Scotch Lodge

In Portland's evolving cocktail landscape, Scotch Lodge emerges as a transformative whisky sanctuary where Tommy Klus's visionary approach redefines how America's most discerning drinkers experience Scotland's finest spirits. This intimate cocktail lounge challenges every preconception about whisky bars, trading stuffy tradition for playful innovation while maintaining unwavering respect for craft.

Founded in 2019 by industry veteran Tommy Klus—former curator of the legendary Multnomah Whiskey Library—Scotch Lodge represents the culmination of decades spent understanding whisky's untapped potential. Klus's philosophy centers on accessibility without compromise, creating a space where rare collector's bottles coexist with boundary-pushing cocktails that showcase whisky's versatility. This approach earned immediate recognition, with Portland Monthly naming it 2019's Best Bar, cementing its status among Portland's luxury bar destinations.

The cocktail program at Scotch Lodge defies convention through masterful innovation. The signature Namesake cocktail—featuring Islay scotch, cherry liqueur, sweet vermouth, and amaro—exemplifies Klus's genius for unexpected flavor combinations. The visually stunning Painkiller Cobbler transforms tropical expectations with ube cream of coconut, sherry, pineapple, and orange, while other creations incorporate elements like yuzu, Yakult, and blueberry popping boba. Beyond cocktails, the pages-long whisky menu features extraordinary rarities and hidden gems, each bottle carefully selected for its story and character. Premium craft cocktails are positioned accessibly, ensuring luxury remains approachable.

The bar's design creates an escapist respite that feels both sophisticated and welcoming. Thoughtfully unconventional interiors blend comfort with intrigue, while the somewhat hidden location adds to its allure as Portland's most coveted whisky destination. Interactive service elements, including cocktail carts for tableside presentations, transform drinking into theater. The intimate setting accommodates both romantic encounters and solo exploration, with every detail designed to enhance the transformative experience.

Service at Scotch Lodge emphasizes education through enthusiasm, with knowledgeable staff eager to share each bottle's provenance and guide guests through flavor discoveries. The approach remains refreshingly unpretentious—expertise without intimidation, sophistication without stuffiness. Reservations are recommended for this sought-after destination, particularly during peak evening hours when Portland's cocktail connoisseurs gather to experience Klus's whisky wizardry. Smart casual attire suits the refined yet relaxed atmosphere perfectly.

Scotch Lodge represents more than exceptional drinking—it's Portland's premier destination for whisky enlightenment, where tradition meets innovation in every perfectly crafted glass.