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Portland › Portland › Blue Diamond Bar & Grill
Blue Diamond Bar & GrillB+Worth Trying
2016 NE Sandy Blvd, Portland, OR 97232
· Live music bar, Live music venue, Restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (485 reviews)
Takeout
A beloved NE Portland blues bar with lively music most nights and better-than-expected bar grub; go for the shows, stay for friendly service and solid comfort food.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Blue Diamond Bar & Grill competes well with the area's better neighborhood restaurants through exceptional service attentiveness and strong food quality that exceeds typical bar fare—catfish, burgers, and Brussels sprouts earn consistent praise. Solid destination appeal as a live blues venue with loyal regulars anchors its reputation, though modest space comfort and occasional consistency lapses prevent grade A territory. The intimate, music-focused experience delivers reliable value for guests seeking a lively night out rather than fine dining.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling with a tight stage and murals of local legends, where blues bands keep a steady groove and dancers fill the floor. Guests call the staff friendly and attentive, and sound levels are lively without overwhelming the cozy space. One regular put it simply: "This is where the music scene still feels personal." The cooking leans classic bar fare with a surprising polish: cornmeal fried catfish, juicy burgers, Brussels sprouts with balsamic, and house cheesecakes. It is not avant-garde, but dishes are consistent crowd-pleasers that suit a night of music, drinks, and easy comfort food. Ideal if you want a plate that pairs well with a set, not a tasting menu. Families can do well here earlier in the evening. The menu has kid-ready staples like chicken strips, fries, burgers, pasta, and simple salads. Be aware the energy rises during shows, so earlier seatings are better if little ones dislike loud rooms.
At a Glance
- Best-in-class local blues lineup with dancing
- Bar food that overdelivers for the genre
- Friendly, attentive service even when busy
- Small venue gets crowded and loud during sets
- Occasional miss on specific dishes like steak bites
What Sets It Apart
- consistent_live_blues_lineup
- community_dance_scene
- bar_food_that_overdelivers
What People Love
- The authentic blues scene and dancing
- Neighborhood gem feeling with regulars
- Friendly bartenders and quick service
- Comfort food that hits the spot
Points of Concern
- Small room can feel crowded; conversation may be hard during sets
- A few isolated food misses (tough steak bites, one chicken complaint)
- Drinks described as mid to high priced compared to typical dives
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$35-48 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Vegetarians can build a meal from Hummus Plate, Fried Green Beans, and Veggie Pita Pizza
- For lighter nights, choose Soup & Salad ($13)
- Families: Chicken Strips & Fries and simple burgers work well
Perfect For
- Catching a live blues set with friends
- Casual date with music and shared plates
- Solo night at the bar with a burger and a band
- Neighborhood hangout before or after a show
Location Insights
Area: NE Sandy Blvd corridor with mixed bars, small venues, and neighborhood spots; casual, arts-friendly crowd.
Safety: Generally safe with typical urban considerations; active foot traffic on show nights.
Nearby: Near other bars and eateries; draws locals for live music and dancing; accessible to inner NE neighborhoods.
KernsKerns is a dynamic neighborhood with a strong creative and community-oriented vibe. It offers a variety of dining options ranging from casual comfort food to upscale eateries, often accompanied by live music and a friendly, laid-back atmosphere.
Sandy Boulevard CorridorThe Sandy Boulevard Corridor is known for its lively bars, music venues, and diverse restaurants, making it a popular spot for nightlife and social gatherings in Northeast Portland.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday18:00–22:00
Thursday18:00–23:00
Friday18:00–23:00
Saturday18:00–23:00
Sunday16:00–20:00
Available: Takeout
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