Former stagecoach stop – Tillicum keeps tradition of class-A blues acts

For over 30 years, The Tillicum, 8585 S.W. Beaverton-Hillsdale Hwy, is known as the best class-A blues room on the west side. It's been around since the 1800s. Believe it or not, it was actually a stagecoach stop!

In the ‘70s and ‘80s, it was one of the hottest spots in all of Portland. It's been through a fair amount of change since those days, but the new owners say their goal is to return The Tillicum to its former glory! No small task in today's business climate, but an admirable goal everyone hopes they achieve!

Many upgrades were put in place by the previous owner. The many flat-screen TVs with NFL Ticket and other subscription sports events, new lighting, carpet and much more, add to it's appeal. It's still a cozy neighborhood hangout, but with an updated feel.

Happy hour every day gives the value-conscious patron many choices and the regular menu has a wide selection of favorites. This writer loves the $3.95 happy hour burgers and fries! You can't beat that for a great deal and a tasty meal. Friendly staff and a full bar round out a fun environment, whether you're just dropping in for happy hour, lunch, weekend breakfast or dinner before the music starts.

Entertainment, and specifically live music, has always been a huge part of the success of The Tillicum. The long-standing tradition as a blues room is continuing, but new owners are switching things up now and then as well. Most Saturday nights offer rock shows, with the blues artists primarily taking the Friday night slots. For the last month or so, Lloyd Jones and Jim Mesi have traded off every other Thursday, as well. Other Portland favorites such as Norman "The Boogie Cat" Sylvester, thelucyhammondband and The Sandy Saunders Band are part of the regular roster of artists at The Tillicum. (See Music on Tap this issue.) In addition to live music, there are DJs and on occasion, Karaoke. The pool tables are always bumpin' and the lottery machines flashin'! You'll find something you like most anytime you drop by.

When the chill of winter ends, the outdoor enclosed patio will be jumpin' for sure. This writer has spent many a sunny spring/summer evening there enjoying a margarita with friends. But for now, come in from the cold when you're in west PDX and try the killer Irish coffee, have a hot-buttered rum, or just warm up with some soup and a shot or two of Jäger!

Get out when you can and always support live music! See www.thetillicum.com and ad for more information.