craft lagers & ales, comfort food, huge patio w/ fire pits
"Wayfinder opened in the fall of 2016, drawing crowds not just for its beers, but also for the large outdoor patio — one of the most popular gathering spots at any brewery in town, with ample seating and a cozy fire pit for those not-so-warm evenings. Though it’s lager-focused, Wayfinder still offers a few inventive IPAs and other, more obscure styles. Most recently, the brewery made waves in the local scene and online with its Cold IPAs. Locals rave about the simple-yet-focused pub fare, such as the sausage plate with sauerkraut and fries, which also has a vegan friendly option using Beyond sausage." - Ron Scott
"This Central Eastside brewery offers a gorgeous wooden deck that succeeds in creating a cozy space in the middle of an industrial district. Perched above the street up a small flight of stairs, the Wayfinder patio offers a combination of wooden banquettes, fire pits, and tables for a space that feels inherently social. Outside its strong lineup of beers, you’ll find a handful of cocktails and a German-inflected menu — the pretzel here is a particular standout." - Nathan Williams
"Though we lost the chic seafood bistro Jacqueline due to the pandemic—at least for the time being—the space is currently home to its alternate concept, Fair Weather. If that sticks around permanently the trade-off will be worth it, as Fair Weather brings an excellent brunch program to Clinton Street. That means caffeinated cocktails, of course: the Crooked Rain is an intriguing highball that pairs dark rum with coffee and tonic. The bitterness of the tonic and richness of the rum balance those opposing aspects in the coffee, making for a refreshing and bubbly drink that pairs excellently with the playful and indulgent food. Plus, the coffee in question is made by Push X Pull, one of the city’s finest roasters." - Alex Frane
"Unlike the majority of Portland brewpubs, Wayfinder also sports a pretty solid cocktail menu, with some fun items like a Scandinavian negroni made with aquavit (a bold move in a city with so many excellent cocktail bars ). But the real focus is obviously on the beers, and while there are plenty of ales on the menu, the brewery distinguishes itself with its plethora of crisp lagers, including helles, pilsners, and even black lagers on the rotating tap list. It also doesn't skimp on the food side of things. The menu is mostly hearty pub staples, but with a few extras. There's the requisite nachos and burger, but also steak frites, banh mi, mac and beer-cheese with add-ons, roasted beet salads, fried cauliflower, and more. It's equally serviceable for a full dinner or just some snacks to go with the beer." - Alexander Frane
"The brewery and taphouse Wayfinder is back open, with its massive wooden patio near the river open for business until 9 p.m. each night, with fireplaces roaring and umbrellas up for shade or rain." - Alex Frane
