Portland, OR – LaVerne’s, a highly anticipated new bar and restaurant from the acclaimed team behind Dig A Pony and Hey Love, officially opens its doors today, Friday, September 19, 2025, in the vibrant Woodlawn neighborhood. Located at 700 NE Dekum Street, the establishment breathes new life into a storied 116-year-old building, promising a unique blend of classic dive bar ambiance and vintage-inspired comfort for the Oregon community.
A Historic Venue Reimagined
The building that now houses LaVerne’s boasts a rich history, dating back to 1909. Over its century-plus existence, it has served various purposes, from the Woodlawn Furniture and Hardware Company to the Woodlawn Odd Fellows Hall, and most recently, the beloved nonprofit Oregon Public House, which closed its doors in 2023. The space has also been home to The Village Ballroom since its early days, maintaining its legacy as a community gathering spot. This deep-rooted past provides a captivating backdrop for LaVerne’s, which aims to honor the building’s heritage while forging its own identity.
The Vision of LaVerne’s
LaVerne’s is envisioned as a welcoming neighborhood watering hole, thoughtfully designed to evoke a sense of nostalgic charm. The interior features elements like classic soda fountain seating, plush booths, and a pool table, all contributing to a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. The aesthetic is a deliberate fusion, marrying the unpretentious vibe of a beloved dive bar with curated vintage details, creating a space that feels both familiar and fresh. The owners, Sophie Thomson and Aaron Hall, who have established successful ventures like the lauded Hey Love (named best hotel bar in America in 2023) and the former Dig A Pony, bring their expertise in creating engaging social spaces to this new project. Their commitment extends beyond the bar, with plans to partner with local nonprofits and community groups, aiming to be a positive force within the Woodlawn area and Portland’s wider bar and restaurant scene.
A Taste of LaVerne’s
Complementing its inviting atmosphere, LaVerne’s will offer a menu designed for comfort and enjoyment. Diners can anticipate signature dishes such as Yucatan-style rotisserie chicken, hearty Frito pies, and a rotating selection of vegetable sides meant to offer high value and fresh flavors. The beverage program is equally ambitious, featuring a creative array of drinks. Patrons can look forward to craft cocktails like tamarind sweet tea whiskey, spiked lemonades, and strawberry-chamoy spritzes, alongside slushies and boilermakers, promising a diverse selection for every palate. The establishment will also feature soul, jazz, and country albums playing throughout the space, enhancing the overall vintage auditory experience.
More Than Just a Restaurant: The Hall & The Village Ballroom
Beyond the main dining and bar area, LaVerne’s encompasses two distinct event spaces designed to serve a variety of functions. ‘The Hall,’ located on the ground floor, acts as an overflow area for the restaurant and bar, offering a more intimate setting for small shows, community gatherings, and private events. This ADA-accessible space is equipped with its own bar for efficient service and can accommodate up to 49 people. Upstairs, ‘The Village Ballroom’ continues its long-standing tradition as a premier event venue. This historic ballroom, retaining much of its original 1909 craftsmanship, is set to host larger concerts, performances, weddings, workshops, and parties, with a capacity of 250 standing or 130 seated guests. While LaVerne’s will provide exclusive bar catering for both spaces, food catering services are slated to become available in 2026, further solidifying the venue’s comprehensive offerings.
Community Roots and Future
The opening of LaVerne’s marks a significant addition to Portland’s trending culinary and nightlife landscape. As the city continues to see new restaurants and bars emerge, LaVerne’s stands out by integrating itself into the fabric of the Woodlawn neighborhood within a building steeped in local history. The owners’ proven track record with previous Portland establishments suggests a strong foundation for success, aiming to create not just a place to eat and drink, but a true community hub. This expansion is a testament to the enduring appeal of well-crafted hospitality and the vibrant spirit of Portland’s diverse offerings.
