Karaoke, sports, poker, good food Cruise down to Highway 26 for fun
by KT
Highway 26 - that's about half of Highway 51 (and twice as easy to find). As a restaurant, pub and waystation just off US Highway 26 East, it's open, friendly and easy to find.
The first impression from the outside, is that of welcome. Good lighting and plenty of free parking are a plus that many otherwise great places cannot offer. Inside, the building looks not so much rustic as reliable. The ceiling, with its open beam woodwork, demonstrates the building's unusual round construction. It's like a depot (or a short grain silo!). The food preparation and storage area are in a more conventional, rectangular section off to one side, and the outside-seating courtyard wraps around the other side.
On a recent evening, the place was comfortably filled with happy people playing pool, darts, video lottery games, bartop pub-trivia screens and more. Highway 26 packs in a lot of entertainment but still feels roomy. The radio-station background music is played through a very nice sound system, although a digital internet jukebox is featured.
Sports and Keno action are broadcast on several "regular" size TVs, but the huge 42-inch plasma screen holds possibly greater potential, including Saturday night UFC Fights. The full-service bar offers many beers and ales on tap and bottled.
The biggest news was the Halloween Bash, taking place Oct. 25, with many treats included. The next-biggest is the Buckhunter Contest offering cash prizes for first, second and third place. This Big Bucks Safari game is the newest Wii application yet!
Sunday afternoon offers Texas Hold ‘Em at noon; also Monday - Thursday at 7 p.m. Director Mary Sue Shuler runs this event (USTP); she is sharp, intelligent and vastly competent, so the fun in the games is ensured.
Karaoke is offered Wednesday through Saturday with DJ dance music Friday and Saturday evenings, so call ahead for the schedule of DJ/KJ hosts and special-occasion live music.
Bartender Ashly Carroll is the sweetest, cutest woman; she is always friendly and professional. Be sure to say hi to her while you are there.
Food and drink items and specials are too numerous to list here, so check ad this issue for more information.
Highway 26 is a short hop from Portland or Gresham, via Highway 26 east at the Boring, Ore. exit. Turn east and look to your immediate right. This venue is nestled in a generous spot close to a gas station, so it's easy to find. Set your car on cruise control for the best performance and enjoy the ride to Highway 26.