(503) 235-6041
3356 SE Belmont St
Portland,
OR
97214
45.5164
-122.6302
Neighborhoods: Sunnyside, Southeast Uplift Neighborhood Program
What People Are Saying About Aalto Bristo & Lounge
The Editor
Contributor
Citysearch
In Short – Named after the modernist Finnish designer Alvar Aalto, this inviting joint on Belmont is decorated with the sure hand of a true collector. Spare, clean lines in the chairs, consoles and art decorate a dim lounge presided over by gentlemanly bartenders who mix a mean martini for an artsy crowd of Southeast locals. The bar features an alluring, French-dominated wine list with 17 vinos available by the glass, bracing cocktails and a well-executed cappuccino.
06/26/09
I always like a good Bristo
by jo_portland
I hate places that can't read their own writing. Maybe I am out o place and don't know the current terminolgy. Besides that, it has always been hit-or-miss from day one for me. The best thing about the place for me was when awesome people I knew worked there. Other than that it is uncomfortable and I don't care for it.
- Pros: In a handy neighborhood
- Cons: Very uncomfortable chairs
01/22/09
Great Food
by jpickner
Good music, good drinks, good food, and good service!!! Love the lime drop. Very casual atmosphere.
- Pros: Just about everything.
- Cons: Parking.
09/27/08
Dirty and Gross
by gardengirl23
I'd heard quite a few raves about the Aalto -- what a total disappointment! The place was filthy -- stained chairs, dirty tables and floors. Reminded me of Port Authority Terminal. We sat at a table for 20 minutes without so much as a glance from the staff. Wouldn't know whether or not the cocktails make up for the lack of service (since no one asked us if we wanted one), but nothing on the menu looked interesting, special, or unique enough to warrant sticking around. Add to that a bunch of unwashed, PBR swigging hipsters with ironic facial hair, trucker caps, and equally irritating attitudes -- it was like a bad version of the Hipster Olympics -- one where everyone takes themselves seriously. I'm not sure what the appeal for the Aalto is... perhaps it's something only the tragically hip understand -- and that's fine with me.
- Pros: reminds you how much you appreciate hand sanitizer
- Cons: dirty, no service, atmosphere
The Details on Aalto Bristo & Lounge
Where to Sit:
Smokers can visit the room in the back of the lounge reserved for smoking.
On the Menu:
Snack options include crusty bread and imported cheese or bruschetta with tapenade. More substantial plates include the gargantuan Tuscan salad and comforting soups like chicken and dumplings.
Category:
Smoking Permitted:
Yes
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