Nestled in Portland's vibrant Hawthorne District, The Angry Clover has become a cornerstone of the city's craft beverage scene since its opening in 2010. This beloved establishment offers patrons more than 30 rotating taps featuring local, national, and international craft beers alongside an impressive selection of hard ciders that has earned it recognition as one of the top cider destinations in the Pacific Northwest.
History and Evolution of Portland's Craft Beer Destination
Founded by longtime friends and beer enthusiasts Mark Johnson and Sarah Chen, The Angry Clover began as a modest neighborhood bar with just 12 taps. The name itself pays homage to Portland's unofficial nickname "The City of Roses" while acknowledging the region's Irish heritage through the clover symbol. The "angry" component reflects the owners' frustration with the limited craft beer options available in the area at the time of opening.
Over the past decade, the establishment has grown organically while maintaining its commitment to quality and community. What started as a simple beer bar has evolved into a full-service restaurant with an expanded kitchen offering elevated pub fare that perfectly complements their beverage program. Despite its growth, The Angry Clover has preserved its original mission: providing an approachable space where both beer novices and connoisseurs feel welcome.
What Makes The Angry Clover Stand Out
The Angry Clover distinguishes itself through several key features that have contributed to its enduring popularity:
| Feature | Description | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Curated Beverage Program | 30+ rotating taps with emphasis on local breweries and rare imports | Offers diverse options while supporting regional producers |
| Cider Specialization | One of Portland's largest dedicated cider selections | Addresses growing consumer interest in alternative fermented beverages |
| Food Pairing Expertise | Menu designed specifically to complement craft beverages | Enhances overall tasting experience beyond typical bar food |
| Community Focus | Regular events including brewery takeovers and educational tastings | Fosters local connections and beer education |
Menu Highlights and Beverage Selection
The Angry Clover's menu reflects Portland's farm-to-table ethos with seasonal ingredients sourced from regional producers. Their kitchen team crafts dishes specifically designed to pair with craft beverages, moving beyond standard bar fare to create thoughtful combinations that enhance both food and drink.
Signature offerings include:
- Cider-Braised Pork Belly - Served with apple compote and potato puree, perfectly complementing dry ciders
- Hoppy Ale-Battered Fish Tacos - Featuring IPA-battered cod with citrus slaw
- Barrel-Aged Manhattan Burger - Topped with bourbon caramelized onions and aged cheddar
- Seasonal Cheese Board - Curated selections with house-made preserves and artisan crackers
The beverage program receives particular acclaim, with staff trained to guide patrons through the extensive offerings. Their "Cider Flight" option allows guests to sample four different ciders with suggested food pairings, while their "Brewer's Choice" tap rotates weekly featuring limited releases from regional craft producers.
Visitor Experience and Practical Information
Visitors to The Angry Clover can expect a warm, unpretentious atmosphere with exposed brick walls, reclaimed wood accents, and a spacious bar area that serves as the heart of the establishment. The venue features both indoor and outdoor seating, with the patio area becoming particularly popular during Portland's mild summer months.
For those planning a visit, here are essential details:
- Location: 2425 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, OR 97214
- Hours: Monday-Thursday 3pm-11pm, Friday-Saturday 11am-1am, Sunday 11am-10pm
- Reservations: Recommended for parties of 6+ via their website
- Parking: Street parking available with nearby paid lots
- Special Features: Happy hour daily from 3-6pm, trivia nights on Tuesdays, brewery takeovers monthly
Community Impact and Recognition
The Angry Clover has established itself as more than just a drinking establishment—it's become an integral part of Portland's community fabric. The owners regularly partner with local nonprofits for fundraising events and have developed relationships with nearby breweries to create exclusive collaborative beers.
Media recognition has followed this community commitment, with features in Portland Monthly, Oregonian, and All About Beer Magazine. In 2022, it was named "Best Cider Bar" by Willamette Week's Best of Portland readers' poll, and it consistently appears on lists of Portland's top craft beer destinations.
Planning Your Visit to Portland's Craft Beverage Landmark
For visitors unfamiliar with Portland's craft beverage culture, The Angry Clover offers an accessible entry point with staff knowledgeable enough to guide beginners while satisfying seasoned enthusiasts. The establishment maintains a strict focus on quality over quantity, with no "bottomless" specials or gimmicky promotions that might compromise the tasting experience.
Those planning to visit should consider timing their trip to coincide with one of their special events, such as the monthly "Cider School" sessions where industry experts discuss production methods and tasting techniques. Weekend brunch has also developed a loyal following, featuring creative takes on traditional breakfast items paired with morning-friendly craft beverages.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Angry Clover known for in Portland?
The Angry Clover has earned recognition throughout Portland for its extensive craft beer selection featuring over 30 rotating taps and one of the city's most comprehensive cider menus. The establishment stands out for its thoughtfully curated beverage program that balances local favorites with rare imports, elevated pub-style food designed specifically for pairing with craft beverages, and a welcoming atmosphere that appeals to both beer novices and connoisseurs alike.
Does The Angry Clover serve food, and what are popular menu items?
Yes, The Angry Clover offers a full menu of elevated pub fare specifically designed to complement craft beverages. Popular menu items include the Cider-Braised Pork Belly with apple compote, Hoppy Ale-Battered Fish Tacos featuring IPA-battered cod, the Barrel-Aged Manhattan Burger with bourbon caramelized onions, and a Seasonal Cheese Board with house-made preserves. Their weekend brunch has also developed a loyal following, featuring creative takes on traditional breakfast items paired with morning-friendly craft beverages.
What are the hours of operation for The Angry Clover?
The Angry Clover operates Monday-Thursday from 3pm to 11pm, Friday and Saturday from 11am to 1am, and Sunday from 11am to 10pm. They offer daily happy hour from 3-6pm featuring discounted drinks and select menu items. Special events like trivia nights occur on Tuesdays, and monthly brewery takeovers provide opportunities to sample exclusive releases not available elsewhere.
Is The Angry Clover family-friendly or suitable for groups?
The Angry Clover welcomes guests of all ages until 8pm daily, making it suitable for families during earlier hours. The establishment features both indoor and outdoor seating with options for small and large groups. Reservations are recommended for parties of six or more, especially on weekends. While the atmosphere is lively, the staff maintains a welcoming environment appropriate for various group types, from casual gatherings to business meetings.
How does The Angry Clover support the local community?
The Angry Clover actively supports the Portland community through multiple initiatives including monthly fundraising events for local nonprofits, partnerships with nearby breweries to create exclusive collaborative beers, and featuring ingredients from regional producers in their menu. The owners regularly participate in neighborhood association meetings and have developed relationships with other Hawthorne District businesses to promote the area as a destination for craft beverage tourism.
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