3 Things I’ll Miss Terribly About Samuels Bar and Grill in Portland

Samuel's shutting down is just something I wouldn't wish on my worst enemies. It feels like my heart which is full of my favorite degenerate memories from there is being ripped out of my chest.

Entirely too dramatic? Probably. Accurate as hell though? Also accurate. Let the emotional post begin.

Samuel's Bar and Grill

As many already know, Portland's most elite dive-bar just claimed Monday, St. Patrick's Day 2025 as their last operating day in business. I think I speak for many when I say that Forest Ave won't ever be the same again with Samuel's absence.

“Thank you all for the last 37 years in Morrill's Corner. It’s been a trip,” -Samuel’s Bar & Grill said in a Facebook post.

I don't mean to get all sappy, but here's a few feelings that only Samuel's can give you that I bet we're all going to miss the most.

Also Read: 3 Recent Maine Closures That Really Surprised Me

Almost Famous Tattoo and Piercing Portland

You and I both know that universal overwhelming feeling that you & your friends get when you finally pull into the parking lot that's shared with Almost Famous Tattoo.Will somebody hit my car if I leave mine in this sketchy lot for an hour?

That worry quickly decimates as you all immediately run towards that little blue door and hope that your favorite table is open.

Samuel's 5 Cent Mimosas

This one is going to sting bad. Not being able to wake up on a Saturday morning at literally anytime between 8 a.m &1 p.m to recap the previous night with your friends is criminal. Some of my favorite memories were made over their infamous buy one get the rest for 5 cents promo.

That unique hightop window seat table

Speaking of catching up with your friends, our tradition every month is to go sit at the corner hightop that looks out the window towards Forest Ave. Elite seating.

You and I both know that's the best seat in the house and friend groups literally fight over who can get there first all weekend. I can't explain it, but it's a thing, IYKYK.

Not to mention how badly we'll miss ordering a round of shots and buckets of tequila come back instead. Again, IYKYK.

I'll leave you with the good news though. Samuel's will be opening again, just on Washington Ave in Portland. Also North Deering Tavern is set to open where my beloved Samuel's once was.