Bar Loon shines as a sophisticated gem in Portland’s culinary scene, nestled on SE Belmont St. This stylish bar and restaurant redefines neighborhood dining with its fresh approach. The interior blends warm woods and industrial touches, with floral arrangements and sleek brasserie-style globe lights adding to its inviting, upscale ambiance. It’s the perfect spot for an intimate dinner, casual drinks, or a lively evening with friends.
What We Ordered
Bar Loon’s menu features creative cocktails and elevated small plates, each crafted with precision and care. The bar staff, known for their mixology expertise and warm service, ensures every drink and dish is served to perfection.
To begin our evening, we started with a trio of cocktails that delighted our palates:
- Pomegranate Spritz: A refreshing and festive drink, this cocktail combines pomegranate’s sweet-tart flavor with the effervescence of sparkling wine.
- Blackberry Collins: A beautifully balanced vodka-based drink topped with house-made blackberry ginger soda for a hint of spice and sweetness.
- Little Dirty Martini: A classic done right, this martini was perfectly chilled and had just the right touch of olive brine.
For the food, we sampled an array of dishes that showcased Bar Loon’s inventive approach to flavor:
- Fried Artichokes with Calabrian Chile Mayo: Crispy, golden-brown artichokes paired with a spicy, creamy mayo made for a perfect starter.
- Roasted Carrots with Tahini Verde and Za’atar: The standout dish of the night. The carrots were roasted to caramelized perfection and topped with a vibrant tahini verde and aromatic za’atar.
- Burrata Panzanella Salad with Delicata Squash and Pomegranate: This dish was a symphony of textures. Featuring creamy burrata, sweet delicata squash, crunchy toasted bread, and bursts of pomegranate.
- Grilled Prawns with Sauce Verte: Juicy prawns, grilled just right, were elevated by a bright and herbaceous sauce verte.
Ambiance
Bar Loon’s ambiance is part of its charm. The intimate, yet lively space feels polished but approachable. Music fills the air, and while the space has a vibrant energy and can get a bit loud, it’s still easy to comfortably converse with friends at your table. The glowing globe lights and thoughtfully arranged décor create an atmosphere that invites you to linger and enjoy. Whether you’re seated at the cozy bar or a candlelit table, every corner feels curated for comfort and style.
Final Thoughts on Bar Loon
Bar Loon is more than just a place to grab a bite or a drink—it’s an experience that combines exceptional food, inventive cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re stopping in for dinner or a full evening out, Bar Loon promises a memorable time. The thoughtful menu, standout dishes like the roasted carrots, and expertly crafted cocktails make it a must-visit destination in Portland.
Visit Bar Loon on SE Belmont Street and immerse yourself in an evening of exceptional food, inventive cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere that won’t disappoint!