Overview
Produce Row Café is a Portland institution that has been serving the community since 1974. Originally opened as a breakfast café for produce dockworkers in 1953 the venue was converted to a pub by Mike and Brian McMenamin in 1974 and has since become a beloved destination for craft beer enthusiasts and music lovers alike.
History and Evolution
The building was constructed in 1951 and has a rich history in Portland's industrial district. Before becoming Produce Row it served as both a breakfast café and a barbershop. The McMenamins transformed it into one of Portland's original craft beer bars helping to establish the city's reputation as a craft beer destination. The venue has evolved through multiple iterations from being the de facto home base of Portland's pre-millennial indie-rock crowd to an unlikely IDM and EDM hang in the 2000s before being revamped into a New Portland beer hall.
Music Programming
Produce Row has been home to multiple generations of Portland's music scene. The venue hosts a diverse range of live music events including the Tuesday night jazz jam session led by trumpet player Pablo Rivarola. The session begins at 8:00 PM with an hour of jazz from a rotating house band followed by two hours of curated jamming featuring some of Portland's best young jazz musicians. The venue also hosts funk nights DJ events and various other musical performances throughout the week.
Tuesday Jazz Jam
The Tuesday night jazz jam has become a cornerstone of Portland's jazz community. Led by Pablo Rivarola the session provides a platform for Portland's finest young jazz musicians to explore improvisation and connect with fellow players. The intimate basement-style venue creates a casual atmosphere perfect for musical experimentation and community building.
Beer and Food
Produce Row features an extensive craft beer selection with over 20 taps and more than 200 bottles showcasing local and international breweries. The venue offers two happy hours with separate menus (4-7 PM and 11 PM-2 AM) plus an all-day menu featuring American-style cuisine and comfort food. The covered and heated patio provides additional seating and has become a popular spot for outdoor gatherings.
Location and Atmosphere
Located in Portland's Central Eastside Industrial District at 204 SE Oak Street Produce Row is easily accessible with ample street parking. The venue maintains its Old Portland character while offering modern amenities. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming making it an ideal spot for gathering with friends seeing live music and everything in between. The venue's multiple spaces including the main room mural room and outdoor patio can accommodate events of various sizes.