As summer unfolds, a nostalgic wave sweeps over many of us, reminding us of childhood days filled with Slurpees from the gas station or Icees from the local movie theater. These icy treats often brought joy alongside the risk of a brain freeze, and they naturally evolved into more adult versions as we grew older, paving the way for a new era of fancy frozen drinks. The emergence of slushies with a boozy twist has taken hold in Portland, featuring delightful concoctions from strawberry margaritas to the ever-popular frosé.
One standout in the scene is Bunk Bar in Buckman, a favorite for over a decade. Known for its delicious cubanos, turkey clubs, and the city’s best meatball sub, Bunk Bar also serves a signature drink known as the “iceberg.” This refreshing beverage pairs a pint of condensation-beaded Rainier beer topped with a generous dollop of blended margarita, making it an excellent choice for sweltering days. Not a fan of beer? The Ciderberg, which is similar but substitutes the beer with Double Mountain dry cider, is a fantastic alternative. You could also simply enjoy their classic frozen margarita, renowned for its quality.
Another iconic option is the frosé at Cheese & Crack Snack Shop, which became a hit when it first emerged in 2016 and has remained popular ever since. Offering a smooth and sweet frosty pink wine, it strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and crispness. If you decide to visit on a sunny weekend, prepare for a line stretching down SE 28th Avenue, as locals and visitors alike flock to savor this refreshing beverage.
At Eem, known for its combination of Thai barbecue flavors, the “Jesus & Tequila” drink has stood out since the establishment opened in 2019. This frothy tropical offering combines lime froyo and tequila with smoky mezcal, providing a flavor profile enhanced by bittersweet curaçao. Finish it off with a sprinkle of “fancy salt,” and the sip feels blessed. Served in whimsical blowfish-shaped tiki mugs, this drink is a creative and unique staple at Eem.
The End, located on SE Division, showcases slushies that perfectly exemplify the bar’s indulgent yet smartly executed style. Their current offering features a sweet-tart strawberry hibiscus margarita that’s bright and vibrantly refreshing. Another popular choice is the Makin’ Love at Midnight, a unique take on the classic piña colada, creamy and rich with toasted coconut crumbles. For adventurous drinkers, the “Double Trouble” option allows you to mix these two delightfully vibrant drinks, with an option to boost the flavors with an additional float of dark rum or a delightful bartender’s choice.
At 5 & Dime, patrons can experience the joy of unpredictability with their rotating slushie menu. Seasonal flavors such as salted mango and lime leaf daiquiris or strawberry shiso margaritas might appear, enticing curious sippers. When visiting this spacious neighborhood bar, pair your drinks with a hot dog or veggie dog and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the covered streetside patio.
For those seeking a tropical escape, Hey Love’s slushies present an exciting twist. This ’70s-inspired cocktail lounge boasts a fun ambiance filled with live plants and charming decorations. At least two slushies are always on the menu, making it a haven for slushy lovers. Popular options include a mango margarita with a spicy tajin rim and the Master of Karate and Friendship, a refreshing strawberry daiquiri. As temperatures rise, these drinks are perfect companions against the warm nights.
Oma’s Hideaway in Richmond brings a unique spin to the traditional mai tai drink by offering a slushy version with a delightful twist. Combining rums, lime, orgeat, and sweetened with pandan, guava, and coconut, this drink tantalizes the taste buds with each sip. The drink’s complexity also receives a refreshing boost from an herbaceous amaro float that deepens the tropical notes.
Palomar, known for its Miami-inspired cocktails, brings the fantastic pineapple pistachio daiquiri to the forefront of its slushie offerings. This slick green concoction blends pistachio and condensed milk for a sweet nuttiness balanced by bright pineapple and lime flavors. Enjoy this favorite beverage at a sidewalk table or next to wide-open windows whenever the weather permits.
A staple at Tropicale, which was founded by the passionate Alfredo Climaco, is the beloved piña colada. Climaco, often referred to as the Piña Colada King, has left an enduring legacy at this vibrant establishment after his tragic passing in 2021. Guests can indulge in his creatively crafted piña colada served in a massive hollowed-out pineapple, making for a decadent and unique summer treat.
For more traditional slushies, seek out Tulip Shop Tavern. This neighborhood watering hole maintains an excellent balance of sophistication and approachability through its diverse drink menu. The slushies here surprise patrons with inventive concoctions that often defy expectations, including one featuring Mountain Dew, Suze gentian liqueur, and peach purée. Complement a delicious smashburger, whether meat-based or vegan, for a perfect pairing that highlights all that Tulip Shop has to offer.
Lastly, Wonderly’s bright and sunlit atmosphere invites patrons to enjoy its elevated slushies. Here, two options are usually featured, with the mixed version being the recommended choice: vibrant orange passionfruit vodka lemonade combined with a blended daiquiri, complete with coconut and pineapple. Just like Wonderly itself, these slushies are classy, fun, and ideal for warm summer days.
So whether you prefer the refreshing frosé, the classic piña colada, or the inventive flavors found in Portland’s booming slushy scene, there’s never a shortage of options for sipping on a cold drink this summer. Get out and explore these delectable treats to celebrate the vibrant flavors of Portland with each slushy sip.
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