Alu Restaurant & Wine Bar

Does anyone know why Alu is closed? I liked this place and was sad to hear it was closed. Are they still open for private events?
By the way, the 4 stars is for the restaurant experience when it was open.

I was disappointed to find Alu is no longer open to patrons (only available for events catering). I had a gift certificate from my mom (from
) and was looking forward to treating my friends. The website didn’t mention this; I will now look on Unilocal first to see if a restaurant is closed — since this is becoming more the reality than a trend in this economy. I do, however, wish them continued success in the catering business.

I liked the over-​the top attention to detail here. Granted, you pay for it, but don’t you want to get you some of that shade-​grown, free-​range, hormone-​free fermented grape juice? I like wine, and what I usually pay for a bottle landed me a glass here. That’s ok because I got to pick my seat, and there were some sweet seats to be had. I kind of felt like I was a baron of some medieval estate for some reason. Service was great, food was great, the wine was good too. Great job Alu.

I went with a girlfriend on a Thursday night after getting a gift certificate from
as a reward for taking like a billion consumer surveys.
I had been once prior when Alu was first opened and (I assume) under different ownership. I recall enjoying it but wasn’t overly impressed with the food menu. This go round, we sat on the patio in the back yard area and ordered a lovely bottle of rosé from the Quadry Winery. Our server was genuine and attentive, which I really do appreciate.
We ordered the Summer beans with pickled watermelon rinds,
toasted almonds, limes, and Briar Rose goat cheese. I loved this salad. It was light and refreshing and the quality of ingredients shined through. We also ordered the Chef’s cheese selection which was tasty, but not memorable. The bread came from Pearl Bakery, which I enjoy, but we didn’t get enough and weren’t offered anymore.
Overall, I really was given a positive impression of Alu this time around and will likely go back. Unfortunately, it’s a bit spendy so it won’t be as soon or as often as I’d like.

I LOVE this place!
The wine selection is fabulous (plus very bio dynamic friendly; huge plus!) the food was delicious, the service fantastic, and atmosphere second to none.
I can’t wait to go back!

When Alu put themselves on Groupon, they were not surprisingly deluged. Unlike several businesses I patronize who have had similar experience with the Groupon crowd, the Aluvians were unphased. The wines are really top notch and the staff ALL know their inventory. The food? I love this menu. I am a fan of odd flavors blended, when pulled off. And boy howdy, Alu pulls it off. Trout and beet salad? Go figure. It’s fabulous. We had scallops (yum!) and duck (ditto yum), and the salad.
I also love the difference between the downstairs (appeals to my vampire self) and the upstairs, trendy and chic.
EVERYONE is unfailingly polite. It’s a great spot.

ALU is our FAVORITE place to lounge and eat and drink and talk in Portland. And Portland is a town with lots of amazing places to do those things at! We always feel like we’re their favorite customers! I’We like to lounge and take our time and never feel rushed here. The staff is always smiling and ready to accomodate us.
If they have a special liquor in, say a smoky tequila straight from Mexico brought in by a friend earlier in the evening, they’ll make you a drink with it. If they have a favorite new wine in, they’ll let you taste it and anything else you’re wondering about. If you’re good you might even get your wine topped off or a leftover loaf of bread to take home or free popcorn. The chef might bring you your dinner and ask what you thought about the amazing flavor combination in the warm potato salad you had for an appetizer (which has nothing in common with potato salad you’ve had before except for the potatoes). And he really wants to know.
On a recent, lovely late winter evening we decided to sit on the back patio. Yes, it was a little chilly but we were given blankets and heaters and excellent service.
Love, love, love ALU and everyone who works there. So, go there. Don’t be in a hurry. Don’t expect gigantic portions. Treat yourself.

I adore Alu! It makes me feel sophisticated, sexy and chic — everything wine bars are supposed to. On my first visit, it was packed, and we sat at the bar. The bartender was very knowledgeable and willing to answer all of our questions and then some with total ease and just the tiniest bit of endearing pretentiousness. The wines are broken down into categories of region, and then have subcategories covering areas like biodynamic, organic, women-​owned, local, and a few others. The brilliant finish when your carefully selected glass of vino is served is a little tag sitting at the bottom of the stem to take home with you so as not to forget what you drank (perfect for someone like me who can never remember the name of any wine I have drank and liked!)
The décor of Alu is also well-​executed. The bathroom is elegant, the bar shimmery and welcoming, and I love love love the nixie tube clock behind the bar. On subsequent visits, my experience has been almost as wonderful. The service was a little off one night. The food portions are small and taste okay-​but honestly, I wouldn’t come back here for the food. This is definitely a place to bring a first date to impress her and ensure you’ll get more than a goodnight kiss!

Stopped in before attending another Celtic’s butt-​kicking of the Blazers, and we loved both Alu and the C’s win. We walked in through the very cool and huge swing-​door. We were warmly welcomed and told we could basically sit anywhere, having the option to sit: 1) in a cozy, dim-​lit lounge; 2) in an inviting, open but still pretty dim-​lit dining area; 3) outside in what looked to be an ideal patio setting (if it were a nice day).
Knowing we’d be drinking beer at the game, we glanced over a surprisingly deep and enticing beer list (considering it’s a wine bar). We started downstairs in the lounge with Portlands-​own, Upright Brewing «Five» Pale Ale (awesome), as well as some house-​pickled veggies (delicious) and a ciabatta sandwich of grilled mustard greens, zucchini, «eggplant caviar,» and feta (devine).
Desiring a shift to a more dining-​room-​like atmosphere, we headed upstairs and ordered some more food. The setting was relaxing and well-​designed. We loved the upside-​down wine-​rack tables and lighting. Others in the party immensely enjoyed the seared scallops (just 3 of them), served over white asparagus, with a cranberry-​elderberry reduction. The roasted beats, house-​smoked trout, and local pears were also thoroughly devoured.
Still a bit hungry, we opted for one more beer and the daily popcorn special (mole). The popcorn practically blew our minds; it was sensational. We opted for the hard-​to-​find (and cheap — like $ 2.75) Oranjeboom Lager from Holland, which hit the spot, being both light and refreshing.
The service was excellent. The entire staff we encountered were informative, genuine, and on top of things.
Only complaints would be the portion provided on the scallop dish for $ 14 (3 mid-​sized scallops, 2 spears asparagus), and a discrepancy b/​w the online menu and reality. The online menu says there are 2 beers available for the happy hour (daily 5 – 6) price of $ 2, but our waitress told us there were no happy hour beer specials. And hey loud-​mouthed lady who sat next to us, giving career advice to some poor gal, we’re not impressed, so stop talking so damn loud. I couldn’t even think, as you shouted about such «new» cool things as «rick-​rolling.»
Portions aren’t big here, so it may not be ideal for someone who is REALLY hungry, but the gourmet sandwiches are a decent value, as are the pickled veggies and daily popcorn ($ 3). Seems like a good bet for happy hour w/​popcorn only being $ 1, and featured glasses of wine for only $ 5.

I just had the chance to try Alu for the first time last night. I was invited for a special pouring of awesome pinot noirs by Kelley Fox, Ghost Hill, and 1789. All three are top notch, Oregon, Artisanal Pinot Noirs, and all made by very attractive, fun, and interesting ladies.
The tasting was downstairs… Awesome vibe… like a party in someone’s cool basement (way cooler than mine).
After the tasting, went upstairs for some grub. Menu looked great and there were some interesting wine choices… we had olives/​almonds, pickled veggies, rillette of pork, carrots (LOVED THEM), and some kind of good sandwhich.
Service was laid back, yet attentive. We had the good luck to have our new friend Thibeaud Mandet (Willakenzie winemaker) join us and we spent the rest of the night enjoying good food and great conversation.
The only complaints I have are:
1. Wine selection — I think there should always be an inexpensive «house wine,(red and white) whether a tasty but inexpensive spanish red or something else. when the least expensive wine is $ 9/​glass… I’m not a cheap person. but after tasting some of the best pinot noir coming out of Oregon, I just wanted a simple/​cheap/​easy drinking red.
2. pickled veggies — WAY too vinegary and not enough veggie flavor. I make pickles and mine are a jillion times better… private message me and I’ll give you a better recipe.
3 Music — too loud. way too loud (but hey, I just turned 40, so maybe I’m just too old).
All in all, 3 of us ate quite a bit, and drank quite a bit for about $ 80 before tip. Not a bad deal.
My wife loved the décor and we’ll definitely be back to give it another shot.

I had the pleasure of spending several hours at Alu on a Saturday night. Already in use for a private gathering, the tantalizing, mysteriously-​lit lounge would have been my preferred location. The upstairs was no slouch, with tasteful, mod/​Victorian décor with – as described by a friend – «the classiest bathroom in Portland.»
The wine selections were eclectic and erudite, and included a Viognier, a varietal that deserves more airtime in a world awash with bimbo chardonnays and cloying rieslings.
As for food, the grilled mustard green sandwich and sea scallops entrees we selected were adroitly executed with simple, honest flavors throughout. While portion sizes on these items were not tiny, I believe one would best savor – not devour – these items.
Service was prompt and friendly, and despite a sizable number of people, extremely efficient.
Overall, a great addition to the lounge scene in NE Portland!

I love the atmosphere at this wine bar!
The first time I went was for a birthday party. We hung out in the lounge area downstairs which was very accomodating for a medium-​sized group although it was a little dark.
Went back for dinner with my boyfriend and we were very pleasantly surprised! The pumpkin gnocchi and chocolate/​hazelnut dessert were both amazing! There was something else we tried that I wasn’t a huge fan of – some sort of rabbit meat patty sort of thing with a fancy name that was a little too dry. Our waiter was very helpful with wine recommendations and in my opinion they have a great selection. When we paid we used a coupon and it didn’t irk our waiter at all (I hate when the server cops an attitude if you use a coupon.)
Can’t wait to go back!

Mmm, Alu is a luscious loungey hideaway, with red silk dupioni drapes, gilded ceiling, velvet Victorian settees, dim lighting, antique crystal chandeliers, and bricks and wood galore. If you’re a sensory person, then the rich textures, colors, flavors, and lighting of Alu will wash over you in a very pleasing, mood-​altering way. Their menu says «alu is about enjoying life. alu is a romantic escape. alu is a destination of discovery. alu is about food and wine. alu is a taste of passion.» Indeed. Someone spent some serious time and thought on every little detail of this place, and they nailed it. The mood is soft and sexy, and it makes you want to linger. What could be more perfect for a Portland wine bar?
Service was friendly and welcoming, albeit a tad slow for my taste, initially. Once our server noticed us sitting in the corner at the table next to the kitchen, he was super helpful and friendly.
The bottled beer selection is great, and of course they have a great wine selection with the helpful little hang tag telling you what is in your glass. I asked for a softer, fuller, more luscious red wine, and the bartender nailed it by offering me a glass of 2005 Domaine Lafarge Rouge, Coteaux du Quercy, France. (I wouldn’t even have remembered how to spell that if it weren’t for the handy tag.) I wanted to take a bath in that wine, it was so good. In a clawfoot bathtub, of course.
The food was delicious. In fact, while they seem to be marketing themselves as a wine bar, I think they could stand alone as one of Portland’s best restaurants if they expanded their menu. Expect small plates, so you will want to sample a few. The scallops were divine, as was the smoky beef brisket with carmelized onions and horseradish vinagrette: it exploded with flavors (the only drawback was that it was a cold sandwich, and for some reason I expected hot.) The seasoned popcorn was unexpected as an appetizer, and it was really tasty. The olive/​almond dish is great – a nice big helping with lots of olives in all different colors and varieties. We finished our repast with a chocolate terrine with toasty hazelnuts and white chocolate whiskey caramel sauce. Wow.
They do have a limited happy hour, 4−6pm, but I think it is only $ 1 off drinks. Happy hour menu:
Here’s a link to their regular menu:
I didn’t even know this place was here and have driven right past it, probably a couple hundred times. The corrugated metal siding and big modern sign gives nothing away of what lurks behind that massive front door. It felt like I discovered a secret hidden jewel of Portland, once inside. To think, I could have been eating and drinking and lounging in here for months! We plan to go back, often.
p. s. They told us the mood and energy changes on Friday and Saturday night (more packed, & louder) so keep that in mind. I can’t wait until summer to enjoy their outdoor deck.

Alright, how can I make my point…
If I were restaurant, assuming restaurants had genders and sex drives — I would put out for Alu on the first date. Hell, I would put out when Alu picked me up at my house. That’s how good it is.
From the second I opened the massive axis-​door into a toasty, low lit, sexy dining room I was impressed. The first floor was empty but amazing smells were wafting down the steps along with the Shaft theme song… I knew that’s where I needed to be. My girlfriend and I grabbed a table and let our fabulous server Kurt, choose our wines and guide us through the uniquely designed menu and dinner options. The wine choices were amazing and I wanted to try and order everything he suggested. I’m a sucker for Italian reds though. I love the wine tags that come on the stem when you order by the glass. I can never remember what wines I order — what a perfect solution Alu!
The food, also simply amazing. Nice portions, very reasonably priced, fresh and full of flavor and textures. The roasted beet panzanella with house pancetta was not something I normally would have ordered, but am so glad it was suggested. It sounded summery to me but surprised me with how the citrus blended with the roasted beets and of course the big Italtian red I was drinking. It was my favorite dish!
I was just there last night and I am already trying to find somebody to go back with me tonight!
Alu, I am enamored with you.

Alu is awesome… especially if you are one to explore the world of «out of the box» food, made with local ingredients.
First off, I used to go to Alu when it had a heavy German influence. I thought it was great at the time (this is coming from a German), but I didn’t really think that is worked with the overall concept. Enter the new Alu. Now we’re talking!
The wine list is great as is the beer and cocktail selection. The menu is limited, which in this case is nice because it almost forces you to try something you normally wouldn’t. We started off with the pickled veggies. They were actually a great starter! It was not your usual dill pickle flavor. but had a mild vinegar taste with a bit of a spicy finish. Yum!
For entrees, I had the Tuna salad in a Pita. Sounds simple right. Make that fresh yummy tuna, with orange and other delicious flavors. Awesomeness redefined. My only gripe: the salad that accompanied the pita was made using bitter lettuce. I tasted as if i was gnawing on a the bush next to me. Skip that.
All and all a wonderful place. The back patio is the perfect place to enjoy dinner during the warm summer months.
Food: B
Wine and Beer: A
Price: A
Ambiance: A+
Hours: B

I went to Alu for a friend’s birthday get together and was impressed with the joint. The décor is sexy– lust den and the wines were great! This is definitely a spot for seduction. There was even a solo musician there doing a nice mix of soft guitar mixed with coronet. He even busted out with Led Zepplin in a very subdued way.
The reason why this place doesn’t get 5 stars was the service. As I had mentioned I was there with a party, a very mellow party I might add and for some reason this seemed to annoy the server. She was decent to me, but very rude to the others in my party. I had to flag her down a few times to have her acknowledge my friends requests for more drinks.
Also, our server brought the checks out to us before we requested them. It was nowhere near closing time either, so i think she just wanted us out of there. That was a bummer because I was ready for a third glass of wine.
I would go there again in hopes that I don’t get that gal again.

To quote my hero, Borat, «I like to make sexy time.» And sexy time is what you will have at Alu. With the red walls, heavy red drapes, and crystal chandeliers, its hard not to feel the mood. Add some juicy red wine and international cuisine and you have the makings for the perfect date.
The wine list is very well rounded and reasonably priced… and the added bonus… PATIO… yesssssss! Simply can’t go wrong.

I love Alu because it has:
1. a great big revolving door
2. flights of wine to sample. I tried the rose flight, based on my server’s suggestion, and all three were divine.
3. all male servers. all CUTE male servers. (at least the night I was there.) And they’re all so friendly!
4. good snacks (German-​themed though? Really? Kind of odd. But totally delicious – the almonds were a salty and satisfying snack)
5. Here’s the kicker, here’s where it would get 5 stars even if it were half as good:
30% off the TOTAL BILL for service industry peeps.
(WOW)
For my wine-​loving friend and I, that was about a glass or two of wine for free! Yeesh. Simply amazing.
Great wine, great service, Amazing atmosphere, and then a discount on top of that.
I’m in love.
*swoon*

Cruising for late night grub, we saw Alu was open. While I had read Laura N’s review of it, I’d …uh… associated it with a different spot. But hindsight is ²⁰⁄₂₀ if it wasn’t half-​cocked right now.
So we stopped at Alu and were immediately awed by the entry. For some reason Ozymandias came to mind. There were table downstairs but I didn’t investigate, as it was late and the noise was up.
The bar is gorgeous. Super friendly. They have a late night menu with various plates, including a very interesting pizza and some tasty spaetzel. The pizza was somewhere between quiche and ‘za. Pretty nice.
But what I really liked was my beverages. And the atmosphere. Friendly, and accurate on the recommendations… I had a delicious rioja, recommended, and oddly priced at the bottom of the menu. I don’t know about the port price, but it was delicious. And not sticky sweet.
The can is something special. It just feels askew and you must visit.
So rock and roll… and check out the freakin totally interesting Alu.
ps. they have outdoor seating.

I’ve heard Alu referred to as a «lusty drinking den» which is only a minuscule summation of this arousing wine bar and restaurant. Superbly savvy Alu managed to ditch the posh’ed out swanky style and attitude that swarms bars on the other side of the river, and simply infuse Alu with passion.
Asking me to convey the instant affection and attraction that I felt to Alu (Perhaps short for Allure?) is not unlike asking: «describe the Universe, give examples. Go.» It was extremely experiential, from the strange garage door opening and outside metal paneling (what IS this place? A dentist’s office, a shoe store?) to the tiniest details of solid stainless steal napkin rings and flirty menu ribbons. Small antique chandeliers and floor lamps dimly light the upstairs, reflecting off hand-​plated gold leaf ceilings and ornate wall mirrors, while the downstairs bathed in the romantic glow of tea lights upon large family style dark wood tables. The entire venue is seeped in deep red, from the curtains to the antique chairs and couches.
While my mouth didn’t care about the surroundings, it certainly felt a strong passion for the Kasespatzle, the cold cuts, the spice cake, and the crème brûlée that I spoiled it with.
My only hesitation about sharing this this new love affair with Alu is that I will not have Alu to myself much longer…