Lively dive bat at the corner of the street. I liked the ambience and the drinks were soso affordable. Fries were also crispy and well-seasoned. Service could use some work though. The staff that helped us was very curt and almost angry at us for some reasons... read more

Great vintage bar. Friendly service and comfy vibe. A few outside tables, too. Good drinks. Great fries!

For being a bar this place has outstanding burgers. I ordered their Blackened Jalapeño Burger 10/10. We were in town visiting from LA and this is our friend's favorite bar. She's vegan and loves the burgers here. It's a bar so first come first serve. Once we were greeted we put in our drink order then our food order once we got our drinks. Just remember you're at a bar so don't expect the best service. You won't get it here. It's also a small bar. They have a few tables outside and tables inside. read more

Kay's Bar - Burgers Near Me - Portland, Oregon

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Still amazing every time we come. This is the best happy hour in Portland, hands down! read more

Kay's Bar - Burgers Near Me - Portland, Oregon

I always have such a great experience at Kay's. First and foremost the staff are so nice and engaging! They are quick and make a really great drink. I've only sat outside, which is great, so I can't speak too much to inside other than it looks really clean when I've walked through to use the restroom. I've tried a few different menu items and they've always been really good and huge portions! Today I tried the Bridge City Nachos, which were fantastic (albeit a little over salty). Highly recommend Kay's! read more

Kay's Bar - Bridge City Nachos - Burgers Near Me - Portland, Oregon

Kay's is one of those spots you can hit for happy hour and regular hours because the food is just that good. It's a little hole-in-the-wall with straight 90s diner vibes, and honestly that makes it even better. The service has been on point every time I've gone whether it was packed during peak happy hour or slow, I've always been helped right away. Now, the food? Single-handedly some of the best I've had. The $5 burger is insane for the quality juicy, loaded with toppings, and packed with flavor. The nachos are out of this world. The house-made chips remind me of Doritos, and the blackened chicken on top was grilled to perfection. I was craving nachos bad, and Kay's delivered beyond my expectations. read more

Kay's Bar - Nachos - Burgers Near Me - Portland, Oregon

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I'm sure I'll be back again to eat the nachos at Kay's! They were so good. I sat outside, which isn't much of a patio and you deal with a lot of road noise at the just intersection but the inside of this old school bar is cool. Our server was so nice and funny! read more

Kay's Bar - Funny sign - Burgers Near Me - Portland, Oregon

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I just ate the bridge city nachos.... I wish I could say "to myself" except my boyfriend ate some so i guess there's that. They were amazerful. read more

We love this place! Fantastic food great drinks and killer service! What more could you ask for. read more

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My Yelp review is based on the decline in service I've experienced at Kay's, and the owner's hostile response was the tipping point. When I posted a straightforward review, they chose to dig through my review history and attack my character instead of addressing the concerns. So here is my response to the owner, in a space where current and future customers can see it without the usual deflection. ------------------------------------------ Your response suggested that a customer who posts a negative review reflects more about the customer's character than the quality of your service. If that's the philosophy you choose to stand on, then it raises an obvious question: What about the many people who had similar experiences and didn't leave a review at all? Choosing not to speak up doesn't mean they were satisfied. It often means they were fed up and decided their time and energy were better spent elsewhere, especially after seeing how the owner responds with such hostility to former customer's feedback. Because that's what reviews are meant for: to offer critique, to reflect, and to improve so negative actions don't repeat. Ultimately, the goal is to provide a better experience for your customers. Instead of taking that opportunity, you chose to select certain customers and attack. Which only proves the point of my initial review. Let's be honest: My review history isn't the issue here. The real concern is the number of customers in the past six months who have reported the exact same behavior I experienced. Customers who kept giving Kay's "multiple chances," only to run into the same hostility, condescending tones, and uncomfortable interactions. And in just those recent reviews alone, five different women publicly shared experiences that match mine almost word for word. Coincidence? At the end of the day, we all just wanted the feeling this place used to give us. That's why so many of us kept coming back after sour experiences, hoping the next time would be different. But you can only get slapped in the face so many times before you finally speak up. In other words, leave a review. That's not "high standards." It's the bare minimum. Those Google reviews weren't me nitpicking. They came after years of supporting them, genuinely enjoying the experience, and then staying quiet after a negative encounter because I wanted to give them the benefit of the doubt. I really do believe in giving chances, because sometimes it is just an off day. But after giving chance after chance and hoping things would improve because I cared about the businesses I supported, nothing changed. And when the same issues keep repeating, customers can only tolerate so much. So yes, I left a review about an issue I experienced, because when problems don't get addressed, honest feedback becomes necessary. This becomes even more important when you look closely at who these reviewers are. Some of these recent 1-star reviewers were not random first-time visitors. They were repeat customers who had been coming to Kay's for years. I've been coming for six years myself, after my boyfriend introduced me to the place, and his family has been coming since the 80's. Do you even care? Obviously not. And just to be clear, I only referenced the customers from the past six months. I didn't even include others who shared similar experiences years ago. When loyal customers who genuinely came to appreciate the food, drinks, and the rich atmosphere of this establishment start noticing the same decline in service, it's no longer an isolated incident. It becomes a documented issue with the staff and management. I'm sure you're familiar with this word, PATTERN. That's something customers can no longer tolerate, nor should they. So take my initial Google review, as a peaceful farewell, and this second review as a moment of clarity. I genuinely hope you reflect for the sake of your future customers, but based on patterns, you probably won't. P.S. Since you felt the need to 'stalk' my review history, feel free to scroll through my Instagram too. That's where I support and promote my positive experiences at the restaurants I love with friends and family. read more

If you are looking for good bar food and refreshing drinks, Kay's is the place. Very lively on Saturday nights, but you might be able to grab that last booth in the back. Love the nachos, and they have a line of different flavored "mules" based on ginger beer and vodka. I had the blood orange and it was big enough to actually quench my thirst - besides being very tasty. Kay's is one of the oldest establishments in continuous service in Portland. Great vibe, great location, great place to grab a bite after a movie at the Sellwood theater. read more

I'm not sure what happened to this place. The first time I came here, I recall the staff being friendly and welcoming. Unfortunately, that is not the case anymore. Came by for HH and it was understandably packed. No welcome, no greeting, nothing while we stood there to figure out seating. I went by the bar to see if there were any seats. I saw a server and tried to ask what their procedure was for seating. Before I could finish my question, she snapped at me and said there's no waitlist. Okay, no problem. We stood there for a sec to game plan what we wanted to do when she came towards us and yelled in an aggressive manner that we were blocking her work station (we weren't even near her or the station). We decided to leave after that. We felt very unwelcome and wasn't sure if we did something to agitate or offend them. I'm glad I read the reviews because it seems this wasn't an isolated incident. It sounds like most who have had negative experiences here had the same experience we did. It was a very off putting experience. read more

Skilled bartender with a terrible attitude. Serving strong cocktails and solid food. Even better during happy hour. Overall a good place to get a bite and a drink. Nice booths to settle into, or belly up. 10/10, would recommend. read more

Kay's Bar - Hendrix & Soda w/Lemon - Burgers Near Me - Portland, Oregon

I love Kay's. I've been a patron since 1998, and it has never disappointed. I'm pretty sure I've tried most things on the menu, and for a decent dive bar, it's fantastic! Green lettuce! Decent scotch collection! (for Dad). I'm pretty sure I'll come back whenever I'm in Sellwood. read more

Fast and friendly. Had the hh burger and was surprised at the deliciousness for the price in a good way.

When I was a kid in Portland Kay's was a dive bar that was famous for chicken fried steak. At least that's my memory. Fast forward to more recent years. This place has simple, great food! There were 5 of us so we shared a nachos for the table with brisket. Oh my! Soooo good! My husband had the pulled pork sandwich and said it was oh so good! Our son had a hamburger and again, really great. The last two of us had wraps. I had the BLT wrap - which I would have again and again. Our friend had the chicken wrap. Again - shabam! So good! We wrap eaters had lunch for the next day. Service fast and friendly. Wine servings are kind of small. Beer is a good deal and they have interesting cocktails and moctails. We will try the happy hour next time. Looks good. Add this local place to your list of must try's. You will be a happy camper. They have picnic tables out side for nice days. read more

Kay's Bar - Chicken wrap too and BLT wrap on the bottom - Burgers Near Me - Portland, Oregon

Ambiance was super retro and classy. Leather booths and wooden walls feels warm and comfortable. Super chill bar to talk and lowkey, fries were better than the burger (mushroom Swiss) the bartender was straight forward and very fast, and stoic . Got the nectarine mule and it was FIRE. Husband asked for another double shot (6 shots total) in less than an hour and he declined. Good looking out for the customers too. read more

Kay's Bar - Mushroom Swiss Double cheese burger - Burgers Near Me - Portland, Oregon

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Place is not friendly to individuals with disabilities. Bartender is an utter pr*ck. He accused my girlfriend of vaping in the bar last time (as well as the table next to us), then next time we come back, tells us we can't sit and order food because of the alleged vaping. Neither of us vape, and the bartender claims he has it on video, i asked to see- he says he doesn't have it. We don't own vapes. Period. I have cptsd, autism, and several mobility issues--- to be humiliated and accused of something we havent done, and told i can longer come for what is honestly a banging five dollar burger. Find somewhere else, with actual values- this lad has NONE. read more

I love the ambience in this place. I used to go here all the time back when I lived in the neighborhood. And I thought the food was great. However, the last 2 times I've been there the burgers taste burned. Not sure what's going on as the patties themselves aren't burned but my best guess is there's some burned stuff on the grill or flat top that's transferring the burned flavor. One time is no biggie but it's been the same burned flavor twice now. I'll still go here when I'm in the neighborhood for drinks but will skip the eats. read more

Just the kind of cozy, old school dive bar I like! They have espresso martinis on tap, strong drinks, and a well-priced burger -- what more can you ask for? The fries were also pretty good! I'm not often in the Sellwood area but will definitely make a stop here again. read more

Great Burgers and Fries! Cannot ask for any better service. We haven't been to the Happy Hour yet, but from speaking with regular customers, it's definitely worth arriving early to get a seat. read more

Quiet Saturday afternoon stop in, grabbed a bite- while the menu isn't extensive there's some really good food to be had if the Governor Wrap is any indication: a pretty simple wrap, but executed very well and delicious and a HUGE sized "small" order of fries that were great tasting and plentiful. Service was impeccable, with the single bartender running table service for every customer there, including the outside tables. Said he worked the nights usually but was filling in, I'll definitely be coming back to enjoy again The interior would be at best described as "divey chic vintage", with old Schlitz beer signs and neons, and decor of wood shingles, advertising decor from the decades, and an overall look that says "welcome, but come in and act well, we don't tolerate fools"...wrapped in a cabin motif. I dig it, Kay. read more

I absolutely love Kay Bar! The atmosphere is cozy and comfortable. I can't believe I haven't written a review yet. We came for HH on a busy Tuesday late afternoon. We snuck in and took the last 2 seats at the bar. The bartender who was very busy greeted us. He took our order while multitasking which, I was very impressed with. We ordered 2 well Gin and Tonics and a HH Classic Deluxe 1/4 lb. beef patty with pickles, diced onion, & American cheese and fries. The drinks came quickly and were delicious! Kay's uses Gordon's Gin which is perfect for G&Ts. You really can't beat their HH prices for quality drinks. The burger came out within about 10 minutes. It was DELICIOUS cooked perfectly almost smash burger style which, I am a huge fan of. Excellent burger to bun ratio. Well seasoned burger with melty American cheese and a buttery bun that held together perfectly. The HH fries were excellent as well and a large portion. Shoe string style season well and crispy delicious. We love you Kay Bar you seriously have the best Happy Hour in town. read more

Kay's Bar - Deluxe HH Burger - Burgers Near Me - Portland, Oregon

Great place. I was meeting a new friend for the first time and she recommended Kay's. I've only been in Portland for about 8 months and hadn't tried this place yet. Very comfortable, nachos were good, and the service was great. I need to go back and try the burger. I'm in Sellwood and really need to spend more time in that part of town. Really liked it a lot. read more

Kay's is a neighborhood staple for all who have lived in the sellwood area long enough. They probably have the best outdoor seating on Milwaukie. Drinks came out quick, service was great, had a lot of local beer variety on tap. I got the derby nachos which were outstanding. The pulled pork was mouth-watering!! Generous portions also. Their unique tortilla chips are interesting--they do an in-house coating similar to dorito--it's tough to describe but it's really good tasting lol my only complaint is lack of video lottery terminals - it ain't everyone's cup of tea but i sometimes like to do a little gaming at the bar. of course i'll be back read more

Amazing fries and burgers, good drinks. Not a date night place unless into dive bar feel.

Love the food, love the beers and booze, bartenders are properly Portland and they actually have servers! Also great for vegetarians! Great atmosphere, get there early because seating is extremely limited and it gets crowded. read more

Don't wanna blow up the spot, but also want to make sure this place never closes. Cold beer, best moscow mules, solid burgers and fries, and the BEST nachos I've ever had. read more

My favorite bar in the world. Delicious food. Real customers. Happy staff. No video lottery. Cozy. Warm. Welcoming. Great drinks. All good vibes. I'm grateful I have continued to come here for years. read more

I've been going to Kay's for years. It's always been my favorite bar in the neighborhood. However, last time I went in with my wife, some guy stopped us as we crossed the threshold and said there was a wait. He then gestured to a couple huddled in the corner, waiting, in "front" of us. I glanced around the bar and noticed that everyone was sitting, no one was standing, and I got the message that Kay's is no longer a fun neighborhood bar, it's trying to be a restaurant. I told the door guy, no thanks, we'll go somewhere else( there are several other bars within a 3 minute walk) and he said "you do that." A sad end for a formerly great place. read more

It's the best bar food I have ever had. And great prices too, this is my favorite spot in Portland!

We came in for a drink and some food around 8:30. The bartender was a tattooed guy with short brown hair and had probably the biggest attitude ever. First when my friend asked for a glass for her canned beer he just walked away and the other waitress had to ask him if he heard her. When we were looking over their menu I overheard him saying to the other person waiting tables "these people want to order f**king food." And looked at us. We decided then to just drink the rest of our drinks and leave. There were plenty of other people eating and drinking. The male bartender before we left came over and asked if we wanted food and I said no and he asked if it was because he was being a smart ass, and I told him yes. Literally insane. Never coming back. read more

Hands down favorite burger in PDX! The waitstaff aren't the friendliest... we're regulars & every time we come there's zero recognition. Other than that - the burger is worth it! The classic deluxe is the bees knees, and the fries are TDF! (Order extra crispy). I do wish they were actually open the days/hours that are advertised... went yesterday & they were closed (said online open from 2:00 PM -12....this happens a lot) read more

Kay's Bar - Classic deluxe - Burgers Near Me - Portland, Oregon

Ordered online - Great classic burgers and their hand-cut fries seasoned with rosemary and salt was a tasty side - didn't even need ketchup! Will definitely be back to taste some of their other fare!! read more

I feel as if every review I have given for the restaurants in my new neighborhood has been five stars. I am usually not someone who just gives out five stars, so easily. Insert Oprah Winfrey meme, "you get 5 stars and you get 5 stars..." But, Kay's Bar deserves it. From the outside it looks a bit sketchy. Or, I'm sure they would prefer vintage dive bar. That really does sum it up. When you walk in it feels as if you've been transported back several decades. The inside is very dark and very dive bar feel. That isn't a bad thing as it is on the trendier side of dive bar and not the motorcycle gang hangout, you're gonna walk out with five less teeth version of a dive bar. We chose to sit outside, which doesn't have a lot of seating but what it does have provides a very cool vantage point of the neighborhood. The menu is it going to blow you away but the food is really good. I had Kay's Wet Burrito and it was incredible. The mole sauce was perfect. Everything about the burrito was perfect and I found myself wanting to lick the plate when I was done. I know Portland likes to be weird but plate licking, in public, might push the line. If you are lucky enough to make it during happy hour, the specials are really good. This was our second attempt at eating here because the first time there was a long wait. I can honestly say that it would have been worth the wait, the first time. It's that good. read more

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I've never had a bad experience at Kay's and tonight was horrible. The staff and bartenders were rude. They wouldn't serve us unless we had a seat, because they were at capacity but then had big booths with 2 people they weren't willing to ask to move. I will not be going here again unless I'm desperate and I will not suggest to others. My burger was overdone and didn't even taste worth it. When I tried to talk to staff, they gathered together and whispered about our group, shooting rude glares. I even did them a solid and didn't make them split a complicated tab. The least they could have done is be nice, accommodating and understanding. Instead they lost business. Disappointing. read more

I love this place. I was in search of good nachos and found this corner pub. I ended up getting the Derby nachos and the "nacho" something fries. I gotta say those fries were awesomeee. Both are large enough portions for 2 people each. Or for one person definitely. 1.5 needed for those hungry eaters. I had a good cocktail here as well. The wait is a bit awkward cause you sit yourself and stand around while it's busy. A couple walked in after us and proceeded to hunt down a table without asking us. The kind of awkwardness you will run into. BUT the bartender was nice enough to let us know the seating was available for us first. Thanks man. read more

I adore this place! The vibe is super kewl, happy hour fab and the servers all very kind and smart!!!

Great ambiance and very laid back. We sat at the bar and loved the stools, feet perch, and arm rests on/at the bar top. We didn't have food but as the fries passed us they looked hella crispy which is my favorite! Bartender was very attentive and kind! Will be coming back! read more

Kay's is my new favorite spot. Plus it's also apparently haunted? (Rad). It's a cozy, no bullshit kind of place. The customers are kind, the food and drinks are great, and the bartender with the face tattoos is very kind and made me a cocktail after I told him what I was in the mood for. 10/10. read more