Shanghai Tunnel

(503) 220-4001

211 SW Ankeny St
Portland, OR 97204 45.5227 -122.6725

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Neighborhoods: Old Town - Chinatown, Neighbors West - Northwest

Shanghai Tunnel

Shanghai Tunnel

What People Are Saying About Shanghai Tunnel

The Editor

Contributor

Citysearch

In Short – Patrons wander underground into a dark, slightly spooky cavern, or they can stay upstairs and converse with friends on red vinyl couches. Legend has it this place was a tunnel where 19th-century Portlanders were shanghaied, so dim Oriental lights, dragon murals and dive-bar elements lend appropriate atmosphere. It's a favorite among service-industry types, musicians, and the occasional rock star who pops in after a big show. Potent drinks keep the regulars and visitors bubbly.

2 Star Rating: Below Average

07/10/09

Beware The Hipsters

by Oregonjaybird

Do you have a certain political slant or maybe a story of being wasted you'd like to share? Did you meet someone from that one band no one's ever heard of and can't wait to gush about it? Who or what makes you upset in the world this week? Can't stop hating popular culture long enough to discontinue breathing life into it by talking about it all the time?

Then Shanghai's the place for you, baby. You can even call it "The Tun" if you like! Cool! You and your Bettie Page haircut can come and get your hipster on. The novelty historic surroundings make this the perfect haunt for being seen without looking like you're trying to be seen. While there grab a pint of cheap beer or an "old school well cocktail" you've never tried before: it's all the craze! You'll be glad your "adventurous" friend told you about the place.

  • Pros: Good selection of horn rimmed glasses and beards
  • Cons: Too many mustaches with attitudes
3 Star Rating: Average

03/15/09

Mixed Bag

by wuestr

Went here with a bunch of friends, interesting underground location although you would not know you are in any type of tunnel. Food was spicy and pretty good, however:

*no table service; order from the bar

*you get your own water

*someone came by to get our empty bowels because they were obviously needed elsewhere

*18% required gratuity

*kind of spendy for being a dive, $5.50 for a beer, most of the selection on tap was out.

Despite the drawbacks, I am giving three stars for the pretty good food and underground location.

  • Pros: Decent food
  • Cons: Lack of service
1 Star Rating: Poor

12/02/08

went bad

by andi78

Over the last months this place went downhill so bad. Just a few months ago I rated this place highly and now it went really bad. Some staff members left which left only the very unkindly one's behind. I gave it more than two chances but that's it now. Not going there anymore.

  • Pros: Cheap beer
  • Cons: very unfriendly service

The Details on Shanghai Tunnel

On the Menu:

Nouveau Asian fare is a must--it's inexpensive and on its way to legendary. Don't pass up potstickers, which are delicious and tender. Other interesting culinary finds: coconut and lemongrass soup, various incarnations of ahi tuna, and noodle bowls.

Where to Sit:

Warmer months mean a large, outdoor seating area, great for late-night people watching or meeting others.

Know Before You Go:

Quiz the staff and you'll hear some good stories.

Category:

Bars & Pubs

Minimum Age:

21

Smoking Permitted:

Yes

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