Big River Taproom — Restaurant in Saint Helens

Pros: The fries were tasty, and I have to give a shout out to their housemade ranch and fry dip! Super yummy. The atmosphere was comfy, kinda rustic bar look. My Dad liked his chili dog. And, our server was pretty attentive and nice. Cons: While the fries were tasty... they were also barely warm. I had to eat a bunch right away before they were cold. It would be good to prep everything else before throwing those in. I ordered the Hot Italian beef sandwich, I was really disappointed cause it sounded so good. The beef portion... well all of the contents VS. the size of the bread was Way off. And, looking at other pictures, I probably got about 1/4 of the amount of beef as others I have seen on Google reviews....posted by the restaurant. Also- the quality of the beef tasted processed... not like the texture of a real piece of meat sliced. The cheese wasn't melted whatsoever so it was falling out of the sandwich, and overall it lacked flavor. Like nothing was salted/peppered, no seasoning to find. It may have been 'drenched' in au jus; but I would have preferred to have it as a dip cause my bread was just all soggy while the contents was pretty dry and tasteless. I would go back... but I would order something different. If this is their signature sandwich... they should think about firstly making the amount of meat/veggies/melty cheese consistent; but also, think of something that really brings it...

I had never been here before, thought trying a new place would be fun. When we arrived we were exicted that there was only three customers in the place, figured it would be a nice quiet evening. I am Not happy at all with our visit, between the warm beer and having to order our food over again. Dont even ask me about the workers dispositions. After sending our food back because it wasnt what we ordered, the "cook" ate it while making our next batch of questionable food... Im good. I wont be back.

In short: Big river tap room is the epitome of a "dive bar" and i dont mean the same as in the new age kids definition either... id recommend the "skinny's gas station" chili fry's and a cheap six pack from the cooler, before i recommend this...

I really enjoyed this cute little spot tucked into an intimate corner of the St. Helens downtown. Despite it nearly being closing, the super friendly server (who was happy to discuss their "nerdy tattoos") easily handled a party of 8. Big River offers an impressive selection of draft beers and ciders, as well as back of house wine bar, which I will definitely be trying next time around. We were famished from camping on nearby Sand Island (which I also recommend) and satiated ourselves with mountains of chili cheese fries and elote hot dogs, which were ravenously chomped by all. Definitely a must stop spot in the ever evolving St....