In recent years, rooftop lounges have become the hottest boites in cities with large populations and lively social arenas. New York, Miami and Los Angeles have open-air hotspots aplenty, making the already rowdy nightlife scene even more so. So it was interesting to see Portland, Oregon, a mid-sized city not known for its chichi bar […]The post Departure Restaurant and Lounge, Portland appeared first on Pursuitist.

In recent years, rooftop lounges have become the hottest boites in cities with large populations and lively social arenas. New York, Miami and Los Angeles have open-air hotspots aplenty, making the already rowdy nightlife scene even more so. So it was interesting to see Portland, Oregon, a mid-sized city not known for its chichi bar scene get in on the action. In April 2009, The Nines Hotel, a LEED-certified property in the historic Meier & Frank building, opened Departure Restaurant and Lounge. It has become the go-to spot for anyone wanting a great glass of Oregon Pinot Noir under the stars.A special elevator transports guests to the 15th floor. Upon entering the 9,000-square-foot space you feel as if you?re in the lounge of a luxury yacht. A teak bar sits below a massive windshield skylight. Sailcloth panels abound. An expansive nautical mural encompasses the entire dining area. Supple white leather booths surround geometric teak tables. A small stateroom is available for private parties. It?s elegant yet sporty but if you stay indoors, you?ll miss ou...