Expatriate
Cocktail lounge
5424 NE 30th Ave, Portland, OR 97211
OUR SCORE
3.0
ACCOLADES
- Named one of the “Best Bars in America” by Esquire in 2014
- Featured in Playboy’s “Best Bars 2015” list
- Included in Eater Portland’s list of “38 Essential Portland Restaurants, Fall 2017”
- Voted as one of Portland’s best cocktail bars by the readers of Willamette Week in their “Best of Portland Readers’ Poll 2016”
- Mentioned in Thrillist’s “Best Cocktail Bars in Portland” roundup
REVIEW & BAR SUMMARY
Tucked away in the vibrant heart of Portland's Northeast neighborhood, Expatriate is a haven for those with a penchant for impeccably crafted cocktails and an ambiance that whispers of far-off places and bygone eras. This intimate bar, with its globally-inspired décor, beckons the discerning traveler and local alike, offering a retreat where the art of mixology is celebrated and every sip tells a story.
Upon crossing the threshold of Expatriate, one is immediately enveloped in an atmosphere that is both eclectic and sophisticated. The dimly lit space is adorned with an array of artifacts and books that evoke a sense of worldly adventure, creating an environment where each patron feels like a character in a novel set in some exotic locale.
The cocktail menu at Expatriate is a curated selection of libations that showcase the bar's commitment to quality and creativity. Each cocktail is a masterpiece, carefully composed with house-made syrups, infusions, and the freshest ingredients. One might find themselves intrigued by the 'Laotian Corn Whiskey Collins', a twist on the classic that marries the rusticity of corn whiskey with the brightness of fresh citrus. The 'Thai Basil Daiquiri' offers a herbaceous kick, blending the traditional rum base with the anise notes of Thai basil for a refreshingly complex flavor profile.
For those with a love for the timeless, the 'Expatriate's Negroni' is a must-try, balancing the bitterness of Campari with the sweetness of vermouth and the depth of gin, served with an expressive swath of orange zest. Meanwhile, the 'Burma Sour', a sultry mix of bourbon, lime, and orgeat with a hint of pandan leaf, is a testament to Expatriate's flair for incorporating global influences into its cocktail craft.
As patrons savor their drinks, they are serenaded by a carefully selected soundtrack that echoes the bar's worldly ethos, ranging from rare vinyl to contemporary beats. The experience at Expatriate is more than just an evening out—it's an excursion into a realm where the love of fine spirits and the joy of escapism meet, making it a must-visit destination on Portland's map of indulgent pleasures.