Keg and Kraken pairs Thai food, sushi and tropical drinks

What the public feedback says

Keg and Kraken holds a 4.7 Google rating from 250 reviews, a strong signal for a restaurant balancing several identities at once. It is described as a Thai restaurant, sushi spot, noodle shop and cocktail bar, and the available comments suggest that this breadth works in its favor. Diners repeatedly praise the food, drinks and service rather than treating any one part of the operation as an afterthought.

The overall tone is notably enthusiastic. Thai cooking receives some of the strongest approval, including claims that it ranks among Portland’s best. Sushi also earns positive remarks for freshness, presentation and depth of flavor. These reports frame Keg and Kraken as more than a bar with a broad menu. It appears to be a credible dinner choice for groups split between noodles, Thai plates and sushi.

Food and drink

Pad Thai is the clearest specific food recommendation in the supplied reviews. One diner used it as a first test of the kitchen and found it delicious. Other guests report ordering multiple appetizers and entrées, which suggests the menu lends itself to sharing and sampling across categories. Although the comments do not identify enough individual dishes to build a detailed ordering guide, Thai food is the most consistent point of praise.

Sushi rolls are described as fresh, attractively presented and flavorful. That makes sushi a sensible complement to the Thai side of the menu, especially for a table interested in mixing appetizers and rolls before moving to larger plates.

The drinks program also stands out. Reviews mention imported beer, sake and tropical cocktails, with Planter’s Punch and Mai Tai specifically receiving approval for bold flavor and strength. Floral garnishes and vibrant presentation reinforce the bar’s playful, tropical direction. Based on the supplied price level, the experience fits the mid-range category.

Service and setting

Service is one of Keg and Kraken’s clearest strengths. Diners describe staff as friendly, welcoming and helpful with recommendations. One birthday dinner report noted appetizers arriving in under 10 minutes and main courses following in under 25 minutes from ordering. That is only one account, but it supports the broader pattern of attentive, efficient hospitality.

The room is characterized as relaxed, with exposed brick and rafters set against modern black fixtures, distinctive wall art and a large clock. Fresh flowers, candles and decorative centerpieces add warmth. The setting appears suitable for both casual drinks and a celebratory meal, particularly for diners who want atmosphere without excessive formality.

Practical verdict

The main caution is seating. One review found the tables close together and the space cramped, so guests who prefer generous personal space may want to choose their timing carefully. Another account found the restaurant quiet, suggesting the experience may vary with the crowd.

Taken together, the public ratings and reviews make Keg and Kraken a compelling Portland option for Thai food, sushi and cocktails in one place. Its strongest case rests on flavorful cooking, fresh rolls, vibrant drinks and consistently warm service.