From the outside, this place looks like it could be really trashy. When you step inside, however, you become transported to a time when greasers were hipsters and everyone rode a motorcycle. It's awesome. We loved the decor of the bar and the pseudo-champagne-room lounge area in the very back, too. We ordered simple cocktails and were really pleased with how friendly the staff was. We glanced at the bar menu and wished we hadn't already eaten as the bar fare was exactly up our alley (poutine fries, grilled cheese, etc). Seemed like a great place for friends to meet up and we wished we had a place like this in Boulder! read more

This review is only of the scene/food during weekday lunchtime. I like a broken in slightly divey bar. Someplace comfy but isn't completely trashed either. Kelly's fits this to a T. Decorations are garage/motorcycle themed, and everything looks to be clean and in good working order in the bar/restaurant portion of the place. I have been 7 or 8 times for lunch on weekdays (but never night strangely enough) and watched some sports and sat at the bar. Bartender is always kind, efficient and happy to help me out. Bar is usually 90% empty at 12pm on a weekday and I read the paper, watch the tv and have a burger or whatever. Everything I've ordered, including their pulled pork sandwich special, was good and tasty and I liked eating it. Even the Cobb salad. Prices are reasonable. I haven't had any alcohol here either. Hmm, I really need to come back in the eve and listen to some rock and have a drink, but as a weekday lunch spot it is nice and calm if you like to eat in a bar. My only complaint is the men's restroom is just terrible and needs to be upgraded cleaned up... but for a rock n roll dive bar, it doesn't really bother me that much. read more

Time: Monday night, few weeks ago Mission: Watch a band for a last minute music review for a rock n roll class Success Bribe: A in class.. or failure equates to.... failure... NOOO!!! I had a class the next day, and I quickly googled my way into Kelly's Olympian. I needed some live music on a Monday night- and I really couldn't put it off another day. I decided to just do it, alone. I packed my purse with the safety essentials- pocket knife, keys, IPod, phone, got on the bus and wandered to the bar. Here's what I saw: The large Kelly's Olympian neon sign reminded me of walking into some type of casino, the area surrounding reeked of the pungent pee-smell of the outdoor "urinals" and there were a few homeless men wandering the street, their toothless smile inquiring for spare change. "Sorry, I have none.", repeat, "Sorry, I have none.", repeat, "Sorry, nope, none." I finally feel safe as I enter the doors. The guy who checks ID's was standing in the doorway, toking on a cigarette. Free cover- sweet! I went up to the bar and ordered a Widmer, my comfort beer. Took a few minutes to get the bar tender's attention, during which time this larger figured crusty man made some obscure comments, "HAHA! You're wearing pearls! That's fancy!" I gawked at the wall behind the bar, hoping the guy would notice I wasn't listening. "Why soooo faaancy? Huuuh?" finally I grabbed my beer and wandered around trying to figure out where the music was. I left my pride at home and asked the bouncer, to which he pointed at a solid wood door with little hints to it's contents. If I wouldn't of asked, I would have left in frustration. Through the door I went! I took a seat near the back, at this point the entire bar was pretty dead, save for Mr. Bigcrust and some other people scattered around smoking. I waited.. and waited... and waited. FINALLY, 20 minutes late, music starts. First band (Neon Culpa) rocked. I'm not here to review them, so I'll save that. Second band... hmm. They're called, "Gods and Kings"... but they felt neither Godly nor Kingly. The singer was apparently drunk, made some offhanded comments about nipples getting hard from the bassist playing- note: I was the only female left in the bar at this point. And more random banter ensued. The only saved factor was the guitarist. The sound on the second band killed my ear drums, and they rung all the way home. Moral: Don't go to a bar near Washington and 4th as a 5'3" woman, alone, on a Monday night. I guess I could have figured that out- if I wasn't desperate. Summary: Beer was moderately priced, basics are available. Bartender is nice, once you get the attention. There are apparent regulars that go here, avoid them, unless you really want to hear about that weird mole they found on their foot the other day. Music is hidden behind a creepy wooden door, but it's a risky business. Some is good, some is terrible. BRING EARPLUGS! read more

I could not really care nor dislike this place that much. It's on an odd location that matches it's patrons. The service can be a tad slow but you'll get served in due time. Faster if you smile. This is my old joint and it's less divey than my regular dive and neighborhood bars. As for beers, food and whatnot, there is nothing special about this bike themed bar. read more

This is definitely the bar we come to when we're in the area and looking for a cheap drink in chill bar. This place can definitely get hoppin' but the bartenders are always quick, nice and none of that silly "I'll deign to serve you now" that seems to inhibit of lot of bars lately. The space is huge, with various vintage bike hanging from the ceilings and other car/motorcycle type decor. There's tables up front and open booth-esque seating in the back for larger groups. Basically, on previous experiences I would never say "let's go here". Kelly's has become a dive bar that has transcended "dive bar" is the negative and has become that go to we enjoy a ton. Thank's for the turnaround. We will, and have, been back. read more

I was made a fine drink, a fine nacho, and was kept in fine company. They make my drinks right in front of me as I ordered them and had my food out to me as quickly as possible, I've got nothing bad to say about the service I have received and at Kelly's for the few times I've been there! Always a full crowd inside, if that's your thing. read more

I had a drink here on a Tuesday night. It was fun. There was a good mix of people and the bartender was friendly (and cute which always helps). I like bars for the atmosphere they generate and this was pretty comfortable, I have to say. It was clean and seemed pretty open even though there was a good significant amount of people there. Everyone was cheery, nothing was really divey, and all in all it was a good place to start the evening. All was not easy-peasy slick vinyl, cute bartenders, and fun peoples. There was an obvious element of danger to the place in the form of motorcycles hanging precariously over your head as you ordered your drink. Subtle sense of danger. Check. (Are those wires REALLY going to hold!?!?!) I'll go back here, for sho. read more

Been here before and had a great time but I came by tonight and the bouncers said "don't even bother" as we approached. I'm asked why. They said because we were visibly intoxicated. None of my friends has had more than 2 drinks and we got into another bar no question. I told them that we were sober and the bouncers just laughed and told us to move along. We had walked 4 blocks to come to this bar because we'd had such a great time there before and this completely ruined it. They proceeded to embarrass my boyfriend by laughing at him when he became frustrated that we weren't allowed in. We will not be coming back and we'd had a great time previously. read more

Love this place. Has a cool biker theme, and I felt like I wasn't cool enough to be in there. BUT...the service was quick and courteous. The bartenders were fast. The food was good and didn't take forever. It's not a five star restaurant, but it surpassed my expectations for the crowd it appeals to. read more

We were tourists in Portland, but if you're a traveler who can appreciate a dive bar with great food like we can, stop here!! Mac and cheese bites were awesome, and we would have tried one of everything if happy hour hadn't ended. Side note, happy hour ends at 7, which is later than most places we ran into. read more

Kelly's Olympian - Dive Bars Near Me - Portland, Oregon

Sweet people. Fun environment. Could use some touch ups on the bathroom but other than that it's a great spot. read more

Kelly's Olympian - Late night Kelly's bar - Dive Bars Near Me - Portland, Oregon

Drinks were decent, service was given reluctantly but rapidly. I did not eat there, nor did I really venture out of the band side... but seems like a neat place that I'll check out sometime outside of a friend's band playing. read more

My husband and 2 of his friends were in Portland for work. They decided to come to this place and as my husband was getting his ID checked, the bouncer decided to break his ID in half. Apparently it's the "bend test" to see if it was fake. Are you serious???? My husband is in his mid 30s along with his 2 friends who also had the same State issued ID in which the bouncer saw too. Now we are having to get another ID. Mind you we live in VA and he's there for work on a contracted govt job. Do you know how much a hassle it is to get an ID when he's across the country? Let alone he has to travel back to VA and now his ID is damaged because the bouncer decided to he needed to prove some sort of point. Now what? We have to do the dirty work for an incompetence of a bouncer. No,him and his friends weren't drunk or slurring so please enlighten me on how this is right in any way. I promise you we will present an intentional tort case to your establishment. Update: after the debacle, it finally has been situated. I must say the GM of the restaurant was understandable and efficient. She communicated well considering the circumstances. If I wasn't across the country, I would definitely revisit this place or have my husband give a do-over. Thank you for your hospitality. read more

Decent dive bar with some great daily specials. It's a spot I stop into pretty much every time I visit Portland. Caution: I was overly rambunctious with my fish tacos, they come out quick and hot; burned the hell out of my mouth. read more

It looks like a wonderful dive bar if the bouncer lets you into the bar. Apparently having a bubbly personality is not welcomed when trying to get in. Out of state tourist money is frowned upon. We were lucky to find our way to a better bar down the street. read more

I've been coming to Kelly's for a number of years and always thought it on point. My experience today took a decidedly different direction, in the best way. Tony, the treasure behind the bar, was beyond attentive and accommodating. I was in a funk and he helped me right out of it. Cheers to you Kelly's and we'll played on hiring such a capable steward. You're the absolute best! read more

Tony had incredible service and great recommendations. The chicken sandwich paired amazing with the beer and football on TV. My new local Sunday football spot. read more

Quintessential dive bar. Cheap booze and bar food. Added bonus: They serve breakfast. Music at the right volume, lighting perfect. Service friendly on 2 consecutive visits. Very likable. Good chill space. Welcome relief to higher priced restaurants in the downtown hotel district. read more

Kelly's Olympian - Bar interior. - Dive Bars Near Me - Portland, Oregon

I'm traveling with my sister and we just stopped in for a quick drink.. There is a great beer selection and also Tony pretty much took us under his wing to make sure we felt at home and also gave tips of good places to visit while we're here.. Miranda and Thomas were also awesome! It was honestly a bright light in our trip and If I ever find my way back in Portland, I will return! read more

Great vibe, good food, awesome staff! I stopped by on my way to work and was greeted by Gigi. I ordered a burger and was served quickly. Gigi was welcoming and super friendly made sure I was happy with my order. She knew customers by name and acknowledged everyone that came in. I'll definitely come again :) read more

After a long flight and long day touring Portland, I needed a good Oregon craft brew. I was staying at the Hotel Monaco and didn't feel like venturing too far away (at least to start). Enter Kelly's. I drive past Kelly's to get to the hotel and it looked promising. I rely on Yelp for everything and the reviews here did not let me down. Granted it was a Monday night, the bar was packed (but not too much). Traveling solo, I pulled right up to the HUGE bar and was greeted swiftly by the bartender. As a former bartender, I greatly appreciate that. I let them choose my first IPA (having only been to Portland twice before). Great beer list, awesome bartenders, cool vibe. Loved the vintage Triumphs, Ducatis, and other racing bikes HANGING FROM THE CEILING. Didn't try the food but looks like decent bar fare. Will definitely be back next time I'm in town. read more

Kelly's Olympian - Vintage Ducatis, Triumphs, and more line the ceiling. - Dive Bars Near Me - Portland, Oregon

Nice Portlandia experience for happy hour on a Friday evening. Loved the "biker" bar look. Busy but enjoyable. Had a good vibe for sure! Radler on tap was a definite plus, too. read more

My sisters and I were having some not so great luck eating in Portland (having way overpriced crappy food) -but that was until we landed at Kelly's. The bartenders/servers were so extra nice and attentive that we felt welcomed right away. Then the food came! It was excellent - not only super tasty but plated so nicely. I would definitely eat here again and highly recommend to anyone. read more

Good beer, great food, nice interior. I ordered an Oly and hamburger and was served an Oly and Amber - cleared that up, got delicious hamburger then waited and waited and waited to close bill - finally got a bartender attention and was told I was no longer being served as I was "observed nodding out at the bar". Paid my bill and went to airport to go home - felt weird about it all week until I checked Yelp and find it is not unusual customer experience at Kelly's . Seems like it is kind of like the hot dog truck in Philly where the workers call you names and it is all part of the fun. read more

What a fun bar! I was in Portland on vacation - a bartender at another Portland bar recommended Kelly's to us. We were there early before the crowd, but had a great time talking to Tony and Thomas - two of the bartenders. They poured great drinks and gave us some terrific suggestions of other things to do in town. We noticed they offer a lot of live music there as well. We ordered some appetizers which were very tasty. If my stay in town had been longer, I'd have loved to go again. It will be on my list for any future visits to Portland. read more

First night in Portland and we ended up here. Two of my friends and I were thirsty and hungry and found this gem hidden in what seemed like the desert that is Downtown Portland. We saw the parked bikes outside from a block away. We went in. We saw the parked bikes on the ceiling. Then we were ready to drink. Most of the patrons we saw were pretty tame-looking, to our dismay. However, the other side of the bar was pleasantly tattooed and some even donned the rockabilly mutton chops. The staff was friendly without being unnecessarily chatty. I like that in a bar. The burgers we ordered (Ducati & Route 66) were delicious and filling. The beer selection seemed pretty diverse to me, but then again, I'm from San Francisco. What the hell do I know about Portland beer diversity? I just know that I liked the option to try different local brews with my burger while looking at pre-WWII motorbikes hanging above me. The jukebox put up a scrappy playlist throughout the night. I've seen professional DJs who couldn't keep up as consistent a set as the jukebox in here. Overall, this is a solid bar. I'm glad I got to start my Portland trip on a strong note. read more

Did a one night in Portland and looking for a casual spot near my hotel to grab dinner. I hit Yelp on my phone and found my way here just two blocks away. This would definitely qualify as a dive place, which I have no problem with. But for some reason I became invisible the moment I entered the place. I sat at the bar ready to have dinner and not one but two servers glanced at me and walked past me several times without a word. The bar is long but was only about half full. I had nowhere to go so I waited and caught up on emails. Maybe it's just that I'm ugly. But hey, us ugly folk gotta eat, too. Finally I shed my cloak of invisibility and they could see me now. I ordered Kelly's Burger with Swiss cheese and fries. It was decent. Typical burger. Nothing bad, nothing special. The place is pretty worn, especially the old wooden floor from like 1789. To put it in perspective, every time someone walked behind me, my seat literally sank a bit into the floor. It felt like someone was leaning on the back of my seat and the first couple times it happened, I actually turned around to see if someone was. Which would have been creepy since I don't know anyone here. After a while, I just got used to that sinking feeling. Something cool here are the motorcycles. They have several hanging from the ceiling. Never seen that anywhere else so that's kinda unique. All in all, decent food but nothing outstanding. It's probably a good lunch spot or late night hangout with your friends. Just don't get stuck in the floorboards. read more

This place is AMAZING!! Gigi is literally the best bartender!!! She makes the best drinks and is the most down to earth person!! She really makes sure you love your drink and you're satisfied! read more

This is a pretty neat bar with a lot going on. It's lively on the weekends and is a cool music venue. It would have been a 5/5 if it weren't for the bartender who recently served my friends and me. We had a friend visiting from out of town and we all wanted to show him a good time. Unfortunately, the dude bro with a number of tattoos and gauged ears was a bit hostile and it was a little embarrassing for us locals. Every time we came up to order he would get impatient with us .0001 seconds after we approached because apparently we didn't spit our orders out fast enough. It wasn't as if we were standing there slack-jawed and holding up a line (there wasn't anyone behind us for the majority of the time). He gestured for us to hurry up, rolled his eyes, and acted put-upon by our very presence. At first I gave him a normal 20% tip because I figured it was busy and he must be stressed out in the moment, but after receiving attitude multiple times I stopped tipping altogether. The other bartenders were nice. Oh how we wanted to have them take our orders, but Dudebro pushed them aside all but one time to take them. That being said, I like the atmosphere and most of the employees. It's a fun place that hosts local bands and has plenty of places to sit. Would be enjoyable if Dudebro wasn't a factor. read more

If I was going to be reviewing this as an overall restaurant, it would probably be three stars. However, given the fact that it's a straightforward bar, it deserves four stars. I would say the food is one mark above your average barfood. I ordered the BLT with a salad and the Mac & Cheese Bites to start. Both are very good. The craft beer selection was excellent, I was pleased to see they had Boneyard on tap. Boneyard is an excellent brewery out of Bend, Oregon. This place is not family-friendly. I was on my way to the PDX Motorcycle Film Festival, and rode my Harley in. The ambience was excellent with all of the motorcycle decor. read more

Kelly's Olympian - Love the motorcycle parking!! - Dive Bars Near Me - Portland, Oregon

See all

A little pricey but great place! Fun interiors with old motorcycles and RC planes hanging from the ceiling. Old neon signs. Good drinks. The fries were great too. Pinball machines. read more

Cool atmosphere, great drinks. We stopped in for something to eat. Ordered the crispy chicken sammiches with tots and fries. Not bad, pretty average for a bar food menu. Seems in the presentation of the food that the kitchen does care about the quality of what there working with. Great hangout spot with lots to look at! Thanks! read more

Got there and ordered a drink at 2. Told the bar would close in ten min at 2:05. Told to get the fuck out at 2:15 while the bartender grabs the beer out of my friends hand, mid drink. Gets her teeth gnashed against the glass, gets half a beer down her shirt, then gets flipped off by the bartender. The old guy running that "bar" needs to resolve his issues. Can I give less than one star? It's not just bad service because it's a dive bar... it's treating another human inhumanely. read more

I recently moved to Portland from Seattle and started working in downtown Portland. One of the hardest things about moving has been leaving friends and neighborhood community behind. So, when I found Kelly's Olympian and the wonderful bartenders there it was/is a slice of home. All of the staff have been amazing and personable. Whether I'm getting a whisky on the rocks or a cocktail the drinks and the staff have been amazing. In particular, GG is a gem of a soul. She fills the space around her with positive energy and makes a point to say hello when I walk in. Her warm, caring personally in a bar that has genuine character and life is something I worried I wouldn't find in my new city or possibly ever again. Kelly's Olympian has helped Portland become home. read more

The place has a nice feel and atmosphere, with typically good service. Had one incident of poor service and judgement on the part of their management. People in decision making capacities should be able use facts and sound reasons to back their decisions. I will assume this one person's decision, was based on them having a 'bad day' or something. Just an FYI Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease which can cause joint flexibility to be reduced, and can cause a significant limp in a person's gait. read more

If you want quick drinks and good food come here. Some of the quickest bartenders in Portland.

I love Kelly's Olympian. Years ago, this place was a smoky dive which had its own charms but I find it way more accessible now - particularly during my lunch break or right after work when I don't have to worry about taking oxygen breaks or wreaking of smoke upon my return to the office. First, the place is spacious (enough) with a long bar and plenty on tap. Lots of neon and vintage motorcycles throughout the place. The bartenders have always been nice, the food is always prepared well and the full bar is always in full swing. I even had arranged a mini-birthday after-work blowout here and without reservation, they gave us attention and ample space to have a great time. In closing, I will say that many years ago, upon my first visit to Kelly's, they were playing some hair metal videos on their big screens. After a few drinks, one of my friends was feeling down - and feeling the music and the general feeling of 'rock and roll', decided to lighten his mood by standing on the table and telling him, "It's all good, baby!" at which point I was kicked out of the bar for standing on a table. ...not that rock and roll, I thought, but still a great bar with great service. Big points for being downtown and definitely, as good as it gets. read more

Went to this bar on my 23rd birthday and this place definitely made the night memorable. I wish I could remember the bartenders name but he just kept bringing us delicious drinks. Great service, great atmosphere and it's in the belly of downtown Portland. You gotta check this place out. read more

I discovered this historic, motorcycle themed bar on a recent trip to Portland and I really dug it. Lots of neon signs, good beer selection, great happy hour specials and vintage motorbikes hanging from the ceiling. As a Triumph owner I enjoyed sitting at the bar beneath an old Bonneville from the 70's. Parking directly in front is motorcycle only so it looks like a bikers' clubhouse, but it's a normal place with a cool staff that anyone could enjoy. read more

Good little divey bar with a cool atmosphere. Great drinks big mirrors and motorcycles all over the f****** place! read more

Kelly's Olympian - Dive Bars Near Me - Portland, Oregon