The food is pretty decent, and the price is great. The drinks are priced well too. The staff was beyond friendly and attentive. It was clean and fun. Even has a photo booth! How cool!
(5)
tristan p.
I like this place. I feel like everyone here is either gambling, getting their drink on while hiding from someone/thing, or just over it all. It's like death's waiting room but with Chinese food.
(3)
Chris O.
An interesting dive to get your karaoke on, with an actually quite talented group of regulars that come here just for that, sorry but I forget what night that happens on but it's probably the one reason to come here. The beer selection is small for Portland but they do have one or two local micros on tap.
(3)
Kristen L.
It is a great place, great karoke and good food. I am leaving only three stars because I will be honest with you, every time I eat here my farts smell really bad!!! Sometimes I have to fart while dancing Or doing karoke and people are offended!!!! I do not like this part of their service. They are nice people and good service, but be careful what u order. You order certain dishes and you order certain death. I am even farting rigt now as I write!!! And it smells very bad!!!!!!
(3)
Quinn W.
Disgusting stickiness covers the entire place. Describing the clientele as obnoxious would be an understatement. But what really blew my mind was the toilet in the men's room which lacks a stall so if you had to sit down to handle your business anyone would be able to see and smell. That has to be some kind of health code violation, right?
(1)
Chad C.
This place will supposedly be demolished in the next few months. While a tragic loss of local culture, the building does kind of look like it's on its last legs - there's a hole in one exterior wall that's covered by 2x4s and a tarp. Regardless, this place is best known for drunken karaoke, attracting a wide variety of freaks, geeks, hipsters, woo girls, bros and brahs. They also have a bar with decently priced (and decently poured) drinks and a chinese restaurant is somehow stuffed in here as well. The food is about what you could expect for a chinese restaurant that's also a bar, but they do have a wide variety on their menu even late at night, which is a definite plus. The bartenders are pleasant and attentive, and the karaoke song selection is seemingly endless. For die-hards, you'll want to arrive early and plan to wait at least two hours before your song comes up.
(3)
Jenni T.
I love the bar and especially the bar tender Aarik. BUT the kj was BEYOND rude. I understand you dont want people going wild with drinks in their hands but you dont have to immediately approach everyone nearing the dance floor and tell them to set their drinks down. Debby downer. Made me feel intimitated and awkward.
(1)
Jillian C.
Chopsticks is always fun whether its at the beginning of the night or the tail end when you're too drunk to even know whats happening. You probably won't know whats going on if its at the start of your night either. Cheap drinks, karaoke every night, fun people, and their cheeseburgers taste like Burger King which strangely is a huge plus for me.
(4)
Matthew T.
Best karaoke in town. The KJs are good, the staff is attentive & friendly, the regulars are great, David Chow is the world's most wonderful host, and the food is, honestly, not half bad. It's gonna be a damn shame when this location closes down; it is iconic, after all. But the soul will live on at the new Sandy location, and the elements that make this place great (KJs, staff, Chow) will be represented there as well. How can be, indeed. PROTIP: It gets pretty crowded on weekend nights. Come during the week for a short rotation.
(5)
Eric S.
I like to start positive: Friendly staff. Good Drinks. But..... the song books are so disgusting and nasty I wanted to wash my hands with bleach after I touched them (and I'm not a germ phobic person at all). Honestly, if someone ruins a book by spilling a beer on it, THROW IT OUT AND PRINT ANOTHER. Keep your song books up to date with the music you have and recycle/reprint them every few months. The weekend crowds here are the absolute worst. I miss The Galaxy.
(2)
George C.
DIVE!!! I love dives and the crowd ranges from hipster to local dirt bag. It's all good. It's really hard to give a dive like this more than 2 stars. The drinks were CHEAP and not weak. I ordered 2 mix drinks and a beer and it came to $10. Sweet! I also heard some of the worst karaoke in my life. I left shortly after some hipster attempted to sing "Build me up buttercup".
(2)
Joyce O.
Always an interesting crowd and there is Karaoke 7 nights a week! You can't beat that! Sing your hearts out people!
(4)
Ashley W.
It's a Saturday night and it's POPPIN'! Consistent with other reviewers, my observation was a crowd primarily decorated with hipsters but not so much the snooty-my-skinnies-rock-harder-than-your-skinnies hipsters, but the fun karaoke-loving type---which is of course, the only way I take my hipsters! Drinks are most certainly stiff and fairly priced. I'm too scared to try the food because in a bar completely packed not one person was eating and there has to be something said for that... One star drop for the dingy atmousphere. I realize it's a dive but it's the kind of place that makes you wanna double check your glass to see if it is actually clean. Another star drop for the arrogant KJ. As a former KJ myself I know how to roll; I made a suave introduction and dropped $10 into the tip jar. He had that glazed over "I don't give a &#$^" thing going on which should've said it all. But hey, we were planned to enjoy some drinks and stay a while so meh, I figured it shouldn't be tooooo terribly long... That is, until 2 and a half hours later past 1am I finally heard my name called. I didn't want to encroach on his small space and fuss about my turn but maybe I should have to save my name from being with the no-tipping, bottom-feeders. Kinda want my ten bucks back but it's all good, I'll just go to a place where the drinks are stiff AAAND the KJ's cool!
(3)
Ana B.
I am on a Karaoke kick...in a big way. My first trip to Chopsticks was on a Saturday night . I spent about 10 minutes in the place. In that short time I witnessed a bro fight, group birthday blow job shots, a Morrissey look alike, and a sweaty overweight man sing "Do you think I'm sexy?" with unmatched enthusiasm despite not knowing the words. Remember in Fear and Loathing when Johnny Depp is wondering around Circus Circus? That's a little like how I felt. Always one for second chances I headed back to Chopsticks, this time on a Sunday. I was happy to see a smaller, yet still diverse crowd. I grabbed a PBR and a song book and settled in by the stage. Thirty some minutes passed and my song came on. I can only imagine how long it would take with a larger crowd. This place lacks the enthusiasm for your fellow karaoke-ers. Meh...ya thats it.
(2)
Jessica T.
Great cheap, saucy, Chinese food. Amazingly happy people singing their hearts out at karaoke. A plethora of beer and cigarettes. This place is the best!
(5)
Divad Y.
+Late night Chinese food +Take out +food prices Look around. Mexican food and fast food are everywhere, but where else do you find a place that offers Chinese food until 2AM? This place serves Chinese food until 2AM and its an addition to my late night gr
(4)
Taco E.
No matter what you do, Do not eat at this place! Food is bland, tasteless and uninspiring. What you should come out here is for people-watching; especially the local hipsters and hipsterettes singing, dancing and fighting. On the weekends, karaoke here can be un-hearable due the establishment's tendency to pack a large amount of people in a space the equivalent of a VW Beetle.
(2)
Jessica N.
Who knew this place would be rockin' several years when I first stepped in there in 6th grade over a decade ago. However, I don't think it'd be a place I'd spare some change on food... Drinks are on the cheap and can be mildly strong if you know the bartender, I'm sure. The vast selection of songs for Karaoke is amazing, but what is more amazing is the awesome talent that comes through. Portland has some potential stars within the community, but often it's a few drinks that can bring them there. The crowd is very unique and ranges from this to that, but whatever - as long as you're enjoying yourself - why does it matter? Late night, sing songs, awesome location.
(3)
Justin W.
Chinese food + Hipsters + Cheap booze + Decor from the late 70s + Karaoke = A beautiful trainwreck that must be experienced. This is seriously one of the most fun places I've been in a minute. I tore the house down with my rendition of "Roses" by Outkast. Natch.
(5)
Lorraine S.
This place is great- strong cheap drinks, friendly bartenders, pool, video poker, and of course, karaoke. I went there last night with the munchies and chose a spicy vegetable with bean curd and steamed rice (per bartender recommendation) and was pleasantly surprised! It was actually really delicious! I ordered veggie chow mein at Chop III on time and it was kind of gross with lots of "bonus" pieces of meat thrown in, so I was really pleased with the quality of this one. Friendly KJ, good song selection, lots of drunk people to cheer you on. Not a bad way to spend an evening!
(4)
H M.
Love. So fun. I might even have done 5 stars if it didn't take upwards of 2 hours to be able to sing. Very fun vibe, people singing along with each other and dancing. Definitely a party bar.
(4)
Chris S.
THE STAFF IS AWESOME. The owner is HORRIBLE. HORRRRIBBBLEEE. Rude, cheap, treats his staff terribly. I would give this place 0 stars if I could just for him.
(1)
Esther Y.
Maybe I was too sober for this karaoke bar, but my friends all had a great time. I personally don't really like the public type of karaoke bar where you sing in front of everyone -- I much prefer the Korean-style private rooms where you get your friends together, drink, and sing, and you don't have to wait for other people to sing songs you don't know or aren't interested in. A place in Portland I've yet to try but has great ratings on Yelp is Voicebox. Anyways, in general this is your standard bar with pool, some other games, and karaoke 7 nights a week. At midnight the KJ (the karaoke DJ) sings a song, and ours was pretty darn good! I'm not sure why, but for some reason I felt like I was in Mexico sitting in this bar. Nobody was Mexican, and nobody sang Spanish songs, so it's strange...but...just thought I'd mention it in case anyone else might've felt as weird as me. =P
(3)
Matt K.
The karaoke is fun, the drinks are stiff on busy nights, and the crowd is oddly welcoming despite being ridiculously diverse. While I probably won't return for some time, just because I have other places to explore - The ambience was one of the best I've encountered since moving to Portland in August. I debated giving Chopsticks Express II only two stars, but feel as though the third star is necessary given the happy, fun, and exceptionally entertaining evening I had doing karaoke. In addition to our group of semi-professional twenty-somethings, there were hipsters, older ladies celebrating a divorce, older professionals, leggy girls, and a couple of meatheads. Everyone got along and supported one another on karaoke - no judgments, none of the attitude I find typical of PDX karaoke events, and an attentive bartender. I consider the experience well worth a foray into the world of Chopsticks II karaoke nights.
(3)
Michael C.
This is certainly not a dive bar; that would be giving dive bars a bad name. I strongly recommend advance preparation before wandering through the door such as drinking several martinis, 1/2 a bottle of scotch or some other fine tasting anesthetic. Once fully prepared this place is really a lot of fun. As the night wears on the cast of characters jumping on stage to show case their talents is a sight to behold. A very strange but interesting experience indeed.
(3)
Adrian K.
Cheap drinks, mainly because they're the weakest drinks known to man. Karaoke... whether this is a plus or a minus is entirely up to you. I was told by my friend to never, EVER eat food here. He wouldn't tell me why, he just kept muttering "learn from my fail, bro." So, there ya go.
(2)
Sara M.
Best Karaoke in town! Great service, great waitresses. Great fun. Great crowd. And pretty delicious chinese food, although, its completely bad for you. I'm pretty sure theyre chicken is loaded with MSG, but if you dont mind that, its amazing. I love getting drunk, watching a diverse crowd from hipsters to old people have fun and make fools of themselves, while i chow down on some sesame chicken. Love that place. Great for birthday parties too! Celebrated my cousin's, dad's, and my roommates bday there. Theyre great about reserving tables for large parties and on sometimes theres even cake!
(4)
Steve M.
I'm a closet singer. I whisper in the shower, and in the car I am like a ventriloquist--I try to sing without the people in the next car being able to see my lips move. But I may have overcome my fear of singing with the help of a few PBR tallboys. Yes, I popped my karaoke cherry. And I did it the right way: Thursday night, post-league bowling, dive bar, close to home, a few coworkers in attendance, and the perfect song. "The Joker" by The Steve Miller Band, naturally. HINT: Demonstrating how to shake a peach tree is always a crowd pleaser. The patrons/performers were cool, the song selection was predictable at times (guilty), and the KJ was hot, cool and talented.
(4)
emily r.
i love karaoke. i love drinks that look blue under blacklight. i love it when kj's say i am their favorite singer of the night. woooo!
(4)
Kimberly V.
Don't be butt-hurt. In every relationship, statements pop up and linger like sinus infections. But more helpfully than sinus trouble, they quietly gather strength until their presence is needed to cut through all forms of strife. "I love you," is obvs. "I'm really sorry," comes in handy all the time. "She looked 18," may serve you well in a pinch. But in certain households, the three-word imperative with the power to turn any situation on its head is "Don't be butt-hurt." FLASHBACK: The day before the Fourth of July. Out to celebrate a friend's birthday, not hard to convince the crowd to mosey on up Burnside to a little place called Chopsticks Express. The place so notoriously smoky, it's a wonder how anyone emerges from it with any lung intact, let alone able to sing. But the catalogue is extensive, the dancing helps, and the drinks are poured generously enough. Maybe too generously. By the time someone inevitably busted out "The Humpty Dance," it became clear that the KJ had a singers' list as long as the birthday girl's bar tab. A little bribery changed hands, a few people in the group managed to grab the mike and show everyone what's what. But not everyone. An individual from this unlucky fraction was a little too wasted to be cool about it. Pulling from the bag of bad drunk scenarios, this individual got really steamed when her boyfriend suggested they leave before she got her turn. Despite the blinking lights and streams of strangers that made departure a decent plan, the girlfriend wanted to stay. Despite the time ringing in at three in the morning, despite knowing that nothing good ever happens after three in the morning, she wanted to stay. CUT TO: The worst fight in the history of that couple. We're talking stalking off in one direction, screaming like a displaced psych ward patient on the street, and being persuaded into the car as if being talked off a ledge. Here's another three-word phrase: I'm an asshole. NEXT MORNING: Still fuming. Hungover. Throat like a bottle of Jager has broken inside. In fact, everything hurts. SHE: Christ, why am I in pain? This sucks. HE: Maybe it's because you were being a pain in the ass last night. SHE: --- HE: We're cool, but you were acting butt-hurt for no reason. Don't be butt-hurt. SHE: I'm really sorry. Another three-word phrase: Let it go. You know where you can hear more pertinent three-word phrases? Pop songs. And where can you hear all your favorites? Chopsticks. Final phrase: Complete relevance, baby.
(3)
Jennifer B.
this place is hit or miss. the crowd is sometimes eclectic, which is nice... however it's a bit of a hipster haven, which can be annoying. the staff is all right sometimes, but more often they've got a problem of some sort. it's one of those places where you have to watch your drink, otherwise the server comes to snatch it before you're done. the kjs can be downright corrupt, letting some people sing out of order and skipping others. on the other hand, it's usually a lively place, you can catch some great singers during the week, and it's in a central location. it's also got karaoke 7 days a week, which is key.
(3)
Lee Y.
Best karaoke bar in Portland!!
(5)
Brice B.
Holy God, is this place a winner. I've never used the phrase hell-hole lovingly before, but there's a first for everything! I had a friend in from out of town, and I was trying to make sure she got the full effect of Portland's pastiche of out-there destinations. I'm laughing out loud as I type because Chopsticks Express is truly inspiring! Walking in was the first of an endless parade of oddball experiences. The crowd was all over the map, and there was a large dog roaming pretty well unsupervised around the bar. We were hungry, and against our better judgment, we went ahead and took the plunge. The food was passable; but given my expectations, I was thoroughly impressed. I still think you might be better off sneaking a flask into a Panda Express if all you're looking for is a cocktail with your Chinese food, but this place ain't exactly a model Asian restaurant. You ought to know that the moment you walk in. The centerpiece of Chopsticks is the karaoke. To be clear, I generally hate the karaoke experience, but the crowd here managed to crack through my tough exterior shell. We got an awesome show, and we were sad to have to leave at the end of the night. I know I only awarded three stars, but I can't figure out how to justify any more than that. All I know is that I'll not soon forget my Chopsticks Express experience!
(3)
ben h.
Horrible! Stunk of smoke. Dust and gook over everything. Chow mein was nothing but noodles with a piece of cabbage in it. Pork fried rice had two peas and three chunks of meat. Tasteless, funky, an I felt like I was going to get a venerial desease just waiting for food! Don't go here if you value your health!!!
(1)
Lauren G.
Chopsticks is an institution. It really is. But it gets so damn crowded and then you can't hear your friends talk and you can't remember why you came because it takes like, an hour to get a song in on a Friday night. But! It is possible to come on a weekday and have a grand old time. And they have pretty good table service for how many people tend to pile in here. And the KJ's are the best. And you don't come for the food. And there are many varied patrons, which can be nice unless you have to listen to like, 4 guys in a row sing shitty nu-metal songs. Really? Save that biz for your bedroom, bud, I got some Stevie Wonder to sing!
(3)
Cedric J.
Chopsticks Express is an institution. When I first moved to Portland, I would go here for their Mandarin Chicken during my dinner break for band practice. It is addictive. I've now switched to the shrimp version of this, but their fried rice is excellent and their mandarin sauce is just excellent. They used to be more of a restaurant, and now the bar scene has taken over. They're super busy with the karaoke on the weekends, so don't expect to sing more than once. But their song selection even makes a guy like me get up there: they have Depeche Mode, Cure, Bowie, Pulp, Radiohead. This isn't just your cheesy dive, there are some really talented people that sing there. Go on a Wednesday and it is great. Beer selection: decent. Drinks: good. Service: they do their best, but when it is busy it is difficult. Food: Great.
(4)
Lindsey J.
Great place for Karaoke. I have never heard of a place (until Chopsticks) that offered karaoke 7 nights a week. Thats crazy, and they sure as hek do well for themselves. You will find that even on a Tuesday night, after about 10 pm, this place gets pretty crowded. I always like to go around 8 before everyone gets there and sing as many songs as I can belt out. People smoke a lot in here, so its kind of smoky, but I think that is part of the draw. I have never eaten here and don't plan too, but the meals don't look too bad from what I have observed. The drinks are fine, pretty strong, you will get drunk if you order 3 or more. They are also fairly priced. Towards the back is the pool table and video games, but most people chill up towards the karaoke. The crowd is very casual. You can wear a ripped up holey tee shirt with jogging shorts, or you can wear a cute knit dress from Forever 21. It sure wont matter. Have fun!
(5)
Anthony R.
I've never eaten the food here, but they pour strong drinks. The last time I was here I got seriously trashed, swayed along to my friends' karaoke renditions of Journey and Air supply, and shamelessly made out with my publisher. Then I lost my expensive digital camera. So, um, go for drinks. But keep your wits about you.
(3)
Kelley B.
Hideous...the place smells like an outhouse and the food made me sick - avoid this place if you know what's good for you.
(1)
James M.
Cheap drinks that are heavy hitters
(4)
LYNSEY L.
Yay! I heart Chopsticks and go here weekly. Its a great dive bar, cheap strong drinks, friendly people, tons of places to sit, and FREE entertainment in the nightly karaoke. IF you want to sing, its free - but tip the DJ! Also, I highly recommend being there for the midnight hour the DJ graces us with song - sure to be the highlight of the evening. Yeah, there are drunk people who hold the mic 5 feet from there face while they sloppily slur through a song, but isn't that part of the fun? OH! Yummy food too!
(4)
Kristin W.
A medium-busy Tuesday night, waited over 2 hours for my song, then left. No good for karaoke. Also $10 minimum for credit cards or $1 fee. This is the highest minimum and highest fee of any bar/store I've ever been to. Don't go. Find karaoke somewhere else (Tennessee Red's, The Hutch, etc)
(2)
Boll W.
Channel your inner Bruce Dickinson. Channel your inner Axl Rose. Channel your inner Johnny Cash. Well, maybe not. We can't all sing like Bruce Dickinson or Axl Rose, nor do we have the waif thin/heroin induced body of the latter. But, you can sing some Johnny Cash. I mean, really, drink some whiskey and smoke some cigarettes. Hell, you don't even have to smoke, the 40 others in the place will do that for you! I've seen some great crooners here and I've seen myself singing here. That, in and of itself is a rarity, is where things go wrong. Well, not really, because the only way you can mess up Johnny Cash is to be too nice. One thing I will never understand about the Stick is that of the food. Peanut butter and jelly? Bread and butter? Chinese and Greek??!?!?!?!? I don't know who thought of that combo....it's not one I've ever seen before. There are plenty of locals for you to see each time you visit here and sometimes they can be surly. But, still, the Stick is the place you go when you need some dive karaoke. Job done. Now, I'll have some sweet and sour pork and she'll have the Gyros!
(4)
Jamie F.
Keeping in mind that the sign reads "Cheap Chinese Fast-Food," you're getting exactly what you came for. I've only been in here once, but my service was friendly, take-out came quick, and it was pretty entertaining to watch white people sing U2 karaoke while I waited. Cheap, quick, dirty. A-OK.
(3)
LaDonna L.
I am by far not a karaoke singer. I am a watcher and laugher. I believe this is a bar/restaurant that happens to have karaoke. I didn't see much eating but the chef did bring out a fried concotion do I assume that there is a food menu. We were only in town for one night and wanted to have a drink and a listen to some karaoke. This place is crowded and full of energy. People were singing their feelings away and enjoying a good time. The drinks were stiff but with the watery make you sick feeling. I probably will check it out again when I am in town. Oh no cover charge so that right there deserves another visit.
(3)
Stephanie G.
True dive bar with a cast of characters. I imagine there's some good people watching as it gets later. I like dive bars but this one seemed a little on the dirty side. There was a sewer stench looming around our booth. The bartender did make a good vodka press! Hipsters and locals when we went on an early Thurs. evening.
(2)
Adrienne I.
Chopsticks is simply a dive bar/karaoke/chinese food place. Do not eat the food. Please! If you walk through the door and think eating there is still a good idea you deserve whatever horrible desese comes from there food. This is the sort of place that you would never want to see during daylight but can make an amazing late night venture.
(3)
Megan L.
Karaoke! So the DJ here is a bit of an ass. We put a bunch of songs in and he didn't work us into the rotation until after two rounds. It wasn't even that busy. Come on dude! Good thing the other staff there is great.
(2)
Jon M.
"Meh. I've experienced better." That about covers it.
(2)
Chad Or Lisa S.
This review is for the Karaoke. From us the Karaoke Nerds that go out of our way just to find and review Karaoke throughout the Portland Metro area. We give this place a 2.75 star. They have karaoke 7 nights a week. We arrived at about 8:30 P.M. on a Thursday night for Karaoke. I had never been here before but I heard some decent things. There were little to no people when we arrived. We ordered food. Which was fair. I have probably had better frozen dinners than their style of general chicken. Mr. Chad liked his broccoli bean curd. He said he would get it again. Anyway, The karaoke is set up so one can only put in one song at a time with little slips of paper. They have computer terminals set up so patrons can look up songs of their choice. We felt the singer rotation was set up fair. Karaoke started around 9:00 PM the standard karaoke time. We each were rotated in right away. The sound here is very muffled. I only saw speakers in and around the KJ booth and not in and around the lounge. Most of the male vocalists about 80% were audible, however of the female singers only about 10% were audible. I asked the KJ if he could turn up the vocals and he said that he adjusts it accordingly as per the singer and he can't help it if they choose to sing softly. Different types of voices have different vocal qualities. i.e. The Fach System- different vocal tone, weight, coloring/timbre and sound should be adjusted to fit those qualities. Every vocalist is going to bring something different to the mic. A KJ should make every effort to make the singer sound as best as they can. It seems to me that the levels were quite good for about 2-3 singers. Those singing R&B and soul from the 60's and 70's seem to have the best levels. I am not saying it is 100% the KJ's skill set, but I will say that 100% across the board that this place needs a new sound system. By 10:30p all the tables were filled with patrons of 21-32 age range. By 11:30P it was so crowed and so loud that they might as well just had a DJ and not Karaoke because unless one was literally two feet in front of the vocalist they could not be heard. At that point things kinda changed. It became more of a sing along piano bar without the piano. You had the singer out front and then 2-3 people standing in front shrieking the lyrics overtop of the singer that you couldn't hear anyway. Also a handful of patrons in the back singing along as well. So it didn't matter that there was a vocalist at the mic, everyone just sang everything anyway. Strange. Maybe they should rethink this establishment and make it into a piano bar? (jokingly) Then everyone can be the center of attention all at once. I am not saying that we would never go hear again. Maybe on an off night at the beginning of the week when it is slow. But certainly more of a social scene than a vocal scene.
(3)
Tamara C.
The fun vibe at this divey karaoke bar is worth checking out if karaoke is your thing. This was stop number two on our Barfly NYE party bus tour. We were only there for about 30 minutes. I have been to Chopstix before for another group party last summer and the drinks were just as strong as I remembered...kinda like jet fuel (in a good way). I would totally come back for the cool divey atmosphere, strong-ass drinks and fun karaoke. It's close enough to downtown that sharing a cab with friends would still be affordable. 2014 - Review # 2
(3)
Phoebe T.
I'd rather sing in my car than sing at this craphole. Rude rude rude people, not sure if they could sniff out that I'm not from there or if they're just flat out racist. Came here with 5 of my friends & ended up getting in a fight in the parking lot. My girlfriend & I were having a blast at first, dancing & singing karaoke then some random girl pushed us & openly admitted that she had done it on purpose, I was pissed but since it was my last night in Portland I decided to brush it off & just continue dancing. As hard as it was to brush something like that off we decided it was time to either bar hop or go home & as we left some white guy (who seemed like a regular), was yelling at my girlfriend calling her the B* word & all sorts of nasty names, we told him to leave us alone but he continued to follow us & provoke us. My friend who is a male told him that he cannot be disrepecting females like that & needs to leave us alone, the guy called my friend the "N", word & swung at him & his other friend tried to jump in to jump him. 2 guys against 1 guy & 2 girls, how is that fair? After a little scuffle, we tried to leave again & one of the guys threw rocks at us... At the end of the night, one guy got knocked out, the other guy got a boot in the face & ran off like a little B*. No one tried breaking it up other than yelling "YOU REAVE NOW!" (the Chinese guy; which I'm assuming worked there) Yeah this place is racist. No thanks!
(1)
Carl R.
I have only tried take-out from here - I got the dumplings (just steamed, not pan seared) and shrimp fried rice. A little over $12 for both, decent portions. Satisfying meal, very tasty for cheap cuisine. Will be back to check out the kareoke scene!
(4)
Johanna L.
This place.... haha. If you go on weekends, it's a total shit-show. I went on a Tuesday night most recently and got to sing right away. There was a decent crowd although I wouldn't consider them too involved (which makes or breaks a night of karaoke). As far as the restaurant goes, I've never had their food. Their cocktails I find overpriced so I just order beer. I wish had more definitive things to say about this place, but for the most part, it's just an average karaoke spot.
(3)
Katrina N.
Wish I could give this review no stars. Went there on a BarFly Bus tour, and my group was drugged, a couple of the girls had to even go to the hospital. From talking around town I've heard that my group wasn't the only one to ever experience this before. Be weary of the community water and shady bartenders.
(1)
Chuck S.
My coworkers and I like to stop in here during the week after work for happy hour. Very kind, hard working, personable staff serving a usually reputable blue-collar clientèle. There are two pool tables, video lottery machines, tvs and a touch tunes jukebox for your entertainment. The one glaring need for this establishment is a fumigation for gnats. All said, "Chops" is a good place to go after spending a day at work.
(3)
Krissy H.
I was at Chopsticks II last night (Tuesday) for the first time. Had I known it was an Asian restaurant maybe I wouldn't have eaten Chinese food before arriving. What a strange coincidence! So this review is not for the food but the fun. Don't let the backdoor entrance and the seedy appearance fool you, this place is remarkable! Once inside your inhibitions melt within the great atmosphere of a dozen or so regulars who get up a few times during the night to sing Karaoke. Each person very individual in their performance and song choices. The people are what give this place its character. The songs they choose are not the annoying hits I have heard at many a karaoke outing before, we were graced with a lively and wonderful performance of Bjork;s "It's Oh So Quiet", and the White Stripes "Hardest Button to Button", Tori Amos "Cornflake Girl", and yes some favorites the crowd sang along to The Right Stuff by NKOTB and a little Salt N Pepa. One regular, did his best monotone of John C Reilly with Cellophane from "Chicago". He then went on to use that same monotone for every song thereafter which was pretty funny. One awesome chick kept doing renditions of obscure 80's pop music I didn't know the lyrics to but really got the room pumped! And as the night went on more people started to come and we got some Billy Joel, Elton John and Rod Stewart. All and all a great night. The KJ (Karaoke Jockey) Robulous as they call him was awesome and he's apparently there every Tuesday so maybe these people come regularly on his night. I am not sure but I will say if you were ever afraid of Karaoke this is the place to be. Yes some people did perform with voices of intimidating beauty (Robulous' gf killed with some Zepplin and a few other songs) but the crowd is kind and vulnerable and it felt like the place to kick off a first time on the mic. I did not however sing, I mean- what song is theee song to do for your first time?? But I will be back plenty and I am sure it will happen soon enough! My boyfriend however did feel the urge to give it a shot with some Marty Robbins. So yes, I recommend this place unless your a music snob or a haggler then I say, go somewhere else- the vibe here is just right. :)
(5)
David C.
This is an ok place, the servers are decently nice, the DJ is... ok.... but I can't help thinking "White Trash" whenever I walk into this place. Its not so much the clientele, its the entire bar and building. I'll go back here for Karaoke if others want to but your're better off at the Alibi or at Boiler Room I think...
(2)
Mikhail H.
Chopsticks is just plain fun. I have never eaten here so I cannot comment on that but they have pretty decent drinks and well poured shots. Their karaoke selection is some of the best in town with a lot of alternative music as well as the most popular stuff. The diversity of the crowd is pretty impressive and I know a great many folks who are very talented musicians who hang out here. This means you will hear some great voices sing on the mic. And, you may try to resist it but you will find yourself singing along loudly to Don't Stop Believing at least once :)
(4)
Lorelei C.
Sometimes you just want greasy Chinese food. Just a big cardboard box of breaded pork covered in sweet and sour. Maybe a large thing of rice on the side. And that's okay. We went here late at night one night not really knowing what to expect. We saw a sign for food. Sat down at a bar. Got carded. Ordered our food. Passed on any drinks. Watched some guy hit a golf ball around on the floor while some people stumbled drunkenly in. Got our food. Left. Ate it. Contentment. It was an experience. I'm not sure it's one I'd want to relive by choice... but in the heat of the moment when that desire for orange chicken hits I definitely would. This is definitely a better place to come when you're already drunk to sing bad music.
(3)
Al M.
Man, this place is somewhat weird. A friend and I went here for lunch quickly, drawn in by the giant sign promising Chinese food. The first noticeable thing about it was the palatable scent of smoke throughout. The food itself wasn't horrible, but it sure wasn't anything to write home about either. It was also dead empty which for lunch, I guess, makes a lot of sense. The best part was when the Chinese couple came into this place right after us, walked around for 20 seconds with an absolutely horrified expression on their face, and walked right back out. Granted, this place is clearly a dive bar more than any type of place to get food, and I am unlikely to come back here for drinks or karaoke, but really the sign promised something that it just couldn't deliver.
(3)
Jacob P.
Well, looks like we found Portland's tone-deaf karaoke bar!! And, as if the singing wasn't bad enough, the sound system would make the best singer sound like a hot mess. I can't understand how Yelper's would rate this place with anything higher than 1 star?? The food wasn't cheap, the service was extremely slow, the beer selection sucked, and the table arrangement was awkward. I'm a firm believer that when you use the rating system on Yelp, you need to take into account comparable business', In this case, other karaoke bars. When we have so many other options that are better, this place doesn't deserve the 3 star average they're getting.
(1)
alley m.
There should be a no stars option. My boyfriend and I came here to meet some friends after dinner, a little more dressed up than usual for this place. We walked in and immediately felt profiled. A red Headed female bartender approached us and asked what we wanted to drink. Having taken a minute to pick between the two taps we could see, a decision was made. I told this bartender that I was surprised there weren't more taps (I haven't been here since I started to drink beer other than pabst). With a very irritated tone she informed me there were around the side and naturally I asked what (it seems that I was supposed to do my own leg work). This was an obvious inconvenience. She named 1 other thing and already we were quick to say," yeah we'll change our oder to that." She got sassy and gave us a sharp "sure, just tell me what you want already." I apologized and asked her if that would be a problem. ( I work as a bartender too and have an understanding for what kinds of crap you get dealt. This place was not very busy and too, was adequately staffed.) Maybe if I had taken off my jacket and exposed my tattoos I wouldn't have been misinterpreted. Her response was, " Are you being a C*NT right now?" absolutely baffled I responded, "Actually, no...I'm not" She continued on telling me that if I wanted to be a C*NT then I could leave. I said at this point that I wasn't comfortable staying and explained that I was now going around the corner to grab my friends. Yelling and screaming that she was calling the cops, she asked the security guard to follow me and escort me out. I didn't fight any of this because I couldn't believe what was happening. Right out of left field. Like a dream or a funny house. I grabbed my friends headed for the door. As I was walking out, some friend of hers starts yelling to me that I was told to leave and then ran after me and spit on the arm of my jacket. I walked out shaking my head and laughing because it was truly the worst and most insane service (or lack of) I have ever had.I still can't believe it. In conclusion this is a poorly ran establishment, where the staff couldn't care less about servicing customers. I'm sorry this women took me the wrong way, it's really too bad. It's sad that her insecurities would drive her to blow such a petty situation....... way out of proportion. PS. The owner was called and can barely speak english. His justification is that this bartender is "comfortable" .
(1)
Maeve C.
I love Chopsticks because it's the karaoke bar near my apartment, so I can stumble home easily, and the song selection is pretty good. That's enough for it to get my business pretty frequently. However, the drinks are overpriced, it takes FOREVER for your song to come up, and last week my friend was reprimanded for singing along to Vanessa Williams too loudly. At a karaoke bar. Not a library. (And no, she wasn't really that loud, just having fun.) Still, most of my nights at Chopsticks have been amazingly fun. I've chatted with some great characters in the bathroom, humiliated myself by singing songs I didn't really know, had way too many gin and tonics, and then have been able to get home after a 10 minute walk. 15 minutes if I can't walk anymore and have to crawl.
(3)
Rosy D.
Go here all the time! As long as you don't mind listening to very off key drunk people singing Karaoke your golden! Mini dance floor around karaoke allows you to sway along to the singing and bar is pretty funky cool
(4)
Alexander K.
I went into the bathroom and there was a dog in the bathroom and I petted the dog and the dog smiled.
(5)
Lyssa I.
Drunk white people singing gangsta rap with an unsolicited group of "go-go" dancers? After drinking at the Bye and Bye, getting donuts at Voo Doo Donuts too, we headed to Chopsticsks II to sing. It just makes sense. Well, we didn't get our song called before last call, but just watching the performers was AMAZING. Go there. You will not regret it.
(5)
Janessa P.
Chopsticks Express. The karaoke/video poker/blowjob birthday gimmick/veggie gyro heaven. There's a pretty good selection beers and cheap drinks. There's the same door guy, bartenders, and KJs that have been there FORever, and when they mistakenly tow your car on a Saturday night, the owner calls the company--on 122nd and Foster--and tells them not to charge you for it. You do have to pay the 20 dollar cab ride out there though.
(3)
Sara B.
I'm 10 minutes into a painful conversation with a drunk girl from Gresham who's about to "record her album" when it hits me. What the fuck am I doing at Chopsticks? Again? It's 1:00 a.m., I don't do karaoke, I always lose money at video poker here and I'm sure one night here is enough to give me lung cancer before I'm 40. Plus, I only make it to Portland a few times a year and THIS is how I'm spending my precious hours? At motherfucking Chopsticks Express, drinking whiskey sours until my pee burns? At least it's not Sewickley's, which looks like three-dozen condo yuppies going sightseeing in a Redmond dive bar. So fuck it, let's go to Chopsticks.
(3)
Doug Y.
I knew I was out of the loop on how to tip waiters... but I guess I'm out of the loop on WHO I should be tipping as well. For example, I did not know that a woman, whose mere job is to read down a list of names in the order of which they were given to her, requires a tip to read said names in said order. Otherwise she will fumble the cards for over TWO HOURS before calling your name to come sing karaoke. Seriously, I do not approve of bribing the karaoke waitress, it's most ludicrous thing I've ever heard of. But other people seem OK with it, including the set of friends who drag me back there all the time, so I guess I should just take it. I can't absolutely hate the place when the mood is so upbeat.
(2)
mary anne l.
So, any karaoke junkie will tell you... It freakin rules!!!!!!! Chopsticks is the only place to go for karaoke! Back home I used to be the KJ, and I miss it! But luckily I know the KJ's that rock it out! Never had the food, but don't care, it's all about the karaoke vibe. If you've ever been one of those kinds of people, you'll know...
(5)
Carissa W.
Chopsticks is all about the karaoke. The drinks are cheap and the dcor is cheaper, but the entertainment is priceless. Karaoke goes down seven nights a week, and there is almost always a crowd. A favorite of the 20 somethings, there is always a rock ballad or two and Jack Black-esque theatrics. There's the good, the bad, and the downright screechy, but it's always a good show. Apparently they serve food, but I wouldn't go near it. Besides, food might mess up your rendition of David Bowie, so it's best to stick to the booze and crooning.
(4)
Joshua R.
chopsticks is a great place for karaoke! if you love to sing, or to watch drunk people dance, or to dance drunk, this is the place for you. weekdays can be calm and mellow and are good for practicing and learning new songs, but weekends is when the party really starts. on fridays and saturdays, expect a crowd of almost mob mentality. if you're any good they will dance and scream along with you, if you're bad they'll be too drunk to notice. cheap, greasy, hot, delicious chinese food is icing on the cake.
(4)
Abe I.
I have only a vague idea what the food here is like. I think it's actually pretty good. Chopsticks is not about the food though, it's about some of the best karaoke you'll find. This place is very serious about it's karaoke, and you'll catch the cream of the crop belting it out and (often) taking it off. Just make sure you put in your requests early, as it takes a while to come around.
(4)
Sprinkles G.
Where can a group of 30 something ladies get their karaoke on before 9pm and be served dinner in between numbers? Chopsticks Express II, that's where. If you start happy hour at 5pm, and finish your event by 7pm, then I think its a give in that you will be doing karaoke by 8pm. Our overpriced data packaged phones had a hay day trying to find a place where we would do karaoke before 10 on a Saturday night, but Chopsticks was Google's 13'th suggestion for us. The restaurant/gambling side of the place is well lit, and just like should be...the karaoke side is dark and smoky. The food was your typical greasy chinese cuisine. Though it was kind of bad ass when our waiters face showed up on the karaoke tv screens all over the bar, turns out he's the owner too. So we sang our hearts out, and everybody at the bar danced with us. Turns out "The Humpty Dump" is the secret karaoke gold mine of 2011. I would totally go back to Chopsticks for the Karaoke and crowd.
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Late Night Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Divey Noise Level : Very Loud Music : Karaoke Good For Dancing : Yes Alcohol : Full Bar Happy Hour : Yes Best Nights : Thu, Fri, Sat Coat Check : No Smoking : Outdoor Area/ Patio Only Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
The popularity of Chinese food in America can be adjudicated by the appearance of China Town in many major cities in the United State of America. The popular trend of ordering or opting for Chinese take away food isn't unknown in America. Chinese take away food comes to rescue when you're too tired from work or too exhausted to cook. No one can resist the temptation of eating spicy noodles, shrimp, chicken, beef or pork cooked in the sweet and spicy sauce. The cooking method of authentic Chinese food is a lot different compared to what is served in America.
Generally, Chinese use dark meat small bones and organs to cook dishes but this changes when you are eating American-Chinese fusion food prepared using white boneless meat cooked with broccoli, carrots and onions. Back in China, the food is less spicy and oily as they favor steaming and braising method for cooking the most popular dishes. So, if you have a taste for authentic Chinese food, then try finding a real Chinese restaurant in the city. You can also try the most popular fusion Chinese food like Pecking Duck, Chicken Feet, Hot Pot, Shrimp Dumpling Soup, Mapo Tofu, Wontons, Chop Suey, Egg Rolls and not to forget Fortune Cookies.
There are not many restaurants in America serving authentic Chinese food. A little research on Restaurant Listings directory can help you locate the best Chinese restaurants in the city. Chinese cuisine is continuously evolving, and you can find a variety of dishes categorized as the food for lactose intolerant, gluten intolerant, vegan, vegetarian, and diabetic friendly. So, if you have a group of friends with different taste patterns, save the hassle and visit the nearest Chinese restaurant in your city.
Chastity B.
The food is pretty decent, and the price is great. The drinks are priced well too. The staff was beyond friendly and attentive. It was clean and fun. Even has a photo booth! How cool!
(5)tristan p.
I like this place. I feel like everyone here is either gambling, getting their drink on while hiding from someone/thing, or just over it all. It's like death's waiting room but with Chinese food.
(3)Chris O.
An interesting dive to get your karaoke on, with an actually quite talented group of regulars that come here just for that, sorry but I forget what night that happens on but it's probably the one reason to come here. The beer selection is small for Portland but they do have one or two local micros on tap.
(3)Kristen L.
It is a great place, great karoke and good food. I am leaving only three stars because I will be honest with you, every time I eat here my farts smell really bad!!! Sometimes I have to fart while dancing Or doing karoke and people are offended!!!! I do not like this part of their service. They are nice people and good service, but be careful what u order. You order certain dishes and you order certain death. I am even farting rigt now as I write!!! And it smells very bad!!!!!!
(3)Quinn W.
Disgusting stickiness covers the entire place. Describing the clientele as obnoxious would be an understatement. But what really blew my mind was the toilet in the men's room which lacks a stall so if you had to sit down to handle your business anyone would be able to see and smell. That has to be some kind of health code violation, right?
(1)Chad C.
This place will supposedly be demolished in the next few months. While a tragic loss of local culture, the building does kind of look like it's on its last legs - there's a hole in one exterior wall that's covered by 2x4s and a tarp. Regardless, this place is best known for drunken karaoke, attracting a wide variety of freaks, geeks, hipsters, woo girls, bros and brahs. They also have a bar with decently priced (and decently poured) drinks and a chinese restaurant is somehow stuffed in here as well. The food is about what you could expect for a chinese restaurant that's also a bar, but they do have a wide variety on their menu even late at night, which is a definite plus. The bartenders are pleasant and attentive, and the karaoke song selection is seemingly endless. For die-hards, you'll want to arrive early and plan to wait at least two hours before your song comes up.
(3)Jenni T.
I love the bar and especially the bar tender Aarik. BUT the kj was BEYOND rude. I understand you dont want people going wild with drinks in their hands but you dont have to immediately approach everyone nearing the dance floor and tell them to set their drinks down. Debby downer. Made me feel intimitated and awkward.
(1)Jillian C.
Chopsticks is always fun whether its at the beginning of the night or the tail end when you're too drunk to even know whats happening. You probably won't know whats going on if its at the start of your night either. Cheap drinks, karaoke every night, fun people, and their cheeseburgers taste like Burger King which strangely is a huge plus for me.
(4)Matthew T.
Best karaoke in town. The KJs are good, the staff is attentive & friendly, the regulars are great, David Chow is the world's most wonderful host, and the food is, honestly, not half bad. It's gonna be a damn shame when this location closes down; it is iconic, after all. But the soul will live on at the new Sandy location, and the elements that make this place great (KJs, staff, Chow) will be represented there as well. How can be, indeed. PROTIP: It gets pretty crowded on weekend nights. Come during the week for a short rotation.
(5)Eric S.
I like to start positive: Friendly staff. Good Drinks. But..... the song books are so disgusting and nasty I wanted to wash my hands with bleach after I touched them (and I'm not a germ phobic person at all). Honestly, if someone ruins a book by spilling a beer on it, THROW IT OUT AND PRINT ANOTHER. Keep your song books up to date with the music you have and recycle/reprint them every few months. The weekend crowds here are the absolute worst. I miss The Galaxy.
(2)George C.
DIVE!!! I love dives and the crowd ranges from hipster to local dirt bag. It's all good. It's really hard to give a dive like this more than 2 stars. The drinks were CHEAP and not weak. I ordered 2 mix drinks and a beer and it came to $10. Sweet! I also heard some of the worst karaoke in my life. I left shortly after some hipster attempted to sing "Build me up buttercup".
(2)Joyce O.
Always an interesting crowd and there is Karaoke 7 nights a week! You can't beat that! Sing your hearts out people!
(4)Ashley W.
It's a Saturday night and it's POPPIN'! Consistent with other reviewers, my observation was a crowd primarily decorated with hipsters but not so much the snooty-my-skinnies-rock-harder-than-your-skinnies hipsters, but the fun karaoke-loving type---which is of course, the only way I take my hipsters! Drinks are most certainly stiff and fairly priced. I'm too scared to try the food because in a bar completely packed not one person was eating and there has to be something said for that... One star drop for the dingy atmousphere. I realize it's a dive but it's the kind of place that makes you wanna double check your glass to see if it is actually clean. Another star drop for the arrogant KJ. As a former KJ myself I know how to roll; I made a suave introduction and dropped $10 into the tip jar. He had that glazed over "I don't give a &#$^" thing going on which should've said it all. But hey, we were planned to enjoy some drinks and stay a while so meh, I figured it shouldn't be tooooo terribly long... That is, until 2 and a half hours later past 1am I finally heard my name called. I didn't want to encroach on his small space and fuss about my turn but maybe I should have to save my name from being with the no-tipping, bottom-feeders. Kinda want my ten bucks back but it's all good, I'll just go to a place where the drinks are stiff AAAND the KJ's cool!
(3)Ana B.
I am on a Karaoke kick...in a big way. My first trip to Chopsticks was on a Saturday night . I spent about 10 minutes in the place. In that short time I witnessed a bro fight, group birthday blow job shots, a Morrissey look alike, and a sweaty overweight man sing "Do you think I'm sexy?" with unmatched enthusiasm despite not knowing the words. Remember in Fear and Loathing when Johnny Depp is wondering around Circus Circus? That's a little like how I felt. Always one for second chances I headed back to Chopsticks, this time on a Sunday. I was happy to see a smaller, yet still diverse crowd. I grabbed a PBR and a song book and settled in by the stage. Thirty some minutes passed and my song came on. I can only imagine how long it would take with a larger crowd. This place lacks the enthusiasm for your fellow karaoke-ers. Meh...ya thats it.
(2)Jessica T.
Great cheap, saucy, Chinese food. Amazingly happy people singing their hearts out at karaoke. A plethora of beer and cigarettes. This place is the best!
(5)Divad Y.
+Late night Chinese food +Take out +food prices Look around. Mexican food and fast food are everywhere, but where else do you find a place that offers Chinese food until 2AM? This place serves Chinese food until 2AM and its an addition to my late night gr
(4)Taco E.
No matter what you do, Do not eat at this place! Food is bland, tasteless and uninspiring. What you should come out here is for people-watching; especially the local hipsters and hipsterettes singing, dancing and fighting. On the weekends, karaoke here can be un-hearable due the establishment's tendency to pack a large amount of people in a space the equivalent of a VW Beetle.
(2)Jessica N.
Who knew this place would be rockin' several years when I first stepped in there in 6th grade over a decade ago. However, I don't think it'd be a place I'd spare some change on food... Drinks are on the cheap and can be mildly strong if you know the bartender, I'm sure. The vast selection of songs for Karaoke is amazing, but what is more amazing is the awesome talent that comes through. Portland has some potential stars within the community, but often it's a few drinks that can bring them there. The crowd is very unique and ranges from this to that, but whatever - as long as you're enjoying yourself - why does it matter? Late night, sing songs, awesome location.
(3)Justin W.
Chinese food + Hipsters + Cheap booze + Decor from the late 70s + Karaoke = A beautiful trainwreck that must be experienced. This is seriously one of the most fun places I've been in a minute. I tore the house down with my rendition of "Roses" by Outkast. Natch.
(5)Lorraine S.
This place is great- strong cheap drinks, friendly bartenders, pool, video poker, and of course, karaoke. I went there last night with the munchies and chose a spicy vegetable with bean curd and steamed rice (per bartender recommendation) and was pleasantly surprised! It was actually really delicious! I ordered veggie chow mein at Chop III on time and it was kind of gross with lots of "bonus" pieces of meat thrown in, so I was really pleased with the quality of this one. Friendly KJ, good song selection, lots of drunk people to cheer you on. Not a bad way to spend an evening!
(4)H M.
Love. So fun. I might even have done 5 stars if it didn't take upwards of 2 hours to be able to sing. Very fun vibe, people singing along with each other and dancing. Definitely a party bar.
(4)Chris S.
THE STAFF IS AWESOME. The owner is HORRIBLE. HORRRRIBBBLEEE. Rude, cheap, treats his staff terribly. I would give this place 0 stars if I could just for him.
(1)Esther Y.
Maybe I was too sober for this karaoke bar, but my friends all had a great time. I personally don't really like the public type of karaoke bar where you sing in front of everyone -- I much prefer the Korean-style private rooms where you get your friends together, drink, and sing, and you don't have to wait for other people to sing songs you don't know or aren't interested in. A place in Portland I've yet to try but has great ratings on Yelp is Voicebox. Anyways, in general this is your standard bar with pool, some other games, and karaoke 7 nights a week. At midnight the KJ (the karaoke DJ) sings a song, and ours was pretty darn good! I'm not sure why, but for some reason I felt like I was in Mexico sitting in this bar. Nobody was Mexican, and nobody sang Spanish songs, so it's strange...but...just thought I'd mention it in case anyone else might've felt as weird as me. =P
(3)Matt K.
The karaoke is fun, the drinks are stiff on busy nights, and the crowd is oddly welcoming despite being ridiculously diverse. While I probably won't return for some time, just because I have other places to explore - The ambience was one of the best I've encountered since moving to Portland in August. I debated giving Chopsticks Express II only two stars, but feel as though the third star is necessary given the happy, fun, and exceptionally entertaining evening I had doing karaoke. In addition to our group of semi-professional twenty-somethings, there were hipsters, older ladies celebrating a divorce, older professionals, leggy girls, and a couple of meatheads. Everyone got along and supported one another on karaoke - no judgments, none of the attitude I find typical of PDX karaoke events, and an attentive bartender. I consider the experience well worth a foray into the world of Chopsticks II karaoke nights.
(3)Michael C.
This is certainly not a dive bar; that would be giving dive bars a bad name. I strongly recommend advance preparation before wandering through the door such as drinking several martinis, 1/2 a bottle of scotch or some other fine tasting anesthetic. Once fully prepared this place is really a lot of fun. As the night wears on the cast of characters jumping on stage to show case their talents is a sight to behold. A very strange but interesting experience indeed.
(3)Adrian K.
Cheap drinks, mainly because they're the weakest drinks known to man. Karaoke... whether this is a plus or a minus is entirely up to you. I was told by my friend to never, EVER eat food here. He wouldn't tell me why, he just kept muttering "learn from my fail, bro." So, there ya go.
(2)Sara M.
Best Karaoke in town! Great service, great waitresses. Great fun. Great crowd. And pretty delicious chinese food, although, its completely bad for you. I'm pretty sure theyre chicken is loaded with MSG, but if you dont mind that, its amazing. I love getting drunk, watching a diverse crowd from hipsters to old people have fun and make fools of themselves, while i chow down on some sesame chicken. Love that place. Great for birthday parties too! Celebrated my cousin's, dad's, and my roommates bday there. Theyre great about reserving tables for large parties and on sometimes theres even cake!
(4)Steve M.
I'm a closet singer. I whisper in the shower, and in the car I am like a ventriloquist--I try to sing without the people in the next car being able to see my lips move. But I may have overcome my fear of singing with the help of a few PBR tallboys. Yes, I popped my karaoke cherry. And I did it the right way: Thursday night, post-league bowling, dive bar, close to home, a few coworkers in attendance, and the perfect song. "The Joker" by The Steve Miller Band, naturally. HINT: Demonstrating how to shake a peach tree is always a crowd pleaser. The patrons/performers were cool, the song selection was predictable at times (guilty), and the KJ was hot, cool and talented.
(4)emily r.
i love karaoke. i love drinks that look blue under blacklight. i love it when kj's say i am their favorite singer of the night. woooo!
(4)Kimberly V.
Don't be butt-hurt. In every relationship, statements pop up and linger like sinus infections. But more helpfully than sinus trouble, they quietly gather strength until their presence is needed to cut through all forms of strife. "I love you," is obvs. "I'm really sorry," comes in handy all the time. "She looked 18," may serve you well in a pinch. But in certain households, the three-word imperative with the power to turn any situation on its head is "Don't be butt-hurt." FLASHBACK: The day before the Fourth of July. Out to celebrate a friend's birthday, not hard to convince the crowd to mosey on up Burnside to a little place called Chopsticks Express. The place so notoriously smoky, it's a wonder how anyone emerges from it with any lung intact, let alone able to sing. But the catalogue is extensive, the dancing helps, and the drinks are poured generously enough. Maybe too generously. By the time someone inevitably busted out "The Humpty Dance," it became clear that the KJ had a singers' list as long as the birthday girl's bar tab. A little bribery changed hands, a few people in the group managed to grab the mike and show everyone what's what. But not everyone. An individual from this unlucky fraction was a little too wasted to be cool about it. Pulling from the bag of bad drunk scenarios, this individual got really steamed when her boyfriend suggested they leave before she got her turn. Despite the blinking lights and streams of strangers that made departure a decent plan, the girlfriend wanted to stay. Despite the time ringing in at three in the morning, despite knowing that nothing good ever happens after three in the morning, she wanted to stay. CUT TO: The worst fight in the history of that couple. We're talking stalking off in one direction, screaming like a displaced psych ward patient on the street, and being persuaded into the car as if being talked off a ledge. Here's another three-word phrase: I'm an asshole. NEXT MORNING: Still fuming. Hungover. Throat like a bottle of Jager has broken inside. In fact, everything hurts. SHE: Christ, why am I in pain? This sucks. HE: Maybe it's because you were being a pain in the ass last night. SHE: --- HE: We're cool, but you were acting butt-hurt for no reason. Don't be butt-hurt. SHE: I'm really sorry. Another three-word phrase: Let it go. You know where you can hear more pertinent three-word phrases? Pop songs. And where can you hear all your favorites? Chopsticks. Final phrase: Complete relevance, baby.
(3)Jennifer B.
this place is hit or miss. the crowd is sometimes eclectic, which is nice... however it's a bit of a hipster haven, which can be annoying. the staff is all right sometimes, but more often they've got a problem of some sort. it's one of those places where you have to watch your drink, otherwise the server comes to snatch it before you're done. the kjs can be downright corrupt, letting some people sing out of order and skipping others. on the other hand, it's usually a lively place, you can catch some great singers during the week, and it's in a central location. it's also got karaoke 7 days a week, which is key.
(3)Lee Y.
Best karaoke bar in Portland!!
(5)Brice B.
Holy God, is this place a winner. I've never used the phrase hell-hole lovingly before, but there's a first for everything! I had a friend in from out of town, and I was trying to make sure she got the full effect of Portland's pastiche of out-there destinations. I'm laughing out loud as I type because Chopsticks Express is truly inspiring! Walking in was the first of an endless parade of oddball experiences. The crowd was all over the map, and there was a large dog roaming pretty well unsupervised around the bar. We were hungry, and against our better judgment, we went ahead and took the plunge. The food was passable; but given my expectations, I was thoroughly impressed. I still think you might be better off sneaking a flask into a Panda Express if all you're looking for is a cocktail with your Chinese food, but this place ain't exactly a model Asian restaurant. You ought to know that the moment you walk in. The centerpiece of Chopsticks is the karaoke. To be clear, I generally hate the karaoke experience, but the crowd here managed to crack through my tough exterior shell. We got an awesome show, and we were sad to have to leave at the end of the night. I know I only awarded three stars, but I can't figure out how to justify any more than that. All I know is that I'll not soon forget my Chopsticks Express experience!
(3)ben h.
Horrible! Stunk of smoke. Dust and gook over everything. Chow mein was nothing but noodles with a piece of cabbage in it. Pork fried rice had two peas and three chunks of meat. Tasteless, funky, an I felt like I was going to get a venerial desease just waiting for food! Don't go here if you value your health!!!
(1)Lauren G.
Chopsticks is an institution. It really is. But it gets so damn crowded and then you can't hear your friends talk and you can't remember why you came because it takes like, an hour to get a song in on a Friday night. But! It is possible to come on a weekday and have a grand old time. And they have pretty good table service for how many people tend to pile in here. And the KJ's are the best. And you don't come for the food. And there are many varied patrons, which can be nice unless you have to listen to like, 4 guys in a row sing shitty nu-metal songs. Really? Save that biz for your bedroom, bud, I got some Stevie Wonder to sing!
(3)Cedric J.
Chopsticks Express is an institution. When I first moved to Portland, I would go here for their Mandarin Chicken during my dinner break for band practice. It is addictive. I've now switched to the shrimp version of this, but their fried rice is excellent and their mandarin sauce is just excellent. They used to be more of a restaurant, and now the bar scene has taken over. They're super busy with the karaoke on the weekends, so don't expect to sing more than once. But their song selection even makes a guy like me get up there: they have Depeche Mode, Cure, Bowie, Pulp, Radiohead. This isn't just your cheesy dive, there are some really talented people that sing there. Go on a Wednesday and it is great. Beer selection: decent. Drinks: good. Service: they do their best, but when it is busy it is difficult. Food: Great.
(4)Lindsey J.
Great place for Karaoke. I have never heard of a place (until Chopsticks) that offered karaoke 7 nights a week. Thats crazy, and they sure as hek do well for themselves. You will find that even on a Tuesday night, after about 10 pm, this place gets pretty crowded. I always like to go around 8 before everyone gets there and sing as many songs as I can belt out. People smoke a lot in here, so its kind of smoky, but I think that is part of the draw. I have never eaten here and don't plan too, but the meals don't look too bad from what I have observed. The drinks are fine, pretty strong, you will get drunk if you order 3 or more. They are also fairly priced. Towards the back is the pool table and video games, but most people chill up towards the karaoke. The crowd is very casual. You can wear a ripped up holey tee shirt with jogging shorts, or you can wear a cute knit dress from Forever 21. It sure wont matter. Have fun!
(5)Anthony R.
I've never eaten the food here, but they pour strong drinks. The last time I was here I got seriously trashed, swayed along to my friends' karaoke renditions of Journey and Air supply, and shamelessly made out with my publisher. Then I lost my expensive digital camera. So, um, go for drinks. But keep your wits about you.
(3)Kelley B.
Hideous...the place smells like an outhouse and the food made me sick - avoid this place if you know what's good for you.
(1)James M.
Cheap drinks that are heavy hitters
(4)LYNSEY L.
Yay! I heart Chopsticks and go here weekly. Its a great dive bar, cheap strong drinks, friendly people, tons of places to sit, and FREE entertainment in the nightly karaoke. IF you want to sing, its free - but tip the DJ! Also, I highly recommend being there for the midnight hour the DJ graces us with song - sure to be the highlight of the evening. Yeah, there are drunk people who hold the mic 5 feet from there face while they sloppily slur through a song, but isn't that part of the fun? OH! Yummy food too!
(4)Kristin W.
A medium-busy Tuesday night, waited over 2 hours for my song, then left. No good for karaoke. Also $10 minimum for credit cards or $1 fee. This is the highest minimum and highest fee of any bar/store I've ever been to. Don't go. Find karaoke somewhere else (Tennessee Red's, The Hutch, etc)
(2)Boll W.
Channel your inner Bruce Dickinson. Channel your inner Axl Rose. Channel your inner Johnny Cash. Well, maybe not. We can't all sing like Bruce Dickinson or Axl Rose, nor do we have the waif thin/heroin induced body of the latter. But, you can sing some Johnny Cash. I mean, really, drink some whiskey and smoke some cigarettes. Hell, you don't even have to smoke, the 40 others in the place will do that for you! I've seen some great crooners here and I've seen myself singing here. That, in and of itself is a rarity, is where things go wrong. Well, not really, because the only way you can mess up Johnny Cash is to be too nice. One thing I will never understand about the Stick is that of the food. Peanut butter and jelly? Bread and butter? Chinese and Greek??!?!?!?!? I don't know who thought of that combo....it's not one I've ever seen before. There are plenty of locals for you to see each time you visit here and sometimes they can be surly. But, still, the Stick is the place you go when you need some dive karaoke. Job done. Now, I'll have some sweet and sour pork and she'll have the Gyros!
(4)Jamie F.
Keeping in mind that the sign reads "Cheap Chinese Fast-Food," you're getting exactly what you came for. I've only been in here once, but my service was friendly, take-out came quick, and it was pretty entertaining to watch white people sing U2 karaoke while I waited. Cheap, quick, dirty. A-OK.
(3)LaDonna L.
I am by far not a karaoke singer. I am a watcher and laugher. I believe this is a bar/restaurant that happens to have karaoke. I didn't see much eating but the chef did bring out a fried concotion do I assume that there is a food menu. We were only in town for one night and wanted to have a drink and a listen to some karaoke. This place is crowded and full of energy. People were singing their feelings away and enjoying a good time. The drinks were stiff but with the watery make you sick feeling. I probably will check it out again when I am in town. Oh no cover charge so that right there deserves another visit.
(3)Stephanie G.
True dive bar with a cast of characters. I imagine there's some good people watching as it gets later. I like dive bars but this one seemed a little on the dirty side. There was a sewer stench looming around our booth. The bartender did make a good vodka press! Hipsters and locals when we went on an early Thurs. evening.
(2)Adrienne I.
Chopsticks is simply a dive bar/karaoke/chinese food place. Do not eat the food. Please! If you walk through the door and think eating there is still a good idea you deserve whatever horrible desese comes from there food. This is the sort of place that you would never want to see during daylight but can make an amazing late night venture.
(3)Megan L.
Karaoke! So the DJ here is a bit of an ass. We put a bunch of songs in and he didn't work us into the rotation until after two rounds. It wasn't even that busy. Come on dude! Good thing the other staff there is great.
(2)Jon M.
"Meh. I've experienced better." That about covers it.
(2)Chad Or Lisa S.
This review is for the Karaoke. From us the Karaoke Nerds that go out of our way just to find and review Karaoke throughout the Portland Metro area. We give this place a 2.75 star. They have karaoke 7 nights a week. We arrived at about 8:30 P.M. on a Thursday night for Karaoke. I had never been here before but I heard some decent things. There were little to no people when we arrived. We ordered food. Which was fair. I have probably had better frozen dinners than their style of general chicken. Mr. Chad liked his broccoli bean curd. He said he would get it again. Anyway, The karaoke is set up so one can only put in one song at a time with little slips of paper. They have computer terminals set up so patrons can look up songs of their choice. We felt the singer rotation was set up fair. Karaoke started around 9:00 PM the standard karaoke time. We each were rotated in right away. The sound here is very muffled. I only saw speakers in and around the KJ booth and not in and around the lounge. Most of the male vocalists about 80% were audible, however of the female singers only about 10% were audible. I asked the KJ if he could turn up the vocals and he said that he adjusts it accordingly as per the singer and he can't help it if they choose to sing softly. Different types of voices have different vocal qualities. i.e. The Fach System- different vocal tone, weight, coloring/timbre and sound should be adjusted to fit those qualities. Every vocalist is going to bring something different to the mic. A KJ should make every effort to make the singer sound as best as they can. It seems to me that the levels were quite good for about 2-3 singers. Those singing R&B and soul from the 60's and 70's seem to have the best levels. I am not saying it is 100% the KJ's skill set, but I will say that 100% across the board that this place needs a new sound system. By 10:30p all the tables were filled with patrons of 21-32 age range. By 11:30P it was so crowed and so loud that they might as well just had a DJ and not Karaoke because unless one was literally two feet in front of the vocalist they could not be heard. At that point things kinda changed. It became more of a sing along piano bar without the piano. You had the singer out front and then 2-3 people standing in front shrieking the lyrics overtop of the singer that you couldn't hear anyway. Also a handful of patrons in the back singing along as well. So it didn't matter that there was a vocalist at the mic, everyone just sang everything anyway. Strange. Maybe they should rethink this establishment and make it into a piano bar? (jokingly) Then everyone can be the center of attention all at once. I am not saying that we would never go hear again. Maybe on an off night at the beginning of the week when it is slow. But certainly more of a social scene than a vocal scene.
(3)Tamara C.
The fun vibe at this divey karaoke bar is worth checking out if karaoke is your thing. This was stop number two on our Barfly NYE party bus tour. We were only there for about 30 minutes. I have been to Chopstix before for another group party last summer and the drinks were just as strong as I remembered...kinda like jet fuel (in a good way). I would totally come back for the cool divey atmosphere, strong-ass drinks and fun karaoke. It's close enough to downtown that sharing a cab with friends would still be affordable. 2014 - Review # 2
(3)Phoebe T.
I'd rather sing in my car than sing at this craphole. Rude rude rude people, not sure if they could sniff out that I'm not from there or if they're just flat out racist. Came here with 5 of my friends & ended up getting in a fight in the parking lot. My girlfriend & I were having a blast at first, dancing & singing karaoke then some random girl pushed us & openly admitted that she had done it on purpose, I was pissed but since it was my last night in Portland I decided to brush it off & just continue dancing. As hard as it was to brush something like that off we decided it was time to either bar hop or go home & as we left some white guy (who seemed like a regular), was yelling at my girlfriend calling her the B* word & all sorts of nasty names, we told him to leave us alone but he continued to follow us & provoke us. My friend who is a male told him that he cannot be disrepecting females like that & needs to leave us alone, the guy called my friend the "N", word & swung at him & his other friend tried to jump in to jump him. 2 guys against 1 guy & 2 girls, how is that fair? After a little scuffle, we tried to leave again & one of the guys threw rocks at us... At the end of the night, one guy got knocked out, the other guy got a boot in the face & ran off like a little B*. No one tried breaking it up other than yelling "YOU REAVE NOW!" (the Chinese guy; which I'm assuming worked there) Yeah this place is racist. No thanks!
(1)Carl R.
I have only tried take-out from here - I got the dumplings (just steamed, not pan seared) and shrimp fried rice. A little over $12 for both, decent portions. Satisfying meal, very tasty for cheap cuisine. Will be back to check out the kareoke scene!
(4)Johanna L.
This place.... haha. If you go on weekends, it's a total shit-show. I went on a Tuesday night most recently and got to sing right away. There was a decent crowd although I wouldn't consider them too involved (which makes or breaks a night of karaoke). As far as the restaurant goes, I've never had their food. Their cocktails I find overpriced so I just order beer. I wish had more definitive things to say about this place, but for the most part, it's just an average karaoke spot.
(3)Katrina N.
Wish I could give this review no stars. Went there on a BarFly Bus tour, and my group was drugged, a couple of the girls had to even go to the hospital. From talking around town I've heard that my group wasn't the only one to ever experience this before. Be weary of the community water and shady bartenders.
(1)Chuck S.
My coworkers and I like to stop in here during the week after work for happy hour. Very kind, hard working, personable staff serving a usually reputable blue-collar clientèle. There are two pool tables, video lottery machines, tvs and a touch tunes jukebox for your entertainment. The one glaring need for this establishment is a fumigation for gnats. All said, "Chops" is a good place to go after spending a day at work.
(3)Krissy H.
I was at Chopsticks II last night (Tuesday) for the first time. Had I known it was an Asian restaurant maybe I wouldn't have eaten Chinese food before arriving. What a strange coincidence! So this review is not for the food but the fun. Don't let the backdoor entrance and the seedy appearance fool you, this place is remarkable! Once inside your inhibitions melt within the great atmosphere of a dozen or so regulars who get up a few times during the night to sing Karaoke. Each person very individual in their performance and song choices. The people are what give this place its character. The songs they choose are not the annoying hits I have heard at many a karaoke outing before, we were graced with a lively and wonderful performance of Bjork;s "It's Oh So Quiet", and the White Stripes "Hardest Button to Button", Tori Amos "Cornflake Girl", and yes some favorites the crowd sang along to The Right Stuff by NKOTB and a little Salt N Pepa. One regular, did his best monotone of John C Reilly with Cellophane from "Chicago". He then went on to use that same monotone for every song thereafter which was pretty funny. One awesome chick kept doing renditions of obscure 80's pop music I didn't know the lyrics to but really got the room pumped! And as the night went on more people started to come and we got some Billy Joel, Elton John and Rod Stewart. All and all a great night. The KJ (Karaoke Jockey) Robulous as they call him was awesome and he's apparently there every Tuesday so maybe these people come regularly on his night. I am not sure but I will say if you were ever afraid of Karaoke this is the place to be. Yes some people did perform with voices of intimidating beauty (Robulous' gf killed with some Zepplin and a few other songs) but the crowd is kind and vulnerable and it felt like the place to kick off a first time on the mic. I did not however sing, I mean- what song is theee song to do for your first time?? But I will be back plenty and I am sure it will happen soon enough! My boyfriend however did feel the urge to give it a shot with some Marty Robbins. So yes, I recommend this place unless your a music snob or a haggler then I say, go somewhere else- the vibe here is just right. :)
(5)David C.
This is an ok place, the servers are decently nice, the DJ is... ok.... but I can't help thinking "White Trash" whenever I walk into this place. Its not so much the clientele, its the entire bar and building. I'll go back here for Karaoke if others want to but your're better off at the Alibi or at Boiler Room I think...
(2)Mikhail H.
Chopsticks is just plain fun. I have never eaten here so I cannot comment on that but they have pretty decent drinks and well poured shots. Their karaoke selection is some of the best in town with a lot of alternative music as well as the most popular stuff. The diversity of the crowd is pretty impressive and I know a great many folks who are very talented musicians who hang out here. This means you will hear some great voices sing on the mic. And, you may try to resist it but you will find yourself singing along loudly to Don't Stop Believing at least once :)
(4)Lorelei C.
Sometimes you just want greasy Chinese food. Just a big cardboard box of breaded pork covered in sweet and sour. Maybe a large thing of rice on the side. And that's okay. We went here late at night one night not really knowing what to expect. We saw a sign for food. Sat down at a bar. Got carded. Ordered our food. Passed on any drinks. Watched some guy hit a golf ball around on the floor while some people stumbled drunkenly in. Got our food. Left. Ate it. Contentment. It was an experience. I'm not sure it's one I'd want to relive by choice... but in the heat of the moment when that desire for orange chicken hits I definitely would. This is definitely a better place to come when you're already drunk to sing bad music.
(3)Al M.
Man, this place is somewhat weird. A friend and I went here for lunch quickly, drawn in by the giant sign promising Chinese food. The first noticeable thing about it was the palatable scent of smoke throughout. The food itself wasn't horrible, but it sure wasn't anything to write home about either. It was also dead empty which for lunch, I guess, makes a lot of sense. The best part was when the Chinese couple came into this place right after us, walked around for 20 seconds with an absolutely horrified expression on their face, and walked right back out. Granted, this place is clearly a dive bar more than any type of place to get food, and I am unlikely to come back here for drinks or karaoke, but really the sign promised something that it just couldn't deliver.
(3)Jacob P.
Well, looks like we found Portland's tone-deaf karaoke bar!! And, as if the singing wasn't bad enough, the sound system would make the best singer sound like a hot mess. I can't understand how Yelper's would rate this place with anything higher than 1 star?? The food wasn't cheap, the service was extremely slow, the beer selection sucked, and the table arrangement was awkward. I'm a firm believer that when you use the rating system on Yelp, you need to take into account comparable business', In this case, other karaoke bars. When we have so many other options that are better, this place doesn't deserve the 3 star average they're getting.
(1)alley m.
There should be a no stars option. My boyfriend and I came here to meet some friends after dinner, a little more dressed up than usual for this place. We walked in and immediately felt profiled. A red Headed female bartender approached us and asked what we wanted to drink. Having taken a minute to pick between the two taps we could see, a decision was made. I told this bartender that I was surprised there weren't more taps (I haven't been here since I started to drink beer other than pabst). With a very irritated tone she informed me there were around the side and naturally I asked what (it seems that I was supposed to do my own leg work). This was an obvious inconvenience. She named 1 other thing and already we were quick to say," yeah we'll change our oder to that." She got sassy and gave us a sharp "sure, just tell me what you want already." I apologized and asked her if that would be a problem. ( I work as a bartender too and have an understanding for what kinds of crap you get dealt. This place was not very busy and too, was adequately staffed.) Maybe if I had taken off my jacket and exposed my tattoos I wouldn't have been misinterpreted. Her response was, " Are you being a C*NT right now?" absolutely baffled I responded, "Actually, no...I'm not" She continued on telling me that if I wanted to be a C*NT then I could leave. I said at this point that I wasn't comfortable staying and explained that I was now going around the corner to grab my friends. Yelling and screaming that she was calling the cops, she asked the security guard to follow me and escort me out. I didn't fight any of this because I couldn't believe what was happening. Right out of left field. Like a dream or a funny house. I grabbed my friends headed for the door. As I was walking out, some friend of hers starts yelling to me that I was told to leave and then ran after me and spit on the arm of my jacket. I walked out shaking my head and laughing because it was truly the worst and most insane service (or lack of) I have ever had.I still can't believe it. In conclusion this is a poorly ran establishment, where the staff couldn't care less about servicing customers. I'm sorry this women took me the wrong way, it's really too bad. It's sad that her insecurities would drive her to blow such a petty situation....... way out of proportion. PS. The owner was called and can barely speak english. His justification is that this bartender is "comfortable" .
(1)Maeve C.
I love Chopsticks because it's the karaoke bar near my apartment, so I can stumble home easily, and the song selection is pretty good. That's enough for it to get my business pretty frequently. However, the drinks are overpriced, it takes FOREVER for your song to come up, and last week my friend was reprimanded for singing along to Vanessa Williams too loudly. At a karaoke bar. Not a library. (And no, she wasn't really that loud, just having fun.) Still, most of my nights at Chopsticks have been amazingly fun. I've chatted with some great characters in the bathroom, humiliated myself by singing songs I didn't really know, had way too many gin and tonics, and then have been able to get home after a 10 minute walk. 15 minutes if I can't walk anymore and have to crawl.
(3)Rosy D.
Go here all the time! As long as you don't mind listening to very off key drunk people singing Karaoke your golden! Mini dance floor around karaoke allows you to sway along to the singing and bar is pretty funky cool
(4)Alexander K.
I went into the bathroom and there was a dog in the bathroom and I petted the dog and the dog smiled.
(5)Lyssa I.
Drunk white people singing gangsta rap with an unsolicited group of "go-go" dancers? After drinking at the Bye and Bye, getting donuts at Voo Doo Donuts too, we headed to Chopsticsks II to sing. It just makes sense. Well, we didn't get our song called before last call, but just watching the performers was AMAZING. Go there. You will not regret it.
(5)Janessa P.
Chopsticks Express. The karaoke/video poker/blowjob birthday gimmick/veggie gyro heaven. There's a pretty good selection beers and cheap drinks. There's the same door guy, bartenders, and KJs that have been there FORever, and when they mistakenly tow your car on a Saturday night, the owner calls the company--on 122nd and Foster--and tells them not to charge you for it. You do have to pay the 20 dollar cab ride out there though.
(3)Sara B.
I'm 10 minutes into a painful conversation with a drunk girl from Gresham who's about to "record her album" when it hits me. What the fuck am I doing at Chopsticks? Again? It's 1:00 a.m., I don't do karaoke, I always lose money at video poker here and I'm sure one night here is enough to give me lung cancer before I'm 40. Plus, I only make it to Portland a few times a year and THIS is how I'm spending my precious hours? At motherfucking Chopsticks Express, drinking whiskey sours until my pee burns? At least it's not Sewickley's, which looks like three-dozen condo yuppies going sightseeing in a Redmond dive bar. So fuck it, let's go to Chopsticks.
(3)Doug Y.
I knew I was out of the loop on how to tip waiters... but I guess I'm out of the loop on WHO I should be tipping as well. For example, I did not know that a woman, whose mere job is to read down a list of names in the order of which they were given to her, requires a tip to read said names in said order. Otherwise she will fumble the cards for over TWO HOURS before calling your name to come sing karaoke. Seriously, I do not approve of bribing the karaoke waitress, it's most ludicrous thing I've ever heard of. But other people seem OK with it, including the set of friends who drag me back there all the time, so I guess I should just take it. I can't absolutely hate the place when the mood is so upbeat.
(2)mary anne l.
So, any karaoke junkie will tell you... It freakin rules!!!!!!! Chopsticks is the only place to go for karaoke! Back home I used to be the KJ, and I miss it! But luckily I know the KJ's that rock it out! Never had the food, but don't care, it's all about the karaoke vibe. If you've ever been one of those kinds of people, you'll know...
(5)Carissa W.
Chopsticks is all about the karaoke. The drinks are cheap and the dcor is cheaper, but the entertainment is priceless. Karaoke goes down seven nights a week, and there is almost always a crowd. A favorite of the 20 somethings, there is always a rock ballad or two and Jack Black-esque theatrics. There's the good, the bad, and the downright screechy, but it's always a good show. Apparently they serve food, but I wouldn't go near it. Besides, food might mess up your rendition of David Bowie, so it's best to stick to the booze and crooning.
(4)Joshua R.
chopsticks is a great place for karaoke! if you love to sing, or to watch drunk people dance, or to dance drunk, this is the place for you. weekdays can be calm and mellow and are good for practicing and learning new songs, but weekends is when the party really starts. on fridays and saturdays, expect a crowd of almost mob mentality. if you're any good they will dance and scream along with you, if you're bad they'll be too drunk to notice. cheap, greasy, hot, delicious chinese food is icing on the cake.
(4)Abe I.
I have only a vague idea what the food here is like. I think it's actually pretty good. Chopsticks is not about the food though, it's about some of the best karaoke you'll find. This place is very serious about it's karaoke, and you'll catch the cream of the crop belting it out and (often) taking it off. Just make sure you put in your requests early, as it takes a while to come around.
(4)Sprinkles G.
Where can a group of 30 something ladies get their karaoke on before 9pm and be served dinner in between numbers? Chopsticks Express II, that's where. If you start happy hour at 5pm, and finish your event by 7pm, then I think its a give in that you will be doing karaoke by 8pm. Our overpriced data packaged phones had a hay day trying to find a place where we would do karaoke before 10 on a Saturday night, but Chopsticks was Google's 13'th suggestion for us. The restaurant/gambling side of the place is well lit, and just like should be...the karaoke side is dark and smoky. The food was your typical greasy chinese cuisine. Though it was kind of bad ass when our waiters face showed up on the karaoke tv screens all over the bar, turns out he's the owner too. So we sang our hearts out, and everybody at the bar danced with us. Turns out "The Humpty Dump" is the secret karaoke gold mine of 2011. I would totally go back to Chopsticks for the Karaoke and crowd.
(3)