Number one place to see live music
The Candlelight Cafe & Bar
2032 S.W. Fifth Avenue
503-222-3378
Everyday 10:30 a.m.-2:30 a.m.
Its location close to Portland State University, full bar and minuscule hip-bumping dance floor make this “never a cover” happening blues club a favorite with students and older regulars alike. Non-dancers jockey for tables and fight for turns at the pool table, where there’s barely space to make basic shots, let alone spectacular attention-grabbers.
The lack of space doesn’t matter. This active, fun club always burns bright on a rainy Portland night. Burgers, nachos etc. adorn this typical and tasty menu Microbrews and draft beers abound, sure to satiate any and all hops preferences.
Nightly entertainment begins around 10 p.m., so get there early for a good seat! On any given night, blues fans can take in the smokin’ tunes of Andy Stokes, Jesus Presley, Linda Hornbuckle, Ocean 503, Jay “Bird” Koder, and Ennis in Theory.
Tied for second
1201
1201 S.W. 12th Avenue
503-225-1201
Wednesday through Sunday 9 p.m.-2:30 a.m.
The 1201 offers DJs and dancing with a great atmosphere and a whole lotta fun. Just a few short blocks away from campus, this is one of the best places to see up-and-coming wax spinners while enjoying a tasty beverage.
Jasmine Tree
401 S.W. Harrison
503-223-7956
Sunday through Thursday 11 a.m.-midnight
Friday and Saturday 11 a.m.-2:30 a.m.
The Jasmine Tree is one of the only places near campus to see indie music. From rock to pop, they book it all, and the only things interested students need to bring are money for the cover and a hearty appetite for drinks and music.
Plus, if you get hungry while enjoying the band, you can also order food late.
Student picks
The Candlelight: 28 percent
The Jasmine Tree: 25 percent
The 1201: 21 percent
Santarini’s: 14 percent
American Espresso: 11 percent
The Candlelight is one of the best-kept music secrets on campus or in Portland. Sporting some of the best blues and jazz music in downtown without the yuppies from Beaverton or Lake Oswego, it’s hard to beat. The Jasmine Tree, too, offers some great music with decent sound. And to sweeten the deal, they make great Mai Tais.