Kennedy School Hotel

What a neat place! Drove by while getting the lay of the land in Portland, and was told that this old school had been turned into a restaurant, theater, a couple of bars. I thought it looked interesting, but was really looking for an Irish pub. After driving around by myself and not wanting to get too far off the beaten path from my hotel, I decided I'd turn around and check it out. Really glad I did!! I loved school as a kid, so wandering around this refurbished school, I couldn't help but keep a smile on my face. It was just such a different type of place. I really liked what I saw. I went to the "office" to find out where the rooms were laid out. They utilize the whole building, making some rooms into hotel rooms even -which surprised me but what a different idea! I ate in the restaurant and afterwards just scoped the place out. Seems like they do a lot of community fundraising and other local events. I noticed some really small rooms with 5 or 6 tables in a darkly lit environment that were the little drinking rooms. Very cozy, would have been an offbeat place for a date. Food was ok, I didn't have anything special, but the environment was what got me. I'd go back there for sure!

Best place in the world: Typical McMenamins food, which is always good, the and atmosphere is awesome. Did I mention I did the structural engineering?

good place to bring people from out of town: this novel jack of all trades location is a great place to meet up with friends old & new... though you might try the concordia ale house just a couple of blocks away if you're in the mood for more than bar food.