Portland, Oregon – The Woodlawn neighborhood is buzzing with anticipation as LaVerne’s, a highly awaited new bar and restaurant, prepares to open its doors on Friday, September 19th. Located at 700 NE Dekum Street, this exciting venture is spearheaded by Sophie Thomson and Aaron Hall, the acclaimed duo behind popular Portland establishments Dig A Pony and Hey Love.
Culinary Delights and Signature Flavors
LaVerne’s promises a distinctive culinary experience, with Yucatan-style rotisserie chicken taking center stage on its menu. Patrons can also look forward to savoring authentic street tacos and a thoughtfully curated selection of rotating vegetable sides, designed to offer both flavor and value. For those seeking comfort food classics, Frito Pie will also be available, adding another layer of appeal to the menu.
The beverage program at LaVerne’s is equally ambitious, featuring an eclectic range of offerings. Guests can explore creative concoctions such as spiked lemonade, slushies, boilermakers, tamarind sweet tea whiskey, and refreshing strawberry-chamoy spritzes, alongside a variety of classic shots and mixed drinks. This diverse drink menu aims to complement the food offerings and enhance the overall dining and social experience.
A Venue Steeped in History and Community
LaVerne’s is situated within a historic building, constructed in 1909, which has long served as a community hub. The establishment shares its space with The Village Ballroom, a venue with over a century of history, known for hosting various events from weddings to workshops. The building has previously housed other notable local businesses, including the nonprofit Oregon Public House, which closed in 2023, adding layers of local lore to LaVerne’s new home. LaVerne’s will also be responsible for bar catering for The Village Ballroom, with food catering services slated to begin in 2026.
The interior design of LaVerne’s itself aims to create a welcoming and engaging atmosphere. It features a striking red-topped wooden bar, comfortable blue plush booths, and will include a pool table for patrons’ enjoyment. The sound system is set to play a mix of soul, jazz, and country music, contributing to a vibrant yet relaxed ambiance that invites guests to linger and socialize.
The Visionaries Behind LaVerne’s
Sophie Thomson and Aaron Hall bring a wealth of experience and a proven track record in Portland’s competitive bar and restaurant scene to LaVerne’s. Their previous collaboration, Hey Love, gained national recognition, being named the “best hotel bar in America” by the Tales of the Cocktail Spirit Awards in 2023. Their journey together began in college, and their partnership has since evolved through their successful ventures, demonstrating a strong collaborative spirit and a passion for hospitality. This new endeavor builds upon their established reputation for creating popular and well-loved establishments.
Woodlawn Welcomes a Trending Destination
The opening of LaVerne’s marks another exciting development in Portland’s dynamic food and beverage landscape, particularly in the trending Woodlawn neighborhood. As one of Oregon’s vibrant communities, Woodlawn continues to attract innovative bars and restaurants, and LaVerne’s is poised to become a significant addition. The establishment’s blend of unique cuisine, creative cocktails, historical setting, and the owners’ renowned expertise positions it as a must-visit destination for both locals and visitors seeking a memorable experience in the Pacific Northwest.
With its strategic location, appealing menu, and the established credibility of its ownership, LaVerne’s is anticipated to quickly become a favorite gathering spot, contributing to the rich tapestry of Portland’s renowned restaurant and bar culture.
