Old school Portland hidden gem. Rich history behind the walls. Excellent vibe. Delicious small bites reasonably priced. Great service. Easy parking. Huge surprise from the outside impression. Cozy relaxed upscale inside. Could be a definite new favorite to stay onsite if you're in Portland and not have to drive anywhere read more

There are restaurants with great food, and there are restaurants with great vibes. Wax Social delivers both at a high level. I've worked through most of the menu, and every single dish lands. I kept expecting at least one to miss, but it never did. I'm not usually a seafood person, but their fish tacos and Ahi Poke nachos completely changed my mind. If seafood always tasted like that, I'd order it every time. The deviled eggs might be my all-time favorite appetizer. The steak bites are perfectly cooked and tender, and the white cheddar onion dip is rich, savory, and hard to stop eating. What really puts it over the top is the experience. The owner is incredibly welcoming, the staff is attentive without hovering, and the whole place has an elevated but relaxed energy. With the live DJ, it feels like the perfect spot for a date night or a fun night out with friends. If you're deciding where to go next, put this at the top of your list. Can't wait to go back! read more

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I surprised my husband with a date here, and as soon as we pulled in, he asked, "Are we staying at a hotel tonight?"which already set the tone for how unique this place is. What an incredible speakeasy. The food was top-notch, and the drinks were absolutely delicious. From the moment you step inside, it feels like you've been transported to another era. The 1920s Art Deco vibe, complete with dramatic lighting and music, creates such a fun and immersive atmosphere. One of my favorite parts was sitting at the bar. You get a front-row seat to all the creativity behind the drinks, and it's so fun chatting with the bartender learning what they're making and how everything comes together. Such a memorable experience we'll definitely be back. read more

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Saw this pop up on my phone, and felt spontaneous. I usually go places to study/do some work on my computer, and this felt like a good vibe with good food and drinks. It's nothing like what you expect to find around this area / part of town. I was super pleased, and will be returning as a repeat customer. The service can be a bit slow at times if they get busy, but trust me, its worth the wait. The menus rotate seasonally, and I opted for the poke nachos (I wasnt that hungry, but they were really nice to accommodate my request to get the chips separate, since I knew I would be packing some home) I expected the quality to be not so great, considering my experience with other restaurants and bars but this exceeded my expectations by alot. I look forward to coming back to visit again, whether it be for a study/work session, or with more reinforcement to try all of their dishes! read more

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"Hidden" inside the Best Western on Canyon, this unique, speak-easy-ish room is such a treat. Drinks: excellent, inventive and well-priced. Our party was super pleased, but I will say, the Dreamweaver was missing the lemongrass advertised flavor that I was excited about, but still a wonderful drink. We really loved that they show what type of glass it's served in, what a nice touch. As sometimes drinks can be over or underwhelming. Food: nice menu, something for everyone. The rolls with corned beef ($13) were packed with brisket, but could use more sauerkraut--maybe a side would be good there. The Poke! The Poke! ($15) Omg, sell me a bucket. The fish is fresh, wontons on point and the dressing, and I'm usually not a sauce lady, ate every bite. This could be $25 and i'd still want one for myself. Steak bites were just okay at ($16). Cauliflower at ($11), nice to have a veg, but not a must get. Flat bread, nice flavor at ($14). I was nicely surprised at the portion sizes, plenty to share and you won't leave hungry. I'm coming back for those deviled eggs! Atmosphere: top notch and while a small thing, look at these napkins and flatware. Someone knows how to entertain here. Service: not sure if a hard rule, but for larger groups, make sure all or most are present to seat. We had a very nice person helping us, parties of 5+ can be challenging, and we had all the questions as first-timers. Sometimes ya just don't hit it off right away...But in the end, it was a party and it all worked out :). Thank you for your patience. read more

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This is such a cool space that plays great music! It has great ambiance with that speak easy feel. The cocktails are well crafted. The first time I had a mocktail, Dancing Queen. I was just doing reconnaissance to find a place for Valentine's Day for my friends. The second time I had Light My Fire. It called to me when I read the description. I really like sweet and spicy, and the server said that would be my drink. The cocktail was really well crafted, and I loved it! A friend tried both mocktails, and the cucumber mocktail was really good, liked it better than the Dancing Queen. My friends really liked the food. In my circle of friends, there were two omnivores and a vegetarian. For me, if they had vegan options, I would bump this place to 5 stars. No reservations, but we got there a little after 5 and was seated right away. It filled up really quickly. Great ambiance and great service! read more

Wax Social - Wax Social: Dancing Queen mocktail - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Portland, Oregon

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A nice speakeasy bar located on the mezzanine level of the Best Western on SW Canyon Road. If you grew up on the west side, you'll remember Shilo Inn. Where this little gem is located. Nice ambiance, comfortable seating, and attentive staff. Which is always a plus. They offer full beverage service focusing on specialty drinks, craft cocktails, beer, wine, and mocktails. Prices range from $5 for a beer to $46.00 for a bottle of Argyle Brut. Their appetizers range from $10 to $15. Quite a selection from Steak bites, Sicilian flatbread, Heirloom tomato bruschetta, etc. Definitely a nice addition to the area. Service charge is automatically added to parties of (5?) 6 or more. read more

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Definitely wasn't expecting to have a good time in a motel but here we are . This is a Speakeasy that truly is a Speakeasy and not just a fancy bar pretending to be one . There was a little bit of fun finding it which I truly appreciate because that is one of the point of a speakeasy . Plush seating and foot tapping music greet you when you walk in . They play vinyl's and the owners are passionate about the art , which is refreshing to see. We each ordered a cocktail and loved what we got . They stopped the music to wish someone a happy birthday and the owner walked to every individual table to let all of us know and join in which was extremely sweet in my opinion. I would definitely be down to try more of their cocktail menu and also listen to some kick ass music. read more

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A friend invited me and another girlfriend to Wax Social, and it was my first time visiting after seeing it pop up on social media as a cute little speakeasy. You head upstairs, slip behind a door, and the bar appears. We were immediately greeted and seated, which was a great start. The vibe was fun and cozy, especially with the holiday decorations adding to the ambiance. One thing worth noting was the temperature--it was noticeably cold at times, with the air blowing between cold and warm, which made it a bit less comfortable than it could've been. We enjoyed some cocktails and ordered several appetizers to share. The Poke nachos and sliders were really good. The owner, Shawn, stopped by to check on us and was incredibly nice and personable. We ended up chatting with him for a bit, and he even gave us a tour. As a sweet surprise, he also comped us a chocolate lava molten cake, which was amazing. Overall, it's a really cute spot, and I'll definitely be bringing friends back--possibly even hosting a work event here. I'm especially excited to come back for some live music. read more

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Speakeasy vibes in a Best Western. Nothing quite like it in this part of the city so I can see why it's popular at the moment. Music and vibes was great for a catch up with friends or a date night. The music was a bit loud. It looks like this could be a place to dress up but it's chill. The place was busy on a Friday night but my party of 3 was seated immediately. We came right from dinner so we didn't try their food. Drinks were delicious and standard for a cocktail bar like this. I would come again with a few people max. read more

Went to Wax Social after dinner for dessert and drinks. Cool speakeasy vibe and a nice place to hang out late. Drinks were solid and the service was good -- staff was friendly and attentive. The only reason this isn't a 5-star review is the tres leches. It was super soggy with really watery leche, to the point where we couldn't finish it. Just not good. I'd still come back for drinks, just wouldn't order dessert again. read more

Whoa, this bar is seriously awesome! The vibe is so good, cool decor, nice lighting, and they even have dj on vinyl with great songs. The cocktails are super tasty (so many to try!) and the staff are really friendly. It's a new spot on the 2nd floor of the Best Western Hotel. I really hope more people find out about it soon, it totally deserves more love. I'd be so sad if it ever closed. Definitely one of my new favorite places! read more

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What a cool little speakeasy place hidden in the Best Western on Canyon. Super good service with a friendly staff and the food was excellent and the drinks unique and good. The ambience was a cool exclusive vibe. I loved the environment and the size of it feeling cozy and fun. read more

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Such a cool spot! We discovered this speakeasy on social media and knew we had to try it out! Upon arriving at the Best Western, we didn't know what to expect, but we went inside, up the stairs, then found what we were looking for. The entire bar space was vibey with a very chill atmosphere. Also, the music was great and the service was prompt. They walked us through the menu, provided recommendations, and checked on us regularly. We each ordered the Lay Down Sally cocktail, an order of the Deviled Eggs and the Steak Bites. The drinks were delicious - I expected them to be sweeter, based on how the server described it, but the sweetness wasn't too overpowering. A nice light taste! We also enjoyed both of the food items we had ordered. Overall a fun experience! I can't wait to come back and try some of the other cocktails on their menu! read more

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You guys! This is literally a hidden gem. No signage, an unassuming speak easy in the Best Western on Canyon Road with the words Listening lounge on the door. Thank you for a west side cool vibe option. Wax Social is beautiful, color drenched in a moody green, unique wall art and live music Fridays and Saturdays. The drink selections are 10 out of 10. The ahi tuna poke nachos and molten chocolate lava cake are a must try, a definite 5. The tri tip sliders were super favorable but just didn't come out that hot from the kitchen and the flatbread was also good. The drinks are stand out amazeballs. We met the owner Sean who is just the BEST. So personable and knowledgeable - he comped us a dessert and showed us around the place! What an upstanding guy! I am coming back again and again as there are at least 5 more entrees I want to try. read more

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Five stars for sure. This place totally fits in with the speakeasy vibe, considering where it is located. We absolutely adored the music inspiration of it all. We dropped in before Christmas so it was lit up with a whole lot of Christmas joy! We both enjoyed tequila inspired, cocktails. The food looked really tasty. I noted that they had the perfect small bites that anyone would want from anywhere! The staff was very friendly and helpful about making decisions. It's one of our new favorite spots! Definitely check it out whether you are going by yourself for a drink going on a date or taking out friends or family all of the above! read more

Wax Social - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Portland, Oregon

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This was a hidden gem of a find. Love the decor, and the staff is great. The owner is onsite and helping clear tables to seat people as quickly as possible. Loved the decor with the old photos framed up the wall and the drink menu is fun as they are named after songs. Quick service and overall a fun vibe. Can't wait to go again and try out the food which all smelled amazing. read more

Wax Social - Whiskey, whiskey, and Whiskey and Brown Eyed Girl. - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Portland, Oregon

Wow so safe to say the cigar bar go but super pleasantly surprised the new vibe!!! Love what the new owners did with this old space and really like the vibes!!! Crazy nonetheless that this is above the Bestwestern but the food and new cocktails are ridunkulous!!! Highly recommended and seriously enjoyed one of everything on the small bites menu plus all the special cocktails....Especially the beet with Mezcal!!! Dj playing the vinyls mixed it up and kept the vibe going mixing a lot of 70's 80's and 90's!!! read more

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Cute little speakeasy tucked away in a Best Western- the vibes were immaculate! Had a live dj with vinyls playing, super fun. Mainly came to try the drinks and they didn't disappoint! The food that we were able to order was okay, because we came so late, a lot was unavailable unfortunately. I definitely want to come back and try different dishes though, and out of what we ordered, the tostada was definitely the best thing! Overall a fun place for date night with friends!! Will definitely be returning!! read more

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We had a great experience! The food, drinks, service, and music were all great. We will definitely be returning soon. read more

Wax Social - Cocktail - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Portland, Oregon

Great new lounge close to home. In a funky hotel, but worth it. The Hawaiian chef (lovely personality by the way)is bringing some great bites to this bar! We had the deviled eggs- I should have had two orders. The shrimp tostada- shrimp underscored by the other yummy flavors, but still good. Steak bites- delish. Reuben rolls- unique and I would definitely get them again. I need to get the ahi next time, I bet it is perfect. As for drinks- Chain of fools. Perfect! I also had a whiskey Negroni and also spot on. The service was excellent. Really lovely people. Atmosphere is great. We will be back. read more

We recently came to check this place out as we were curious about the new change to the original cigar bar. The inherit has transformed to a clean and relaxed area. The interior was well done and made you feel comfortable to be just there. They had some interesting cocktails which were all pretty enjoyable as well as some small bites. I did enjoy the Chain of Fools and Doctor My Eyes drinks as they were refreshing and easy to go down. The bartender was very knowledgeable and quick to make our drinks. I do like the atmosphere and service here and would come back again. read more

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You really have to see this place for yourself. It is incredible! This is the place to bring a date, a group of friends or just go to have a great cocktail and listen to the music. The food was excellent and the unique cocktails were outstanding. Well worth the trip to find this spot and it is a true hidden gem for the entire Metro area. This place has any other nitespot in Portland beat. read more

A speakeasy located inside the best western in Beaverton. Just go inside and up the stairs to the left. Definitely a vibe in there, super cute with a speaker wall and countless celeb photos lining the walls. They have DJs spinning vinyl. A bit on the smaller side. The drinks and food were good. Good date night spot. read more

Wax Social - Back speaker wall - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Portland, Oregon

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Our experience was great to start, service was phenomenal, we came for a second round of drinks for a friends birthday, it's a very cute space. It was also kind of shocking to see such a cute spot attracted to a best western. And sadly, I am another customer of the few who had an upsetting experience. We were having a great time, all had a drink, a few had multiple, the servers made a very cute bottle with a candle to let us all sing for our friends birthday, insinuating that singing and clapping and celebrating was okay, but then we were approached by who we later found out was the owner, and told that we needed to keep it down, and that we were disrupting the other guests in the bar, and that it is not a sports bar. This was upsetting, we chose to stay but that interaction definitely changed our experience, we kept coming back to how unsettling it was to be told to be quiet. He stared at us from across the bar, and then eventually came back over and told us we really needed to be more quiet, or he would have to kick us out, and this time his reason was because it was disrupting the vibe. At this point our whole table had been worked up about it, we shared our frustrations, were actually loud, paid and left. Super disappointing, and did not ruin our evening, we now have made a fun memory out of it, but is definitely not a space where everyone is welcome to enjoy leisure. It felt like a spot for the owner to play their favorite records and have everyone sit quietly and listen, which if we had known that was the expectations, would not have stayed, and would not have disrupted his "vibe." My suggestion would be that if you are seeking to have a way of guests behaving in your bar, it should be established as they come in, before they are seated, so that people can choose if they want to stay, or not. If we had known the "vibe" we would not have stayed. It also felt slightly targeted as there were other tables in the bar also laughing, and enjoying themselves who we could hear from across the bar, who were not talked to. We shared we would write reviews, he said please do, but then also expressed concern, and yet I am still writing this because there seems to be room for improvement in how you create and maintain the space at your facility. Best of luck! read more

The owner clearly has run nice places before and knows what he is doing. Terrific touches like specific glasses for well-made, creative cocktails; good menu, plates and silverware. If you are wondering if you are in the right place, as you stare at the lobby of the Best Western, you are. My friends were a bit "concerned" with my choice from the lobby and happily surprised to find the speak easy upstairs. We had a great time and have been back several times. read more

Oh my gosh, I wish I got photos here. But all the photos on here already are accurate, and it's even better in person (yes, I know, the photos are already amazing). I went here on a first date (last night, a Tuesday night). It was funny yet shocking to park at a hotel to go to a cocktail bar/speakeasy. My date and I actually went into Lou's on the first floor to the left at first, which also seemed like an amazing restaurant! (not what we were looking for). Once we went up the stairs to the left of the main lobby, even just the entrance to the speakeasy was gorgeous. Walking into the business made you gasp and look around immediately. They sit you down but ask your preferences on seating. We both had some cocktails, wine, the sake nachos, and the white cheddar and onion pita bread dip. They were allll phenomenal. Our waitress was kind, attentive, fun, and always checking in on us. They had AMAZING music, and it was a pretty decent business for a Tuesday night. Will definitely be coming back! Great first date location! read more

Hidden gem in Bevearton! I first visited Wax Social with my friends after dinner, and wow -- this place really hits different! It's tucked inside a hotel, but once you step inside, the vibe completely changes -- moody lighting, a DJ spinning tracks, and that stylish Portland-meets-LA energy. The cocktails are inventive and absolutely delicious. I didn't get a chance to try the main dish yet, just some appetizers, but definitely plan to come back for the full experience. Love discovering spots like this on the west side. Bevearton seriously needed a place like this! read more

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I had to give 1 star because it doesn't let you not give any stars. The service was disgusting, the attitude was even worse.

Food and cocktails were tasty, very interesting concept inside a motel you wouldn't think to find it. Very fun atmosphere

From the moment I walked in, I knew this was more than just another night out -- this was an experience. The lighting is warm and inviting, the music perfectly balanced, and every detail feels intentional. The cocktails? Works of art. Each drink is crafted with precision, creativity, and a clear passion for flavor. The bartenders don't just make drinks -- they curate moments. I tried the a few of their signature drinks, and it was perfectly balanced, with layers of flavor that unfolded sip after sip. Service was attentive without being intrusive, and the staff's knowledge of spirits is impressive. They're happy to offer recommendations, and every suggestion we took was spot-on. Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur or just someone who appreciates a well-made drink in a beautiful setting, this place is a must-visit. I'll be back -- read more

Called 'Wax Social,' which I guess is hipper than 'That weird room in the Best Western lobby.' You walk in expecting this exclusive, vinyl-only Portland experience. Instead, you're greeted by a giant wall of speakers that are just for 'art' and don't actually work. It's the perfect metaphor for this place: looks like it should be cool, but it's all fake and there's no substance. The 'vibe' is being silently judged by 200 portraits of musicians who look like they're just as confused to be there as you are. The only 'wax' I saw was the crusty, melted candle drippings on the tables, which I think was their solution for 'ambiance.' It's less 'speakeasy' and more 'storage room for a failed 90s record store.' We left. read more

The Wax Social team put together an incredible birthday celebration for my friends and me, and it was the perfect mix of class and comfort. Everyone is so accommodating and friendly and eager to ensure your experience is the best, and the atmosphere that has been created is just the right vibe. Whether you're stopping by for a quick drink after work or holding a special event, these folks will treat you right! read more

What a fun place in the most unexpected spot (the old cigar room in the Best Western, formerly the Shilo Inn!) This bar has fabulous drinks, delicious food and spins vinyl. It's cozy and perfect for conversation and lots to look at with all the framed musicians on the wall. We were there for a 50th birthday celebration so lots of people and the service was still supreme. read more

We love the food and cocktails here! It's very consistent. The dj and vinyl are always spot on.

The best thing is finding a surprise gem of a place that you'd never guess. This is one of those places. Wax Social is a magical place with some really inventive and tasty drinks, fun bites and a very cool vibe. I've already been back a few times. Props to the designer and dj/music master. I look forward to my next visit. read more

Amazing drinks and ambience! I was going thru some tough times the week I visited and the bartenders made the experience fun and memorable. Drinks are reasonably priced and tasty. I'll be coming here regularly! read more

Wax Social - "She's not there" - margarita on tap - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Portland, Oregon

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A fun new hip upscale venue in Westslope. My husband and I dropped in to check it out at 5:30 on Saturday. I'm happy to see a a much needed opening in our area but want to start with the downside first. The bar is not ADA accessible. To reach the upstairs bar you must navigate challenging parking lot out front and a set of rather steep stairs inside. (There is no elevator to this second floor venue.). If you are able to manage the parking and take the stairs you are in for a treat. The once smoky cigar bar is now a cozy lounge with craft cocktails and tasty small bites. The room was about 1/2 full when we arrived. Full of chatter and music. It's a touch on the loud side but not overwhelming, exactly what I would expect from a listing lounge. While there was a DJ I would say he was mostly selecting songs off LPs as opposed to mixing. He played a nice mix of 70-90s music mostly with a chill Sade like vibe. The creative craft cocktail list ran whisky and tequila heavy. That was just not what I was feeling up to. Noticing the ceramic tiki cups on the bar holding straws and such I enquired about rum drinks. I was told they don't do much of that. Then why the tiki cups??? I was told the bartender could come up with something great for me with fruit and rum. I was indeed served a nice drink. Pineapple/orange forward with rum but not super creative. I can't complain but hope they expand their drink range a bit in the future. We had the sautéd mushrooms. They were very tasty and a nice nibble with drinks. Prices were not out of line with current prices at other similar places. I hope they do well, I'll be back for some after dinner drinks as I noticed a large selection liquors. read more

Manager, Hank Hill (IYKYK) kills the vibe. We walked in... place is half full on a Friday night. We walked up to the open bar and then proceeded to be harassed by the manager for not waiting to be seated. Not a welcoming and chill vibe. Btw... the manager is also the DJ on Friday night. No vinyl. Bartenders were nice. read more

What a hidden gem! You will not be disappointed if you make the drive to Beaverton to visit Wax Social. The bites to eat will fill you up as you sip on fancy, well-crafted cocktails. You will enjoy the impeccable taste of music that is played and lucky you if you are there when the DJ is playing. That's a treat! The vibe is a hidden oasis where you can relax, get away from the day to day, and treat yourself to some cool music and a nice drink. Bring your friends as there are lots of seating options and the photos on the wall are excellent conversation pieces. I know I will be back and cannot wait to see what waits for me at Wax Social. read more

Wax Social - Dirty martini and bartender's choice. Highly recommend! - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Portland, Oregon