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Name: Kells Irish Pub
Address: 112 SW 2nd Ave, Portland, OR, 97204
Telephone: (503) 227-4057
Price range: Under $11
Rating: 3.58

Kells Irish Pub

112 SW 2nd Ave, Portland, OR, 97204

(503) 227-4057
Store is closed

Kells Irish Pub Menu

Appetizers

Irish Cheese Platter

Ballycastle Sausage Roll

Irish Pub Stew

Steamed Clams or Mussels

Fresh Oysters

Baked Brie and Fruit

Potato Farl Wrap

Chicken Liver Pate

Irsh Soda and Wheaton Bread

Side of Baked Chips

Crab Cake

Side of Beets

Side of Baked Chips

Irish Cheese Platter

Ballycastle Sausage Roll

Irish Pub Stew

Steamed Clams or Mussels

Fresh Oysters

Baked Brie and Fruit

Potato Farl Wrap

Chicken Liver Pate

Irsh Soda and Wheaton Bread

Side of Baked Chips

Crab Cake

Side of Beets

Side of Baked Chips
Salads & Soups

Hibernian Salad

Kells Chicken Salad

Crab Salad

Shrimp Salad

Kells Combination Crab & Shrimp Salad

Country Cobb Salad

Kells Famous Clam Chowder

Hibernian Salad

Kells Chicken Salad

Cobb Salad

Shrimp Salad

Crab Salad

Combination Crab & Shrimp Salad

Smoked Salmon and Beet Salad

Hibernian Salad

Kells Chicken Salad

Crab Salad

Shrimp Salad

Kells Combination Crab & Shrimp Salad

Country Cobb Salad

Kells Famous Clam Chowder

Hibernian Salad

Kells Chicken Salad

Cobb Salad

Shrimp Salad

Crab Salad

Combination Crab & Shrimp Salad

Smoked Salmon and Beet Salad
Pasties

Chicken Pasty

Corned Beef Pasty

Vegetarian Pasty

Seafood Pasty

Ballycastle Sausage Roll

Steak and Kidney Pie

Chicken Pasty

Corned Beef Pasty

Vegetarian Pasty

Seafood Pasty

Ballycastle Sausage Roll

Steak and Kidney Pie
Traditional Favorites

Dublin Coddle

Shepherd's Pie

Limerick Ham Sandwich

Danny Boy Special

Roast Turkey Sandwhich

Potato Farl Wrap

Kells BLT

Crab Sandwich

Crab Cakes

Steak and Kidney Pie

Dublin Coddle

Shepherd's Pie

Limerick Ham Sandwich

Danny Boy Special

Roast Turkey Sandwhich

Potato Farl Wrap

Kells BLT

Crab Sandwich

Crab Cakes

Steak and Kidney Pie

Healthy Meal suggestions for Kells Irish Pub

Appetizers

Irish Cheese Platter [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Ballycastle Sausage Roll [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Irish Pub Stew [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Steamed Clams or Mussels [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fresh Oysters [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Baked Brie and Fruit [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Potato Farl Wrap [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken Liver Pate [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Irsh Soda and Wheaton Bread [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Side of Baked Chips [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Crab Cake [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Side of Beets [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Side of Baked Chips [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Irish Cheese Platter [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Ballycastle Sausage Roll [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Irish Pub Stew [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Steamed Clams or Mussels [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fresh Oysters [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Baked Brie and Fruit [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Potato Farl Wrap [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken Liver Pate [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Irsh Soda and Wheaton Bread [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Side of Baked Chips [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Crab Cake [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Side of Beets [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Side of Baked Chips [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Salads & Soups

Hibernian Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Kells Chicken Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Crab Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Shrimp Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Kells Combination Crab & Shrimp Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Country Cobb Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Kells Famous Clam Chowder [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Hibernian Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Kells Chicken Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cobb Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Shrimp Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Crab Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Combination Crab & Shrimp Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Smoked Salmon and Beet Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Hibernian Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Kells Chicken Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Crab Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Shrimp Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Kells Combination Crab & Shrimp Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Country Cobb Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Kells Famous Clam Chowder [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Hibernian Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Kells Chicken Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cobb Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Shrimp Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Crab Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Combination Crab & Shrimp Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Smoked Salmon and Beet Salad [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Pasties

Chicken Pasty [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Corned Beef Pasty [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Vegetarian Pasty [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Seafood Pasty [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Ballycastle Sausage Roll [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Steak and Kidney Pie [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chicken Pasty [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Corned Beef Pasty [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Vegetarian Pasty [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Seafood Pasty [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Ballycastle Sausage Roll [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Steak and Kidney Pie [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Traditional Favorites

Dublin Coddle [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Shepherd's Pie [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Limerick Ham Sandwich [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Danny Boy Special [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Roast Turkey Sandwhich [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Potato Farl Wrap [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Kells BLT [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Crab Sandwich [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Crab Cakes [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Steak and Kidney Pie [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Dublin Coddle [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Shepherd's Pie [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Limerick Ham Sandwich [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Danny Boy Special [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Roast Turkey Sandwhich [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Potato Farl Wrap [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Kells BLT [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Crab Sandwich [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Crab Cakes [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Steak and Kidney Pie [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

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Write An Anonymous Review

Alan F.

This is not a brewing location; physical production is at their brewpub a mile or so away; but this location is easier to get to on the MAX light rail. A rather dark, woody room, with Irish-pub dÃ©cor approaching the stereotypical. Huge six-tier back bar, complete with a rolling library-style ladder to reach the upper shelves. Televisions showing, not surprisingly, soccer. For lunch, I tried the Belfast chicken curry. This is definitely a curry in the Anglo-Indian manner, with the emphasis on the Anglo. Chicken breast, apples, cranberries, green onions, and French fries ("chips") in a moderately spicy, gooey yellow curry sauce. Pretty good. On the house beer sampler, I tried: - Kells Irish Lager. 4.2%ABV, 16 IBU. Medium gold, halo head. Very dry, mostly malt taste, low hop presence, bitter fade with a hint of honey, fizzy. - Kells IPA. 6.0%, 64 IBU. Slightly cloudy amber. Weak (for an IPA) hop nose; otherwise pretty much dead-on to style. - Kells Irish Red Ale. 4.5%, 24 IBU. Slightly cloudy red-brown, medium head. Caramel nose. Roast malt and caramel taste,. - Kells Irish Stout. 4.5%, 18 IBU. Opaque black; thick, long-lasting head. Flavor and nose, well, a successful clone of Guinness. - Kells Vienna Lager, a rotating special. Beautiful clear amber, medium head. Weak malt nose. Smooth, well-balanced dry malt and bittering hops. -
(4)
Nikky L.

Came to Kells off of a recommendation. If I was reviewing based off of beers and the bartenders alone, Kells would easily get 5 stars. We tried three different kinds of their own brews and all were very tasty. The service however, is where Kells fell short. After sitting down, none of the servers so much as acknowledged us. Once, they apologized for taking a picture of another table and I assumed they would ask us how we were doing afterwards. Nope. No acknowledgment. In fact, I made eye contact with said server multiple times in order to try and get her attention but we were again thwarted. Finally we got a menu ourselves so we could look at what they had to offer. Again, tried to get the attention of a different server but same results. Finally we had to get up and go find a server to let her know we wanted to order food. Food came out quickly and then server decided to check on us. Noticed another table (easily a 10 top) was trying to get servers attention to place an order. Finally they too had to go and hunt someone down to take their order. Not sure why servers wouldn't be more on top of taking care of their guests. They literally seem to avoid you unless you hunt them down. Even making eye contact however conveniently looking away as you wave a hand. Probably would come back for a beer but there are definitely better places in Portland for good beers AND good service.
(2)
Beerboy M.

Had breakfast here and sampled a beer while watching British Premier League football. Meh. Food was so-so and the beer Kell's Irish Red was a boring beer. Don't expect much if you come here for the beer. Better than Coors Light, but not by much.
(2)
Skyler W.

Kells food is always great crazy good whiskey menu! Smells like old smoke tho can't imagine how the cigar room smells
(4)
Norm G.

I had the best shepherds pie I've ever tasted here at Kells. I had a nice lager with it also. The family all gave their "thumbs up" as well. An interesting thing is they have these dollar bills stuck to the ceiling. They told us if you roll up a bill around a quarter, and throw it up to the very tall ceiling, it will stick there, due to "Irish magic." My son tried it repeatedly and he finally concluded that they tell you that to just get you to make a fool of yourself, throwing rolled up bills at the ceiling.
(4)
Teresa J.

I've been a customer and a fan of Kells for many years, but today at lunch was the first time I tried the Chicken Wrap ($10)--it was great. On the menu it sounded maybe a bit too complicated, but I was pleasantly surprised, especially by the freshness of the arugula, and it came with chubby, just-right fries too. The Wrap wasn't heavy (you can add cheese for $2 if you want it to be), but it was enormous, so I had half of it at Kells and finished the rest at my desk a few hours later. Service was friendly and efficient, ambience was upscalish Irish pub/sports bar cool. We only wished we hadn't had to go back to work because we wanted to partake from the well-stocked bar shelves!
(4)
Jason A.

Change is the word here. Kell's. Been a PDX staple for many years and rightly so. There's a lot of good things here, and if they make a few changes, it could go back to being one of the best. My 3 friends and I met for lunch here mid-week. First and foremost, the food was pretty good, so please don't let the rest of the review detract from that. Kell's is a great place to get a decent lunch or dinner. However, some other things will keep me away until some changes take place. Service for lunch was very good, very friendly. To be fair the next paragraph should have an asterik however, because I was told that there was a new chef, from Ireland, who was serious about making some changes. Until I see some, this review stands unfortunately. First issue for me was that it was so dark inside and felt old and dingy. I love the old school pub atmosphere, and after visiting many a pub in Ireland I can appreciate it. However, it just felt like it wasn't all that clean here. We sat next to the stage, and the carpet is well worn, stained, and not too pleasing. The money on the ceiling to me is a huge turnoff. Makes it look old, dusty, and more of a meat market atmosphere than a nice downtown pub. The menu had all four of us shaking out heads. It's dated, bland, and while a decent value, is more about burgers and sandwiches. You would expect a proper Irish pub to have classic Irish food. As Portland's premier Irish pub, they've got a lot riding on their shoulders here. The "Shepherd's Pie" was really a Cottage Pie, made with beef instead of lamb. They've got lots of silly things on the menu like a quesadilla, and 'Irish' nachos, which we were told were a big seller. I like that Kell's has its own beer, very nice, but when I asked if they were certified by Guinness the waitress didn't know. Being vegetarian, I don't expect a lot of choices, but the veggie hummos wrap was a nice offering and very tasty, despite its lack of Irish features. I would like to see some staples on their menu. There should be an Irish cheese plate for instance. Colcannon, proper Irish potatoes, soda bread and butter for the table(extra charge would be fine), and some inspired ideas in general. These would be great value options besides fries. Bottom line, if I'm going downtown and bringing friends to an Irish pub, not some "Irish" bar knockoff, it should really stand out. Irish food is farm fresh, very flavorful, and comforting. Why not give people something special? I would easily still keep this review at 3 stars, but being downtown on 2nd, with all the options and competition, my apologies but you should know better Kell's. I will keep checking back on occasion to see any changes, and then you cannot keep me away.
(2)
Vanessa S.

My first stop on this trip was here for happy hour. They have a decent happy hour. I got the Dark and Stormy, which didn't taste like a Dark and Stormy at all so that was a bit of a disappointment. We got the Irish Nachos that were pretty good. An okay spot, with good service.
(3)
Kristal B.

Pretty good food in a Irish setting. Meatballs were good. Not the best place to eat in Portland but was busy and place full on a Saturday afternoon.
(3)
Rebecca T.

I love this place but in the summer the cigar downstairs is unbearable. I don't know how employees can stand it. It's so hot and awful.
(4)
Rod S.

This is a three star pub with enough raw ambiance to carry a bonus star. This place is loud so a wedding proposal might need to find another venue ;) It is a great old building, some say it's haunted. There are plenty of beers on draught and they do know how to properly poor a stout. Keep in mind it is still just a pub, you are not getting a $$$$ dining experience. It is what it is, and it does that well.
(4)
Dorothy M.

Grammy Loves her cigars. . . and, oh boy, does Kells Irish Pub have cigars! A few of Grammy's favorite things at Kells: ~~Live Music!~~ ~~~Irish Dancing!~~~ (My grandson met a bonnie lass on the dance floor!!!) ~~~~Johnny Behind the Bar doing his magic stick quarter tricks! ;) ;)!~~~~ ~~~Cigar Rooms! Booths! Tables! Hummus!!!!~~~ ~~Location, Location, Location!~~ To Mr. Kells- We will be back! Grammy McCray Blessings: Genesis 25:30
(4)
R G.

Stopped in here on a whim after walking around all morning. Husband & I both got the burger/fries. Can't really mess up a burger...and they did not disappoint. Really good and we also loved the atmosphere.
(4)
Melissa L.

Disappointing. His fish and chips were greasy and as I got towards the bottom of my Irish nachos, I looked and saw not just a thin layer of grease on the plate but a standing puddle. Latter I noticed I had grease on my necklace and shirt.
(2)
Robby S.

Kells Irish Pub has very nice traditional fare, the meatballs with stout sauce was nice and the shepard's pie was so flavorful! Their in house brews were quite nice as well, medium priced home cooked Irish food - if you want a nice homey and properly portioned meal catered to you on a night out, I would suggest Kells Pub.
(4)
Kelsey R.

I grew up eating Irish food with my family, and Kells delivers an authentic experience. We got an order of the sausage roll appetizer for the table. My gosh I could eat that everyday! The full flavor of the sausage combined with the fluffiness of the bread. We spent a good deal of time just trying to figure out what exactly was in the sauce so we could attempt to recreate. I'm sure we could never make it that good though. The bangers and mash were good, but by the end it was a little bit much with all the fatty sausage. The burger is cooked perfectly to order and the sweet potato fries are worth the upgrade. I also enjoy the house lager. Full of flavor without being too heavy.
(4)
BK. T.

If you're a cigar enthusiast, don't waste your time with this place. The cigar bar/lounge area is in the basement. It's like a dark medieval dungeon. Limited selection of cigars. Service could have been better. It's not a cigar lounge for the purist, but more of a restaurant that just happens to sell cigars.
(1)
Natalie C.

Love this place - my favorite bar in Portland!! Great food, great beer selection, friendly service. They have a great happy hour and I love the live music Sunday nights.
(5)
C. S.

Went here for a late lunch on Saturday and had a great time. The garden salad was a perfect size and I loved that the dressing was served on the side. My mom, sister, and I shared the fish and chips. The fish was crispy and the fries were amazing. Our server was attentive and wonderful at talking to us about the building. Definitely coming back here when there is live music playing.
(5)
Lynda B.

Great place, wish we were staying for a longer time in Portland, bet this place is fun of a night. Great friendly staff, great Irish coffee - good fun.
(5)
Jennifer R.

What a cool spot! This is a favorite of my boyfriend, in his hometown, so we were sure to make a stop while in Portland. The atmosphere was fun and the beer was great... pretty much what a good pub is made of. I was told the story of the dollar bills on the ceiling and loved the spot even more. We ordered plenty of beer and a few appetizers and nothing disapointed. I'm sure I'll be back the next time I'm across the country!
(4)
Chelynn G.

Granted its soccer day. But when I order a chicken wrap with fries and get lettuce (no joke nothing else) in my wrap. They bring it back with just chicken on top... I have maybe seen my server 2 and asked for water when I arrived and 3 times since ... but still no water.....
(2)
Samuel V.

I'll start by saying I'd give this sad spot a quarter of a star if I could . We had friends visiting from out of town and made a huge mistake by suggesting this place based on a great experience over ten years ago. Wasn't as busy as you would expect on a weekend that should've been first red flag. We were forgotten about and had to continuously get up and alert staff that we really existed and expected at least a greeting to begin with. Finally put an order in with a waitress that you could just tell something if not everything would go wrong so we double checked everything on order and sadly she chose to continue making her rounds around entire pub before putting our ticket in after 44 min we found a manager looking person we were polite and made him aware it had been near an hour he told us to hold on a minute and went to the kitchen area grabbed a ticket and came back to scorn us that it had been only put in 27 min ago we explained we watched our bad waitress walk around establishment for near 20 min before hanging ticket up he was not pleasant left and out came food which then just destroyed us! orders were wrong she acknowledged she made errors. The food was the worst we have experienced in years fish and chips were thinly sliced burnt and dry the kids burger was dry served on buns zero condiments literally lukewarm meat on bread it was shocking we aren't the type to raise hell and not pay for an awful meal even anywhere but felt awful paying for this and worse that we suggested this it's an experience that will take time to forget. I'd say stick to just having a Guinness but I may not return even for that. Shame on you kells
(1)
Miguel C.

Food was good service was excelent . Cool pub . Visiting from so cal. I liked this place. Ipa was good.
(4)
Jason S.

Food was good, but atrocious service. And super slow considering it was nearly empty. Our food took a long time, and glasses sat empty. I'm not expecting the red carpet to get rolled out at a pub, but this place has some serious issues. Middle of the afternoon on a Saturday, with half the vacant tables sitting waiting to get bussed. Our table was absolutely foul and we had to request it be wiped down again before our waitress came back and gave it another half-hearted swipe with the towel. It's a direct reflection of the attitude of the staff we dealt with. Our waitress was aloof and pretty disinterested. Again, I don't have great expectations for pub service, but the extent of her service was walking up to our table and staring blankly at us. Can't she at least ask us a question? Management: You have good food, great ambiance, and good drinks. Fix the service, it's ruining a good thing.
(2)
Mike S.

This place is a must to check out if you are 21-30 years old, single and ready to wear someone's sweat for a night. Packed, packed and always packed. Decent tunes, but nowhere I would recommend to someone visiting Portland for a week. Overrated!
(3)
Denny C.

Hit Kell's for dinner and beer on a work trip. This is a solid place to relax and take a load off. I had their chicken curry that us served over fries. Why have I not had this before. I thought the bar tender was off his rocker to recommend curry ar an irish pub but when he said it was served over fried i had to try it. The curry was amazing and had the right level of heat. Kell's also has their own beer, being a fan of stout, I had to give their in house stout a go. Have to say it was a decent stout. The decor was ok for a Irish Pub. Our bartender was awesome, very knowledge of his liquors and beers. He educated us on some whiskeys as well as tequilas. I'd definitely rate him as one of the best bartenders I've been served by. Not just for his knowledge but as week as his professional demeanor.
(4)
Andrew A.

Four stars for the ambiance, a great place to watch major sporting events, especially the World Cup. Unfortunately, during two of the matches, one of the TVs didn't work. The owner is very nice, service is at tentative. I had a server run after me outside when all I was doing was going to feed the meter; I guess that's a good thing in some way. I didn't connect with the food, most items were unmemorable, some a near pass. Typical bar food at high prices. I hope Kells eventually follows the trend of serving elevated pub fare. The beer selection is average, but this is so subjective. A good place for drinking and socializing, especially around sporting events. Food is available to satisfy hunger pangs, but not for a gastronomic experience.
(3)
Ian F.

Short and sweet... The best Reuben I've eaten in my lifetime was at Kells. Homemade pickles were spot on, too. We can pickle that! Our server was a little too chummy for my liking, but hey, it sure as hell beats a passive aggressive asshat! Recommended. ;)
(5)
Rudrajit D.

Good live music. Good drinks menu.
(3)
Sean A.

So some friends and i hit this place up for a batchelor party friday night before our buddies wedding. Then he and the new misses had the reception here the next day. LOL a bit of the hair of the dog as we say right?!? The evening before was awesome. Drink prices are what you might expect downtown, but hey it was his last night single. Great beer selections, not to mention all other sorts of selections of wiskey in the cigar room. I did not par take in that portion of the night but was informed the cigar lounge was nice, lots of seats, friendly service, but wicked smokey.... well duh. In the pub area, they have quite a few tables available, live music every night, and i have to say the band was quote excellent. And im not saying that because i was making every drink irish. The entire place was friendly, from staff to the fellow patrons, it made for a welcome and fun evening. They also have this tradition of wrapping 2 quarters up in a dollar bill with a tack inside and throwing it at the cealing to stick. Im not totally sure why, i forgot to ask, but it was rather col to look at them all. Day two. Now even in the light, the place was still a welcome place, the pub was much quieter at 11am, but still we felt welcomed in by staff and others. This time we got to go upstairs to the banquet areas, of which they have a few, and i would have never guessed it by the outside. They were very nice, elegant i go as far to say. I would recommend this place to anyone doing a reception. The appetizers of fruit and cheese skewers, simple but well executed, and enjoyed. The pineapple wrapped with procuitto was a unique paring, i enjoyed it, others were a little put off by the sweet and salty combo. the couple has roasted turkey and prime rib carved for guests, mozerella caprese salad (well done, i loved it), green beans with bacon, and some caesar salad. Honestly folks, this place did a proper job. I dont know anyone who wasnt happy with everything offered. If youre out on the town and looking for a pint and some good food, stop in. If you and your mates are downtown, tearing it up, and looking to have a laugh ad a dance, you should not pass this place by.
(5)
Jake A.

Hands down the best place to smoke a cigar in Portland! You can't beat the Liqour selection and awesome food while staying warm indoors! A must for the cigar lover!
(5)
Kymm E.

Love the staff, super prompt! Will fit you in no matter the size of your party AND will seat you even if your whole party hasn't arrived! Big deal these days when other places don't do that. Add bacon to the Irish nachos-Insane!!!! The sausage roll is to die for, down home good. My daughter is gluten free, check that out!
(5)
Max H.

I came here for Shepherd's pie and drinks. The service was terrible, but the food was good. The portions were a bit on the small side, especially for the price. I ordered some appetizers, which were brought after the meal, about 45 minutes later. The server also gave me vegetable soup instead of what I ordered, and when I asked why, she said "we're out of the other dish." I asked her why she didn't check with me beforehand, since vegetable soup is really bland (especially this one). She also charged me extra for the soup, which I didn't order. The shepherd's pie was delicious, but small. The ambiance was great and the place is a lot of fun otherwise, but the service could use some adjustments.
(3)
Alex S.

Not sure of the glowing reviews of this pub. I was there when CL games were on. BarÃ§a, juventus, Bayern, and chelsea were all playing and I swear that I was the ONLY person in the whole place watching the games. That automatically disqualifies any establishment from being a "real" pub. I ordered fish and chips that was rather dry and I'm sure was just a frozen premade stuff. Three little pieces for $14? An Alaskan cod when there's plethora of local rockfish or lingcod to be had? And I had to wait around for the waitress to find me some malt vinegar even though she took my fish n chips order. Pretty poor experience. I think I'll need to watch my games elsewhere.
(2)
Mike S.

Forget the oyster shooters. They were not fresh and tasted soft and mushy, like they came out of a jar. The beer and service was good.
(1)
Johnny Z.

Awesome bar/restaurant! Came here on a whim while trying to find a quick place for dinner. The setting was relaxed and pretty neat. Behind the bar was a huge shelf stacked with all sorts of liquor. The food here was surprisingly good! I got the whiskey wings and Irish lamb stew. Topped off the meal with an Irish Amber. Sooooo good! The service was great too. Our waiter was quick to refill our cups and gave terrific suggestions. Definitely coming here next time I'm in Portland. I think there's a cigar room here too.
(4)
Sara M.

We threw our grandpa a memorial party here in the ballroom upstairs. First and foremost, Tracey, whom we booked the room through was absolutely great to work with. She was so much more responsive than any other places we contacted. It was affordable, in my opinion and we had enough food for 60 people. Event space rental fee goes into the cost of the actual catering. They comped us for the projector and mic use which was great. The two servers were very quick and attentive. The food also, was great. We had pineapple wrapped with proscuitto, coconut chicken, teriyaki beef. Veggie spring rolls. Just really good food. They let us come in early to set up our computer and music and were just generally helpful. My grandpa was Irish so it really was an honor to have a celebration of life for him. The owner of Kells actually came up to talk to the family and he was a great guy. I wish I could get married all over again so I could do it at Kells...it was definitely an awesome event space.
(5)
Michael C.

I am only commenting on the down stairs cigar bar. Since the US has turned against smoking (which is not a bad thing) finding a decent cigar bar where you can also get a drink is a challenge. Kells cigar bar is one of the best; better than the "one" that exists in Boston and the couple that exist in San Francisco. The long narrow room with dark wood, comfortable chairs and a full bar selection is terrific. They have a small but acceptable selection of cigars to choose from including my favorite, a Padron. Great place for a drink, a cigar and a good conversation.
(5)
Bill B.

Went there for the first time Halloween night for the cigar lounge before a show at the Schnitz. When I got there I made a beeline downstairs, grabbed a booth, cut my stogie, toasted the foot, lit it up and took one puff when the waiter showed up to take my order. A glass of bourbon and a pitcher of water showed up minutes later and my evening was progressing nicely. Twenty or so minutes later my lovely wife showed up and we chatted while I smoked and had another drink. We perused the menu and decided to eat there. Upstairs in the restaurant we were seated promptly after being greeted by our fairy costumed waitress who was very personable and made sure we were sufficiently 'watered' while we made our entree choices. The food arrived promptly and was cooked perfectly. My wife had the Cheddar Burger cooked medium rare just as she ordered and I had the Bangers & Mash with that excellent mustard sauce. We ended by splitting an order of their excellent bread pudding. The waitress was very attentive and personable as was everyone on the staff. The bill came to less than $30 minus tip, was delivered quickly and payment processed promptly. Good atmosphere, nice people, great food at a reasonable price. What more can you ask for?
(5)
Shy A.

Popped by for a drink to warm up after dinner at E-sans. I've been to Kells in Seattle before, so I knew what to expect. Loved that there were some guys playing music in front of the fireplace, it definitely helped to create a very laid back vibe where you just wanted to get your drink on. We had a couple of pints-can I recommend a whiskey ginger with the ginger beer...it's delicious and one of my all time fav drinks! The service was good, he was quick, he was funny and he kept our drinks coming. Our buddy left him a "cute" tip. $20 off of a $20 tab. When I jokingly told him this he told us he was left with a $4 tip off of a $100 tab from another table. WOW. Do people really do that? He had a great sense of humor about it and graciously took our tip. Tip well for good service people!
(3)
Michael S.

Not a fan. Aye three last month while on business. It's just bar food and nothing special the sausage roll was awful. Service was really sub par. I would not was my time here.
(2)
Spike T.

Went there last night to celebrate a birthday. Cameron was our server and he was awesome. I mean extra f-ing awesome. He was knowledgeable about the whole menu and made great suggestions. He had a full section both upstairs and downstairs (we were downstairs), and was still attentive the whole time. Dunno if he hears about the reviews, but good job, buddy, you've restored our faith in customer service
(5)
Jamie K.

First time here, we loved it! The service was great, the band was awesome and the people watching was the best - thank you Portland/Kells, we'll be back!!!
(5)
Mary C.

Great food, and good beer! I work close by and it's a great for ordering take-out or just to take a longer lunch. My favorite is the Shepard's Pie! Lamb stew, whiskey wings, and the Reuben are all frequent orders for me as well!
(5)
Forrest M.

Been coming here for years! The cigar room downstairs is a must, but if you do, sit at the "brain trust" which is the conference table at the end and be sure to see Micah for a great whiskey and/or cigar recommendation. As far as grub is concerned, Lamb Stew!
(5)
Jenni L.

Every time Kells is brought up in conversation, atleast one person seems to get a look on their face, followed by some sort of negative anecdote. Normally, I bat away their comments and remind them that the majority of their stories took place during St. Patts where it is a madhouse of ridiculousness. So when I suggested Kells for lunch the other day, I was surprised by how easy it was to talk my friends into it. It was a million degrees out and we had been snacking all morning so I opted for a pretty basic salad, full well knowing I would steal one of my friend Jaime L.'s wings. The salad was really good though. Fresh and simple and the balsamic blend was better than average. In fact all of the food was completely satisfactory. My friend Eric C. opted for something heartier in the Ballycastle Sausage Roll with mashed potatoes. I stole a bite and decided he was the obvious winner food-wise. His beer order fell flat though, literally. He kept commenting that it tasted flat but refused to send it back. I can't really count that against Kells though, as he didn't say anything. Though the food was good, the biggest stitch was really the service. Our waitress was unfriendly and seemed to generally loathe being there. I don't expect a high level of entertainment, but I do expect a modicum of friendliness. I'm sure I'll be back but it's definitely not on my list of places to run back to.
(3)
M D.

We ate at the dining room which is adjacent to the pub. It was quiet and nearly empty when we arrived (a good thing) at 6pm on a Friday but was nearly full when we left later. I had the pasta with a fresh chunk of salmon on top (not very Irish of me) and my dining mate had a more traditional meal. Both were very good but portions were small so be prepared. That's good for me but some might consider that a negative. My dining mate had a glass of red wine (good) and I had the pub's own beer (Kells IPA) which was excellent. Service was very friendly. I'll be back. Also good for families.
(4)
Kevin D.

Kels is a great place to get some awesome Irish grinds. Service was great and the beer was fantastic.
(5)
Kim C.

The wings were super yummy. Great sandwiches and the House Irish Ale was great! Happy Hour prices made my wallet happy!
(5)
Mike D.

Kells is my go-to place in Portland. Great food, Great beer! and the best casual but fun atmosphere in Portland. I take all my out of town buddies to KELLS!! They all love it
(5)
Coleman Q.

Great place for drinks with your friends and family. Good food but in reality we always come here from the live music and good beer. Throw a dollar on the ceiling if you have the ol luck of the Irish. All cash is matched by the owners to a local charity from my understanding.
(5)
Pamela S.

I can't even begin to explain how much I LOVE Kell's. It really is the next best thing to Ireland itself.
(5)
Deborah O.

good bar food. sports on TV. Pleasant, efficient service.
(4)
Ashley S.

Irish music, amazing food, and atmosphere is lively. I love this bar, and the people that go here. They also have a cigar room downstairs
(4)
Beth P.

Wandered in on a quiet weeknight and pulled up a seat at the bar. The bartender was super quick with a drink and just social enough to not be intrusive. We opted to split some bangers and mash along with the requisite bread pudding. Both were fantastic. Dude on a guitar playing irish (and irish-inspired) music 7 nights a week, apparently. And when he fired up about 9:00, it was a perfect addition to the typical cozy, inviting, mellow irish pub vibe.
(4)
Melissa L.

I can't comment on the food, though I'd like to come back sometime and check it out. I came on a Saturday night for a friend's birthday. It's nice that they have an outdoor seating area, the place was definitely full, but not standing room only. The service was super slow, it took a long time to grab a round at the bar, and it wasn't really clear to me why it was taking so long. Drink prices were fairly standard for downtown PDX. They had live music that was decent. I'd give this place another chance, but probably only during the week. Otherwise, I wouldn't go out of my way to come here.
(2)
Anna S.

We recently hosted an office holiday party at Kells and we couldn't have chosen a better place. From beginning to end the staff was flexible, helpful, professional and over the top accommodating. This process couldn't have been easier. Not only was the staff and service amazing, the food was delicious and the atmosphere/decorations were warm and inviting. The party was the talk of the office the next day and this was largely in part because of Kells. I couldn't recommend this place more highly to anyone interested in hosting a party of event, big or small. Thank you to the staff at Kells for making our holiday party a smashing success.
(5)
Skip C.

My family just loves loves Kells. The drinks are great, the food is great and the people are super friendly. We drive in often and try to make Kells a stop when we do. I am coming back again and again.
(4)
Krissy H.

We loved this place! We ordered the bangers and mash and corned beef and cabbage and split them both. AMAZING. The highlight of my week! Everything was cooked to perfection, portions were great and we still added a bailey's cheese cake which was so good I was tempted to get one to bring home! The staff were polite, the seats are comfortable and I love how open the floor plan is, you don't feel as if you are in everyone else's conversation- you have your own space! Its a beautiful building outside and in too! All around awesome. We saw a boxing match and there was a cigar club there too.
(5)
David D.

Fun Irish pub with great music, good beer, ok food, but a pitiful of service. Bartenders act as if they are doing one a favor to allow a drink to be purchased, and waiters seem more focused on each other over customers. However, this is a fun place for a night out with friends and does a good job of capturing the cultural setting of a real Irish pub house. Just don't expect customer service or you'll be greatly disappointed.
(2)
Dustin Y.

Kell's is always my first stop in Portland. A grandma made one if the waitresses work here and highly recommends the Irish meatballs...and she was right. Both are great! Delicious food, great beers on tap, a giant wall of whiskey, tv's, streamed music and live music nightly...BOOM! I love Kell's...and the owner just told me his brother has a Kell's in San Francisco...I'll check that one out soon.
(5)
Edgar N.

They have Macallan 25 Year scotch and were really nice, despite the fact that I had my Quakes jacket on. Good on ya, Kells!
(4)
Paul L.

It's definitely Portland Official Irish pub. Everything from the dÃ©cor, setup, food and drinks. Can get packed at nigh with slow service but that's pretty much any bar in this area.
(3)
Joe F.

One quick tip: Go down to the cigar room to see part of the old Portland tunnels. Once you enter the room look to your right and that is an old tunnel that is closed off now, one of the best views you can see now of those tunnels. I have been to this location twice now and have enjoyed it both times. The servers have been pleasant both times we have drank/dinned here. On a side note there is perhaps an owner that walks around with a true Irish accent (fun to hear after having been to the Emerald Isles) The beer is cold and comes at a good pace. They were going a bit too quick and served up my wife and her friend some stella instead of their cider (grabbed the wrong pull), got a good bitter beer face out them for it. I had the fish and chips, the Irish stew, the ham and grilled cheese sandwich. You can't go wrong with any of them, the clam chowder has bit more potatoes than clam, but hey its the Irish, potatoes are king. I will say in regards to food, charging someone $2 bucks for a slice of cheese is a bit on the pricey side. However, they did bring us out a free loaf of the soda bread on our last trip inside. On my first trip here, we caught them on a great night with a live Irish band, its only once a month. They were really entertaining and had the whole placing singing on few songs. If its raining and cold outside (ya like that cold ever happen in Portland *wink wink) there is also a fire place up front you can chill at.
(4)
Garrett M.

One of Portland's hidden gems in one of its busiest bars. It has a large selection of well priced cigars and an enormous selection of whiskeys and scotch.
(5)
Jennifer K.

Located next to the Saturday market and near the river, this is an excellent location for enjoying downtown on the weekends. Kells has a warm and fun atmosphere that you would expect from an Irish pub. The staff was very attentive. We enjoyed a tasty and thick burger,and a delicious shepherds pie. They also have local Portland catsup on the table, yum! During the day it is great for families, and it's also ideal for sports fans who want to have a drink and watch the big screens. The sign said that they have Live music at night, but we weren't able to stick around for that. maybe next time!
(4)
Cody P.

Good pours at decent prices but really made Kell's nice were the terrific waiters and bussers. Struck up a long conversation even during a busy rush after the saturday market and really got to know our server, He gave us some great advice on nearby parks, attractions, and neighborhoods, going so far as to even bring us a map of his favorite locations for living, shopping, and hanging out with our pooch.
(3)
Steve R.

Real disappointed tonight, my family has been going to Kells since the beginning of Timbers in the MLS and we go tonight for dinner and drinks and get turned away from the bus. Told it was for a private group from upstairs. First it was being charged to ride the bus and now not to ride at all is the final straw. Many other options downtown with good food and drink not as expensive.
(1)
Mark R.

Guinness on nitro! My wife had the curry over fries and it was spicy but very flavorful. I had the lamb stew which was tasty and tender. Service was great but again, the wife and I went at 3:00 on a Tuesday. So, take that for what it is worth. Chicken wings were a good temp and meaty.
(5)
Jesy B.

How do I feel about you Kell's? Well, about how I feel about Barracuda. You were the SHIZ when I was 21-23 and now it just makes me feel old. Often crowded, not nice waitstaff, meh food & really expensive beer. Plus the St. Patrick's Day festival is insanely expensive. INSANE. And it doesn't even include beer, just entrance into chaos. Meh. Meh. And meh.
(2)
Barbara W.

Maybe it was just the right fit for the mood I was in that night, but I thoroughly enjoyed a recent trip to Kells. It was pretty packed, but we found seats at the bar near the stage. The music was just a guy and his guitar, belting out mellow tunes with that lovely Irish accent. The rest of the crowd melted away as I sat enjoying the music and chatting with my husband. Perfect.
(5)
Alicia W.

This had been one of our favorite places to eat anytime we were in town visiting, the food, service & atmosphere had always been great...except for tonight. We had a party of 10 that we made reservations for, and it was not a good experience. There are so many great places to eat in Portland so this was very disappointing that we picked this place to share with our friends. The server was lackadaisical to the point of being rude. I also wouldn't recommend sitting outside, it just felt like we were sitting in a parking lot. Sadly I don't think we'll come back on future trips.
(2)
Sabrina M.

All I have to say about the food is BEST BLT I've ever had! I wanna know where they get their bacon. The staff was very friendly and I was happy because I got a seat directly in front of a TV during the NCCA tournament. Go MSU Spartans!
(4)
Mike R.

If you are out and about in downtown Portland than this can be a good choice to check out. It can sometimes be a bit crowded and you can't find a seat and there is no area really conducive to standing. Also when the band plays, it can get really loud. But, overall....just get drunk and you won't really care about those distractions.
(3)
Danielle W.

A perfect Irish pub: good beer, live music, loud patrons, and kick-ass St Patty's day parties. Located downtown, the location is great and easily accessible. It also expands in size considerably during St Patty's day to include a large outdoor tent/patio area to accommodate the masses. I've been here many times and have never had a bad experience. I particularly love the late-night weekends when live bands are playing on the small stage in the back of the long-straight bar area. They are the perfect blend of old Irish, folk, and new (think Mumford & Sons). I don't like, however, the fact that I have no idea how the waitstaff takes your $1 bills and folds them in such a way that they will stick to the ceiling when thrown upwards. I'm talking hundreds and hundreds of $1 bills stuck to the ceiling! I do believe that they take down the money at the end of each year and donate it - so I guess I'm OK with not knowing. Besides that small detail, I love everything else about Kells!
(4)
Tiffany M.

HOLY DISAPPOINTMENT!! Was walking by and we were starved, so we stopped in to have a bite. We got the Gorgonzola fondue app. and Irish nachos, oh, plus some beers. The fondue not to bad, just not good dipping items. The Irish nachos were C**P! It took the server forever to ever come and help us. We complained about the nachos, so he took those off our bill. After he removed our plates, we had to wait forever for our check. It took me going up to the manager and complaining that all our server was doing, was walking right past us and cleaning. Finally we get our check and they comped us a round of beers. Honestly they should have comped us the whole thing, but I wasn't going to yell any more, plus I will never ever go back there. If you see this place, seriously keep on walking or driving. FOOD: 0 DRINKS: 5 (how do you get beer wrong!) SERVICE: 0
(1)
Kate M.

Thankfully Mr. M & I stayed within walking distance of Kells. It was a long walk, but it was one of those fun nights when the weather is perfect and we were perfectly boozed up for a stroll back to the hotel. Our meal at Kells was such a treat. We started with the Whiskey Wings which were so good....crispy and moist. I still think about that sauce. I've tried to duplicate it at home with no success, but it doesn't hurt to keep trying. Then I had the chicken and mushroom pasty which was comfort food at it's finest. Rich flaky crust and filling. I was so full, but it was so worth it. Mr. M had the fish and chips which was cooked perfectly. Dinner was a great experience in itself, but then we ventured downstairs to the cigar room. LOVED this! Dark and slightly seductive, this felt like a place you could relax and have a secret rendezvous if you so desire. Or, you can flirt with your husband in plain sight. By the time we wandered out and headed back to the hotel we were in a totally full and relaxed state of mind. Perfect way to wind down our vacation.
(4)
Sondra S.

Went here for mid-day lunch and bourbon while visiting from out of town. Food prices slightly spendy, but the location near China Town, good specials and responsible shot prices make up for it. Our server was quick and smiley.
(4)
Trung N.

OMG... did someone say cigar room in the basement? Don't think you can find any of these types of places in California (minus the tobacco/cigar shops that operate on their own).. So.. a pub, complete with a cigar lounge... sweet. Found myself here after a long drive from the SF Bay Area (about 10-12 hr drive away) to celebrate a friends' birthday... (Yup... I drove that long, and that far to see them.. hey.. it was cheaper than flying). A welcoming enviroment with a small stage where they had some live music playing and a fully stocked bar as any pub should be. Typical pub fare, with a good selection of various munchies. Fun music and friendly servers complete the wonderful experience I had here. Oh!!.. and remember to tip the musicians! They're awesome.
(5)
Topher N.

I want to love this place, but the service I've received, especially upon my last visit, was quite poor. Me and 6 others struggled to get the attention of our waitress and saw people who arrived 5 minutes after us get their beer and meal by the time we got our first drinks. The waitress also served another table 3 rounds before I could even get her attention to get another round. She came back with the check and we told her we needed another round and she seemed put out by it. Once she gave us the check, she told us if we wanted to split it up we needed to put it in exact dollar amounts for each person. The difficulty for this increased since there was an added gratuity at the end of the bill of 18%, which we had to figure out for each individual/group at our table on our own. She came back moments later asking if we were done and the only time we witnessed quick help was in seeing how quickly they cleared the table. Since we had $200 worth of food and drinks we had to split up, we were not done and once again she seemed annoyed when it was more annoying for us since she should have been the one doing this for us considering we were paying her an extra 18%. It seemed like since she knew we had to pay a gratuity she simply didn't care if we needed extra help. She honestly worked for maybe 5% and this is one of those moments when gratuity truly hurts the customer. Those around us got much better service and we were practically ignored. We would not have been there half as long if she simply had taken care of us accordingly. Truly a frustrating experience for a place I want to enjoy for what they offer. There seriously needs to be some better training for customer service here, because it could be an all around great place. So if you go, make sure you have plenty of time, because it could take awhile depending on your staff and group size and if they see you as a potential money tree.
(1)
Heather F.

I showed up here by accident as I was trying to get to the new Kells Irish Pub that had just opened that night somewhere else in Portland and it wasn't on any sort of map I could find. Dejected I stopped in, paid the cover to hear the racious Irish band tearing up the stage and I popped a squat on the bar stool in a very packed bar to drink a beer and figure out how the hell to find the new bar. Luckily Kells has really nice bar tenders. One of them took the time on a busy Friday night to draw me a detailed map on how to get to the new location. I didn't have much more time to spend but what I saw of this place was very cool. It is very similar to many other Irish pubs I have been to across the US which is a good thing. I have always held a torch for anything Irish. The paneling is thick wood, with small chandeliers and thick cut benches. Kells has been around for almost 30 years and therefore has a devoted following. I can see why.
(4)
Jeremy J.

The only reason I want to bump up this review to 3 stars is because I move Guinness and because the bouncer turned down a guy who was too drunk, which I respect. However, otherwise I wasn't too impressed with Kell's. upon entering we were not greeted. We had to hunt in the restaurant side for a table. We were serviced mainly by who appeared to be the manager, who was unenthusiastic and very blah. The sweet potato fries we ordered were pretty good, plenty crispy which I like. I wish they have you an ample portion of the dipping sauce relative to the portion of fries. We are not heavy dippers and we were out half way through and switched to ketchup. The turkey wrap that someone else in our party was very run of the mill. The manager lady tried to clear his plate when it was still full of fries and he was clearly still eating (chewing with fries in hand). Overall an unimpressive experience. I guess if you really like live Irish music it'd be a great place to chill, otherwise I think there are far better options elsewhere in Portland.
(2)
Morgan Victoria T.

My mother is Irish so it's something I've grown up around. This restaurant was DELICIOUS! I ordered the Shepherds Pie and loved it. We went there for a friends birthday and they surprised us by bringing her a slice of cake! It was great and such a fun memory. I'd definitely recommend it. They also have great music and the coolest cigar room downstairs!
(5)
Darren J.

Easily the worst nachos I have ever had. Potato chips!??!?! It should have clearly stated they were potato chips instead of regular nacho type chips. So bad. Chips were instantly soggy. I will never forget.
(2)
Cari J.

Came here on a Saturday at noon. Received our food around 1:30. At least it was tasty and the environment was lively.
(3)
J P.

Roomy place. Has some outdoor seating / partying area out back. Live entertainment nightly. Had the Sheppard's pie. Looked like a small portion coming out, but it turned out to be sufficient. Tastes great too! Nice decor, decent crowd and nice staff.
(4)
Blue T.

Kell's is an awesome Irish bar! Great live authentic Irish music every night and they have their own bag pipe band that's awesome too ! If you're into Irish bars then this is a must go to if you're in Portland. I never eat there but have heard from many people that the food is excellent. Their whiskey and scotch selection is awesome as well as the fresh tapped beers and if you're into cigars , they have a great humidor that's well stocked and a great cigar room to enjoy a smoke while you sip your fave beverage. If you want a night of fun and good times go to Kell's. You won't be disappointed !
(5)
Katie L.

Fun Irish pub in Portland! Bloody Mary was just what I needed on a Saturday morning, and the lunch was a perfect compliment!
(3)
Tiffany C.

I've been here a couple times to watch sports matches that no one else really shows. both times the service was pretty meh. Here's the thing Kell's. If someone is in and watching a soccer match, they're going to be there for at least 90 minutes. Not the speedy in and out, I know. But if you want to stick to 30-60 minutes, don't show soccer games. The food was ok and came out quickly. The sausages were delicious. But, here's the thing, they brought me my check as soon as I finished eating my food. It wasn't even half time. I was considering a Bloody Mary as a follow up, but the waitress didn't ask me if I wanted anything else. After that, I was ignored. I have a policy about that, if I'm brought the check so early, I don't ask them to reopen the tab. Because it means the server is rude. But hey, maybe it was busy? Nope. in fact, she spent a lot of time at the bar talking to her coworkers who were just as inattentive. I left a pretty big tip, not because of the service but because I was renting a booth for a couple hours. I really wish I would have checked the Thirsty Lion schedule. Maybe it's better there?
(2)
Stephanie C.

Drinks were really good here, but my favorite thing was the chicken quesadilla. I think it would have been just as good were I completely sober. The place was pretty packed for a Sunday night, but I imagine this had a lot to do with it being Memorial Day Weekend. Music was fine, not too loud so you could carry on a conversation and there was plenty of seating if you didn't want to crowd around the bar.
(4)
Colin W.

Always come here when in town. Food excellent and staff v friendly. You have got to try the chicken curry and chips!!!
(4)
Jessica K.

It was nice while it lasted. As an early 20-something transitioning from college, I really adored this place. As a nearly 30-something who has experienced more of what Portland has to offer, I'm more than a little sad to admit our run is over. On our most recent visit, the service was indifferent at best. Our friend's order was messed up and wasn't fixed until the rest of us finished eating. They don't automatically bring water to the tables so we asked for some. It was never brought but to add insult to injury, someone took the time to enter them on our ticket despite the fact the water is no charge. My visit before that, it took about an hour for a drink and some oyster shooters. The prices. Bring some lube because you are gonna want it after they bend you over and have their way with you. You're gonna pay a lot for mediocre crap. If you have read my reviews, you know I balk at paying $5 for a beer. Well I am sorely ashamed that here we paid $6 for a Guinness. A Guinness! Are you fucking kidding me? I haven't hated myself this much since I was 10 and used to let my mom perm my hair. The food has definitely gone downhill along with the portion sizes. If anyone is still looking for Nemo, I found him on my plate. We got 4 itty bitty, greasy, gooey, nasty pieces of fish for our fish and chips. Fries were decent. But it was $10.25. Really? One plus I guess is that it's a decent place to watch a soccer game. And they have a gluten free menu. But you know what? I'm sure there are 50 other places in town where you can watch a game AND get better food and service. Their St. Paddy's festival? You didn't run out of lube yet did you? 'Nuff said. I'm also long past the sleazy crowds this place attracts on weekend evenings. So yeah, it's not me, it's you. And no I don't want to be friends either. Now can someone tell me where the hell I can find some good Irish food?
(2)
Steven F.

Live music, great decor, great atmosphere, genuine bartender, would give it 5 stars if not for the fact that we were never offered a menu/food.
(4)
Mark J.

great english pub. Probably a bit more english than Irish, but fantastic food with great service. The Cocunut chicken curry was outstanding and my wife's BLT was awesome as well. The chips (fries) were crisp and flavorful, much better than what you would get on the other side of the pond
(4)
Amber T.

I have 3 things to say: Great Bartenders Good Food (sweet potato fries!) Yummy Whiskey & Beer Okay, one more thing. I don't typically sit in the restaurant area as I enjoy scooting up to the bar to chat to whoever else is up there. I've had conversations with folks from many different countries, including a regular Irishman who they know by name because every time he's in Portland for business, he goes to Kells. Can't be a bad place if that happens!
(5)
Sonia S.

I like how casual and laid back it is here. Its just a fun environment to hang out at night and you must get IRISH CAR BOMBS!!! I also like that they opened a new one on 21st, and that one is totally different, more relaxed and low key... so its nice that they have some variety to choose from now!
(4)
Jim S.

This place is a disgrace to Irish pubs. Instead of being warm and inviting, it is pretentious and overpriced. My date and I went in for dinner and were charged a cover just to get in. They had a band playing in one half of the bar, which I would understand paying a cover for, but we sat in a different room for dinner and were not even able to enjoy the music. Why I paid someone to just let me sit in their restaurant and order food is something I am still asking myself. Once inside, we had to find and clear off our own table. When the waiter finally came over, we ordered items off the specials menu and were told that only the late night menu was available. Ok, fair enough... the late night menu lists the sandwhich of the day, which we were told was a meatloaf sandwhich. My date ordered that, while I ordered fish and chips. We were hungry so we also ordered some Kell's Fries as an appetizer. We sat around for awhile, and instead of bringing out the appetizer, all of the food came out at once. That's when my date noticed that her sandwhich was suspiciously lacking anything that looked like meatloaf. She took a bite and found that instead they had brought her a reuben filled with sauerkraut, which she hates. We pulled the waiter aside to ask about it, and were told that they ran out of meatloaf so the kitchen just swapped her sandwhich with the reuben.... No one came and asked her if that was ok. No one even told us until we asked about it... what kind of place changes your order, drops it off and hopes that you won't notice? My only thought was that the food is so poor here, that maybe they are hoping you are too drunk to notice. Oh.. My fish and chips were soggy and the Kells fries are nothing special either. There was nothing else on the menu that looked good, so my date decided just to eat the fries we ordered as our appetizer. The waiter apologized and told us he wouldn't charge us for the sandwhich. Wow... thank you so much for not charging us for something we didn't order. You really did us a favor there bud. This place is overpriced, the service is horrible, and the food is bad. With so many better options available in Portland, don't waste your time here.
(1)
Monica H.

Stopped in after saturday market for a drink. Server was horrific. He was apparently pissed off that we weren't ordering lunch. We ordered hot chocolate, & he brought it without bothering to mix in the powdered mix. So i asked for spoons and he brings stir sticks, drops them on the table then picks them up & throws them in the mugs. When i asked for a check he just rolled his eyes & said "its 8 bucks" without stopping. No tip for you, jerk.
(1)
Theresa B.

I went recently for a birthday dinner for my boyfriend and really enjoyed dinner here. Plus if you go for your birthday they give you a free t-shirt which is cool. But they had some good options for vegetarian and lactose free which were both in our group. The food was good too. I would go back with a group for dinner if I was in the area. It's a good place to start before a night out in Portland. The restaurant side isn't as busy as the bar side so it's better for groups.
(4)
Keith A.

I give kell's a solid 3.5 stars, but not enough to get into 4. This is a real solid irish bar that I went to watch the Germany/Greece match at. It drew a pretty damn good crowd early on. Probably helps that it is downtown, but there looked to be about 30 people already there when I got in at 11:15 am. The bar was wide open and I made sure to sit myself down. The game ended up getting a pretty big crowd, though it was far from crowded. The beer selection was decent. I was maybe expecting some more, but it was no biggie as I was able to keep my thirst quenched the entire game. I'd go back here to watch a match. Wouldn't be right at the top of my list from the places I went, but it certainly isn't a bad option either.
(3)
Tamsen G.

Hmm. Kells. I hate starting with a hmm - it sounds so non-commital. And it is. Kells in Seattle is a meat market at night for the very newly legal crowd, and I can't take that. But Kells in Portland is a slightly different breed - like the difference between a labrador and a labra-anythingelse. Here's why: Kells Portland is in a great old building, with the "bar" on the main floor and a very nice group meeting space upstairs. It also has a cigar bar - or at least it did - on the basement level. While Kells Seattle is in the Pike Place Market on Post Alley, which has excellent juju all by itself, Kells Portland is slightly off the radar of downtown, and therefore the traffic is not as insane and touristy in the summer months. Kells Portland has some of the worst bar service in Portland. They have one great server who is extremely attentive to the tables. I don't know her name but she's not a whippersnapper and is efficient. The rest of the staff could use some serious time studying her techniques. Just saying - she got a great tip from me. Hint, hint. Net:net - if you are having a major Sheperd's pie jones or other English/Irish/Scottish comfort food and you're downtown, this is your place. Other than that, there are a lot better options in the Portland dining scene.
(3)
Kristin H.

Not so great. The food was not very good and prices high. Our waitress was really dingy unfortunately. We had to keep finding her and at two o'clock in the afternoon we were her only customer. I am Cornish and thought it was pretty strange that the waitress kept mispronouncing pasty as pastie. After finding the waitress to get our bill, she had to redo everything twice - one bill three times. I thought we'd never get out of there. Very disappointing.
(2)
Janet M.

Here's what I remember about my last trip to Kell's. No, I wasn't drunk, just BONE tired after a day with the in laws and extended family. anyway. 1) beer 2) soda bread and stew, yummy and comforting 3) chocolate guiness cake 4) slightly snotty service Then we went home and fell into an in law and food coma. The end. I'm Irish. Do I like Kell's? I think I do. Would I make a point of going there? In the past maybe, but the last few trips haven't been as impressive... and there are some other restaurants I really like nearby. Still, it's kinda cool. And hubby notes it's great for happy hour.
(3)
G W.

They serve a proper pint. The brewery has added some nice beers to the mix as well. Bringing in a few Irish bartenders that don't just take an order and walk away would make this place one of the best pubs downtown. Service is decidedly subpar and the bar chairs are too short. Unless you're about 6'4 the bar experience is reminiscent being a little kid sitting with the grown ups for the first time. It is an average Irish pub. Nice ambience. Good food. Good beer. Good music. It just needs to dramatically impact service!
(3)
Dan C.

I have enjoyed Kells many times with family and friends i am bummed they do not have the Kilkenny Irish cream ale as it went so good with a Bushmills Black and live music on Sunday night. The food is also great, the irish meatballs are delicious and the Jameson Hot Wings are addictive. As far as the service goes i cannot say i recall anything out of the ordinary good or bad. The owner Gerard is a nice guy he'll say hello if he can and is very accommodating. Overall a pretty nice place to grab a booth and get comfortable..
(4)
Larry S.

Read a few reviews complaining about the service, but we had the opposite experience; Bill, our waiter, did a great job! The food was excellent. Only reason for four stars, rather than five, was their beer: good, to be sure, but I've certainly had much better. I'd go back again, though, that's for sure!
(4)
Sarah C.

So what can I say that probably hasn't already been said? Went here for dinner with friends and we were seated promptly. We started out with the gorganzola Dungeness Crab dip - SO good. In fact it was the most memorable part of the evening! There was also a band playing which was audible from the dining side. If interested there is cigar smoking in the basement. Love the ambience of this bar. The tables on the bar side get filled up quick so go early. A little dark but love the decor and all of the dollar bills cluttering the ceiling. A great Irish pub for a bite to eat or a casual night out for drinks.
(4)
Susan M.

Very fun place to go and drink with friends. Great music and atmosphere. Beer is a little pricy, but ti compensates for the setting.
(4)
Ali A.

Great whiskey, wonderful service, and a lovely live music performance by Sammy. We were there on a Wednesday night so it wasn't too busy. Their red beer was great, as was the selection of whiskeys. Go downstairs to the cigar area for a little history and great ambiance.
(5)
Dave H.

I've been to Kell's a few times, and I can't believe I haven't reviewed it by now. I doubt I'll say anything new, but why not add another loving it review. The hard cider is awesome, the service is A+, and the food is great. I'm especially partial towards the Irish Nachos. I've never been to Ireland, but my mom and aunt have, and they like it just as much as I do. I figure that has to be a good thing. Oh, and ask about the money on the ceiling. A little Irish magic is always fun, especially when it's for a good cause.
(5)
Mike R.

Kells does well as far as Irish pubs go. They serve up their Irish fare, have an inviting, wood paneled interior, and Guinness is on tap with a few of their own brews and local brews are on tap. I like that they decided to brew a few of their own beers; they kept it simple and while they are pricey ($5.50 for what amount to an average beer) it can round out the tap list nicely. So with all the great bar, beer, cocktail, food options in Portland, why would choose Kells except for when you have a hankering for shepherd's pie? The music would be the answer. They have music every night and except for a small cover on weekends, it is free. Some acoustic Monday to Thursday, Friday and Saturday brings in the full Irish band. Every band I have seen there can really lay down some great Irish tunes and gets your feet tapping. The acoustic players during the week are good for a nice chill night. Sunday brings you some Irish sessions, which always hit the spot on a lazy Sunday. If you love Irish music have no fear of the distance you are from Ireland, Kells serves it up well.
(4)
Evelyn S.

Irish Car Bombs started my friends Bachelorette Party off with a Bang! We started the evening of debauchery off at Kells in order to lay in the proper amount of starchy dinner for a night of drinking, singing and dancing. Chicken Curry Fries were amazingly good, although slightly unexpected. Bangers and Mash - the ultimate drinkers preparation meal. Juicy Burgers, Chicken Pie, and loads of other high calorie, high carb food, chased down by Whiskey, Kaluaha, and of course some Irish Coffee to keep the Caffeine level high, were enjoyed by all. Meanwhile, live music and dance started our evening out with a kick and a bang - really a great place, looking forward to going back again.
(4)
Julie D.

This is an Irish bar that is always lively and fun. They have a band that plays Irish music and the food is great! Pay to Park behind the building or try to find street parking. Love to come Herr each time we visit Portland!
(5)
Kate O.

Visiting from Philly, I discovered a wonderful place I can't wait to go back to. The live music from Sammi was great, service from Cameron couldn't have been better and the burger was as good as it gets. Thank you for music I loved and company that topped the charts. A real gem of a place and a new tradition for me; see you boys soon!
(5)
Shachi B.

Hello my name is Shachi and I like bars with money on the ceiling. I like them more when I realize said money gets donated to charity! It's your typical, chill Irish pub- reasonable prices, lots of space and decent pub food. 'Nuff said.
(3)
Lee P.

This place makes you feel like you are at a neighborhood pub in Ireland with a pint of Guinness and good friends. The food is very good and the music keeps everything upbeat. Great place and great atmosphere.
(4)
James F.

Kells is awesome. That's all I need to say. Good food, fantastic service, great beer, lots of fun. Came here for both lunch and hosting an event. Lunch: I got a boxty of the day. yelp.com/biz_photos/UfT1â€¦ and I was very very pleased with my sausage and egg in Irish flatbread. The flatbread here is amazing - I could just eat it for a meal. Chug it down with an IPA, and I'm a happy camper. Great service too! See if you can get your waiter or waitress to plunk some money on the ceiling! Also a great place to watch European league soccer and Irish sports. Event hosting: Kells has a great venue space upstairs, with its own bar, etc. The management and staff was very helpful in working with me to get the space reserved, set up, and all the details worked out. I hope to use them again for future events in Portland. Kells is an all-around winner!
(5)
Nicole W.

Cute location. Has a fireplace, and tons of table. Interesting menu, but nothing too exciting! We split the Gorgonzola burger with fried onions. Unfortunately - it wasn't' medium and pretty tasteless... That was sad. The "side" of pickle was pretty weak as well - just a small condiment size cup. If you give them a dollar and 2 quarters they perform a trick and stick it to the ceiling.. they aren't giving up the goods on that one. Staff was very friendly and helped up split the burger, always there to fill our beers, and was able to split the bill - even though the menu states otherwise (and that is why i gave them 3 stars instead of 2)
(3)
Paul F.

Last night Sept. 13, my medical group decided we were going to meet at Kells Irish Pub based a recommendation from a friend. Two of us were already downtown Portland and we had one beer at another establishment that had live music. When we got to the door a very young man asked us for our ID's which is standard. He then preceded to drill us with question as to where we were coming from, how many drinks we had which for my age at 54 I found very offensive and none of his business. I mean, we had one drink each prior so being interrogated by someone that didn't even look old enough to drink was more than we needed. The beauty of Portland is the diversity of restaurants and pubs so this kid refused us based on me questioning him for the interrogation and refused us entry. That is fine and we called our other four coworkers and took our money across the street to Thirsty Lion Pub. There we were greeted with smiles and the food and atmosphere was fun. Its a shame we never got to eat Kells food which we were look forward to. Unfortunately this kid knows nothing about treating people with respect.
(1)
Kristin S.

Great live music. An excellent place to just chill and listen. Went here on a Thursday evening and saw Pat Buckley perform.
(3)
Mike G.

Had a Dish by them once, never knew the name. Just had to go in and look at the menu hard until I found the dish. Yes, I liked the dish so much that I had to go there and find the name of it.
(4)
Mike M.

Our first visit to Kells was the weekend during a quick vacation to Portland. On the first day, it was quite crowded but we were seated promptly and our drink order was fulfilled quickly. They've got a great selection of food on the menu, a wide selection of whiskey and alcohol, and some great beers on tap (SLEIGHER!). I opted for the curry chicken and chips, the wife got fish and chips. The curry and chips is to die for! I feel weird saying this, but now one of my favorite curry dishes was from an Irish bar! The cod and chips was great too, very light and breaded perfectly. Their house tartar is great too. Both meals were so good that we want back the second day! Danielle and I both got the curry, my brother got the Gorgonzola burger, my sister got the Reuben. All were fantastic! There's parking across the street for 5 bucks all day that comes with a 5$ coupon. Tough to beat! Thanks Kells, keep up the good work!
(4)
Ethan D.

Basement Cigar Lounge and an outstanding whiskey menu?!?!?!?!?! This is what earned Kells Irish Pub a 5-star review and coincidentally the main (if not only) reason why I come here. Cigars bars are dying and that saddens me! I applaud any bar fighting to keep one open! In Portland, you have two choices: McMenamins or Kells (well, three if you count El Gaucho, but who can afford that place?!?!). The cigar lounge here, located on the bottom floor adjacent to the wine seller, is dark, cavernous, and cave-like. And I love it. And what I love most of all is that it is practically open the entire time Kells is open. The McMenamins cigar bars (Greater Trumps, Kennedy School Detention, Edgefield's Little Red Shed, and Little White Shed at Imbrie Hall) usually do not open until 4-5pm, but Kells opens at 8 am on the weekends! Kells, please please please never close that cigar lounge unless you have to by law. Any bar who fights the good fight for us cigar aficionados deserves 5 stars. Thanks, Kells!
(5)
Krista G.

Great place to pop on into and grab a shot of Jameson celebrating a good friends recent marriage! Lots of character and plenty of booze. As everyone has said here, this place can get crazy busy! I prefer it for a mid afternoon toss back. Quiet, quick and em em good.
(4)
Dave C.

I had the great chance to come here on a Sunday night. There was awesome live music and it was bustling, but not too crowded. I had the chicken curry and chips and my friend had the bangers and mash. I have to say that curry and chips has to be one of my new favorite bar food, not to greasy and spicy enough to get you reaching for your beer.
(4)
Isaac O.

Stopped by here on a recent visit to Portland. We managed to catch happy hour (on our visit at least), the appetizers were 3 bucks!! And they are pretty good too. The whiskey wings were good, but I'd skip on the Gorgonzola one. The Guinness was excellent, as was the Kell's Lager. Has a great Irish Pub atmosphere and above average bar food. I see there is on in San Francisco which is much closer to me so gotta remember that the next time I am in the city.
(4)
Laura C.

Oh...my...word!! Two words: Gorgonzola Spread. I knew Kel's had a decent selection of beers, fantastic live music and a really great cigar room. I questioned the food, since none of my happy-hour-whore friends had ever motioned it before. After coming back Ireland, I feel like Kel's in Portland is more Irish than the pubs we went to in Temple Bar. That being said, a vendor for the company I work for took a group of us to Kel's for "happy hour" (which actually meant Jameson whiskey and cigars). Being a girl, I stuck with Guinness, happy hour eats and 2 puffs of a cigar, which I found to be nasty. While I enjoyed the nacho on regular potato chips and the fries with curry sauce (Our British co-worker raved that they are the "bomb" and the closest thing he's found - food wise - to the Motherland). Far and away though, the Gorgonzola spread was the best thing I'd tasted in a REALLY long time!! Not only did I hog the whole bowl, but I basically licked it clean. I even got desperate and snuck fruit and bread from other shared platters on our table to dip into the amazing sauce. I now know that - stranded on a desert isle, that gooey cheese sauce is on of 3 things I will need to survive. I was also pleasantly pleased that the original Kel's now has an outdoor patio. Not that it'll be feasible 9 months out of the year, but last night was a beautifully warm evening and we enjoyed it until past 9pm. There's also a HUGE plasma screen outside, so you can enjoy sporting events while drinking beer and Irish whiskey and puffing on cigars. Lastly, I LOVE that Kel's collects money year round for Providence Medical Center (for medically fragile children). Last years annual ceiling sweep collected $16,000. I've donated many $1 bills myself, in hopes of figuring out the bartenders trick - to get them to stick to the ceiling. I'm no closer to figuring out their secret than I am figuring out why Irish people eat blood sausage. Some things will just have to remain a mystery to me forever.
(4)
Kendall L.

Great food ok service for a saturday night
(4)
Susan X.

My friend and I went here for dinner a few weeks ago, and I can't believe that was my FIRST TIME at Kells! The food was delicious, and so was the Guinness (of course), the service was fast, and the atmosphere was really cozy. We both love Guinness so that was one of the main reasons we went. DELICIOUS. I got the bangers + mash and I forgot what my friend got (but she loved it). I thought the bangers + mash were pretty delicious too. I would definitely come back...every day...for Guinness, haha.
(4)
Beth H.

Went here for my birthday. Was looking forward to ordering from their GLUTEN FREE menu as advertised online. Well...turns out 6 of the 8 items on the gluten free menu have the possibility of cross contamination. So actually only 2 items are gluten free: corned beef and cabbage or the cobb salad. I was very grateful to JAKE our excellent waiter who was knowledgeable about the gluten free menu (Thanks Jake!) But, I have to admit I was disappointed with the the limited choices. Excellent service, atmosphere, and pinot noir!
(3)
Eric T.

OK....so. If you asked my wife she would tell you I am a bit of an a-hole when it comes to getting good service. And she might be right. However, I had possibly the best service to date in my time in Oregon....How long is that? Oh, I have been here 12 years. I noticed Kells the last time I was in the area, having lunch at E-san after a conference, and made a mental note I would like to visit. Here I am at another conference a short time later, and I was able to convince my party to go to Kells. On a not super busy night, but with enough people to cause a rise in voice to be heard, we were greeted quickly by our server, offered drinks, and had them in hand lickity split. I had the Kells Red Ale, and really enjoyed the malty full flavor of the ale. As an appetizer we had the Gorgonzola spread as suggested by another Yelper, and were quite pleased. Absolutely a must try. I ordered the Kells IPA (Irish Pale Ale), but found the flavor not quite what I was looking for, but meh, continued to sip it. For dinner I ordered the Mushroom and Chicken Pasty (mushrooms and chicken stuffed into a flakey pastry served atop velvety mashed potatoes and awash in a creamy, delicious tarragon sauce with a side of Brussels sprouts. The rest of the party received their food, and it all looked great. The server asked if we were all ok, and noticed I had no food. He quickly realized he had not placed my order. He apologized profusely. Disappeared to place the order, and returned with some seriously dangerous good bacon soup concoction with bread so I wouldn't salivate on everyone else's food while I waited for mine. A+ move. My friend wanted another beer and asked to have what I was having. I had not complained to her about the flavor of mine, so I interjected and suggested she no get it. The server asked if it was not to my liking. I shrugged a meh, and he said he would happily bring something else to replace it. It was half gone already! A++ move! Mere moments later, I had a kick ass dinner, kick ass beer, and a kick ass dining experience to share. I didn't write down the server's name, but made sure our table rewarded good behavior. If you are a manager, the guy deserves a and you for representing your establishment with class. He was darker in skin color, had a goatee, and a slight accent I believe.
(4)
Stacie K.

Our friends wanted to take us here while visiting Portlandia. The place is quaint, clean, and had very nice outdoor seating. We had a party of 7, so we ate outside. I liked that it had cola other than RC. I find that rare in PDX. It was highly suggested that we try the meatballs. Meatballs at an Irish place. Ok. Why not. WOW. These things were amazing. Fresh made and sweet, smothered in just the right amount of gravy, and nestled on top of a savory pile of smashers. I'm drooling as I think about it.
(5)
Chris M.

Quality irish Pub, well poured pint of Guinness, what more needs........wait, that's the same as my Paddy's Review. Anyway, a nice Irish Pub. I only wish the pints could stay under $5.
(3)
Roxie G.

Great place to hang.
(4)
Thomas W.

Every trip back to Kell's is a treat! This time, my girlfriend and I took her sister and her sister's boyfriend to that Den of Masterful Irish Cuisine for a double-date of sorts. This time I finally got to sit in the restaurant section... Thankfully, there is no difference in the quality of the service - both sides are well-staffed with knowledgeable and friendly help, all of whom are more than happy to offer their opinions on what to try...you know, for the uninitiated, that is! I had the Belfast Boxty, and while I would have preferred a bit more of the signature sauce that was included with it, the pork and vegetables were savory and fresh. I was jealous of my girlfriend, though, who had the wisdom to choose the Irish Chicken Curry...good lord that was an amazingly tasty dish! The cranberry accents were a nice touch, and the chip base was a wonderful reimagining of an old classic. All in all, another successful trip and the most satisfying pub experience in town. If ever you're visiting Portland, or hosting guests from out of town, I definitely recommend that you bring them by Kell's. The complimentary soda bread and a bowl of the Irish stew are enough to satisfy any craving, be it for quality or quantity!
(5)
Megan L.

Smithwicks and sausage roll....mmmmm!
(3)
Andrea B.

Service was great, atmosphere was fun and authentic, and the band was really interesting. The basement was my favorite because it was a little quieter, and the tables are bigger so you generally meet some new people!
(4)
Jeff M.

A Haiku Review of Kell's: Great place for Guinness. Live Irish music nightly. Seems to fit the niche.
(3)
Heather S.

Love this bar... Give the staff money and they will toss it up to the ceiling.. All the $$ goes to charity but try to figure out how they do it! Fun.. Really good Ceasar Salad and sweet potato fries...
(4)
Rachelle N.

Bomb sweet potato fries and shepherds pie! Cool set up, the downstairs cigar room really brings you back.
(4)
Judy B.

Incredibly poor service at the bar. Bartender actually tried to pick a fight. We left and will probably never recommend that place to anyone!
(1)
Kevin S.

The best in downtown near the embassy suites. Good service, nice atmosphere.
(5)
Jesus A.

Its popular place the tends to get packed. It is good for burger, fries and beer. It does offer a good selections of beer.
(3)
Daniel K.

Having been to Ireland more times than I would care to admit, I gotta say Kell's was pretty spot on, the beer was a little pricey though. Also, if you are looking to get laid, I don't think that will be too tall an order at Kells, it had that cruising kind of vibe.
(3)
C S.

Quality of food is meh. I've had better from suburbia taverns. You get so-so quality food for acceptable prices. Beer cost about the same as what you pay at fancy clubs. ($5-7). I've been there several times over the few months but the value I get here disappoints me. They do not hesitate to add a service charge in an amount, which in my opinion, is reserved for exceptional service for a table of six or more, yet they're not very accommodating as they refuse to split bills despite charging 18% fee. It's unlikely that one person will pay for all ten people and at 18% service charge, splitting bill in my opinion is a reasonable accommodation to expect. It's a great hassle trying to work out the bill with the table ourselves. For a table with a large order and an 18% charge, I expect better attentiveness and service.
(3)
Andreena S.

It's NOT Irish food, but its good. Guinness was a little too cold but tasty. Shepherds pie was yummy.
(3)
Jana S.

The atmosphere is what completely makes this place! It's usually packed, cozy pub style with awesome live music. Before you know it, you'll be sipping on a Guinness, dancing and clapping along. You just can't help it! Trust me, I tried to resist and all that resulted in was me clapping offbeat. Cute. The food is not bad. Bar grub for the most part. Don't take my word on this one, just because I didn't immerse myself in the menu too much. Burgers, salads, etc. But again, who cares when you are dancing and clapping?? Give me chips and I'll be happy! The drinks to get a bit pricey. At least the group I go with, does not manage to escape this place without dropping a lot. Hmm..again goes back to the clapping and dancing theory..it makes you thristy..you know...a workout? Eh? I know that's a stretch, but definitely go to Kells for a fun time!
(4)
Robert S.

Not too impressed with Kells.....went there the other night (against my judgement) to visit with some classmates. They had the same opinion I had....too loud to carry on a conversation, service average, and the men's restroom.....who designed that??? We met there and stayed for a time, and then vacated to another establishment where you could actually communicate with people.
(2)
michael m.

Having read the rest of the reviews, I had to go hit Kells myself to really know what it was like. I found the interior to be pretty authentic and the menu to contain everything I'd want from one. I had the traditional fish and chips and they were served at the perfect temp and they tasted great! The beer selection was a bit sad in that it offered very few Irish/Brit beers, but the wine selection made me happy at least. The live Irish music made me stick around for a final round of drinks with my pal.... But that's where the review gets dinged down to 3 stars. As many others wrote, the service was abysmal. The waiter had a good attitude, mind you, but it also took about 20 minutes between us finishing our meal and the time we saw the after dinner drinks. The place was far from packed as well. I assume they understaff and that might explain all of the woes they face service-wise according to other reviews. ....Or perhaps they're trying to replicate Ireland's environment completely and tell the waitstaff to act as if they don't get tips so take their sweet time and occasionally be mean. ;)
(3)
Matthew M.

This review is only of a special event in which my group booked half of the upstairs for an informal Irish Wake of a colleague. The setting was perfect: Three roomy, tastefully decorated rooms with (IIRC) hardwood floors. The center room had a staffed bar with an ironically limited draught beer selection: Just Guinness and Smithwick's (plenty of hard liquor choices). A limited menu was available to order at the bar. I opted for the Irish Wrap, which was a very Americanized turkey chipotle wrap that I had come with fantastic, crispy Sweet Potato Fries in lieu of regular fries. One Smithwick's and rail drink later, and I was out of there for $24 including tip. Marginal value, I'd say. The biggest bummer was that another event was happening in a room next door and the music was loud. So, when it came time to quietly honor the deceased, we couldn't exactly do it in quiet. But we did have the event at a bar, so such circumstances are to be expected.
(3)
dally s.

meh. Being Irish is a way of life, not just your nationality. You guys scream at everyone that you are irish so hard I am beginning to believe you are not at all. What do i think of you Kells? Meh. Expensive drinks, sub par food, and rude waitstaff. I can do better, and so can the rest of portland.
(1)
Stefanie S.

Was great fun. Had the chicken BBQ sandwhich... which was nice and spicy. The waitress we had was in a foul mood, so hopefully if i go back, she won't be around. Got a little busy after 10, with a lot of bachelorette parties. Not really fun then, so we left, but i bet this might be my scene on a weeknight! The interior is really nice and relaxing... plus their was live music.
(4)
Rick K.

First time back to Kells in a few years...they haven't missed a step! I had the beer battered fish & chips which was excellent as usual, and the wife had shepards pie which was also excellent. The wait staff was very good and very personable which is a big plus for me. Good to see Kells in still holding it down!!!
(4)
Al C.

Wait staff was awkward, felt like we were imposing. I don't think the waitress ever did introduce herself or welcome us, not even sure she came back to ask how we liked the food. Not real busy, late lunch. Husband really enjoyed his burger, trying to step out of my box I had the meatballs w/mashed potato and it was fair at best. Glad we had a gift card as it wasn't worth the price, 5.75 for a beer that I wish had come in a colder glass, I will say the burger at $9 was quite good. Staff really set the tone and it wasn't something that made me happy to have driven downtown for.
(2)
scott r.

Hello all, My Kells experience the other night was one of the worst bar experiences I'd had in many years. The service was about as poor as could be. Granted every different server that came to our table was quick to tell us he just started the night before, a smile and positive attitude would've went a long way with us. I wish I had the writing skills to tell all the stories that came of this night but lets just say what should've been a great birthday night was ruined by very inexperienced servers, bartenders, and a complete disrepect for customers by all the staff. Scotty
(1)
Chad S.

Kells, What happened this year for Shamrock?? We have been coming to your place for years to celebrate after the Shamrock run and this year we were met with a tiny little tent with 3 stand up tables. It seemed to me that the last couple of years you have filled the very large tent, restaurant, and a line around the corner. I am sorry to say that we went across the street out of disappointment. I will be checking back in February 2012 to see what your game plan is for this event. I hope that you bring back the celebration that we are used to.
(1)
Andrea M.

Let's just say "tourist trap". The beer and food are expensive for what it is and the service is really not that great. My dinner was pretty tasty, but my father-in-law ordered the clam chowder which we all could tell, and taste, clearly came from a can. There are better bars where you can get the same beer for much cheaper. I probably won't be back to Kells any time soon.
(2)
Dennis C.

It's a decent Irish bar. I think there's better bars to go to in the Portland area. The bangers and mash are pretty good though. I would stop in for one, then go to the next bar.
(3)
Liz B.

Here's what I liked about Kells - delicious and expensive happy hour food (we got the whiskey wings. 6 to an order, generously slathered with a very tasty whiskey BBQ sauce), great selection of beer and liquors, friendly service and clean bathrooms (always winner for me). Here's what I didn't like - $5.50 for the beer, $5.50 for the well, and the drink was half as strong as the $3 wells we were downing across the street at Berbati's. I'll definitely be back for the good, cheap happy hour eats but certainly not a place for drinking.
(3)
Sara Q.

this place blows. i came here to have drinks and a late dinner with my pharmacy classmates for passing an exam. i got here around 930pm and they were charging a $3 cover to get inside. wtf? i get there and no server told me it WAS NOT happy hour that night. so i ended up paying a crap ton of money for portion sizes that were tiny. not to mention ordering first, then checking on it 30 minutes later and her saying she forgot to put the order in. how rude. she didn't apologize and didn't offer to make it up to me or trying to make me feel better about not getting food i ordered. i mean she could have comped me a beer or something wth. i'm diappointed in kell's. i really am.
(1)
Shawna H.

As far as Irish pubs go, and my friends I do know my way around an Irish pub, I'd give it a "yeah it was cool". Granted that could have been the $160 happy hour tab that we ended up racking up. Food happy hour prices- decent. happy hours drink- non exisitent! But they had rugby on the tv (which made my sis happy and enticed her friend to come down) and we got a huge table by the front window which I can imagine grants fantastic people watching. That is if you, unlike me, go without people who can carry on riviting conversations. Speaking of having a convo, not too loud in there and our server was attentive without being in our face. MAJOR PLUS! Should have gone down to the cigar room downstairs, but well... $160 happy hour tab, what can I say???
(3)
Stephen B.

Good comfort food...especially the lamb stew
(4)
Sasha S.

Where else in Portland can you eat sweet potato fries, a sandwich in Irish rice bread and a soda for less than $5? Oh did I mention the waiters are gorgeous? I mean like movie stars. It's swarming with romance novel worthy men hauling you food and making sure your soda or beer needs are satisfied. Mmhmm. Hey. If you're in a relationship, it's probably worth less stars.. but I tend to enjoy my meal with a show. Just sayin'! Plus happy hour prices rock, and go later than other bar/pubs around the area. The happy hour goes till 7 pm, and everything on the happy hour menu is $3. Think nachos. Think beer. Think happy greasy thoughts.
(5)
Hooman Z.

So for my first review on Yelp I thought I would take a moment to give you my thoughts on a place that I am all too familiar with. I am originally from Portland and migrated to the bay area roughly a year ago. This review is meant for the Kell's in Portland NOT the one in San Francisco. Kell's is my favorite spot in Portland to have a drink. Whether a weekend or weekday, I have always had astounding service from both the wait staff and bartenders. It is true that the "bar" side of the pub can get somewhat crowded on Friday & Saturday nights, however, it's never exceedingly so (with the exception of St. Patrick's Day and New Year's). The atmosphere is always friendly and inviting. I have seen the owner frequent the pub on several occasions and he is always in an amicable mood. Everything from their fries to their Sheppard's pie and Bailey's Irish cheese-cake is great. I would like to point out that the fries come with Irish Buttermilk, something that I cannot get enough of. The one thing I don't like about Kell's is men's restroom on the main level (they have one upstairs as well as one in the cellar area which are available to patrons on some, not all, nights). The urinal placement is just plain awkward.
(5)
Steve G.

Great irish pub... It is best if you can get a table... if not you are hosed... I liked it better when it was a smoking bar.... Saw the young dubliners up stairs and that was a great show and a perfect venue! Lots of fun dancing =O) They poor a great pint of Guinness...
(4)
Hector B.

They have good food, for sure. I ate here to celebrate when Robert became an Irish citizen. A group of coworkers also came here to help us celebrate.
(5)
R R.

I ate here twice while I was on vacation 2 months ago. Both times were for lunch. The first day we noticed there was money all over the ceiling. Every so often we saw one of the servers getting money from a table and then threw it up on the ceiling. We inquired about this and it seems that they've been doing this for several years now. Every year they do a sweep of the money on the ceiling and the money gets donated to the Children's Hospital. The coolest part is the owners of the place match the donation. So that was awesome. Both times I ate here my food was great. Service was good, prices were good, we couldn't have asked for more. Some people do complain that the portions are small, but to me they were fine! I couldn't even finish all my food both times. I will definitely eat here again when I'm back in Portland.
(5)
Randi S.

My fiancee and I stopped in here on our last trip for some great bloody marys and a friendly bartender who chatted us up about different bottles behind the bar and what life is like in portland. I wanted to go back during the day because the bar is not packed and the service is usually more personal than going to party at a bar on a saturday night. I suggested Kell's as a place to grab lunch with my dad on my most recent trip last weekend. The service was just as great as the first time we went there! I think our servers name was Mona but I'm not entirely sure...anyway, whatever her name was she was so nice and friendly to us! At the end of our meal she told us she had been there since 7 or 8 in the morning (it was nearing 5pm or so). She did a great job for someone working that long and it did not take away from her attitude!! Also all the food looked wonderful and my turkey dip was awesome. I loved how they serve sweet potato fries and that the dip was not au jus but it seemed like some sort of buttery broth. Yum!!!
(4)
Sara K.

Fairly drunk memory. Great place for a happy rowdy group. Decent prices and there was food floating around on platters upstairs. Nachos on potato chips.
(4)
Brandy S.

Kells seems like it could really be a sorority/fraternity magnet as the night wears on, but for dinner I was pleasantly surprised. While it didn't have the exact same feeling as the pubs I visited in Ireland (a little touristy), it still had that family-sort of atmosphere to it. Finally, some decent fish and chips! Only $9 and I was stuffed.
(4)
Jen C.

Loud Irish pub with great service and extensive beer selection and lots of TVs to watch the game. Watched Game 7 of the Lakers-Celtics Finals here and there was a quite a crowd -- good mix of fans from both sides. All the tables were full inside when we arrived so we sat outside in the back until a table inside opened up. Service was a bit shotty outside but they let us know when a table opened up inside and then we were very attended to. I probably loved it so much because the Lakers won!! Overall, great energy and a great crowd. Recommend.
(4)
Patrick R.

Kells is sort of a classic Irish pub style place with the expected menu. We weren't there late enough for me to comment on the live music but the customer service was great. My wife didn't like her meal-it wasn't bad or anything, just not to her taste. Anyway they didn't charge us for it. Additionally, the waiter was prompt and attentive without being annoying and the overall atmosphere was really nice.
(4)
Leo Q.

Kell's is cool. The wife and I had some dessert and drinks late on a Wednesday night. It was good. The live Irish music was fun, the beer was good, and their Berry crisp was awesome. If you want a fun environment with some live music and good beer, Kell's is a great option. I want to go back soon!
(4)
Heather Y.

Good Irish food & ambiance nestled in downtown Portland. Its a smaller venue than a few that Ive been to in San Diego- but size doesn't matter this place has charm, and a great menu .. its fun to have a cider, eat some of their killer nachos (made with homemade potato chips, yum) & watch a soccer match. I have been their two times now, both times they have had a live band playing Irish music which was a added bonus & adds to the authentic Irish feel.
(4)
J M.

$3 HH burger! Great selection of spirts. Cigar room down stairs!
(4)
Mike K.

Just because I'm giving this place only three stars doesn't mean that I'm not going to visit it every time I'm in Portland. Oh Kells, the love and the hate. Like family in a strange way. I'm not really sure why I keep hanging out here but I feel obligated to visit during the holidays. How do they get those dollar bills to stick to the ceiling anyway?? Magic? Magnets??
(3)
ThomasE L.

One word: Guiness. Two words: dirty small bathrooms (OK, it's three). Would have gotten 5 stars but for that. Yes, pints are a little pricey, but they are Imperial. Food is a little on the small side, but if you go during happy hour, you won't care, 'cause it is so cheap. $3 for the bar food? And it's down the street from Voodoo? Folks, we have a winner.
(4)
Christopher M.

I've been fondly remembering this place for a while now, so it's time I wrote a review. I had just finished my album in Weed, CA and drove up to see my friend in Portland. I explained that two years worth of work had just been finished and I wanted a good shot of scotch to celebrate. He smiled knowingly and brought me here. Damn. Without looking I ordered my favorite from when I was in Scotland all those years ago, just to see if 1. they had it and 2. if the bartender would flinch. They did and he didn't. he did have to climb all the way to the top for it and do some acrobatics, but it came down and I ccelebrated the culmination of several years of constant hard work in liquid gold form. I came back the next afternoon for food, just to see what it was like and was equally impressed. The portions were somewhat small compared to what I was used to, but completely delicious. And their fund drive with the money stuck on the ceiling and matched by the owners every year was explained to me, and I was hooked. I really dig this place, and should I ever be able to get back to portland, Ill be here. Sadly, I'll have to leave the scotch on the wall the next time.
(5)
Sean D.

Solid Irish pub with good black and tans. I would rate them higher for location, staff and ambiance except that they are very high priced. Solid pour on the cocktails as well.
(3)
Rugball M.

Arrived for a late breakfast Sun morning 8/18/2013. Kell's wasn't even 1/4 full. The waitress came around after a few minutes to get our drink orders. After several more minutes she came back to take our breakfast orders. Then the waiting began. We all finished our coffee, etc, still waiting... After about 20mins, the waitress stops to see if we need refills instead coming prepared with a carafe. Also note that the food was nowhere to be seen yet and the restaurant was not busy at all. I decided that the table would be too small for 4 adults and plates, so I pushed another table over to give us some elbow room. The waitress comes by to collect the resulting extra forks/napkins from my side of the table, but doesn't bother to leave any for my wife and myself. I must have been pushing 35mins before the first 2 plates come out of the kitchen. It takes another 5 before the other 2 plates arrive and we have to ask our friends to pass over the utensils that were left out of reach by the waitress. I give them credit for the food which was well prepared, especially my corned beef hash with the mustard drizzled on it. We enjoyed the food while the staff appeared to be mainly busy setting tables for lunch. Meanwhile our drinks went empty again... And I thought the Post Office was slow.
(2)
Joseph A.

Me and my girlfriend went here on vacation to watch the Ireland v. Croatia Euro 2012 game. Wonderful service and atmosphere and great food. We will go back.
(5)
Melinda B.

I've never been to Kell's in the evenings, so I can't vouch for the bar/nightlife crowd here one way or the other. For lunch, however, this place is awesome. Their menu consists of a nice, well-priced selection of excellently made comfort foods, sandwiches, and salads. I am a complete sucker for the sausage roll with cabernet demi-glace. Especially with a pint of something alcoholic and delicious. Mmmmmm. Service here has always been attentive & friendly during lunch hours - I can honestly say I've never had a meal at Kell's that didn't leave me feeling cozy & happy.
(4)
P P.

Nice little pub with great food, had the Shepard's pie which was delicious but on the small side but that only makes more room for BEER. Great place for a Guiness
(4)
Beth M.

Great pub, great staff and you have to donate a dollar to the ceiling! Very fun place for a pub crawl stop!
(4)
Brian M.

I did a mid day Saturday lunch here... it was killer... Guinness lamb stew! I'd go back for sure during off hours... staff was nice and attentive... I hear this is a rowdy place at night, but for a day time lunch it rocked
(5)
rc c.

Pretty standard food/drink. nothing really exceptional to me- the service though-god awful. I don't know what is going on-maybe the cook is awful to them, maybe management sucks, but would it kill anyone to smile in this place? I've gone a few times in the last month b/c I like to give people the benefit of the doubt-maybe it's a bad day? maybe their goldfish died? I dunno. But every server I've had was like pulling teeth to get them to wait on us and then it was minimal effort-drinks, food, check-that was it. no smiles or even thank yous. Its to the point where almost asked them last night, is working here really that awful? b/c you all look miserable. Life lesson: life's way to short to be miserable- find new jobs if you hate it!
(2)
Natalie F.

This place wasnt awesome but wasnt horrible. Pretty busy... but the staff were chill and friendly. I expected it to be a LITTLE more "european" from the hype I had heard... but it was more european-ESQUE than a direct attempt at recreating. If you want a distinctly european pub, try the Moon & Sixpence. Kell's is great, though... if you want a sort of Ameri-Irish mish mash of goodness.
(3)
Sonia P.

They have a gigantic smiling Guinness on the wall....and it's slightly creepy but mostly cute. With Kells, it was love at first sight for me. The first time I went to Kells, I was pretty blown away. They had all of my favorite beers, naturally, but they also had Talisker whiskey and, if you're an Irish whiskey fan, one sniff of Talisker's peaty aroma will plop your happy ass in heaven - or Ireland depending. But anyway, there was a rockin Irish band on the stage, covering all sorts of fantastic songs and then a group of bagpipers showed up! My friends and I jigged and danced the night away. The food is pretty yummy and the prices are normal. I always look forward to my next visit.
(5)
Jenny C.

Depending on your style Kells offers both a fun pub setting and more refined dining room, both with fantastic menus and bar options. The Irish Nachos (think razor thin potato slices topped with all kinds of vegetarian goodies) and Guinness Shepard's Pie are both fantastic choices! The Chimney Sweep dessert (21+) is a delicious way to end the meal. Have a birthday? You can expect sparklers and confetti pop from the very attentive and downright awesome staff. Originally opened as The Old Spaghetti Factory, the building is small (and feels even more so on the busy weekends). If you're the type that likes your space get their early, or make reservations in the dining room. If you do find yourself in the pub, be sure to get a dollar tossed up to the ceiling, it's fun/mind boggling to watch and the cash goes to a good cause.
(4)
Nathan B.

This is a fun, rowdy Portland bar. I have been to the Seattle Kell's literally thirties of times and enjoy it. Both locations are very similar - loud Irish music, relaxed people drinking hard, fun times, and a likely hang over in the forecast. Not the best bar in Portland, but it's a great watering hole, all the same. Due to the cover charge, I would give it a 3.5, but I'll round up to 4 stars because that is to be expected when there is live music....
(4)
Kevin L.

I liked this place. It's in an older part Portland so the buildings are all close to 100 years old or more. I am a sucker for old architecture. I liked the old school look and feel the pub has as well as their decent selection of scotch. We got lost trying to find it so we only had time for a few shots/pints and then we had to leave. From what I am reading in the reviews Kell's can get a bit crowded in the evenings and weekends. I was there at noon on a Thursday and it wasn't crowded at all. Hmmm maybe cause normal people work. hahahahaha I would love to go back and check out some of the live music they have the next time I am in the area. I would probably give it a different score if I had a chance to sit and eat something or hear some music. I may change my review the next time I visit.
(3)
David R.

The first bar I ever legally gained entrance to once I finished college and moved back home was Kells. I had never been to a proper Irish pub and the wall of scotches and liquors was impressive. Kells has been a stalwart of the bar scene on SW 2nd for years. Kells is a study in dichotomies. On the weekends, and being young, this is the ideal place to meet young people who also seem to have just entered the real world. But if you look closer, as I happened to one night, I noticed also the intermingling of those who, much older, had experienced some of the real world already. Often they sat alone at the bar or in pairs in the corner booths. One particular gentleman, dressed to the nines in a tailored suite, patiently nursed his drink and scanned the crowd. His face gave a look of a man forgotten, lost, and out of place. A man who probably once entered this bar much like I had on this night, the world in front of him, all things known and assured of himself and the place he would take in this world. But tonight, his face could not hide what I saw, a man still searching for his place in the world. A man seeking to forget that as we grow older, we know less than we ever thought we knew when we were so much younger and self-assured. While my friends laughed, shared drinks and shots and beers, the lonely man with the tailored suit looked on. I don't know if he believed in God, but I imagined that he and I shared our own belief in our own fear of living and dying a life too ordinary. I was 22 years old, and I began to wonder if I someday found myself in the same place as this man, could I at least take pride in owning a good suit, if only having lived a life too ordinary? distilledpublishing.blogâ€¦
(3)
Sarah B.

A good place to grab a meal and a pint. Kell's has a prime location, close to the MAX and a large open atmosphere. I'm fairly used to the sister store in Seattle, which differs greatly. Both places serve up the same yummy beverages. But differ greatly in the feel and the menu. This Kell's had a fairly hearty meal menu. I heard rave reviews about the meatballs from my party and I really enjoyed their vodka sauce. The service was quick and nice. And the entire place felt open and relaxing. I did miss the pasties though and actually missed the cramped, dark Kell's of Seattle.
(3)
Torrance W.

First time in Portland and I found this place on Yelp because I was close by. Great selection of beers and not being the most knowledgeable about beer I deferred to the staff and they were very informative. There were actually Irish patrons in the bar so that's always a good sign. If you are there on a Friday you have to try the clam chowder...some of the best I've had. As a tourist i felt very comfortable here.
(4)
Jen S.

Many good times were had here! I recommend the penalty kick or their strawberry lemonade specialty. The music artists that frequent this joint are not the best though. If you want to avoid listening to crappy covers of blister in the sun, go to their cute patio in the back.
(4)
Shane K.

Loud and crowded and nothing too good for prices
(2)
Andrea M.

This was the first restaurant me and the hubby tried in Portland. We had such a great time! There is a cigar smoking room downstairs that's cool if you're into that. Neat vibe in this place, food was really good too. Friday and Saturday nights, it's a lively place with loud live Irish music, people dancing, just an overall happy place and friendly service!
(5)
Chris T.

I've been here twice and have enjoyed it both times. It's just a good time. The first weekend I went, there was a live band playing Irish music, people dancing, drinking, and just having fun. You couldn't help but join the fun. To make it even better I discovered the cigar lounge downstairs and I do enjoy my cigars! Even on a random Wednesday night I stopped by, it was quiet but still had a few groups of people hanging out. I haven't eaten there yet so I can't comment on the food but I'll let you know when I do.
(4)
Ryan S.

We had an Adobe event here and this place was great. The service was excellent and both the food and beer were awesome. The makeup of the place is cool and the beer selection is top notch. Overall a very cool spot.
(5)
Brett H.

Prior to my experience at Kell's a few weekends ago, I would have rated this pub as 3-4 stars. They have a lively atmosphere, decent food, and a rather convenient cigar lounge. A bit pricey, a bit kitzchy, but hey, it's Kells. However, following the treatment I received on December 5, 2009, I will not patronize Kell's Portland ever again. After a pleasant evening at the Holiday Ale Festival, my friends and I strolled down to Kell's to continue our evening and take in some Irish music. We paid the cover, passed muster by the bouncer, and proceeded to the bar to obtain drinks. The first thing that the bartender says to me was "Ain't no f'in (explicative deleted) way you're getting served in here tonight, buddy!" as he rudely pointed his finger towards me. At first I thought this was a joke, as I had not acted belligerently, nor did I appear to be in poor condition. My friends, in equal state of debauch to I, had no problems getting drinks. However, time and time again I was rejected. I understand that the bartender reserves the right to pour or not, but I have to ask about the point of having a bouncer in such cases. To me, it was a rude attempt to extract a cover charge. I have never been treated so poorly, so unceremoniously, without reason. I felt especially put off considering the hundreds of dollars I've poured into their coffers over the years. We left, I complained to the bouncer and manager, and we recovered our cover charge, but I was so put off that I will never endorse this establishment again. Sucks to be you, Kell's, you lost a good customer over this one.
(1)
Leslie R.

Lively it was, expected nothing less at Happy Hour. The service was not bad, the food was good - although my burger was a bit overdone, it was still tasty. The brew was perfection - both in temperature and froth.
(3)
Jess J.

Came here on a Sunday night to a packed house and a guitarist rocking out some classic Irish tunes on stage. It was standing room only, but we got a table within 10 minutes or so and checked out the menu. For the record: The Shepherd's Pie was certainly the best I have ever had. Simply amazing. Put in my mouth-hole please! Large selection of drinks at a usual bar price. Not cheap, not expensive. Decent enough.
(4)
Andrew S.

Definitely a tourist location. The show is always the same. Annoying music now and again, high prices, bad snakebites but decent food. Staff seems to be friendly enough but watch out on weekends. It turns into a wild scene with a long wait for drinks and no elbow room.
(3)
Bobbie S.

This place was great! It was my first time. I found them online - and was able to make reservations online too! Love that! I had a moderately sized party of 12, which was accomodated quite nicely. Their happy hour is 1/2 off appetizers - so $3/item - way cool! I had Shepard's Pie - my favorite irish dish - and it was heavenly! More gourmet looking than I've ever seen or done. The potatoe topping was slightly broiled to turn that beautiful, crisy, brown color on the puffed tips - very fancy! I am definitely going back, bringing friends and will attempt to have a forkful of every meal they have, including guiness drenched desserts! Yum!!
(5)
Courtney D.

Luck of the Irish on a weeknight They say that an Irish bar is often the best pub but finding a good one on a good night can be a challenge. I've been to Kells Irish Pub a few times and finally found the best night to go --- a Thursday. I had been there on a Tuesday once, and you could have heard a pin drop. So we went back on the weekend, only to be one of 300-plus crammed in there. I continued to hear good things, though, so gave it a try on a Thursday night. I love going out then because people are roaring to go for the weekend. They had live music, which was a nice surprise for a Thursday, and the food was pretty good. My family is Irish, but I've never loved Irish food. Since I wasn't feeling overly hungry or adventurous, I ordered what they call, "Ulster Champ. It's a traditional mashed potato dish with butter and scallions. It was yummy and reminded me of a home cooked meal. Tip: Don't hassle with the car since parking is a pain in that section of downtown. Take Max, which will drop you off two blocks away.
(3)
Kelli H.

Went to Kell's around 9:30 on a Thursday after arriving to Portland. We sat in the bar instead of the dining area even though we were all having meals. They had excellent sweet potato fries and the bangers & mash were awesome. My dad didn't really like the lamb stew he ordered and I did taste it. It was pretty bland. The ruben sandwich which my mom ordered looked amazing and she loved it. We all thought that the beer, Kells that they served was the best. I would definitely go back! It has a great Irish sounding band playing and the atmosphere was killer. It was a place that if I lived in Portland, I would go there all the time.
(4)
Joshua B.

While kells may have been awarded the top Irish establishment in the US, don't get trapped too much by the hype. So here are the facts: Kells has great food (though pricey) and a good assortment of drinks (though also pricey). It also excels in providing live music every night including a seisiun band on sunday eve. For all this, it feels like every other bar downtown that might have been "irishized.". In my humble Bostonian opinion (can such a thing ever be truly humble?) these do not an Irish bar make. Ok so yes it would be right at home and fit in splendidly at temple bar in Dublin...but the true joy of Irish bars are the small cozy ones outside of the cities, in the towns and townlands where life and fun converge with a regular clientele of locals. You have to have at least one or two authentic Irish nationals as barkeeps and be a drawing magnet for the expats. And finally, the waiters have to have the charm and humor of the Irish that truly complete the experience. Yes, I know this isn't Ireland...but i know a good one when I see it, like Bad Abbots in Quincy, MA. If you want a fun place with good food and drink and music do come to kells and bring your friends too! But don't expect Irish and don't expect the Craic to flow. Yet the best part of kells is having Magners on tap, a thing most Irish bars are even lacking...and that's why I keep going back! It's all about damn good Irish cider!
(3)
Eric s.

I was visiting Portland a couple weeks ago and it turned out to be a festival for Saint Patricks Day downtown. I came to this restaurant and went through the back door and was carded, which is no big deal since I look like I'm 20, but I'm actually 40. This is when the poor service began. The first guy who looked at my ID said go ahead and then this young punk grabs my ID and starts quizzing me about myself. Like it was some joke. Totally uncalled for and unprofessional. This place is for young singles who want a one night stand. I was also told I could eat here and after I went in I was told no food in the bar, only the restaurant. Strange. I will say the bartender was very polite. But looking around and how people acted I felt like I was at a Frat party. I would say who ever owns this place needs to understand that the entire public is their customers and not just single people and everybody needs to be respected. This place is a total turn off. Don't Bother. I forgot mention..they had 3 tv's in this pub and they were all turned on an infommercial. I asked the bartender if they change the channel to the PAC 10 basketball championship game and was told he didn't know how. Weird.
(1)
Amanda S.

Our last stop on our first night.....these seemed like a great pub! It was big a slightly elegant but still very comfy and homey. There are big chandeliers, comfy wooden booths, a fire place, lots of pictures and plaques on the walls....and live music. They brew their own beer....I had a wheat beer that was great. My BF had an Irish Coffee that was perfect (we are picky having had many at the Buena Vista in SF.) All in all...a great neighborhood pub with a friendly vibe. It was kind of packed and hard to get a drink...surprising for a Thursday night?
(4)
Norma J.

We have been to Kell's a few times, and I must say- their meatballs are very good. My wife ordered the chicken/mushroom pasty which was also good. What surprised us was the limited quantity of food on the plates. I was still quite hungry afterwards and that shouldn't be the case. My biggest gripe however is that we were about to order Irish Coffee's (It is after all an Irish pub / restaurant), only problem is they charge $8.50 for this, and they do so with a straight face. Of course I would rather prepare my own Irish coffee at home before being ripped off- so we paid and left, and really probably won't be back. I think it would be worth trying other pubs in the area rather, these guys seem to have gotten big headed over the years, which is a pity. Oh and parking is $5.00
(2)
Stephano G.

Dinners / Lunches here have been consistently great. It's all what you're looking for in the establishment. There are two crowds here: the restaurant, and the Bar / Smoking room. The later is loud, cramped, filled with music/laughs/drunks. It can sometimes draw the "frat" type crowd, and certainly the football fans. The restaurant is quiet, well lit, and has a much more relaxed tone. As far as the food, do not plan on loosing weight. I have yet to visit Ireland, so I cannot speak to its authenticity. The selection is well managed and you can choose from lighter fair all the way to the sausage wrapped in phyllo dough. I can honestly say that I've never had a bad experience with the food. Takeout Tip: Their Lamb Stew is always ready and combined with the soda bread makes an amazingly fast takeout option.
(4)
Mark R.

been here numerous times and the place can be a zoo on prime nights, but on Tuesday I usually catch a late night pint and gar and the place isn't dead, but its no where near as chaotic as say a Fri. or Sat. (forget St. Patty's day unless you like shoulder to shoulder) Love the fact they have a cigar room and the staff, especially the bartender/manager Brian, are cool as shit.
(5)
Michelle C.

Good Reuben, nice beer selection, friendly staff. I was here for lunch, and it was nice and relaxing. Exactly what I was wanting from an irish pub. :) Would give it 4 stars if the prices were a little lower, but by no means was i disappointed.
(3)
John E.

This place used to be three stars maybe. Last visit was the worst Irish stew I've ever tasted. Nearly inedible. More of a soccer bar than a restaurant. Good beer.
(1)
Emily Elizabeth S.

i'm totally impartial because through my connections, yes thats right ladies is pimps too, i never pay cover or for drinks. the music is always Celt-tastic-al and the Illusion is sugary sweet drink that is bright blue and i loves it. the bagpipers are ahhhmazing, loud and proud baby. i can never handle the busy side with the full bar & music so we sit in the quieter dining room. its a good place to start the evening, claim your territory and have a few good beers.
(4)
Steven A.

probably the best atmosphere that I've ever had at an Irish Pub. Live music, plenty of people, I loved it
(4)
Alissa S.

Kells was one of our favorite bars in portland to go and listen to some Irish Music. My friends and I went to Kells last night to get some beers for my friends birthday. We were ordering beers and my friend was asking if they do 'birthday t-shirts' still? The manager displayed the most inappropriate customer service. She was RUDE and not friendly at all. She actually made us want to not order drinks AT ALL never mind ever go back. I have to say the only reason we stayed to have some drinks was because the hostess came over and apologized for the manager. The hostess was SOOO nice and really just made us decide to stay and spend money on drinks. The manager (I'm assuming realizing she was wrong) came over and tried to make it right. It really bothers me that she even had to do this and the fact that the hostess had to apologize for a managers actions is just disappointing. I hope that this does not happen again or we will rethink our future return to this location.
(3)
Kelleh H.

Irish pubs, in general, can be fun and entertaining. Kell's is no different. Kell's has a great happy hour and a friendly waitstaff. The owner is also super friendly, and his kick ass Irish accent adds to the atmosphere.
(4)
Tanner H.

This place makes me think of sorority girls that are carrying about eight pounds too many. I just do't get what makes this place so popular. Every time I end up there it was at teh request of others. It is way too loud. The long bench seat is just awkward as hell. The servers treat you like crap if you're not wearing a button-up...until you buy a bottle of Dom. Very superficial. The BarCode across the street is waaaaaaaaaaay better.
(1)
Scott D.

I used to go down to Kells every other week for the music but Friday & Saturday nights just started getting cheesy there. After 2 different bachelorette parties and a bunch of loud, drunk slurring women dancing I decided it wasn't my bag anymore. I love the place, the people the enviroment but I realized soon enough the weekend bar scene was to be left aside. I have no complaints and encourage others to try it out.
(4)
Elliot G.

I think this place is over-rated. The few times that i have been there it always seems like they are overcrowded and don't seem to play much attention to patrons. The cigar bar downstairs is probably the only redeeming thing about this place. Another good thing is they seem to be football (soccer) fans and fly their teams proudly unfortunately its the wrong team (Go Gunners).
(3)
Justin N.

I think everyone has summed it up pretty well...weekend nights tend to be a good time to stay away but earlier in the day (or weekdays) this place is great. Never had a problem with the food (it's solid, I wouldn't say amazing or anything) and the Guinness flows just as you would expect. The only thing I feel I have to mention is one time my cousin tried to order a vodka gimlet and the bartender said he didn't know what that was. Is that even possible? To make matters worse he wasn't interested in making one even after my cousin attempted to tell him the recipe. Crazy...
(3)
Kenneth H.

My buddy and I went wandering the downtown region on Saturday midday, starting at the farmers market and wandering towards the waterfront. We had no plans to stop anywhere but the hunger caught us off guard and Kells was the first place that grabbed my eye. I went there a couple of years ago for some early morning soccer extravaganza but couldn't tell you anything about Kells after that first visit. However after my second visit I am able to offer up my report. I am sorry to say this Kells, but you have earned my first one star rating ever. How did you receive such a prestigious award...well first it would have to be the fact that you have outrageous prices! 4.75 for a pint of Coors Light is the cheapest beer you have. You've got to be kidding me... So after eliminating cheap easy beer from my mind I ordered a Chimay for 6.00 or so, and they just brought out the bottle opened it and left it on my table. No fancy Chimay glasses that you are supposed to serve this snobby Belgian beer in, but that didn't surprise me as much as the fact that I wasn't given a glass at all. None! The beer was frothy and difficult it extract from the bottle without just getting a mouth full of foam. After looking at the menu I realized that all the food was going to be like the drinks; overpriced and culturally disrespectful (Kells has an Irish theme...or so they say) The only bright spot for this place is that they are die hard soccer (football!!!) fans and have TV's that play games you would otherwise not be able to watch. Still not worth it in my opinion.
(1)
David K.

This is the main Irish Pub downtown, and it's usually packed on the weekends with people from the suburbs. No offense, but it's not my scene at all. Even on St. Patrick's day this place is just a little too overwhelming. If you're into the Irish Pub thing, there are a lot of better places to go to with way better beer selections. To me, Kell's just feels a little too much like a cliche. This is just not a place to be comfortable at all.
(1)
Luthien N.

mmmm.....solid, large, delicious portions of standard Irish/Pub food. The liquor selection is huge and the atmosphere is roomy and fun- a place that doesn't disappoint, but doesn't knock your socks off or anything else spectacular.
(3)
K D.

The food was mediocre. The beer was expensive. Lots of meatheads hang out there. And to top it off, when I pointed out to the server that my name is actually Kell, she said, "So?" ...SO, Kell's Irish Pub, you're a crappy faux Irish hangout for frat dudes spoiling for fisticuffs AND you've got bad attitude to spare. Bye-bye!
(1)
Christian C.

Kells is a great place. My first trip I went to lunch. I ordered the Irish Double Decker sandwich, which was amazing. I also got the Irish Nachos, which are basically potato chip nachos. They too were awesome. My second trip I went to the cigar bar downstairs. Ill start by saying I was disappointed in the $3 cover, covers in general just piss me off no matter the price. However, when I got to the cigar bar I thoroughly enjoyed it. I ordered a $7 cigar and a Guiness. I stayed there with some friends for a few hours. I had a great time and would highly recommend both. Just be ready to wash your clothes multiple times to get the smoke out.
(5)
Roland B.

Ever had Jerk Chicken in an Irish Pub? Yeah, me neither. But I did at Kell's, and it was superb. My wife had a (fried) chicken salad, one daughter had a Caesar salad, another had clam chowder. Everyone was really pleased. Our server was great, and kept my pint glass full. The Guinness chocolate cake we had for dessert was scrumptious. I really liked this place and would definately make any and all excuses to come back to the area solely to come back to Kell's.
(5)
Katie W.

First off: I was absolutely NOT amused by the fact that I had to pay a cover to get into a BAR. Bleh. Then my bartender was rude. Then it took ages to get my second drink. And I just overall did not have a fun time.
(2)
laurel d.

Although my lineage is nearly as fragmented as an antique shop after an earthquake, I do know that lurking somewhere amidst the indeterminate Scandinavian origin is a shot of Irish blood. Even if you don't have a lick of Irish in you, though, you can still gulp down a pint of guinness and no one will think the less of you at Kells (112 SW Second Ave, 97204). In addition to the raucous atmosphere, Kells boasts a cigar bar and a huge selection of single-malt scotch and Irish whiskeys. (Another good option is Jake's Place--8039 SE 17th Ave, 97202)
(4)
Manni P.

It's about a 20 dollar cab ride from PDX, but a really nice place. Wait staff were nce and prompt and my burger and pint of beer was awesome!
(4)
A C.

The food is still decent. The beer is way over priced. And don't buy into their St. Patty's day celebration. Last year they advertised free admission until 6:00. I got there at 4:30 and they made me pay. And they were jerks about it. I'll go get Irish somewhere else. Meat market alert.
(2)
Brent F.

Every city/town needs an Irish Pub, right? Kells seems to appease the Portlandites who need an Irish(ish) fix. Went there on Saturday for beer and basketball. The food was of the pub variety and the beer was nice, even a bottled beer that was offered in a glass. Ambience and music is, well, pub-like. Some band started playing not-very-Irish sounding music, but the old guy in the plaid pants seemed to be enjoying it well enough (maybe he was pissed - drunk not mad). This is the second time in four years that I've been here, and I wouldn't really go back unless someone I really liked dragged me there.
(3)
Geoff H.

I came for a pint one night during the Rose Fest. It was wall to wall downtown, and parking was an effing nightmare. The Navy parachute team (The Leapfrogs) were in there having a few so I bought a couple of rounds for some fellow Sailors and told sea stories for a few hours. (Difference between a fairy tale and a sea story: one starts "Once upon a time...", the other starts with "This is no shitter...") The place was absolutely packed with no seating available so I was forced to stand by the bar (damn!). There was a very cool demonstration of Irish tap dancing by some local girls, plus bag pipers. Oh yeah, and LOTS of Guinness.
(4)
Coral C.

cover charge for a bar? eff that. I'm not paying to be surrounded by drunk frat boys and trashy girls drinking vodka and red bull.
(1)
Jess V.

We're visiting from out of town and wanted to try some good ole' fashioned irish food: corned beef and cabbage, shepherd's pie, lamb stew, belfast boxty, clam chowder and oyster shooters. We were disappointed in the food. Big portions, but not as good as some other irish food we've eaten in the past. Could be a lot more flavorful. The pub side was fun. 5 stars for the live music- the musicians were excellent. 1 star for the gross Newcastle beer that tasted expired!!! My friend got sick off of it. Kells employees: check out the expiration dates on your bottled beers!!!
(3)
Jason S.

We attended a wedding rehearsal dinner in a private upstairs room this last weekend. The appetizers, beer and wine were great. The room was perfect for the 30 people that were with us. The staff was friendly and attentive. The dinner was decent but no attention was given to the dessert which was really not even necessary because we were all so full. I would recommend this place for a laid back get together to anyone. We had such a nice time.
(4)
Tiffanie S.

I went there in the afternoon to enjoy a drink with friends. It's an Irish bar where the waiters all have accents (job requirement?). They have dollars all over the ceiling and I'm not exactly sure what that is about. I would like to go back and see how their food is.
(4)
Scott L.

Best bar in Portland. Hands down. Been going there for 10 years and never have a bad time. Exceptional service and food during the day and dinner time and great music and vibe during the evening.
(5)
Krista T.

I can't handle this place at night (the crowd is not my style) but its decent for early morning soccer games. It kinda sucks that they don't serve breakfast for the early games...its much easier to tolerate drunken, English soccer fans over eggs and hasbrowns.
(2)
Lisa K.

Went here on recent trip to Portland. Found the bar charming and the beer choices satisfying. Most importantly the bartender was friendly and interested in us. He even helped us find a brewerey in the area! We went back the following evening and he remembered us and was very kind! (That is great to be in a town less than 24 hours and have the bartender know you already!) Had live Irish music on Friday night and was very lively place. Really enjoyed!
(4)
Kristina P.

One of the best spots to have a family meal. pretty kid-friendly till 9pm when the bands show. Without kids its really good, too. Great drinks and music nice placeto cozy up and listen to bands such as Amadan.
(4)
Stephen C.

This place is not really for me, but I certainly know a lot of people who enjoy it. If you enjoy scottish food (I don't), soccer (not for me), or irish drinks (I do) then this place might be for you. The place can get very lively on weekend nights and nights of big sporting matches, but it can also be very mellow otherwise. I would say this is a great place to come with a small group of friends who just want to hang out, have a few drinks, and maybe smoke a cigar from the cigar bar downstairs.
(2)
Supek, L.

This place was ok.... a bunch of girls was going out to eat here, and we wanted to sit on the bar side since there was live music. They asked for a cover. So we went to the restaurant side and said we were eating in the bar and they said we had to go pay the cover and eat over there (mind you, the 2 are connected and people were bouncing back and forth) So we made a stink and said that our friends already go in and didnt' have to pay, and we could see them from the door. The guy let the 4 of us in without having to pay, I think it was like $3 but still it's the point! The menu in the bar only had like 2 appetizers, 3 sandwhiches, 2 salads and then there was a special dinner for the night. There wasn't a lot to pick from so I went with the special, it was a pretty good quesadilla with Chicken, bacon and swiss cheese. Then, the irish bagpipe band came marching in the front door and played for way too long. They were good though. We only stayed for dinner and a drink and headed to The Greek Cuisina! Overall, it was ok, food- eh, scenery-a good blend of people young and old. I would go back for a drink and not to eat.
(3)
Micah C.

Brought an Irish man to Kells. He was well pissed, so it looked good to him. I enjoyed the draft pints meself.
(5)
John H.

Man the beer is expensive!! I will pass
(1)
Ryan G.

There's a new book out right now about the corporatization of so-called "Irish" pubs. The book is called A Pint of Plain: How the Irish Pub Lost Its Magic but Conquered the World and it's by Bill Barich. Listening to an interview with him, I couldn't help but think of Kells. Even in Ireland, the traditional Irish pub is dying out, being replaced with these pathetic Irish-themed corporate hell-holes like Kells and Fados. To me, this is a f---ing tragedy. And so is Kells. If you want to hang out with a bunch of frat boy and sorority girl types and pay top-dollar for mediocre food and horrible service in the least Irish environment you could possibly find, this place is for you. $5.50 for a pint of Guinness? Are you high? I can cross the street and get one at Berbatis for $2. I know, Berbatis is not Irish, but neither is Kells. It's owned by some non-Irish conglomerate that decided they could make a lot of money by catering to the American yuppie idea of what an Irish pub would be. Sadly, they were right. Come on people, there are some damn fine traditional Irish pubs in Portland. Give your money to them and leave Kells to the frat boys.
(1)
Jason G.

Stopped in for an appetizer and a couple pints on a Sunday afternoon checking out downtown. Great beer selection and fully stocked bar and the food was some of the best I've had in an Irish pub! I recommend the whiskey bbq wings! The waitress was very helpful pointing out places to check out while I was here and even drew all over my map to make sure I didn't miss any ( I know, what a tourist... )
(4)
Dave S.

good times.... although i never get here as much as i want to, kell's is always a great place to listen to great irish music, have some wonderful food, and drink a guiness. i used to have a friend play here on the weekends sometimes, so my friends and i would come up early to hit saturday market which is right next door. then we would come on over and have their killer shepards pie.... A MUST HAVE. and then drink some guiness and whiskey and listen to him play.. man i miss it sometimes
(5)
Robert P.

On May 24, 2015, the service was less than ideal, though the food was good. Our main waitress didn't want to be bothered with us. Another forgot a request of mine, then, when I reminded her of it, sent a third to deliver it rather than interact with me again. I felt I would not go back. Afterward, one of the managers contacted me to apologize and ask more about our experience. I answered, and she said, "The owners and I did talk to our servers and they were both apologetic about the service you received. They know that this is not professional and what we want our customers to experience." She even thanked me for the responses. Now I will go back, because it is clear to me this was an aberration, that they do wish to provide good customer service, and I appreciate the management's desire to make it right.
(3)
Leticia Q.

Amazing experience! Service was super friendly and attentive. I had the best shepard's pie EVER, the demi-glaze was soooo tasty and the whole dish was rich in flavor and texture. My husband ordered the bangers, also excellant. We have found our new favorite place!
(5)
Anna S.

Lewis & Clark Law School has a yearly tradition. Every year, the school treats its 1L students to some snacks at Kells after their first oral argument at the Multnomah County Courthouse. The event was a bit disorganized, but I think they weren't expecting so many students to show up in one big wave like we did. Drinks were filled promptly, so no complaints there. Kells isn't the type of place I'd normally choose to patronize, but it was a great setting for a large group of rowdy law students to unwind after a very hyped-up (and to many, nerve-wracking) night. Oh, try the Irish Nachos. All they needed was some Irish Guacamole (hey, it's green, right?)
(4)
Harvey M.

Great food and great service. Dog friendly if you sit outside. The smoked salmon sandwich was delicious. Servers very attentive. Beer selection is a bit on the weak side for an Irish pub, though.
(4)
Ryan P.

A great find in Portland with friendly staff, prompt service and ample beer and food selection.
(4)
Julia M.

I've been going to Kells for years, and I've always had a good time. The food is great, and the Guinness is always great too! I have almost always had good service. Once they got my order wrong, but they had the right thing out in under 5 minutes and they comped my beer, so needless to say, I was very satisfied! I LOVE the Irish sessions on Sunday nights, and the atmosphere in the bar is very nice. My only wish is that the prices were a little more reasonable, but it's downtown, so I guess that's to be expected. I should also mention, the bartender was very friendly (wish I remembered his name!)
(5)
Phuong B.

I absolutely love this Kells! No not because of the bitchy waitress who can't get my order of Irish car bombs and Irish nachos correctly, but because there is a really cute and nice red head bouncer at the door. The best part of the Kells experience is chatting with the red head prior to getting drunk and getting fat. I have since moved to Seattle and the Kells here has nothing on the one in Portland. Just to reiterate, always get Irish car bombs and Irish nachos when at Kells.
(4)
Corinne C.

We had the irish nachos and they were great! nice staff and everyone looked happy to work there:) my only complaint was we were watching a NBA playoff game on one of the Tvs and one of the employees just changed the channel! he didnt even ask of anyone sitting directly in front of the tvs was watching them, not cool man
(4)
Jaimee M.

Kell's is finally brewing their own beers! Great brews and great food. Keep up the good work!
(5)
Mary H.

Came here for lunch April 30 , arrived around 1:15 PM. Sat in the bar area, and it was almost deserted except for the bartender and 3 waitstaff. After 7 minutes, I had to approach the waitstaff and ask to place an order. The response was "our" waitperson would be helping us soon. Why couldn't one of the idle waitstaff help us we wondered.....?? And 1 minute later a new waitperson arrived and took our order. Food was acceptable and beverages were cold etc.
(2)
Stephanie A.

This reviews all about the Happy Hour and lets just say it makes me HAPPY and I'm looking forward to going back. Food offerings for $3-5 and drinks for $3-4. Are server was awesome as well. So food-wise. 1) Sweet Potato Fries were fantastic and the chipotle dipping sauce is icing on the cake. They give you a full plate and it's only $3. 2) Sandwiche of the day - Smoked Salmon Caesar Wrap , fantastic and they didn't skimp on anything. The smoked salmon was fresh and well balanced with the Caesar dressing, all for (you guessed it) $3 plus it comes with pub fries. 3) Daily Quesadilla - I nibbled a bite from my friends and the Kauluha pork was fantastic. 4) Veggie Burger - This burger was good, a potato style bun and plenty of toppings. It was a little dry but didn't hinder the value at $5 with pub fries. 5) Gorgonzola Spread - Probably a favorite of mine, comes with fresh bread, crackers and fruit. A nice presentation and exceptionally delicious for $5. 6) Caesar Salad - my girlfriend ordered this and she said it was good and you get a nice plateful. They had some other options but my group of ladies didn't get around to trying them, guess we'll have to return soon. We visited Monday and had are pick of the tables and plenty of parking out front.
(5)
Emilie M.

We had a pretty nice experience at Kells! After a long day of traveling their Shepherd's Pies hit the spot (they were delicious) and service was great. We were seated immediately because they had a few empty seats. Water was provided and drink orders were taken immediately. We were able to order our food shortly after and it was out in only 15 minutes (and the place definitely wasn't empty or anything)! It got pretty crowded around 9pm but the crowd had mostly dispersed by the time we finished eating. Typical pub atmosphere but it wasn't dingy or cramped or anything. Small string band was charming. Overall, no complaints. I was happy to discover they have a San Francisco location, my home :)
(4)
Ember D.

After many years of failed plans to come here, I finally made it last night to celebrate my birthday with some friends and family. The drinks were great, and for the most part so was the food, although they overcooked the chips for my nachos. That is where the good stops. Although I understand when a waiter needs to take lunch, or their shift is just over, but failing to tell me my waiter was confusing. We had 4 or 5 different people deliver items to the table, and there was a lack of communication. We ordered several drinks that never came. I didn't know they hadn't come by for my friend to pay for her drink until after I left, which left me with her bill. My sister wanted to buy me a birthday shot that was recommended by one of the waiters, which failed to come along with my other sisters Long Beach. After trying to describe the shot, my sister didn't even get to ask about her drink, and we thought they forgot again because it was taking so long. We also waited about half an hour to get the check. If it was during a game or even a Saturday night, I might have understood, but it was after all the FIFA games had been over for the day, and the service was more prompt when the restaurant was busier than at the end when they had half the people dining. My carefully planned budget including tip meant I had already paid when the last checks were finally brought over, which is when I found out that my friend never received her check, and they were charging the shot to me when my sister was supposed to pay because they waiters didn't communicate even when the orders did manage to get in. I had to pay the extra on my credit card because that wasn't part of my budget. I was so excited to come here and now I don't want to go back ever again. I think one of the worst parts is that I left a tip reflecting their service, but I still feel bad for leaving a crappy tip, especially after finding out some of my party aren't really into tipping much, and they probably thought I was just cheap when they can't keep their orders straight and communicate to get orders in and delivered in a timely manner.
(2)
Greg F.

5 Stars for Irish pub awesomeness, the magic isn't too shabby either!!! Good drinks for fair prices in a great area for bar hopping... oh and did I mention Magic?
(5)
Katlyn H.

Amazing Irish food! Holy Moley! The shepherds pie was one of the best ever, and lamb stew was also off the hook. Would definitely come back there. :) Ambiance is very open, we happened to be there during a bachelor party at 6 pm kinda rowdy but that happens with those.
(4)
Dave S.

Food is good, Scotch selection is outstanding, and you can smoke cigars in the basement. Between the fun crowd, the irish music on stage, and the scotch menu that doesn't quit this is a solid spot.
(5)
Kevin S.

Always reliable service and food quality. The best Irish pub hands down in PDX! Please come for the Irish nachos if nothing else. The bartenders are super knowledgeable on the massive whiskey wall.
(5)
Joshua A.

Great pub, my friend recommended that I should try it. Fun atmosphere, nice people, and great music. If you have not been here you need to try it!
(4)
Brie S.

My husband, daughter, and I went here at 1PM today after enjoying the Rose Festival festivities. The place had maybe 8 tables filled with patrons. We were immediately given menus but then waited ten minutes before anyone greeted us (and this was only after asking twice). Then a man came over and said, "can I get you some drinks?" We said, "Yes please and we are also ready to order." He said, "I can only get your drinks but must have a waitress to take your order." At that point, we got up and walked out and went across the street to the Thirsty Lion where we were greeted immediately by three people and our orders were taken as soon as we were ready. If you're coming here for a drink, it's a good place but don't count on decent service if you are sitting down.
(2)
Ben J.

Kells is great, just make sure you go in with the right expectations of what to expect and you're on the right side. If you want a chill lunch with some pretty good Irish food, you're in the right place. You can get a pretty decent dinner on the restaurant side and if there's a cover on the bar side you can even use this to skip the cover into the bar. If you're looking for a place to watch various sporting events, Kells does pretty well to serve that purpose as well even though it's not a sports bar. If you're looking for live music, a crowded night of loud drinking, or the magic of throwing dollar bills and sticking them to the ceiling, Kells is Awesome with their nightly live Irish music and consistently busy, loud, bar.
(4)
David P.

Tried to make conversation with the bartender, but he was more interested in talking to a coworker about wood prices and planting a garden at home. I got bored and left after one beer, but would have definitely stayed longer if the staff was more engaging. The Kells red was very good. The happy hour special was a good deal ($3 pint)
(3)
Dan G.

Atmosphere is what you expect for an Irish Pub. We had been here once before and loved the live music. Food is great, haven't had any disappointments with dinner. The sausage roll is by far my favorite food there. If you're looking for a quiet place this isn't it, but looking for good food and drinks, it's great!
(4)
Paige H.

Went to Kells last night with a group of about 12 people. Our waitress was very accommodating for such a large group and she made sure that we were well taken care of. Most everyone was pleased with their food and the atmosphere was very upbeat, especially with a game going on.
(4)
Linda N.

There is no missing that this place is an Irish pub. My boyfriend and I are huge fans of Irish pubs, so that wasn't an issue! The building itself was beautiful and the back outside patio was pretty good too. We actually decided to eat inside, and the layout of the place looks like it would be a great place to watch sports, besides it having a big banner for the Trailblazers. Tons of history of the place on the walls, and the location was easy for us since we were walking around the area of Saturday Market. The food was delicious, and Jared really enjoyed the beer, but the reason why I only gave this review four stars is because we weren't really being taken care of by our server. Initially I wanted to give three stars, but because the hostess was taking care of us more than our server, the extra star is for the team work of the restaurant. I was a server once, so I know what it was like. I'm also a customer, and it definitely isn't awesome waiting for my water refill and to get my order taken while my server is literally 2 ft to my left talking about where she went last night with that guy she met at the bar. Tons of other servers walked by, and it obviously looked like we were looking around for some help, but the only person that did help us was the host, and I'm sure she's there to man the front post. We'll come back with hopes of better expectations for the service, but keep the food coming out the way it is!
(4)
A E.

This place is awful. The food is crap and the service is even worse. We met up here with some friends who were visiting from out of town a couple weekends ago and the bartender was flat out rude. Our friends arrived before us and asked him if he had any reds on tap and he said "no" then when we arrived, my boyfriend actually looked and saw a red and ordered it. Why would he say "no"? Then before we left, one of our friends asked the bartender if he would fill up his water bottle and the guy said "No. This is a bar!!" WTF? Really?? RUDE! So instead, we asked for a glass of water, which he couldn't refuse and poured it into the water bottle. What a d!ck. Seriously. P.S. Gotta love how you leave a bad review and they send their employees to try and bully, harass and stalk you on Yelp. Lol. Pathetic. What are we 12?
(1)
Terra Jane B.

I was sorely disappointed after our experience here last Saturday. We met someone at a bar around the corner and she raved about this place, we decided to go check it out. We paid the cover and got in, pleased to see the live music and everyone seemed to be having a great time. Because the bar was so crowded, my boyfriend went up to order us all drinks. I could tell that because it was SO LOUD, the bartender was not able to hear our drink orders and my boyfriend tried repeating several times, each louder than before. In an attempt to be heard, my boyfriend open-palm pulled the bartenders arm toward him to be close enough to repeat, yet again, our drink order. At this point the bartender got so offended, refused service, and in general became very rude. I saw what had happened, and at this point the band had left, so I was able to tell him that I felt he was offended over a simple misunderstanding and I that I felt he was overreacting. Apparently in trying to be the neutral party attempting to diffuse what was clearly a stupid misunderstanding in a crowded bar with loud music, I must have pissed him off further. We decided to leave, but not before going to the door man, letting him know that we were not asking for our cover charge back, but that he should keep it as a tip. I also let him know that I would never return, which is extremely disappointing. I'm not one to complain, and I understand that some people will probably assume that we were drunk and belligerent, but that was totally not the case and based on this experience I felt extremely compelled to write a review.
(1)
Geoff F.

Poor. Overkill compared to real Irish pubs in Ireland. Been to Ireland twice and everything there is like County Cork in Portland.
(2)
Robert F.

Food is good. You get ignored a lot of the time even when the place is empty. My wife went to the bathroom and a lady and a man come in to clean the bathroom while she was in there which made her very uncomfortable. The staff didn't seem to care.
(2)
Heston W.

Great food awesome service. We had over 20 people in our party and they were able to split checks good for you Kells
(5)
Brittanie M.

Irish nachos! Service is super friendly here and it's a fun atmosphere. Anyone can fit in here from the just turned 21 folks, middle agers, and even old people. I feel pretty darn comfortable here too, whatever category I fit into.
(4)
TJ J.

Great place to unwind!! Great crew of workers. I'm not from around here but every time I'm in town I make a point to stop by Kells!!!
(5)
Chelsea S.

Really awesome pub :) bartender and owner is a really down to earth man, who will treat you well
(5)
Jessica P.

Beers and food were good. Their IPA is the best out of their brews. The sausage roll was good and an easy app to share with 2 people. I love that they were supporting a charity in a unique way. The one negative is that the service was slow. The restaurant was not even busy so I'm not sure why it was so slow. They were friendly enough.
(4)
Gehan K.

Not a bad bar....drinks are good and they got some good selection of food. The humus at this place was pretty good so for an appetizer that would be safe choice for your normal drunk. However still it can be better but i just didn't feel the awesomeness of this place. It does however have a cigar room in the lower level for all you black lungs out there.
(3)
Jordan H.

It's an Irish pub... Live music was good, table service pretty poor, food was mediocre, but to be fair, you don't go to Irish pubs for the food or service.
(3)
S L.

Dropped by this restaurant/bar after coming out of another restaurant. We had drinks and waited to meet up with people here. There was a small dance floor and there was a band that stopped playing after a certain time. Music was mixed. People were friendly. It's a cool place to hang out and have beer. Would definitely visit again if I was in the area.
(4)
Cheryl D.

It has been so long since I have been here for lunch or dinner, I don't feel I can give a relevant review, but we did go there today for family breakfast, so I will review based on that experience. We arrived at 8:30 thinking it would be packed but we were the only ones in the place, not sure if that is a good sign or not. We ordered coffee which was delicious, not too strong or bitter, YUM. Their breakfast menu is pretty limited, about 9 items, we all found something we liked including our gluten intolerant mother. I had the Traditional Irish Breakfast and it was pretty good, I was not a fan of the grilled potato bread it reminded me of Lavash bread. The Irish Soda Bread was good and the meats delicious. Hubby had the Scramble and he liked it. My Father In Law had the Pancakes and we all tried a bite, they were some of the most tasty and delicious pancakes I have had, a little toasty around the edges, I will get that next time. Our Brothers order got lost in the shuffle somehow, (not sure how that happened when we were one of about 3 tables by that time). His breakfast came about the time we were all done eating, but they were kind enough to comp his breakfast so that more than made up for it. Our dad had fun with one of the waiters and he did the dollar on the ceiling trick for us, Dad was determined to try it and his dollar ended up one of our water glasses! The music was nice and the open front door let in a nice breeze, it was a beautiful morning.
(3)
Jane R.

Been to Dublin & this is the real thing! Spot on Cottage Pie, fresh hot chips (fries). Our waitress was terrific - normally in a pub the service is slow. Not here - top notch. Authentic decor & great beer. Had lunch here on a Saturday - will go again for sure.
(5)
Em L.

Cod fish and chips were delicious as also was the smoked salmon appetizer plate. They have big screens for sports fanatics which is a super bonus. The wait staff were very friendly and attentive.
(4)
M H.

I've been to Kells many times but it is getting worse in all ways. Recently went here on a Wednesday night to take some out of towners to hear music. Unfortunately they only had their assistant bar tender singing and while he wasn't terrible, he wasn't that good either. Plus way too loud. The place was practically deserted but the sound was so loud we could only read each others' lips. Would have been better with sound turned down or even acoustic. The food was the worst I've ever had here and it's usually only mediocre at best. I had the lamb stew which was served cold, but it must have been left over and reheated for days. There were no discernible chunks of meat or vegie in it. More like dog food. I had to remind the server that it was supposed to come with soda bread and then he finally brought two VERY small pieces. My dining companions didn't fare much better. None of us finished our food despite not having eaten lunch. Server was slow and not very helpful We were sorry we ordered food since we otherwise would have left after one drink given the quality of the singer. Kells really needs to get its act together, there are now better options close by.
(2)
Eric P.

In between two days of wine-tasting tours, somehow, our group decided that pub food and beer-drinking were required. While this may have not been the wisest decision, at least we chose Kells. It's been in this same funky old building for as long as I can recall, and somehow I'm amazed I'd never been. The food was tasty -- above the usual pub fare -- and my cider just what I was looking for (not being a beer drinker). And on a Monday night, they had live music -- something I wouldn't have expected except on weekends. Overall, it was the authentic pub vibe we were seeking, and a great place to hang with friends. Of course, we had to cave and get money stuck to the ceiling by a server. We were tourists. And not entirely sober. But you know: we'd probably do it again.
(4)
Dave B.

Went here with my brother and dad for lunch while exploring downtown Portland. Nice ambience and nice bar menu and good food. Kevin had the Reuben with Irish Stew, and his comments on them both was "beyond good, best ever". I had the BLTC (BLT with tilamook cheddar cheese) on organice artisan bread. Without a doubt one of the best BLT's i have ever had!!! Nice lunch in a nice restaurant. Highly recommend!!!
(5)
John F.

This is a great Irish pub in Oldtown. The food and drinks are good, not great, but well prepared and tasty. That said, you're not coming for the foot but the atmosphere with live irish music and plenty of rugby and soccer matches on big screens on the big screens. For those of you into cigars, there's a cigar bar in the basement. Two things to keep in mind: there's a cover for the big games and it gets pretty crowded on weekend nights and around St. Paddy's (duh).
(4)
Catherine C.

If you're looking for real Irish hospitality... GO ELSEWHERE! I was quite a fan of Kell's when I was in my early 20's and a college co-ed. Being a bit older (and quite a bit more cultured), I'm really sad to say that this place has gone downhill in a bad, bad way. I think it's safe to say that if the cast of the Jersey Shore was here, they would be quite at home at Kell's. Additionally, the food service has become downright shameful! It took asking five (yes, FIVE) different people to get soda bread that was supposed to come with my Irish lamb stew. By the time I got the bread, the stew was cold. I've had quite a few friends mention how disappointed they are with Kells, now I know why and I'm quite sorry to say now I'm one of them! As far as the Irish festival goes for St. Pat's, my family and I have been coming here for 10+ years, and this will be our very last year to celebrate at Kells- the staff this year (save the assistant manager with red hair, and Caleb the server- who should really be working elsewhere as he is far too good a server to be wasted at Kells!) were downright RUDE. Also, we literally had to hunt down a waitress to get a credit card about an hour after we had closed out our tab... and it still hadn't been run! If I had to sum up Kell's in one word it would be.... SAD. Bummer, Kells!
(1)
Mark H.

Kells has been on so many top 10 lists that I just couldn't pass it up. I am glad that I finally made it. Great pub atmosphere, fun staff, a great time all around. Food was good and reasonably priced. Best selection of beer in town. There was live music the night that I was there and the place was packed. Imagine a Irish folk band with fiddles and tambourines packing the place?! It was way cool and everyone was having a great time. The treat for me was when I discovered that there is a Cigar Bar in the basement with full food and drink service! I was in heaven. I snuck down to smoke a cigar and within 30 minutes our entire party was there to join me. Great fun! Great selection of beer, whiskey, and cigars. Priced very reasonably. NOTE: I have been to many cigar bars where they selection is poor and the prices are steep. I was actually surprised at how good the prices were with some brands being at less than $8 a stick.
(4)
Scott B.

Kells was pretty good. I got the Rueban and it was good. Very good fries. Large beer selection and if you looking for a sporting event they have plenty of TV's in the bar. Including football (soccer) so you can find it there! Service was good. Looks like it could be a fun place for late night drinks. Next time I will try that! Stop by have a beer, eat some food, it was a fun place in Portland.
(4)
Jeff V.

If you don't have or want diarrhea then come to Kells! I'm sorry, I guess that may be a bit harsh. Although Kells did leave my lady and I in butt blast city. It sure sucked especially with one bathroom at home. Luckily we had a joyful caroling crowd with us that followed us over from the holiday beer festival. The bangers and mash sure banged our mash. It's actually not that bad if you like Irish joints. Unfortunately it's just not our thing. Those who actually like Irish joints would actually probably like it.
(1)
Mikhail H.

I am an English and French girl so, to be honest, the whole Irish pub thing is wasted on me. With that out of the way - I am predestined to hate this bar and I don't. I went in last time during a weekend with a migraine while a troupe of bagpipers were playing for and I loved it. Then through pure Irish trickery I ate the food...dear God...amazing. I had an amazing burger which was only outdone by the sweet potato fries. I will also say, for the record, that their Irish lamb stew is pretty incredible. Their portions are pretty fantastic and you cannot beat the price on food. I hear the cigar room is pretty wonderful but I quit cigarettes two years ago so I made it barely in and had to exit due to being overwhelmed by smoke. I hear the weekends are like that down there though so tread carefully smoking fans!
(4)
Veronica W.

Went here with a friend in the spring and we had fun. They had a good band, the waiter was awesome we never had to wait for him, drinks and food were priced good. Will take more friends there!!!!
(4)
Marcie C.

I can only give this 4 stars (rather than 5) simply because our waitress had a major attitude. We seemed to be bothering her simply for being one of her tables. It took awhile for drinks to come and then she was really snippy when we ordered. My hubby asked her recommendation between 2 items and she was visibly annoyed. She asked my hubby how he'd like his egg and he said "fried." She said "I know, how would you like your egg" like he was an idiot. It took a long time for food to come out and it wasn't very crowded. I can give it 4 stars because the food was really tasty! I had the Shepherd's Pie and it was very flavorful and delicious! I actually burned the roof of my mouth because I couldn't wait for it to cool off to have another bite. My hubby had the egg, hollandaise potato, spinach hash and that was mighty tasty, too. Our dining mates had lamb stew and some egg thing and they both really enjoyed it. Our server really needed an attitude check. Because of her service, we'll think twice about coming back.
(4)
John m.

Loved it! Excellent corned beef and cabbage and awesome beer and whiskey selection! Great place to watch a game and have a meal.
(5)
C S.

Are you serious? Terrible service, with incompetent bar tendors. Drinks are weak and service is very poor. I am surprised they are in business. Please do your self a favor an avoid at all costs! The bar tender was very rude as well
(1)
Charity S.

Got the appetizer Gorgonzola cheese appetizer and it was fabulous. My friends hand the cob salad , excellent and the shepherds pie, excellent. I had the fish and chips and they were a little bland. Our server was very nice also. There are dollars on the ceiling and they throw them up in front of you and they stick. On the ceiling. "Irish Magic"
(3)
Brittany S.

We were coming from a show, and were looking for another place that we couldn't find and happened upon this place. It turned out to be an amazing mistake. My mom and I both ordered Shepherd's Pie with the Summer Illusion cocktail. Both were great. I have a recipe from Scotland of Shepherd's pie, and this one definitely compared with that one. The drink was one I hadn't had before and I enjoyed that also. Our waiter Johnny was also great. Super friendly and attentive. He also had an Irish accent, so that definitely added to the atmosphere. This place really reminded me of being back in Europe and going to all the Irish pubs there. I definitely will be going back to this place the next time I get a chance. Next time I definitely want to go late enough to hear the music sometime. The only con that I had was that we were near the door and even though next to the fireplace, anytime the door opened it was freezing with the draft. Otherwise this would have been a 5 star place.
(4)
Steph C.

I came here with my family for my brother's birthday. We had dinner and the food was delicious. Everyone really liked what they got. The beer was good, too.
(5)
Anthony K.

Went late night after the Lupe Fiasco concert. Friend I was with wanted to go either to El Gaucho or here to get a cigar. I preferred to go somewhere that I could just be myself and not worry about such a stuffy atmosphere. The drinks at kells are good. The cigar options and prices are good. We ordered some nachos and they were good as well.
(4)
Doug P.

Cigar lounge comfortable and drink service timely.
(4)
Koolaid H.

Loved this place with a passion!!! The environment is absolutely comfortable and the rustic setting blends naturally all around. The food was so great that the only regret I have is not being able to sample everything. The staff was extra helpful and courteous recommending dishes and Irish drinks to us. I can't wait to go back again.
(5)
Tom M.

My partner and I stopped in for dinner one evening right after we got off the train from up North. It was a little noisy so we asked if we could sit on the patio. The host was more than willing to oblige. What a disappointment. There are 2 tables next to the door that are designated no smoking. That's all well and good but if you get stuck next to a smoking table and you hate it, you're toast. Nothing like the smell of a raunchy cigarette to feed your appetite. If they want to be serious then they should designate the 2 tables at the far end of the patio as smoking. Not sure why businesses just don't get it. I had the fish and chips, and my partner had the veggie sandwich. The french fries, which I rarely have, were over salted. The fish was quite good though. There are a couple things on my wish list but I can't take away stars for them because I don't think it would be fair. I don't ask for much other than a nonsmoking restaurant, even outside, a gluten-free menu, and some solid veggie options. There was none of that, really. Then again, I didn't see that at the other Irish pub downtown. Do Irish not believe in healthy dining or do they just not care about those that do? I'm curious.
(3)
Frank C.

My most favorite Portland pub. You simply must go there and get the Lamb Stew, a pint of Guinness (what else would you get at Kells?!), and finish it off with a glass of Jameson. I like the Lamb stew the best, but the Shepard's Pie, and Burger are great too. Staff is always very professional and nice. Great happy hour menu. Also a more upscale side of the restaurant if you're not up for a pub. And they have live Irish music almost every night. Just a great place to be!
(5)
Timmy B.

The best Irish Pub I have been too.
(4)
Ryan A.

Went here for lunch once and was very pleasantly surprised. Went here for drinks/food after work not long ago and wasn't so pleasantly surprised. Maybe dining here is better than happy hour here? I don't know. The waiter wasn't the best, seemed easily annoyed and didn't listen to what we wanted. Whatever well vodka they use combined with the food we ate here made me not feel so great for about a day. I will say, however, I enjoyed the potato chip nachos! I will be making those for myself one day (and yes, there's nothing special to it, it's just nachos on potato chips instead of tortilla chips - so it's not like Kells is "amazing" for being able to do it). I'll go back, but I'll go back with what I know and hope for a better experience next time.
(3)
Miwako T.

OK. I noticed this place has "Good for kids: No". I guess it may be the case in general but not always. I was there on early Sunday evening with my 6-year-old, and it wasn't that bad. Right, they have kids menu (with stuff for $2 or $3) and gave us a kids' menu that seems to be designed for coloring like kids menu at other places are, but no crayon came with it. But labeling this as kid-unfriendly would make most of the ethnic restaurants (Chinese, Indian, whatever) as kid-unfriendly since such places won't even offer colorable kids' menus. His quesadilla($3) and cranberry juice($1.50) looked and tasted decent. (yes, I take stuff from my kid ;)), and pictures on the wall kept him entertained.
(3)
Alice B.

Went here for lunch and we a little bit of everything. We came when you could have minors here and the kids like checking out the decor. Fun atmosphere. Burgers were very big and filling, buffalo chicken was spicy and good, meatloaf sandwich was very good, just like homemade, and the fish and chips were good, fish was not too greasy. I would go back again.
(3)
Alexis C.

Great spot for a beer or drink after spending the day on the waterfront. I've never eaten here so I cannot comment on the food, but the drink selection is good, the atmosphere is very lively, and the live music is typically fun.
(3)
JW R.

$5.50 for a micro pint?? Surrounded by douchebags? HELL no. And the HH hot wings are teriyaki wings. Just sayin'
(1)
Maile K.

Good atmosphere and good food!
(4)
Jack R.

Love a good Irish Bar! I was already feeling pretty good when I got there, but from what I remember I had a really good time! Went on a Saturday night. There were quite a few people there. A big mix, but mostly 20s and 30s crowd. A few bachelorette parties came in throughout the night. There was a small dance floor and a live band. There is also a cigar smoke room downstairs, but I did not go in. $3 cover for all that isn't bad (I heard EVERYWHERE in portland charges cover, but I cannot confirm that). All micros were 5.50. They don't do pitchers (or at least that's what they told me). I didn't order anything else other than pints of beer. I would say check it out, it was pretty happenin' and a pretty cool setup!
(4)
Rachel S.

Super good food, and the service was good even on a late Friday night. The menu options weren't expansive, but for a late dinner, it did the trick!!
(4)
Andy M.

No wait time! Service was friendly & attentive. Server made helpful suggestions, was personable and speedy. Food was AMAZING! Great experience overall.
(5)
john W.

Stopped in for lunch with when in town. Was happy with my choice. I'm very interested in how they stick the money to the ceiling, but I guess that's the thing :)
(3)
Tom K.

I'm a big Irish whiskey and cigar guy, so having a place available to catch a cigar with a friend or two that also has a great Irish whiskey selection is great. Even if the Irish whiskey selection wasn't as great as it is, a cigar lounge plus a full bar is just as good. Kells is loud since it's so popular, especially if there's a show going on (one more reason to go to the cigar lounge downstairs). Shows generally have a cover, but if you get there early enough, you can get around that. The menu's great and reasonably priced, though you'll definitely see some expensive liquors at the bar.
(4)
Kevin M.

The main floor is good when not packed, but the long downstairs cigar room is where it's at: smokey, but not so bad early and thanks to the air recycling system. Lounge in leather around the large, oak table and enjoy a scotch.
(4)
Tiffany B.

This Kell's is soooo much better than the Seattle Kell's.....by far!! Good food, good music, good drinks.... good times!!!!! Always a fav in my book tip- get in before 9pm for a good seat and no cover charge!
(5)
Dolly E.

Kell's Curry and Chips are the Jam spot!
(4)
Scott B.

This is THE place for hard cider. Can't beat the affordable and delicious food and selection of beers. HH - Monday thru Friday 4-6:30pm. Sunday thru Thursday 10pm - close.
(5)
Michael M.

pretty cool, and yummy
(5)
Derek M.

BEST Happy Hour burger & Cigar Lounge in town! look, their happy hour is the best. you get a $10 burger for $3 with a drink. that coupled with a cigar (bring your own @ no charge). the best hands down. note: i've ONLY been here at happy hour on a week night. so my 5 stars is only within that parameter ok? i tell people that if they smoke cigars, and they want a great vibe with cheap good food, Kells is the only option.
(5)
Danae S.

I went here after a night singing karaoke. It was about midnight. It was a very loud atmosphere. The band playing was good Irish music. Just not the kind if place I wanted to be. We ordered two orders of sweet potato fries but only got one. Probably because he couldn't hear us. Overall it's an Irish pub and lives up to its expectations.
(3)
Richard R.

Here's CÃ©ad MÃle FÃ¡ilte to friend and to rover That's a greeting that's Irish as Irish can be It means you are welcome A thousand times over Wherever you come from, Whosoever you be Saint Patricks Day Festival + Live Irish Music + Irish Whiskey + Guiness + Great Food + Friends = A great "experience" @ Kells
(4)
Kristina K.

If you didn't know that Kells was an Irish Pub, you would after walking into their dining room plastered with a larger than life wall mural of Guinness' logo. Visiting Kells, one would think that Ireland is only known for Guinness, which is not a bad thing, and doesn't have any other noteworthy cultural contributions. The kilt could be one of them (or leprechauns or rainbows and pots of gold). We enjoyed Kells' Happy Hour on a Monday night al fresco. A drink purchase is required. All Happy Hour foods are $3.00 each and cover just about all the typical bar Happy Hour foods like burger, fries, sweet potato fries, quesadilla and caesar salad. The oyster shooters, two (2) to an order, were plump and fresh and the BLTC was just the right size for a light dinner. The BLTC was stacked with thick cut bacon, sandwiched between toasted 7-, 9-, 12- or multigrain bread and served with a side of regular old pre-frozen french fries. The food wasn't OMG amazing, but don't write them off, we only tried the Happy Hour menu. I heard they have an extensive dining menu. The service was helpful and friendly. They didn't deliver any condiments with the fries, which I thought was odd. The staff member asked if we needed anything else with our food. I thought restaurants commonly brought condiments with french fries and/or sandwiches automatically. It wasn't a big deal. I could have mentioned we needed ketchup, but didn't because the fries were already seasoned with sea salt. I'm one of those people: if the ketchup was there, I probably would have used it. We waited a little while for the server to pick up the payment, but we liked that he was quick to return the check to the signed. We were in a hurry. They offer a 20% lunch discount to returning guests; the offer is printed on the bottom of the receipt. The atmosphere is light and casual. There were a couple of families with small kids enjoying the Happy Hour fare inside the restaurant. Dining patrons have the choice of sitting at the several tables outside, otherwise they have lots of seating to choose from inside. The women's bathroom only consists of two (2) stalls, so if the pub were at maximum capacity and lots of beer drinking was involved, I could easily see a line out forming out the women's bathroom. After our visit, we decided that we prefer Kells' atmosphere, service and food over that of either Jake's and McCormick.
(4)
Myra A.

Came here on a Friday night and it was practically empty. Most of the patrons were in their 30's to 40's and a mediocre band was playing, which is fine. My friends and I chose a table further from everyone else but it was so loud we could barely talk. We kind of awkwardly stared at each other as we tried to finish our drinks quickly so we could make it out of there. The place seemed a bit touristy and bland. I'm sure this place is a happenin' spot but when we were there, the vibe in the bar was sobering.
(2)
Opie C.

Pros: Ambience, decor, beer, live music Cons: Noisy, average food, a little overpriced
(4)
Stanley T.

A solid four. Stopped in this afternoon for a pint of G and a plate of bangers & mash. Genuine comfort food for a cold, windy, rainy PM. There were about a dozen cop cars and half a dozen limos out front. Our maÃ®tre d' said there was a big shindig upstairs and that if she told us who was up there she'd have to kill us. BTW, I know how the bills stick to the ceiling but I'm sworn to secrecy!
(4)
Phil M.

I've only been here once, for a late night expedition to see the 2011 Rugby World Cup Final between France and the New Zealand All Blacks. For the brief time I was in the actual pub area (the rugby match was shown in a room upstairs) I enjoyed the ambiance of the place. A band was playing traditional Irish music while drunken revelers were dancing their respective jigs across the floor. The beer I had (can't remember the brand) was described by my friends (from Ireland, btw) as pretty much the Budweiser of Irish beers. I liked it. This is a horrible review. I only had one beer during my stay and sampled none of the food. But, based solely on the one beer, the great atmosphere, and the raucous crowd attending the rugby match, I will definitely need to stop in again sometime to sample more. And I'll update this review then.
(4)
Jessica F.

Kells is a really fun bar, I love the live music and great service. The Irish Nachos are amazing, and are only $3 during happy hour! Another reason I love Kells is they have Pimms, which is hard to come by in the US. -Good Service -Good Food -Good Drinks
(4)
Hilary M.

Cute place great for beer. Their lamb stew and clam chowder were some of the best I have ever had. I had the shepards pie and the potato crust was too crunchy for me but if you like that the beef and peas were really good. My boyfriend had the Ruben and it was exceptional! For desert you have to try chocolate dish with the scotch whiskey topper it was so good the name escapes me!
(4)
Daniel T.

Awesome! Great live music and cool ceiling. Only critique was the larger than normal head on the Guinness. I rate all Irish pubs on their pints. The Shep pie was great and the service was adequate. I'll return for another go around next time I'm in town.
(4)
Justus P.

Awesome live music most nights. Pretty good food. Excellent selection of drinks. The drinks are great. They have a ridiculous collection of drinks. If what you prefer is aged, they likely have all ages of your drink. 10yr, 15, 18, 24, 30, they have them all. Their food is above average bar food, but maybe not foodie quality. The food is kind of comfort food. Don't expect anything fancy. It's pretty good and fast while being reasonable priced. It's generally hearty and goes well with drinks. The deserts are good enough I often go here just for desert. Irish magic makes your $1.50 stick to the ceiling for charity. Rugby, soccer and various other international sports on are the TV's. Earlier in the day, Irish dance troops are known to drop by. Great entertainment. The only downside to this place is that they are often packed to the hilt and noisier than a Timbers match. Get there early, get a seat and take your time. It's a great experience to be had!
(5)
Sean W.

We hopped off our late flight at PDX and headed to our hotel downtown. Since our flight was delayed, we had little time to go around town that evening as it was already midnight when we got checked in. We went over to Kell's for two reasons: first it was close; second it was highly recommended. We arrived around 12:30 AM to find an Irish singer and guitar player still going full steam and a bunch of jovial locals singing and dancing around the place. We had a couple of beers and settled in for the rest of the evening. It was a great place to be but service was much slower than I expected it would be.
(4)
Greg E.

This establishment is a bit hard to rate due to a few factors. 1. It's not simply a pub. They serve a wide variety of complex foods for a "pub". But it's not really a restaurant either. It falls into some odd sub-category. 2. Your mileage may vary depending on the time of day/week you go. Go on a Friday night and you'll probably regret it. Go on a Sunny Monday afternoon, and you'll wonder why you don't spend more time on their enormous back patio drinking beer. 3. It's hard not to judge an establishment by its typical patrons. Most of the douche-tards that go here on weekends are popped collared frat boys looking to date rape something. Maybe even a well dressed bar stool if it caught their fancy. At least this has been my experience. So....tossing all these things to the side. This is a nice place for a drink if you go midday. A little spendy for drinks, but it's downtown. Getting a cheaper drink will usually require you to head east across the river. The food is okay. And when I say okay I'm being gracious. Their menu items are plentiful for a bar/pub. But they fail to deliver taste. The shepherds pie there is what I usually order, and I'm never impressed. It's a beautiful building with so much potential. Yet it's a stale "Irish" pub with no personality on the inside. Well...none that's impressive anyway. Yet there it stands to the test of time and a rotten economy. Making money, serving drinks and food that only inspires the word "meh". So they must be doing something right. That something just isn't my bag. But don't let me be the one who changes your mind. Try it out for yourself. You might enjoy it.
(2)
Josh V.

I had dinner here on a rainy Sunday night. The atmosphere was nice. It's a good sized-place, dark (but not too dark) with sturdy wooden tables. It wasn't too busy when I arrived, but wasn't dead either. Being the pub that it is, you seat yourself, at least in the section I was in. The service was up and down. I waited quite awhile for a waitress to acknowledge me at first, but after that I didn't really have any major problems. I had an extra item on my check, and it took a couple minutes for her to come back so I could get it taken care of. But it wasn't a big deal. They had a happy hour menu that looked good, and a good deal. However, I had my heart set on the shepherd's pie, which was not included. So that is what I ordered and it was decent. It was nothing to rave about, certainly, but it wasn't bad. Honestly I was hoping for better. The regular prices seemed just a tad high for "pub fare". The live Irish music was a nice touch. All in all this place was not bad, and I would probably go back here again if I was in the area. But it's not something I'd go out of my way for.
(3)
Katy C.

The food I had was very authentic in it's Irishness :) I had delicious meatballs and mashed potatoes with guiness gravy and a delicious hard cider. Combined with the great, live, Irish music I felt like I was back in Dublin. If you want a comforting, fun night out- kells is the place to go. And if you go on your birthday you get a free tshirt! What could be better?
(4)
Michelle H.

A solid place to watch a game, especially if you don't want to do it alone. Is this place ever empty? I doubt it. It's every bit what you'd expect form an Irish pub. There is a lot of Guinness and Heineken flowing. You can get your shephard's pie fix. Stay far, far away from this place on Friday/Saturday night, though. Yikes.
(3)
Erika E.

Great place to lose a Sunday, or Monday or...Johnny was our caretaker for the day and he did right by us. The lad knows his brews, and spirits. He was kind and generous with sharing his knowledge of Portland and the local flair. Food was good - but we were really there to drink - and drink we did!
(5)
P S.

When in Portland we do a pilgrimage to Voodoo Donuts and follow it up with breakfast Bloody Marys at Kells. This visit we sat at the bar and enjoyed talking with the bartender. Bloody Mary was good enough and cost about $7 which is reasonable in tourist areas.
(3)
Brian L.

Nice old building with lots of wood and original (?) tin ceilings. Good variety of pub food - tasty fresh oysters, excellent fries. Big selection of beers. Busy, energetic and boisterous. Very attentive service.
(4)
Eric L.

A month-old overdue review of Kells. I've heard a lot of good things about this place but for some reason, the name Kells Irish Pub never really tickled my fancy. So, after weeks of co-workers trying to coerce me into checking it out, I finally gave in. It was a Sunday night and it was the "happening spot" if there even is one in Portland so we skipped our regular Sunday HH spot and ended up at Kells. The place is rather large for a bar and there was live music that particular night which is always a good thing. I didn't care for the type of music playing but then again, live music is better than no music. The menu was pretty extensive but we ended up ordering the typical bar fare. Burgers, fries, pizza, wings, onion rings, etc. After a very long wait, the food finally arrived. It's kind of hard to have bad bar food because usually it's just deep fried junk, which I love so much. The pizza was soggy and the burger was pretty crappy. Prices were fair but my overall experience wasn't what I had hoped for. Maybe it's just Sunday nights in Portland? Maybe it just wasn't my vibe? Who knows but I will definitely go back sometime in the future and revise this review, but for now I'm only dishing out a three star.
(3)
Wolf L.

I've seen the backside of this place about a million times riding by on the Max. I've had it bookmarked for a while, but never got around to trying it. Well, today was the day. We were wandering around downtown with visiting relatives and came upon the frontside of Kells. We were all thristy, so we headed inside. We took seats out on the back patio, which is really just a cordoned off area of the rear parking lot. It's a nice spot, nonetheless. We were more thirsty than hungry, so we got an order of fish and chips to share. The fries were really good. They were cooked perfectly and I loved the coarse ground salt they were topped with. The fish was good, too. The service was excellent. The beer was cold. I'll definitely go back.
(4)
Heather H.

This place must think really highly of its food. I thought it was overpriced. Sure, it was good. But really? In many respects it's just standard pub fare and they are charging upscale prices. Absolutely do not go here on St. Patty's day unless you want standing room only and beer spilled on you. If you can tolerate that type of atmosphere, this place is one of the best around.
(3)
Laura N.

Just like you're told not to judge a book by its cover, I urge you to not judge Kells by their Friday nights, Saturday nights, or amateur nights (aka St. Patty's Day) Granted, most people DO in fact pick a book by the way the cover looks, and I'm sure many people avoid or flock to Kells based on the most notable features. (Which, I'm told, do not include Irish Tacos or Nachos...FYI.) But if you'd read beyond the CK1 drenched popped collar hype, you'd find that Kells is completely full of win during a soccer match. Fast and friendly service somehow manages to keep a packed crowd of rowdy Portlanders entertained, happy, and lubricated. It's like this is what they were made to do...and they do it exceptionally well.
(4)
Don B.

I go both ways on this place. Like Andrew and Laura, I avoid this place like the plague on Fridays, Saturdays, and especially St. Paddy's. It's not the bar that sucks, it's the crowd. It's the terrible, terrible crowd. That said, this is THE place in Portland to watch soccer, and since most games are broadcast live during the middle of our West Coast day, you can go watch with all the true, hardcore fans. And yes, they come in droves to watch here. If you are coming for a big game, ie: Euro Cup, come EARLY, or get stuck standing in the back. The service is on point. The owner is there for the games and makes sure they can get a huge crowd in, seated, and swiftly plied with beer. he food is not fantastic, but the reuben is quite good, and the beef stew can hold its own. The bloody marys are surprisingly AMAZING. Use caution, or you will have sucked at least a few down before you even notice!! Come here during the day for futbol, and escape from the barmuda triangle before night falls.
(4)
Michael H.

Having been twice... once on a crazy saturday night and the other on a chill weeknight I have to say that I am a fan of the atmosphere and the energy here. The crowd is very diverse and the drinks are great. I woudl have to say one thing that stands out to me about Kells is the customer service is very good. I felt like we were not ignored and that we were treated very well. People seemed to be having fun each time i was in there and that makes all the difference.
(4)
Sam H.

Shepherd's pie. Eat it. Kell's is a great place on its own. The atmoshpere is cozy, the soda bread is excellent, and the food is great. On an average day this retaraunt is definitely worth going to. What pushes it up to 5 stars is the fun on St. Patty's day. This restaraunt's atmoshpere changes from cozy to racous and fun. The place is full and the noise for all of the bar patrons gives the feel of being at a festival. Very very worth the wait (which can be clsoe to 2 horus). Oh, and did I mention the Shepherd's pie was excellent?
(5)
Jason B.

This is a great little pub to go too. The food is amazing and they have a good variety of microbrews on another note parking can be a pain to find and it can get really nosie at times.
(4)
Jim K.

An irish bar that's has a decent food and beer selection. Can be filled with drunk 20 somethings after 9 on the weekends, and definitely during their annual St Patrick's Day bash. The owner typically walks the food side of the bar during dinner hours to make sure that things are going well, and is a very nice guy. Likes to bring little toy bears to children in the restaurant, which is a very sweet touch.
(4)
Angie J.

We are frequent customers of Kells. Wonderful food, amazing service. Sweet potato fries and Gorgolzola spread are must haves. Hard Cider and Kilkenny are our beverages of choice!
(5)
G D.

Decent Irish bar with good shepards pie, good beer selection, and live bands on weekends. Gets a little crowded, young, and ghetto (musically) late. Went after Brewers Fest last Thur/Fri.
(3)
Olivia T.

Kells is the place to be for all of your World Cup fix. It was full house when they shown the England vs USA game. They opened their upstairs floor and made it "theater" style. First come first serve seats. For $10 you can get their Shepherd's pie with salad and bread. They served it buffet style and nope, it's not all you can eat. I had the Shepherd's pie and it was delicious. It was a good serving and at first I thought the price tag was a bit steep, but then again it was my fault that I didn't eat before the game. The line to get boozed up was pretty long, but there are ways to cut corners. The bartender was nice and seemed like he remembers people's names. Drinks prices were pretty steep. One of yeeps and I overheard one guy ordered two Hefe and his total tab was $17! $8.50 for one Hefe that was a bit insane. No wonder most of people there were drinking Bud Light and Miller Light. I was going to give this place four stars, but then I remembered a lady who works there barked at me when I told her we were saving the seat next to me just in case one of the yeeps showed up. She barked and said "You have FIVE MINUTES then you need to move your stuff!" Yes maam or errr...sirr...she's more like a dude than a lady. I asked people around me if that dudette is Kells bouncer. If not, they really need to consider to make her a bouncer there. She really scares customers away or if not at least she will irritate customers and turn them away.
(3)
Jamin R.

Can you say pick up joint. If you are into that come here! If you are into good tasting food and beer go somewhere else. The portion size was laughable, especially considering the Shepherd's Pie was for a hearty appetite... maybe if you are a small shepherd's boy...LOL Also, dont expect to have any sort of conversation once the music starts....What?..I can't hear you...What?
(2)
K L.

We drive up to Kells from Salem, because we love the fish and chips, but I have to admit, probably wont be making any more special trips. The service is horrible! The wait staff seems like they would rather be anyplace else. There is one guy that seems to walk in a circle and KEEPS passing by the table looking for empty plates. The waitresses are frumpy at best, and always seem mad. I have not ONCE had good service here. We will be looking for another place for our fish and chips until the owner gets his staff friendlier, and less breaks!
(3)
Paige H.

+ Great service + Donate money to charity ( they brought in about 15 K last year). You can see all the money on the ceiling and it's really neat to look at. + Great beers on tap, all perfectly poured, and everyone is really knowledgeable. They know beer h
(4)
Samantha G.

Kells has great happy hour specials $3 for pub food that are full potions. Love the outside seating on the main street of Portland. The ceiling is covered inside of money that is thrown up by customers All money is donated to a good cause.
(5)
Carolyn S.

I don't know about this place. Food is ok (menu seemed limited) but service was terrible.
(2)
Kris K.

For me Kells is that place that I go every once in a while to get a nice Guinness and smoke a cigar in the downstairs smoking room. I only go on rare occasions and it has that special kind of feel to it, a ceaseless intrigue and place of relaxation.
(4)
Michael M.

This place is Great. There are many reasons It has been voted one of the Top Irish Pubs in the United States. Yes, It Gets Loud at night when everybody is having a good time. It's a Irish Pub. It better be Loud, or I'm Leaving. I don't go to Irish Pubs to eat nachos pizza wings or hummus and I surely don't complain to the world if they were not that great. Just sayin!! Not everything on the Menu is the best thing you have ever eaten in your life. All of the Traditional Irish Fare is damn tasty. Think.... Shepards Pie or Lamb Stew on a Cold winter night With a Pint of Guinness. The service is extremely friendly and professional. This establishment gives back to the community in many ways. Even if the live music is not my flavor, I have seen many talented Artists and Musicians on their stage. If you dont mind Loud places, Stick to the traditional Irish dishes, and most importantly remember that you came to a Pub with Great food, instead of a restaurant, Then you will really fall in Love with this fine establishment.
(5)
Hui K.

"An Irish bar with zero Irish people." Background: - The first time, I went for a friend's birthday. - Irish pub. - Live music. - They have money pinned somehow on the ceiling (Interesting sight). - Restaurant side and a bar side. - Can get a either a free T-Shirt or a slice of cake on your birthday. Pros: - Decent happy hour menu. - Good beers. - Good service. - Really nice atmosphere. - Live music (Better than most). Cons: - No pitchers for beers. - Live music (I'm not really a huge fan of live music anywhere). - No happy hour menu for late night. I recommend: - Pint of Guinness (Beer). - Eat dinner here.
(5)
Jennifer C.

I recently visited Kell's of Portland after an absence of over a decade. Back in my early 20s this was the place my friends and I went to in order to scope post-fraternity dudes who were into exotic sports like soccer. Now I'm not so into making eyes at Chase and T.J. over a pint of beer I don't even like, but I did give Kell's a 30-something go for weekend lunch with a friend. Kell's has great Irish pub ambience, with football jerseys and beer bottles galore decorating the walls. The high ceiling is peppered with twisted dollar bills; how they got there I know not. Service was prompt, and my friend and I were quickly set up with Irish ale (her) and a glass of pinot gris (me). I am hardly well-versed in the Irish food genre, but based on my experience at Kell's...I need to have much, much more o' the stuff. My Country Pie was a phenomenal Shepherd's Pie-esque dish made with corned beef, cabbage, carrots, grainy mustard sauce, and a delicious cheddar-potato crust. Seriously good. My friend went with the Boxty of the day, and we soon learned that Boxty is Irish for "potato deliciousness". A Boxty is kind of like an Irish quesadilla, and this day's version involved tasty things including pesto, caramelized onions, and chicken. She let me try a bite. It was hard to stop at just one. Not to be overlooked was my fine Garden Salad, which while not uniquely Irish, did feature a hearty pile of organic mixed greens and perfect blue cheese dressing. Those with onion issues should note: while the menu mentions only green onions, my Garden Salad also came topped with rings of the red version. My friend and I were unanimous in our thumbs-up rating for our Kell's lunch. I was secretly glad all the mobile food trucks were already closed by the time we got downtown, as I wouldn't have wanted to miss this excellent meal.
(5)
Charlene K.

Nice pub. Full bar, happy hour, a cigar room, and the shepherds pie was not bad. It's spacious and had warm wood work interior. Service was friendly and prompt.
(3)
Ashley C.

Went here after participating in the Shamrock Run. The place was bustling with people, beer, and noise. I couldn't get close enough to the bar to order one. Went upstairs and got a beer there instead. Will have to return another day to experience it with hopefully more space.
(3)
Lorisin W.

Delicious shepherds pie! My boyfriend had the Irish Meatballs. The portions are on the smaller side so you should probably order an appetizer if your a big eater. We Love Kells!!
(5)
Dave C.

A bit pretentious...if you can say that about a place that sets out to be a replica of an Irish public house..... Anyways....the Guinness is good and tasty and poured correctly, the food is fine, if a bit on the pricey side for the portions. Staff is always superb, friendly and efficient.
(4)
Alex K.

It seems like a lot of people liked this place in thier early/ mid 20s and think they have grown out of it and that is why they do not like it. Well I am in my early/mid 20s and I can say that this place is just not worth going to. The staff is rude, the service is slow, and the drinks are overpriced. I have managed to never pay a cover to get in, but if I had I would have been livid. if you like low quality, over priced irish food then this is place for you. They do have ok live music, but its so crowded when that happens that its hard to enjoy if you are not sitting at a table. Yeah, you can smoke a cigar downstairs, and pay way too much for it. There are plenty of better places to eat within a few blocks, and there are much better places to get a drink and listen to music on the same block.
(1)
Karen L.

Why is the service here so god-awful slow? Always. After returning from Vegas and going to Ra Ri where not only was the food outstanding, the service was excellent as well. And that was Las Vegas, people. The food at Kells is merely mediocre and the service is terrible. Always. It's not that busy but takes 20 minutes to get a drink delivered. I don't get the hype.
(2)
Sarah C.

Good food at pretty reasonable prices. The happy hour in the bar is great! A great location too, right near a ton of other bars and clubs Warning, the sink in the womens restroom is an attack sink. Stand waaaay back unless you like that freshly sprayed look.
(3)
jessica b.

Good Fish & Chips! The service was good at the old mill transformed into a Irish pub with a metal roof so when you roll a quarter around a dollar and throw it up to the ceiling it sticks to it. Lots of people seem to do that! This spot appealed to me because I didn't have to mess with the parking downtown. If you come on a weekend come early to get a table.
(4)
Jarrod S.

If you don't like the Irish, and don't like crowds, change your eating habits to go here earlier....BOO WHOOOOOO I HAD TO WAIT FOR THE ONLY TOLERABLE FISH AND CHIPS (served with beer) IN TOWN. This place was nice, and double the quantity and quality of the fish and chips shop, and it came 2 times as fast. The bartender here...(sit at the bar) was witty, fast, and also non exsistant....thank you for the pours and staying away. and the buck 50 to the ceiling was entertaining. The credit card machine went down after the meal... thank you PGE for the power flicker, but that 250 wont come of any bill but the tip due the bartender. The beer is pricey but it's an irish spot, and the irish like beer so the business plan is in place.
(4)
Patricia C.

Fun Portland experience. We visited on a Friday night with a group of 6. Next to us was a group of about 15, celebrating a birthday with 'flashback to 80's prom' attire! We spent about 2 hours at Kells. The server was friendly. The place was PACKED and LOUD! Around ten, a band set-up and it got louder! On the ceiling are 1000's of rolled up dollars. We too got the explanation from our server that the dollars stick to the ceiling because of 'Irish Magic'! I spent aout twenty minutes on my phone looking for the secret....I still have no idea how those dollars stay up there!! Bottom line.-Fun place. Normal prices. Nice server. Good experience!
(3)
Sara G.

Given the location of Kells in Douchebag Bar Hopping Territory, of course you should avoid the place on Friday and Saturday nights. Duh. But picture this: it's Tuesday night. There's a pint of nearly-perfectly-poured Guinness in my hand. I'm sitting at a table near the rear of the bar, listening to Tom May sing traditional Irish folk songs to a roomful of appreciative listeners. We all clap along together, and sing along with the chorus, and indulge in delicious oyster shooters, sweet potato fries, and wonder about how those dollar bills stick to the ceiling. The servers are not bitter, prompt as the dickens, and the crowd is pretty cool. That's the Kells I know and love, because I'm smart enough to stay away on weekend nights. Now you are smart enough too.
(4)
Keith B.

i used to come here often on friday and saturday nights and had a ton of fun drinking beer and listening to the music but have only been here 3or 4 times in the last year. their service isn't as friendly as in the past. it's always packed on the weekends in the evening but easy to get a table during the day so i don't know why the service and speed are not better. we went for lunch today and there is no lunch menu so the prices are really high for lunch food with mediocre portions to small portions for your hard earned bucks. 9.25 for a bowl of stew and 2 small slices of bread. same price for a ruben with fries. 8.5 for "irish" nachos..house made chips with cheese,sourcream and a very little bit of other toppings which for some reason included olives?? 10 somthing for "shepard's pie which isn't..made with beef not sheep. the qaulity of their food i very average to poor. my ruben had almost no corned beef and it tasted like packaged not house made. also had marble rye so half the flavor of just plain dark rye. i can make this sandwich better at home in my sleep. i love stew but Kell's is very bland even after lots of pepper which leads me to speculate that i wasn't fresh made today. their food qaulity is just above where you would say wtf and send it back. to be sure it is edible just not interesting or a good deal for qaulity/qauntity/price. SOOO.. i recomend going here only at night before the cover charge(it think it's 8 or 9) have a few spendy drinks and eat somewhere else before or after. the musice is usually a lot of fun and it's lively. VERY good spot for the 20something's. i'm not :)
(2)
Kristen M.

I came here on a Wednesday night and was impressed how big the venue was. It was nice that the location was able to accommodate a large party for a Q&A session for a club I am involved in. I came during happy hour and overall the place was crowded and busy. I had a beer and shared a couple of dishes with my buddies. The HH dishes: 1. Kell's Irish Nachos: Irish are known for their potatoes and loved that they make their chips fresh and topped off with "the works" on your typical nacho dish. 2. Gorgonzola Spread: the spread was like crack! I swear you wanted to spread it on anything and everything that was presented on that lovely platter. And for the courageous, we took some chips from the Kell's Irish Nachos and also dipped it in the Gorgonzola spread. I would order this again in a heartbeat! Venue is your typical bar scene, but with great service and a wonderful staff! I would definitely come back here but I bet this place would be really crowded on St. Paddy's Day!
(4)
Refugio G.

I came here on my first pleasure trip to PDX, I had been to Portland prior, but mostly for biz trips. This time around the Q and I showed up to watch UFC 102 where a friend of mine was fighting on the card. We were walking around downtown and were trying to find a spot to visit and came upon this place. First thing I noticed was, there were A LOT of bros. Plenty of tapout and affliction to go around for everybody. The space was pretty lively with an irish band playing in the background. Drinks were fairly stiff, but a bit pricey for the amount of booze served. I did enjoy my visit, but not sure if I would go back. Like I said, lots of bros and plenty of attitude to go with. Also, about 70 dollars for about 5 drinks each was a bit stiff for my tastes...
(3)
Stephanie K.

Your standard Irish pub. I love the building itself which is apparently from the late 1800s or early 1900s. The waitstaff is awesome and they are always quick to ply me with a cold beer. The food is pretty good for being a pub, love the sweet potato fries and homemade soda bread! -1 star because their bar menu is kind of limited.
(4)
Phil P.

We came here on a suggestion from the concierge at the Hilton Executive Towers. It seemed like a good place and actually wasn't too bad. I ordered the "Lamb Stew" and a Pale Ale. what I got was beef stew and a pale ale. While the stew was good, it was definitely not lamb (nor was it worth $9.25). The saving grace was the wait staff is excellent. They were willing to do what ever it takes to make me happy. Since I really wasn't in the mood for anything else and the dish was still tasty, i ate it anyway. So if you are expecting real Irish food, look elsewhere. If you are looking for a good experience, attentive wait staff and reasonably priced, tasty food then Kell's is fine. Just don't expect it to be what they say it is.
(3)
Kevin H.

Stopped in for a few pints taking a break from the heat of the festival. Cool space that has live music most nights. Pints were tasty and service friendly. Quite a large joint and relatively empty when visited. Would like to return when a bit busier to check out the crowd, the pub grub as well as the live music, perhaps bump it up a star or so.
(3)
Jaclyn P.

I love this place. I had the Ballycastle Sausage Roll-Ground seasoned sausage, onion and spices baked in a pastry crust and served with mashed potatoes and Cabernet demi-glac ($9) and it was delicious. My husband had the Guinness Shepherd's Pie-Ground beef simmered in Guinness and Cabernet with carrots, onions, and peas, baked in a cheddar-potato crust ($10.50) and he thought it was alright. We had an appetizer, the Crab Stuffed Mushrooms: Crab-stuffed mushroom caps broiled with white cheddar. Served with mixed baby greens, house-made pickles and sweet chili drizzle($10.50), you get six mushrooms. Our mushrooms were pretty good. My Kells beer was good, my food was delicious. Our waiter could have been a little more friendly but he got my order right and I asked for no gravy on my taters and he got that right so I was stoked. I would definitely go back again and I'll have to try the Kells in San Fran.
(5)
Matthew C.

When my friend asked me to her at Kell's for her birthday my internal (now external) monologue groaned. Don't get me wrong, I have been to many a frat party in my day, but my day was awhile ago. The bouncer was polite and friendly. Cover was $3 on a Saturday night at 11pm - not bad. Inside there were more gingers than you could shake a stick at. Unless you are familiar with the different Irish/Scottish clans, there was no diversity whatsoever, although both sexes were represented fairly equally (see: "the ratio"). Most of the people inside seemed friendly and social (read: "drunk"). A guy tried to convince my friend, who is a nurse, that he was a doctor. Thanks to the three episodes of "ER" I have watched in my life, I could tell he was lying - no style points were awarded. I think we stayed for an hour - as we left a live band was setting up to play. Although I have promised myself many a time that I would never go back, I'm sure I'll find myself back at good ole Kell's again some time soon!
(2)
Amy J.

A really nice pub, great for lunch or dinner, but don't bother with Happy Hour unless you don't mind horrible wait service. The first time my husband and I went here, it was for lunch and the waiter was so helpful and really kind and attentive, definitely one of my best experiences with a waiter. I had the Irish Lamb Stew, which is one of my favorite dishes as my best friend often makes it, and their's tasted almost the same as hers, the portion was just a little small though at Kell's, I definitely felt it should have been larger considering it was $10 for the stew, and I couldn't eat the bread since I am allergic to dairy. My husband got some kind of sandwich I cannot remember, and an Irish snake bite, which he LOVED. Overall, this visit got 4 and 1/2 stars for the great service and good food, but smallish portions with the soup. The second time, we happened to be in town during happy hour and were excited because our entire meal was going to cost about $15, the down side was that the waiter was rude and didn't listen. My husband asked him to reduce the amount of cider in the snake bite and give more Guinness, he gave MORE cider and LESS Guinness. We kind of passed that off, but then I got sick later because when we asked him to check if there were milk in the buns, he said he did, and said there wasn't, but within a couple hours I was doubled over and had to force myself to throw up so I didn't risk going in to shock. He was also very rude, and took a long time to bring us anything, it just seemed like he'd rather be somewhere else. I'd rate the Happy hour experience at 2 stars. I am not letting that experience taint my opinion of the place completely, but I definitely will not go back for Happy Hour again unless my husband somehow talks me in to when we are in Portland... Overall 3 and 1/2 stars, but I like to round up. God Bless ~Amy
(4)
Jeff H.

Had a glass of The Macallan 25yr scotch and a great Cuban cigar when I was here. A chill environment downstairs let to some great conversations and a memorable evening. I prefer the crowd here during the week, but if you are out with your crew, expect a packed house on the weekend.
(4)
Fergal D.

Great Guinness? Check! Great Atmosphere? Check! Great Staff? Check! Great Music? Check! It's taken me too long to write this review given how many years I've been going to Kells. When I moved from Ireland it was a home from home and still is. The staff and owners made it their business to ensure a new Irish person in town would be looked after and introduced to fellow expats and Irish folks. I learned after a short time that it wasn't just the Irish who were afforded this service, it's just part of the family style approach to the whole business. The welcome never gets old, nor does the food which helps me get my hit of 'home' food whenever I need it. I love the fact that in Kells, you can go to the Pub, dine in the dining room, have a reception upstairs or have a cigar downstairs. Being Irish I'm very critical of the 'Irish' approach internationally, but this place truly represents so many cultural & colloquial elements of home and I'm greatly appreciative of that.
(5)
Jose S.

Every time I visit Portland I fall more and more in love with this city, and Kells just made it much harder to leave =) This place is such a great irish Pub, live music, awesome environment, and the cigar bar was the best
(5)
Connie H.

We moved from Los Angeles to Portland and thought we were going to be stuck for a good Pub. Absolutely not. We just happened upon Kells after strolling around the corner from Voodoo Donuts and the smell of good food literally called us across the parking lot. This place has great food made from scratch, with top notch ingredients. It is not your typical warmed over pub food at all. The food was authentic and the selection of beers on tap is really good - although I always get Guinness or Harp anyway. Now we just moved from Portland back to Los Angeles - and we miss Kells. :( We think it's better than any pub we have in all of LA and most of the pubs where we ate in Dublin. I wish I could give it more stars just for their curry chicken and chips or pot pie. We'll be back to visit I'm sure.
(5)
Shauny L.

Easily the best irish bar in Portland. Hands down. They have live irish bands that come in every night. It gets insanely loud on weekend nights. They have a cigar restaurant in the basement. They have magic dollars on the ceiling (be sure to ask about when you go) and I heard this place is insane on st. pattys day. I highly recommend checking it out.
(5)
Jen E.

Tis an okay kind of place. I am Irish and I love Irish pubs.... to me.... this seems like a college hangout that plays Celtic music. Dont get me wrong.... It is amusing if you go in with a group of people. The food.... oh my..... let me tell you about the food. yummy yummy yummy yummy yummy yummy. I didnt order anything at first then I kept stealing bites of the Guinness soaked burger, and my friend learned not to leave their lamb stew unattended as well all may have taken a bite or two while he went outside to smoke... tee hee... we had to order another lamb stew for him. Yes the food oh my goodness lets say YUMMY YUMMY YUMMY YUMMY YUMMY.
(3)
Rose S.

I went to Kel's on a Friday night and really enjoyed myself. We were from out of town and found it easy to mesh in and meet some new friendly faces. There was also a cool Irish band playing. Fun. The decor was cheery as well. I would go back.
(5)
Grace L.

:o) My friend was giving us a tour of Portland and we decided to hop into his old hang. I never had Irish food before and had my speculations because I heard that Irish cuisine is super heavy. Luckily, it was a cold and much to our surprise snowy day, so we were in for a treat! My friends ordered the Kells Shepherd's pie and Danny Boy (chicken pot pie). Both items were delicious and warms you right up from being out in the cold. I was definitely impressed with the heartiness of the Danny Boy. MMmmmm...! I'm drooling just thinking about it. I ordered the Irish Corned Beef Club and was very happy with my choice. My friend highly recommended substituting the regular fries with sweet potato, which was definitely worth it. As far as the sandwich, I had my speculations about the mixed grain bread since it was fried up a bit, but after the first bite I was excited about the texture and taste. It was a very satisfying sandwich along with tasty sweet potato fries. All I can say is that it was a very good way to pop Irish food cherry. HAHA :)
(4)
Melissa L.

I've only been here to watch World Cup matches, so I will probably need to update this after I've visited on a 'normal' day. That being said, Kells really seems to have their system figured out for handling huge crowds for events like this. The whole upstairs was converted into an impromptu media room with projector on one wall, which made for a comfortable viewing experience. They have a bar on the main level and the upstairs, however the upstairs bar only has a few beers on tap, none of which are anything I'm willing to drink, so i had to keep going DOWN the big stairs, out onto the sidewalk, and then fight my way back into the main-floor bar just to get a decent IPA. For this alone, I'm docking a star. What's the point of having multiple bars if they don't have the same drinks at both?! I didn't order any food, but they had a buffet going with Irish food like shepherd's pie, which one person in our group purchased and declared pretty good. I'm a fan.
(4)
Acacia P.

Good service, cheap and delicious weeknight happy hour (and not crowded at all - I was surprised), surprisingly affordable beer selections (~$3-5 per glass). Unlike many Irish bars, this place has character. And oh, the scotch list! So many kinds of scotch. We had fun with it.
(4)
Amanda E.

Everything one would expect from an Irish pub: Lively, loud, and lots of beer! Kells is always happening on a Friday or Saturday night, and throws the best St. Patty's day party in town.
(3)
Saint G.

My mother passed away last night. She was a good Irish Catholic and wanted us to tip one in her honor at an Irish Pub. Unfortunately, we chose Kells. I say unfortunately, because I have never experienced such rude service in my entire life. I had had one drink when I accidentally knocked over my second reaching for the menu. The bartender was annoyed, understandably. What I wasn't expecting was for her to cut me off because she didn't like the way "I was acting"...after one drink...at noon. I told her we were fulfilling my mother's dying wish. She could not have cared less. She was on her power trip. I have never been cut off. I have never been so humiliated and I have never been so utterly sad all in one instance. I would not return to Kells if it were the last place on earth. And you know that famous Irish blessing? May the opposite of what is said therein befall this place and that bartender.
(1)
Adrian R.

This is the only bar I have ever thrown out of with force and I'm still giving it 4 stars. Why? Because of the cigar room alone. Good cigars, good drinks, great atmosphere. This really hit the spot for me on my first trip to Portland. Bunch of friends smoking cigars and chilling with some drinks. Nice. Great beers as well. Lots of different types. Upstairs the music was good and the vibe was nice. Took a little longer to get drinks up there but it was packed and we were having a good time getting progressively drunker. Went to the bathroom and checked out the band for a little while and was really enjoying it. But then I came back to my seat and one of my friends was arguing with some drunk who was trying to steal my chair. I thought it was funny at first and then one of my friends got punched in the face by him. Now I'm in his face yelling and being my imposing 6 foot 4 self and it looks like I'm the bad guy. I'm being drug back from the table by three people and bam, I'm out the door and thrown out of my first bar. Now the manager chilled with us for a while and calmed us down. Apologized and told us that it really looked like I was about to fight this guy and he just wanted to get rid of the aggressor in the situation which looked like me. Fair enough. Lets go on with our night. The next morning my friends went over to Kells to buy a t shirt and the same manager was there. He told us thank you for being the bigger man about the situation and that the party that we almost got in a fight with was a much bigger problem later that night and thanked us with free t-shirts for how the whole situation went down. Nice. So to sum it up. Good bar, great staff (that one manager was really cool about everything), funny story to come out of it, and I highly recommend having a cigar or two with friends.
(4)
Jason B.

A bit overpriced, and a bit overcrowded, but still a decent option if you're in the area.
(3)
Lilly H.

I was pleasantly surprised by Kells. They have a nice back patio, which was very pleasant as I was there on one of the few sunny days in Portland. I went for lunch and opted for the Veggie Sandwich. Who would have thought that an Irish Pub would have a good veggie sandwich? Well, they did. It hit the spot. Of course, the menu mostly consists of traditional well done pub fare. I'd be interested to come back at night and have a beer. Although their selection tends towards the European brews, and the main reason I go to Portland is for the local stuff!
(4)

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Address : 112 SW 2nd Ave
Portland, OR, 97204
Phone (503) 227-4057
Website https://www.kellsirish.com/
Click To Get Directions

Opening Hours

Mon :11:30 am - 12
Mon : 11:30 am - 12

Specialities

Takes Reservations : Yes
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Dinner, Late Night
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : No
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Music : Live
Good For Dancing : No
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 : Yes

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Kells Irish Pub

112 SW 2nd Ave, Portland, OR, 97204

Kells Irish Pub Menu

Appetizers

Salads & Soups

Pasties

Traditional Favorites

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Appetizers

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