12 rooftop bars for every occasion in Portland

With Portland’s supply of summer days dwindling, it’s essential to make the most of the remaining sunny season. Our ideal afternoon includes drinking cocktails on a patio overlooking the city. To share our favorite pastime with you, we hit as many rooftop bars as we could to find the perfect roof for any occasion. From deluxe downtown high-rises to casual happy hour lounges, there’s a spot for every affair under the sun.

Best for a date night: Lolo Pass

For a date night in eastside Portland, don’t pass up this rooftop patio on top of a lively hostel. The cheese and charcuterie was delicious and perfect for sharing. We loved the clover club cocktail. The building also offers some fun summer events including salsa parties, comedy and trivia nights.

Details: 1616 E. Burnside St., 503-908-3074, lolopass.com

Best for food: Tocayo Rooftop Bar at Palomar

A fan-favorite, Tocayo was everything we hoped for in a rooftop bar. Stunning views of the city, Mount Hood and Mount St. Helens, paired with refreshing frozen drinks and amazing bites. Tacos, ceviche and esquites rounded out the Mexican and Cuban-inspired menu. Although the selection was limited, the items included were incredible. We can’t stop thinking about the elotes, which were some of the best we’ve ever had. The pop-up will only be open until Sept. 30.

Details: 959 S.E. Division St., 971-357-8020, barpalomar.com/rooftop

Best for drinks: Noble Rot

Featuring a rotating wine selection, creative cocktails and a small beer selection, Noble Rot knocks it out of the park with their drinks. The wine-driven food options and wine flights add to the experience if you’re looking for a longer meal. The restaurant includes a small patio with great afternoon sun and a view of Burnside — but be prepared with a reservation.

Details: 1111 E. Burnside St., 503-233-1999, noblerotpdx.com

Best for the view: Departure Restaurant + Lounge

For an unparalleled view of Portland, we loved Departure’s rooftop lounge. Deluxe appetizers and cocktails served atop a 15-story building in the center of Portland, yes please! The glass railing meant there were no obstructed views and gorgeous sights all the way around. We were also drooling over the Departure wings and 75-ish cocktail.

Details: 525 S.W. Morrison St., 503-802-5370, departureportland.com

Best value: Radio Room

The Alberta Street bar and lounge hooked us in with its mid-century style and casual rooftop patio serving cocktails in 16-ounce glasses. The atmosphere is perfect for sipping spiked lemonades with friends on a sunny afternoon. With an extensive menu — from burgers to tikka masala — there’s something to satisfy every craving.

Details: 1101 N.E. Alberta St., 503-287-2346, radioroompdx.com

Best for happy hour: Metropolitan Tavern

An all-around favorite, Metropolitan Tavern surprised us. Their generous happy hour and tasty offerings were a match made in heaven. The mango basil drop was the perfect summer cocktail and the truffle-parmesan fries could not have been devoured quicker. With a great view of North Portland and a fun atmosphere to match, we’ll definitely be heading back to the Met soon.

Details: 1021 N.E. Grand Ave., 503-963-3600, mettavern.com

Best atmosphere: Tope Rooftop Restaurant

On top of the trendy Hoxton hotel, Tope towers over Old Town serving Mexican-inspired street food and some of the best rooftop vibes. Bask in the sun while sipping on a spicy margarita and enjoying some delicious tacos for the full experience.

Details: 15 N.W. Fourth Ave., 503-770-0500, thehoxton.com/portland/tope-restaurant

Best for beer lovers: 10 Barrel Brewing

One of the only rooftops specializing in beer, 10 Barrel Brewing is in its own league. The restaurant includes an expansive selection of beer and plenty of delicious eats — nachos, pizza and burgers are their forte. Additionally, their beer flight — including 10 pre-selected samplers — is a complete steal.

Details: 1411 N.W. Flanders St., 503-224-1700, 10barrel.com/pub/portland-brewery

Best for meeting up with friends: Xport Bar & Lounge

For a more social atmosphere with great food and drink options, check out Xport. With two separate patios and a spacious indoor bar and lounge, there’s plenty of room to spread out and catch up for hours. In addition to their delicious snacks and unique hand-crafted cocktails, the downtown rooftop has great views of the city in all directions.

Details: 1355 S.W. Second Ave., 503-306-4835, xportportland.com

Best for sports and dancing: Jackie’s

Jackie’s is one of the only rooftops where you can catch a game on the roof before stepping downstairs into a live DJ dance party. The rooftop includes two large screen televisions and is one of the only fully shaded rooftop patios — which can be a blessing on more scorching afternoons. Their Hype Garden is a popular weekend spot after the sun sets, so be prepared for a large crowd late into the evening.

Details: 930 S.E. Sandy Blvd., jackiespdx.com

Best for pregaming a concert: Roof Deck at Revolution Hall

If you’re ever catching a show at Revolution Hall, make sure to head to the roof early enough to get a drink. The rooftop is directly connected to the concert venue and includes a great view of downtown. Although it’s a bit more crowded on weekends, so be sure to check in early for the best seats.

Details: 1300 S.E. Stark St., 503-776-5500, revolutionhall.com

Best for small gatherings: The Sunset Room at Pacific Standard

The more intimate rooftop at Pacific Standard was a great spot for snacks and whimsical drinks. The frozen watermelon mojito was incredibly refreshing and the bread with seaweed butter was a fun treat. Obscured by tall shrubs and overhead shades, the ambience is serene and perfect for any event. The roof can be booked out for anything from yoga to weddings.

Details: 100 N.E. Martin Luther King Jr Blvd., 971- 346- 2992, kexhotels.com/eat-drink/thesunsetroom

— Chiara Profenna

503-221-4327; cprofenna@oregonian.com; @chiara_profenna

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