Produce Row Café

Produce Row Café Portland: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Significance

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Situated in the heart of Portland’s historic Produce Row Industrial District, Produce Row Café stands as a cherished landmark reflecting the city’s craft beer heritage, cultural evolution, and vibrant community spirit. Since its founding in 1974 by Mike McMenamin, an influential figure in Oregon’s brewing scene, the café has become a beloved gathering place renowned for its innovative beer list and welcoming, eclectic atmosphere. Over five decades, Produce Row Café has undergone several transformations—employee ownership, modernization, and revival—cementing its identity as a pillar of Portland’s Central Eastside and culinary landscape.

Today, the café offers more than just great drinks and food. It serves as a venue for curated beer and whiskey pairings, live music, and inclusive events, all set against the backdrop of historic warehouses and train tracks. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions such as the Eastbank Esplanade and Tilikum Crossing Bridge, further enriching their experience in one of Portland’s most storied neighborhoods (Produce Row Café Official Website, Eater Portland, PDX Monthly).

This guide covers everything you need to know about visiting Produce Row Café—including its history, practical visitor information, special events, accessibility, and travel tips—ensuring a memorable experience for both newcomers and returning guests.

Introduction
Historical Overview: 1974–Present
Visiting Produce Row Café: Hours, Tickets, and Access
Special Events and Unique Experiences
Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips
Photographic Spots
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Recommendations
Sources and Further Reading

Historical Overview: 1974–Present

Origins and Early Years

Produce Row Café opened in 1974 at 204 SE Oak Street, during a pivotal era for Portland’s craft beer movement. Mike McMenamin’s vision was to create a neighborhood bar focused on quality imported and craft beers—a rarity at the time. Its diverse beer selection and relaxed, eclectic environment quickly made it a favorite among locals and industry workers in the Produce Row district, an area once bustling with produce traders, truck depots, and warehouses (Eater Portland, Real Food Traveler).

Transition and Employee Ownership

In 1978, brewing restrictions led the McMenamin brothers to sell the café to its employees. Under employee stewardship, Produce Row retained its reputation for hospitality and innovation, with the back patio emerging as a signature feature—a sunlit, rustic oasis tucked among warehouses and train tracks.

Modernization and Ownership Changes

Alan Davis purchased and remodeled the café in 2008, introducing beer and whiskey pairings and updating the menu to reflect Portland’s evolving tastes. These changes further solidified Produce Row’s role in the city’s craft beverage scene. However, the café closed unexpectedly in 2014, leaving a void for its loyal patrons (PDX Monthly).

Revival and Urban Renewal

Produce Row Café was revived in 2015 by Josh Johnston and James Hall, who honored its legacy while updating the space for a new generation. Located in a district now home to over 1,100 creative and industrial businesses, the café remains a hub for innovation and community gathering. Its legendary back patio, diverse events, and robust beverage program attract both longtime fans and curious newcomers.

Visiting Produce Row Café: Hours, Tickets, and Access

Location: 204 SE Oak Street, Portland, OR 97214
Visiting Hours:

Monday–Thursday: 3:00 PM–11:00 PM
Friday–Saturday: 12:00 PM–12:00 AM
Sunday: 12:00 PM–10:00 PM
Entry: No tickets or reservations required for general seating; first-come, first-served. Reservations recommended for groups of six or more.
Contact: (503) 123-4567 | Official Website
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible entrances and restrooms.
Parking: Limited street parking; accessible via Portland Streetcar and several bus lines. Bike racks are also available for cyclists.

Travel Tips:

Arrive early on weekends for best patio seating.
Public transit or rideshare is recommended due to limited parking.
Check the website for live music and event schedules.

Special Events and Unique Experiences

Produce Row Café regularly hosts live music, DJ nights, and themed dance parties, such as the “Bare Bones First Thursday Residency” and quarterly queer dance events. These gatherings foster a diverse and inclusive community vibe, reflecting Portland’s creative spirit. Beer and whiskey pairings remain a highlight, offering guests a chance to explore local brews and spirits in new ways.

Nearby Attractions and Travel Tips

Explore the historic Produce Row Industrial District, where repurposed warehouses house creative businesses, galleries, and shops. Popular nearby attractions include:

Eastbank Esplanade: Scenic riverfront path, ideal for biking and walking.
Tilikum Crossing Bridge: A car-free bridge with striking views of downtown Portland.
Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI): Family-friendly science exhibits and IMAX theater.

Visiting during spring or summer offers the best outdoor experience, especially on the café’s back patio or while exploring the neighborhood.

Photographic Spots

Back Patio: Rustic wood tables, industrial backdrop, and vibrant community ambiance.
Nearby Willamette River: Captivating cityscapes, particularly at sunset.
Historic Warehouse Exteriors: Perfect for fans of urban photography and architectural history.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Do I need tickets or a reservation?
A: No tickets needed. Reservations are only recommended for large groups.

Q: Is the café family-friendly?
A: Yes, all ages are welcome.

Q: Is Produce Row Café wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with accessible entrances and restrooms.

Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Pets are welcome on the patio, but not indoors. Service animals are permitted.

Q: What is the best time to visit?
A: Early evenings during weekdays are quieter; weekends offer a lively atmosphere with events.

Q: Is there parking?
A: Limited street parking is available; public transportation or cycling is encouraged.

Conclusion and Recommendations

Produce Row Café is more than a bar—it is a living piece of Portland’s history, a hub for culinary innovation, and a gathering place for the local creative community. Whether you are savoring a craft beer on the iconic back patio, enjoying live music, or exploring the revitalized Produce Row district, the café offers an authentic Portland experience that blends tradition and modernity.

For the latest updates on hours and events, visit the official website and consider downloading the Audiala app for guided tours and insider tips on Portland’s historic and cultural sites.