Probably one of the most entertaining nights I've had in Portland was had here with a bunch of girls like me who had never seen anything like it except for the one that led us all there. I'm telling you, some of them really and truly looked absolutely like women. That was more entertaining than the male strippers, by far. What a fun, fun place! Minus one star for only one bathroom. read more

Darcelle XV. What more do I need to say? As a Portland fixture for more than 37 years, this is THE place to see the fiercest drag queens in town strut their stuff. There is lipsyncing, huge wigs, tons of make-up and just as much attitude. There is glitter. It can get a bit overwhelming with the bachelorette parties, especially on the weekends - male strippers perform every Friday and Saturday at midnight. Reservations are required for large groups and you should be prepared to wait outside in line before the show starts. (They don't take reservations for the centerfold performance; if you attend the Darcelle show you just stay or can get a pass to return the same day.) CC Slaughter's next door is a popular spot for groups waiting for the show to start. It's not for the faint of heart or the easily offended, but if you are looking for a good time $15 gets you and your friends an evening of fun, good music, and of course some of the hottest fake ladies in Portland! read more

Three stars because of Poison Waters. She is hilarious and really knows how to work the crowd. Darcelle doesn't seem to know what's going on, she asked all of the birthday people and brides to stand up, asked their names and who they were and repeated this at the end. Not sure if she forgot or chose to do this twice. She also became very rude with a birthday girl told the staff to take her microphone away then called her stupid for something insignificant. It made the whole audience uncomfortable and nearly ruined the experience. It's obvious she feels this is her show and all eyes need to be on her. Also, be aware that they lip sync, no live singing. The rocky horror tribute was fun! read more

Super fun drag show that everyone needs to experience once in their life. Ladies come to celebrate birthdays and bachelorette parties mostly. We went to the 10:30pm Sat show and had the time of our lives. Darcelle was out front to take pictures with everyone as they entered the show. Get in line early, at least 1/2 hour before doors open and make sure you have a reservation. For sure book the late show so you can experience the male strippers! read more

It's worth going to at least once. This is a great location for a 21st Ladies bday or a bacherlorette party. The show itself is pretty tasteful, basically a bunch of guys dressed up in women clothing. So they were all fully clothed. Then after midnight they have the male 'dancers' come out ;) You pay a flat rate fee and pay the same price if you were to go to either just one or both. So obviously the best deal is to do both in one day, but there are plenty of people who'd rather just see a performance instead of the 'dancer' or vise versa. My friends and I went to the 8pm showing which gets out around 9:30 and then came back at midnight. They offer another 10pm showing in which you can just stay seated and wait for the dancers to come out. Reservation is highly encouraged and my group of 3 made our reservation with no issues and had no problem being seated. The drinks are moderately priced. Service was good. I was able to get two daiquiris in before the end of the show. The bathroom, however, is quite small. They only had one semi-claustrophobic stall for the ladies. read more

Darcelle and all the Girls are amazing at DarcelleXV. My Boyfriend and I had an awesome night. The show is so much fun and the drinks are strong and the mozzarella sticks were delicious, well we were drunk so of course they were :) I would recommend this to anyone who loves a great drag show. read more

Darcelle XV - My Boyfriend and I had an Amazing time with Darcelle and all the Girls at DarcelleXV - Bars Near Me - Portland, Oregon

Went for my girlfriends bachelorette party and had an absolute blast! Never been to a drag show before and was very excited. The ladies have been doing this a long time, obviously love what they are doing and enjoy getting the crowd involved. Fun dance numbers. Lots of 80s and 90s with a few newer songs mixed in. Attentive servers, cheap drinks. Show itself lasted about 1.5 hours with a special surprise after midnight that I recommend sticking around for. Really enjoyed seeing people do what they love and being proud of it! The only reason I give it 4 stars is the bathroom situation. One stall for all the females in the place. It's small, very dirty and extremely warm in there. I understand this place is an icon but they've got to do something about the ladies room. Other than that, I really think this is a must see while in Portland. read more

I love this show!! I've seen it several times over the years and it's one of the best cabarets. Such great comedy, choreography and God bless Darcelle for all she does for the community and still getting up there at her age. Definitely check it out! read more

One of the oldest drag venues in the USA, and the oldest on the west coast! Check out Tuesday's "Catch A Rising Star" to experience true drag nightlife in Portland. Darcelle is most likely the hardest working drag performer in the business, and local queens like Poison Waters are Portland essentials. The weekends can be overwhelming with pre-wedding parties, but this institution is a MUST VISIT for anyone coming to Portland. read more

Came here for the first time with a couple of coworkers and had a great time! I honestly didn't know what to expect but I was NOT disappointed. We showed up around 7:45 with prior reservations. Despite our reservations, we ended up getting seats against the wall literally right in front of the path to the bathroom, which sucked. Once we started the show, it seems like every 5-10 minutes, we had to scoot back to let somebody in. We didn't let it ruin our fun though. Our bartender, Leo was incredibly attentive and even better, he was fast. I was worried that I'd finish my drink and be sitting for a while, but I never had the chance to do that. Drinks came ridiculously fast. They were marked up of course, but at $7.75 each for top-shelf vodka, I think it's pretty good! The show...the show was so much fun! These ladies poured their heart & soul into it and do an amazing job. I'm hoping to go back sometime in the summer. If you have a birthday or any special event here, they definitely put the attention on you, so be prepared! :) read more

This is fun! The drinks and bar fare are reasonably priced, AND they don't skimp on the alcohol. My drinks were strong. The ladies are pretty impressive. Liza is shockingly good. Miss Behavin' was so gorgeous and her make-up was absolutely flawless, I would love her make-up tips! Be ready to drink, and enjoy a bawdy comedy show, and you'll have a blast! read more

Amazing! Awesome! Incredible! Perfect spot for a birthday party or a bachelor/bachelorette. Darcelle is a hoot and so, so nice. The show was hilarious and an all around blast. As others have said, make a reservation and arrive early. read more

The ONLY reason that I am going give one star is because of the lack of customer service I received when trying to attend a show. My sister made reservations for my bachelorette party and was given instructions to be there by 7:45 and that is all. We arrived right at 8:00 while people were still being seated. When we got to the door we were told the show was sold out. I stated that we had reservations and was told that it didn't matter. I understand that they need to fill the seats and that sometimes people probably don't show up, but it was so unbelievably disappointing to be turned away when we had reservations. Isn't that the point of making a reservation? Basically, don't worry about making a reservation because they don't acknowledge it and will fill your seat. read more

I went to Darcelle's as part of a bachelorette party group, and so did most everyone else in the crowd. In the past I've seen some good drag shows other places that were actually entertaining. Here, the drag queens are geriatric, and the songs they lip-synced to were Broadway musicals and hits from the 80s and early 90s, like Celine Dion. Most of the queens didn't dance, just strutted on the stage, which I found boring. It was like this show has been in a time warp, and not in a good way. Also not good: They have *one* bathroom stall for the whole building and the place has a weird odor to it, like a stank of previous cigarette smoke and sweat has been lingering for decades. But some things I can say for the place is that Poison Waters and Darcelle did make me laugh with their standup comedy, improvised based on the audience for a few minutes here and there between sets, the drinks were good and reasonably priced, and the service was friendly and attentive. However, I would not go back and would discourage others...unless you want to go for historic value. read more

what can I say... horrible drinks... but really do you come here for the drinks???oh gods no... you come to watch one of the oldest Drag queens in Portland and have a ball with your friends. There was so much laughter .... tears ran down some of our faces we were laughing so hard. Considering the lovely Darcelle is like 80years old and can still put on that kind of performance......wow. The humor is of course on the dirtier side of humor but that is why we go. I have heard the food is good I have just never tried any of it. we went with a rather large crowd and we all had a blast!!!! read more

I will always give this place 5 stars! I have been to drag shows here, there, and everywhere. Its a good cause for a good laugh. I been here twice and each time was a different experience. One time is was packed and the other, not so much. Its good to make reservations so that you have a saved spot. You can request where you want to sit and if you dont want to get stuck in the middle of a cramped row, ask for the wall area. **Please note that if you are anywhere near the front or seated at the seats on the stage, you will get ragged on..no joke! It may not be fun for you, but it will be hilarious for everyone else. It is what it is really...You are seeing a drag show primarily run by 84 y/o Darcelle. She is just divine and to die for. 84! Are you kidding me...what will YOU be doing at that age. The other performers range in age, so you may get a Liza song or a Beyonce song depending on who is lip syncing. For those that mention anything about lip syncing, seriously? Did you think you were going to be getting the real singers? Let's keep it real... its a drag show with lip syncing, dirty/trashy jokes, and strong drinks. Yes you will spend a little $, but again its for a good cause and worth it. read more

Oh, to have seen Darcelle's in its heyday. Today the show is still entertaining, as far as drag shows go. But... it is all showing its age, tattered and worn. The comedy is vulgar and catty, teetering on the edge of hilarious but sometimes dipping into the, "That's just sad" category. The performers range the drag gamut from those who are so clearly not feminine that their blobby bodies and caked on fake-up is laughable to a few stars that really do pull off an amazing transformation. Check out the web site of Poison Waters for an example; she's one hot trash mouthed beauty on stage... you'd never imagine the man behind the mask. I was especially fond of Mr. Mitchell, the show's male anchor. He was charming and funny. To be so after doing this for 20+ years... he must still be having fun. As for the ladies, my favorite was Felicity Charmichaels. She mingled with the line outside before showtime. The way she carried herself in her evening gown was fascinating, and she had that confounding mix of gender bending confusion that the best drag queens can generate. The numbers are all lip synch; I've enjoyed shows more when they really depend upon the musical and physical talents of the performers. The venue is clean but shabby, and while some people make a big deal about Old Town, truth is at night it's bustling and busy and the energy is contagious. Not to mention, watching drunk skanks run down the sidewalk in high heels at 1am is hilarious! We went to the late show on Friday, and were... uh... treated... to the strippers afterward. Someone needs to tell these guys that, seriously, we aren't there to see their interpretive dance to some old rock song. When it takes a male stripper ten minutes to begin to get the clothes off... interest has waned and the women have left. It was kind of sad. Really sad, in fact. Not that the men weren't attractive, but... remember what you're there for! =-) I did beg $4 off a friend for a quick lap dance by the "fireman", but after about 30 seconds I was like, "Okay, that's enough, get off of me and move along." It had all been rendered really pathetic when I watched the first stripper (the "cowboy") practically beg the bachelorette party that was there to pony up $40 for him to "really get the bride-to-be good." They were like, "Ew, you're old, go away." He didn't quite get it. A great evening of fun. Darcelle is soon to celebrate his 80th... wow. read more

I have never been to a drag show before (unless you count Julia's in Cap Hill) and this was a blast! Darcelle turned 81 years old this year and would never know his age unless he told you. Great shape for his age! And great energy. The performers were hilarious. They danced and lip synced to an eclectic mix of old classics like Cabaret and new jams like Adele. And they picked on the audience a little which added to the fun. Side note: the "strip show" at the end is really not a strip show. Just a few guys coming out one after the other doing solo routines and giving lap dances. Nothing seemed planned or choreographed. read more

Been to Darcells the last two years for my Birthday and had a lot of fun. It is just a cute DragQueeen Broadway show that pleases to entertain! You do not see very many men in attendance, mostly women and mostly Bacholorette Parties. I think the show is just FUN and love the Portland feel from this establishment. Last year when I went we stayed for the Male Stripper show which is rate XXX....be careful you may not want to see what they have to show you! Or maybe you wil :) Make sure you make reservations- it is packed every weekend. Make sure you come soon before Darcell herself retires....she/he is hitting 80!!! read more

Took my mom-in-law to Darcelle's for her first drag show. We all had a really good time and laughed quite a bit at Darcelle's schtick. The dancers did a good job - no live singing though. The waitresses were prompt but the restroom facilities were inadequate. Recommended as a group outing. Bachelorette parties seem to have a really good time. Just don't rub it in Darcelle's face that he and his partner of 30+ years are still not legally able to wed and you and the boy you just met are -- she doesn't like that very much -- makes her grumpy for some reason! O_o read more

I was just here for my 21st birthday and I had an amazing time!!! We were all sharing each others drinks to see what tasted good. And the food is great too. The shows are about an hour and a half and will make you laugh. Your camera will have to be charged because you should be taking a lot of them!! I'm planning another get together there with friends! Don't forget to bring some money to tip the ladies while they're preforming! Tip your favorite ones! It's a blast! read more

Darcelle XV - Singing Lady GaGa - Bars Near Me - Portland, Oregon

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Went out for ladies night, and honestly was just so disappointed in the show. Some of it was fun and entertaining and I loved being able to support a local treasure (I'm local but had never been before), but the drinks were subpar, the food was less than desirable, the jokes mostly weren't landing because they were sped through and slurred so badly, and half the show completely lacked energy. Plus of course the extremely outdated music, I didn't even know a lot of the songs that they performed, it was way before my time and 29 so not exactly a spring chicken. I felt like I wasted so much money and definitely won't be returning. However, if you are of the older generation, you may enjoy it, perhaps ages 50 and over? But definitely not for the younger crowd. read more

I've never been to a drag show before so I wasn't sure what to expect when my friend and I decided to check this place out. My friend and I showed up about half way through the show and the guy in the front didn't even collect our cover charge because of it. The show was side splitting funny as Darcelle himself told numerous dirty jokes throughout the night. The rest of the show was comprised of Darcelle's "ladies" as they danced and sang. The drinks there are reasonably priced and they are strong! You can't really taste the alcohol, however you can feel it once you stand. This is a must see show if you ask me. read more

This is a show to see! Drag Cabaret at it's best. Darcelle and the "girls" are awesome and friendly. It's always a good time. I even had my Bachelorette party there! It's a must see when you come to Portland. read more

Even though I never made it into Darelle's, I will give you my experience. OK! I went there for my best friends bachelorette party, along with every other bridal party having a bachelorette party that night in the state of Oregon. This alone isn't the bad part. The bad part was the group behind us was straight out of the trailer park.. So this may not be nice to say, but maybe they should have proved that stereotype wrong. To start off they were completely waisted. So waisted that the 300 lb. bride pulled down her panties right on the sidewalk in front of us and pissed on a bush while her f'ed up mom puked on the side wall. When we decided to go elsewhere because it was nasty, and we commented that it was nasty, one of the bridesmaids followed us down the street trying to pick a fight with us. Seriously Broad! 20 against one stumbling drunk girl. Please! That is my Darcelle's experience in a nutshell. read more

Horrible! I was waiting in line and no lie I was the last one ... as soon as they got to me they couldn't let me in because they had no room lol seriously?! Last in line all by myself and you had no room? Very unhappy! Came out from Florida was hoping to see this beauty and nope it was like no big deal..no sorry no nothing! Very unhappy!!! Worst experience in Portland! read more

We arrived on a Wednesday night and unfortunately our party was the only one in attendance and no one else showed. But everyone at Darcels was amazing! They gave us drinks on the house, refunded our money, and gave us additional tickets to come the next weekend with more friends. Really great experience! We are excited to come back next week! read more

Darcelles! Delicious, Dive-y, Dongs (of foam). More than slightly creepy from the outside, Darcelle's is a lot of fun when you get in and order a Fresh Boy (or any number of fruity drinks) from the menu. I went with coworkers and we had the first few rows to ourselves. The jokes are rude, sexy, sick... it all makes for a good time. Definately go to the later show for a rowdy crowd, and bring some singles to stick in cleavage. read more

The staff is the nicest I have ever encountered! They are super helpful and attentive. You really do feel like you are being taken care of.

The drag show was pretty good but the male review after is not good. There were a few good performers but generally they were boring...no flow to the show. read more

Had a great time. Made reservations for my friends bachelorette party for the 10:30 show. Got there around 9:30. Didn't have to wait long. Drag queen show was great. Male review was ok. Barely any dancing. Mainly the guys just coming out taking there clothes off fast then grinding on ladies in the audience. And the guys were really young. read more

Beware. It really wasn't that good. The waiter was extremely rude. After I paid a whopping 15 bucks just to see some tired queens, and was shown to my seat by the rudest door lady on earth, I was told by the waiter that there's a 2 drink minimum. So I order the ginger ale, and give him my debit card. He does not give it back. I keep reminding him. He does not give it back. He held my debit card hostage for 20 minutes until I ordered another drink, in an effort to get it back. Still 10 minutes of worry goes by, and I still don't have my card back. Finally, at the end of the show, he gives me my card back. And guess what, I went to the store afterwards, and they said that my card was declined due to insufficient funds, when just earlier I checked my account balance and I had more than enough money on it. That waiter stole my money. Oh you bet tomorrow morning I'm going down there. read more

Darcelle's is an institution. Do yourself a favor and get there while D is still shakin' it. Too soon will it be gone (or changed) and all we'll have left is an image seared on our brains like a cattle brand of D's drooping pale cheeks framed in chaps. Giddy up, Rhinestone Cowboy! read more

Do this one time and that's it. The raunchy goodness has a shelf life of one visit. If your girlfriend's getting married, wants to go,and you've never been, have fun. read more

If you're looking for a great time, do not come to Darcelle XV. The entertainers were extremely rude to select members of the audience and the waitress double charged for drinks. If I were Darcelle, I would reevaluate the staff and maybe hire some nicer, honest people. I would not attend, nor would I suggest that anyone attend this bar, ever. read more

Great drag show, but I feel that this whole thing is strangely heterocentric. I brought a male friend and I was told that none of the dancers would "dance for a male". Com'n, now. Forty bucks is forty bucks and eff you, intolerant assholes. read more

I went to DarcelleXV on June 22,2019 for my friend Bachelorette party and had a blast and plan on going back for my Birthday in August but I dont know if I will wait that long, loved it great show. Thanks DarcelleXV and all cast crew you all were fun and very friendly. read more

This was OK. Nothing to brag about in my opinion. My friends and I had never been to a drag show before so we decided to go. Some of the girls are very talented at what they do and others don't put forth any effort. I'm not overly impressed. The chairs were uncomfortable. No leg room. It was subpar. Lol wtf was up with the bathroom though? I won't be going back but I'm glad I went for the experience. I seriously couldn't understand what Darcelle was saying MOST OF the time because she was obviously intoxicated. Our waiter was pretty... inexperienced acting and kept messing up orders. Overall... not that great. Just being honest. read more

A big piece of history, came for an evening out with friends and really enjoyed seeing Darcelle roast the brides-to-be! Clearly some dated numbers, done with a wink; this place is a great time for a strong drink and tipping some talented ladies! read more

Despite the overpriced cover charge, Darcelle's is a Portland staple. It's fun, drinks are decent, and the entertainers are well trained. If you're claustrophobic, I suggest sitting in the back. On a full night you're packed in like sardines and getting up to use the restroom is a joke. Darcelle and Company do a good job interacting with the audience and gracefully handle those occasional strange guests. read more