In Its Nine Years, Wisconsin-Themed Beer Bar Saraveza Has Grown Into One of the State’s Most Well-Respected Institutions

Pederson’s hand-picked list is typically so good you could choose by simply throwing a dart.

(Saraveza, Jake Southard)
By Parker Hall

1004 N Killingsworth St., 503-206-4252, saraveza.com. 11 am-midnight daily. Happy hour 4-6 pm daily: $1 off drafts.

Established: October 2008

In its nine years in North Portland, Sarah Pederson's Wisconsin-themed beer bar has grown into one of the state's most well-respected institutions. A warm brick space lined with classic beer kitsch and bottle cap-topped tables, Pederson designed the bar to be inviting to gruff, beer world idols like famed publican Don Younger—a no-nonsense beer lovers' haven that shows Packers games to the Hamm's crowd on Sundays, and has staff that will tell you exactly what to order from the 10 taps should you ask. Then again, Pederson's hand-picked list is typically so good you could choose by simply throwing a dart. The only non-rotating beer is a bright and delicate cream ale that was designed specifically for the place by Breakside—a pour that'll come in a frosty mug if you ask. Food here is as simple and thoughtfully done as the beer, a rotating seasonal selection of hearty fare that includes golden brown pasties, housemade potato salad and easily the best fried cheese curds in town.

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