The main draw of rontoms is the unique space. Which can get confusingly crowded at the bar they really need to establish a drink-ordering area. Like I said, great place to drink and the food (esp. the cheese fondue) while not exactly gourmet is pretty good to soak up the booze.

rontoms - you were a blessing to the eastside... plenty of big cozy seating inside, the best patio in town, good food choices for everyone, local liquor in affordable cocktails-- I would still say you're one of my favorite bars... but I've had to leave the last few times because the music was so loud. You're set up to be a fabulous conversation bar- but if you can't even do that... then... my money has to go elsewhere. turn it down a smidgen. seriously. you're losing good business.

Sometimes self-righteousness is a good thing. It preserves a sense of pride and quality that is so-often lacking at other bars (and people) who opt for the cheapest, dumbed-down versions of everything. Rontoms nails it with his constant commitment to quality and innovation. Rontoms filled his bar with hand-picked vintage furniture, design elements to create cozy, conversational spaces and there's not one damn logo in the entire place (how utterly refreshing). They created a menu of high-quality and innovative dishes and frequently publish creative new drink menus. Every once and a while they host events, but only allow really good bands and groups to use the space. They're not just trying to hook in anyone with money or draw. They stick with what's good. Say what you will about how obnoxious Ron and his staff are, they still do it better than you would and they should be damn proud about it.

Hey - everyone's right on this one! The trained monkey's behind the bar can pour drinks, and the staff can carry them to your table. I'm glad the retardtenders refuse to talk to me when i order at the bar - saves me some money tip-wise. I do dig the fondue, otherwise the food is just okay. The space is well-considered, and I give them props for that, but walls and furniture don't make up for the lack of customer service - that's right, as in service industry.

Rontoms is a good place to hang out after work or early in the evening if you actually want to talk to your friends. We have always sat by the fireplace (cozy), had minimally adequate service (cmon, people, this is Portland) and were able to hear each other. The cheese fondue is great and I've not heard many complaints about the food. That being said, the atmosphere does change later in the evening to loud music, 20 something crowds and no dance floor which probably would make things even more confusing. But overall, it's a good place to go. Either go early for hanging out or late for the scene. Some of the waitresses are a little bitchy, but I probably would be too if I had to walk 200 feet to a table!