Roake's on Columbia — Restaurant in Portland

Roake's is special. Not too many eateries have been around since 1937. There's a reason why and it's because they stick to what they do well and give people what they want. When I write about hot dogs, often times people will mention Roake's. My favorite hot dog in the area is Zach's Shack but Roake's is its own thing much like In-N-Out is in its own lane when it comes to burgers. The joint has a cool 1950's vibe with vinyl booths and doo-wop music. I ordered the long sausage. with mustard, onion and Coney Roake's sauce. It looks like mess in the photo but it was tasty. It wasn't like what I expect from a sausage. My daughter went with their regular dog. I'll probably just go with that next time. We also ordered some fries and a bowl of chili. It was nice for dipping the fries. I learned they have two locations and that this one began in the 90's. I want to go to the original 1930's location and try their cheeseburgers. NOTE: Its cash only. Bring pictures of dead Presidents. Check out my profile for more great eateries and craft...

I really like the place I've been going to Roake's for over 50 years since I was a kid only thing I don't like is awful expensive for basically a hot dog and a hamburger when you at that point you might as well just go to a nice restaurant not that the food isn't good it is it just awful expensive. was there just for a couple of hamburgers and a couple of hot dogs that cost me $ 30 bucks hell for that amount as well gone and got steak somewhere and gone to a better restaurant that's the only Things really can say is bad the help and everything did a good job it's not the fifties place that it used to be it's kind of sad that way it's lost some of its Miss steak and sense the mom's been gone and the kids have taking over but it's still a cool place I give it 5 stars but like I said it's awful expensive specially if you take the kids or anybody there or grandkids plan on spending about 75 to a hundred bucks that's the only bad thing other...

Roake’s on Columbia is a classic diner that hits all the right nostalgic notes. With its clean black-and-white decor accented by striking red neon, it feels like stepping back in time. The vibe is welcoming and charming, though it’s worth noting it was cash-only during my visit, so come prepared.

The food? Deliciously messy in the best way possible. I ordered the Roaker Burger, which features their signature Coney sauce alongside onions, lettuce, tomato, and pickles. The flavors were spot on, and the sauce made it extra memorable. I also got a basket of fresh-cut fries, which were perfectly crispy and tasted great—though definitely the kind you want to eat right away for the best experience.

Service was fast and friendly, and while I didn’t try a milkshake, they looked incredible. If there’s one thing to keep in mind, have plenty of napkins ready, this is messy, satisfying diner food done right.

Would I go back? Absolutely. Next time, I’m not...