How much do you like the Gaslight Anthem and Fernet? If the answer is "sooo much" and you don't have a favorite bar, consider checking out Paydirt (2724 NE Pacific St., 233-3655, paydirtbar.com).
During my visit to the new spot from the owners of Old Gold—including former Mercury music editor Ezra "Ace" Caraeff—they played the Gaslight Anthem's 2008 record, The '59 Sound, straight through. Then, they played the Gaslight Anthem's 2010 record, American Slang, also straight through.
This big, open bar space exists partially to serve drinks to the new Zipper food pod, which sits snugly between I-84, Sandy Boulevard, a barbed-wired parking lot and a Pepsi warehouse. The tap list includes every bartender's favorite liqueur, Fernet ("no, seriously, we have Fernet on tap. It's glorious"), next to beers that are uncommon but not especially tasty (a catty fresh-hop from Corvallis' Mazama, a corny lager from Lake Oswego's Stickmen).
On the outdoor patio, there's a fire pit and freeway noise.
Inside, Gaslight and more Gaslight.
Oh, and a cocktail you should avoid. That's the Catbird Seat ($8), a blend of vodka and raspberry apple cider that tastes like rubbing alcohol and Robitussin. My wife, not typically given to hyperbole, described it as "the worst drink ever, in the history of the world."
So get the Fernet on tap ($7 for 2 ounces) and settle in for "Here's Looking at You, Kid."
Willamette Week