720 SE Sandy Blvd., 503-265-8807, rumclubpdx.com, 4 pm-2 am daily. Happy hour 4-6 pm daily: $5 cuba libres and gin-and-tonics, $5 food specials, $5-$7 drink specials, including gin or vodka and tonics, Cuba Libre and Corpse Reviver #2.

Established: July 2011

Pull up a chair at the African mahogany bar and nestle yourself between the regulars and industry professionals, or grab a seat next to Jacques, the 400-pound wooden bear in the corner, and you'll soon see why time means nothing at Rum Club. Bathed in light and steeped in tropical tradition, this former waiting room for now-defunct restaurant Beaker & Flask features minimalist earthy décor that serves as an inviting backdrop for the mouthwatering aroma coming from chef Devon Treadwell's kitchen. The Midnight Sandwich—his $12 take on a Cubano—pairs perfectly with the house daiquiri ($10), but there's still plenty on the menu for the brave or rum-averse. Try the Touch of Evil, a smooth, smoky and peppery mezcal drink that'll have you worshipping its devilish creator and pleading for more in to time.

By Arthur Wilson-Lasalle