The Green Room

Beneath Portland's renowned Multnomah Whiskey Library, The Green Room Portland emerges as an intimate sanctuary where scholarly mixology meets emerald-hued elegance. This ground-level cocktail lounge, designed by the acclaimed ELK Collective, transforms the traditional waiting room concept into a destination worthy of its own pilgrimage, welcoming both walk-ins and whiskey library members into its viridescent embrace.

Conceived by owner Alan Davis as an accessible counterpoint to the exclusive library above, The Green Room represents Portland's mature cocktail culture at its finest. The space showcases the ELK Collective's masterful design vision through emerald subway tiles, worked brass details, and wooden wainscoting, all crowned by a commissioned relief artwork from Randy Detjen that pays homage to distillation's ancient craft. Under the guidance of general manager Lani Sickman, this intimate venue has quickly established itself as a cornerstone of Portland's sophisticated drinking scene, embodying approachable luxury without pretension.

The cocktail program elevates classic mixology through creative scholarship, with bartenders who approach each drink as both art and science. Signature offerings include the effervescent "Green Room Fizz," a sophisticated homage to the classic Ramos with gin, fresh lemon, sugar, and cream, and the adventurous "Peppercorn Tonic," where premium gin meets pink peppercorns and house-made tonic water. The "Stormy Morning" presents an intriguing contradiction of champagne, crème de violette, and fresh lime that exemplifies the bar's innovative spirit. The premium craft cocktail menu extends to expertly prepared martinis and inventive mezcal-based creations, with happy-hour specials featuring fresh oysters paired with perfectly chilled martinis.

The elongated space accommodates only a handful of guests, creating an atmosphere of intimate exclusivity enhanced by incandescent bulbs and library lamps that cast a warm, golden glow. Service reflects Portland's welcoming ethos while maintaining urban sophistication—bartenders engage personally with each guest, offering thoughtful recommendations based on individual preferences. The no-reservations policy encourages spontaneous discovery, though the limited seating means timing is essential for securing a coveted spot at the brass-detailed bar.

For discerning cocktail enthusiasts seeking Portland's most refined drinking experience, The Green Room offers an unparalleled combination of artistic design, scholarly mixology, and intimate hospitality. Walk-ins are welcomed throughout the week, with early evening hours providing the most relaxed atmosphere for conversation and cocktail exploration in this emerald jewel of Portland's cocktail crown.