Jen M.
11/3/2025
I came here on a Sunday morning. No reservation right about 9:30 and was able to be seated. But be aware around 10-10:30 it gets packed. I sat at the bar and felt like it had ample space. Plenty...
Besaw's
$
Open
(141)
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1545 NW 21st Ave
Portland, OR 97209
It started as a dream of opening their own beer parlor and gambling hall. And in 1903, George Besaw and Medric Liberty did just that. At the time, a booming industry full of loggers, longshoremen and their families were populating much of this vibrant corner of the Pacific NorthwestAfter Prohibition was repealed, Besaws was granted the first liquor license in the state of Oregon. The cafe quickly became the most popular meeting place amongst locals, with a reputation for a stiff drink, a scrumptious meal and lively conversation. Besaws' ethos remains a simple one: providing delicious, seasonal and local food and drink, with genuine warmth of heart. Under its current ownership - Cana Flug has been at the helm since 2005 - Besaw's has seen its iconic status grow, from neighborhood favorite to national attention. Spacious, Art Deco-inspired ceilings, innovative lighting design and handcrafted wallpaper, genuine standard of service, delicious food, and spirit of community.
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Reviews
3.5141 reviews
Marianne St. G.
10/31/2025
There is a reason Besaw's is a Portland institution. Had a reservation for 10:45am on Halloween and were seated promptly. We ordered drip coffee, the Columbia Coffee cocktail, and a non alcoholic...
Jim H.
7/23/2025
I love coming here. This particular experience wasn't the best. We arrived at 1:30pm for brunch on a Sunday. They sat us promptly at a table of our choosing (it was still very busy but we had a...
Keizzel C.
6/12/2025
I would rate this closer to a 3.5 but rounding up because they were able to seat us right away for a weekend brunch under a shaded area outside. I had Besaw's bookmarked before they were closed...
Lindsey M.
9/6/2025
I got the shakshuka which was quite delicious. The eggs were cooked well with the runny yoke and balanced out the brightness of the tomato sauce. I will say if you're a big eater then you may have...
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