07/13/09

much better non smoking!

by russ69

Have always enjoyed this spot. Much better with clean air

• Pros: service, atmosphere, drinks

05/29/09

Great Location, but something funny about the food

by JohnS72

I really like the location and outside area. The mixed drinks are great, and a great place to spend a Sunday. I would recommend staying away from the food though, guaranteed to give you stomach issues.

• Pros: Great Location, great bartenders
• Cons: Food is funny

12/03/08

Cute Neighborhood bar

by kimmer383

Came here as last bar in the night. A little crowded, but able to find a table in back. Hummus is good! Drinks are decent if you not looking for anything fancy. Eclectic music tastes on the jukebox, and it seemed like every song played did not deter from the friendly hipster vibe. Nicely decorated in a Moroccan theme. Love the idea of their freshly squeezed cocktails, but did not try any out.

11/21/08

Great little bar . . .

by pixistik

true . . . and they may have never said they were the oldest Alberta Street Tavern . . . but the hyperlink that directed me here did . . . Binks is quaint (if you like gentrification) . . . it may have Fat Tire (as do several other bars in PDX), but if they don't want to claim bragging rights for have 'stated' that they were in fact the oldest tavern on Alberta street then I suggest someone correct the error.

I grew up on Alberta street, I have been to Binks . . . it is a great little spot with very friendly people, but they are one of the newest bars on the block.

07/15/08

Last Thursday special!

by ruud

This is THE place to hang out for last thursday on Alberta but get there early if you want to claim a decent spot outside.

The drinks selections are a bit on the sparse side compared with other spots nearby but the place has a decent atmosphere and is popular with the hipster tattooed set.

The place isn't that big and with no air conditioning it gets a bit stuffy on hot summer days. There's a great jukebox that has a pretty wide variety of choons. A small pool room with a garage door that opens up onto the street.

The service was ok, but it's apparent that the regulars get preferential treatment when it comes to who gets served first when there are a few people waiting and only one or two bar staff working.

The food is pretty basic pizza fare that is made in-front of you behind the bar and the smoke blowing from the bar does not make the food any more appitizing.

12/03/07

They never said they are the oldest tavern

by foodlovecritic

Binks is the best bar on Alberta street. The bartenders are way down to earth as well as the people who hang out there. I really dont have much else to say except for the fact that they never talk or bragf about being the oldest bar, but I will brag for them that they are the coolest.

• Pros: Staff and patrons
• Cons: Sometimes crowded, but still a good time

11/22/07

Oldest tavern on Alberta!

by mclav

Honestly, there's nothing really interesting or unique about Binks. Have to say though, I find it pretty amusing they're touting themselves, or at least allowing themselves to be touted as the "oldest" tavern on Alberta. Whether or not it's true, it's pretty damn funny.

• Pros: Well, none really.
• Cons: A poor substitute for a real tavern

Friendly, warm and eclectic, this neighborhood bar beckons bohemians and business types alike.

by Contributor

In Short
Scrumptious Moroccan patterns and colors envelope visitors as they sink into plush seats surrounded by satiny pillows. The "garage" area is decorated with vintage beer signs and is home to a very busy pool table, where tattooed couples tip back PBRs. Snacks include the garden salad, Greek pizza or just some nuts and jerky. Drink options include pints of favorites Full Sail and Fat Tire as well as wine and nonalcoholic beverages.

03/08/06

Get your drinks at Binks.

by cutjack

Don't let the garage door fool you, this place is great. The intimate feeling and the colorful atmosphere make this Alberta gem a jewel. The pool table is conveniently located in the garage and cushy light blue seat surround a gorgeously decorated fireplace. The place was not crowded when I visited there and the bartender was delightful. The menu looks tasty, but I just came for a beer or two. Check out the cool Star Wars poster in the bathroom!

• Pros: Atmosphere

08/27/03

Last Thursday Central

by adamz

I went to last thursday last month and this place was the focal point of it all. Totally crowded with people spilling out onto the sidewalk and street.

Nevertheless, I did manage to find a couple stools near the bar where I could talk to the gal I was with, and it wasn't so loud that we couldn't hear each other. The service was good and friendly too, without any attitude.

• Pros: Hip, cool
• Cons: Crowded