Classic cocktails served in a retro themed bar while the setting looks like a Hollywood romantic thriller movie set – the Driftwood Room stands as the vanguard of craft cocktail mixology in Portland city. The oomph of sex appeal matches perfectly with the homemade classy cocktails in this intimate lounge nestled inside the complex of Hotel deLuxe. This high profile “star-worthy” hotel stands as a tribute to the rich era of Hollywood cinema and the Driftwood Room acts as a pioneer to take that legacy forward. As you enter the embellished lobby of the hotel, the cushy sideway on the corner did not seem like a no-frills bar like Club 21, rather a chic cocktail lounge. Know more about Club 21.

The Glitz And Glamour

Since its opening in 1950’s this swanky Portland landmark bears the charm and sophisticated glory of Hotel Mallory, the name it bore back then. With hardly any refurbishment done, this watering hole is over a century years old –the well-designed parlors, artisan spirits, cigars, billiards tables and ballroom still looks as majestic as ever.

With the idea of paying tribute to Golden Age of Hollywood cinema, in 2006, the Art Deco design was incorporated with poster size black and white scenes from Hollywood classics as well as the aesthetic quellazaires. The maze of banquettes, light and shadowy bar island and flickering candles as the source of lights complement the padded chairs and totem themed wooden walls.

driftwood room
Since its opening in 1950’s this swanky Portland landmark bears the charm and sophisticated glory of Hotel Mallory

Unforgettable Drinks With Small Bites

From Champagne Cocktails to Manhattans –the drinks at Driftwood Room are unique not only in taste but also in names. I was on budget and hence, my suggestion is if you plan on saving some bucks, visit during 6.30 PM to 9.30 PM. Pork Belly, Mac ‘n Cheese, Ham ‘n Cheese Sandwich and Kumamoto Oysters with signature forest mushroom basket will act as perfect companions to the sizzling drinks. Deluxe Panini, Cheddar Cheeseburger, Prawn Tacos and Gorgonzola Cheesecake are also special dishes here.

From their summer cocktails, Natalie Wood and Steve McQueen as well as Driftwood Sazerac are quite popular for their out-of-the-box names and fresh taste. I could never have enough of their legendary Champagne cocktail varieties like Portland ’85, Elizabeth Taylor (another experimental name!) and Springtime In Paris.

driftwood cocktails
The drinks at Driftwood Room are unique not only in taste but also in names

On my second visit, I came along with two of my friends and decided to check out the Pints that include Hefeweizen and Pac Wonderland Lager with Cider tap and seasonal tap which rotate on weekly basis. The House Wines, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc are all-time popular choices.

Michael Robertson, the head bartender takes the credit for naming the drinks after cinemas and celebrities while the themed menu with reminiscence of raunchy Hollywood old tabloids, mementos and matchbooks speak on behalf of the Craft Cocktail Movement in Portland. I watched in awe as Michael poured Richard Burton and Sideburn for me. While the former bears the taste of sweet vermouth and sour lemon, the latter had a combination of lavender syrup, blood orange and lemon juice. The magic of Driftwood Room lies not in its bewitching natural view but also in the hands of the bartenders who knows exactly what to mix and how!