Tapalaya’s site says their signature hand-crafted cocktails and small plates are made from scratch with love—and after imbibing said yummy drinks and partaking in the deliciousness, we are believers.

The first thing you need to know about Tapalaya is that it’s one of those fancy pants portmanteaus: tapas plus jambalaya. Yep, Tapalaya, on NE 28th and Burnside (a.k.a. restaurant row) is all about Cajun-Creole food served up in small portions. A “bite” of N’awlins, if you will. Tapalaya’s site says their signature hand-crafted cocktails and small plates are made from scratch with love—and after imbibing said yummy drinks and partaking in the deliciousness, we are believers. Converted to the church of Tapalaya, that is.

When we think about the Big Easy, we think about two things: a strong, proud culture and a friendly, fun-loving atmosphere. Tapalaya captures this vibe perfectly, if we do say so ourselves. Walk in the doors and you’ll hear classic New Orleans brass bands on the speakers—and if you order your Gris Gris Margarita or Hurricane nicely, Ryan the bar manager might even throw out a accented “y’all” at…y’all. Speaking of the Gris Gris, that’s definitely the drink you should order. Named for a voodoo amulet that acts as a magic talisman, this number is made with house-infused cucumber tequila, triple sec, muddled oranges and lime juice. What’s that? You’re a Bourbon enthusiast? Well then, you’re in luck: Tapalaya is a regular connoisseur of bourbon whiskey, serving up the likes of Pappy Van Winkle’s Family Reserve.

As for the fixins, you can’t go wrong at Tapalaya: think house-made Cajun chips (those will disappear quickly, so jump on them before your friends do), jambalaya, blackened catfish, gumbo, Po’ Boys…everything you want out of a New Orleans kitchen—just in Portland-sized proportions and Portland-sized prices. So the next time you’re feeling like a mellow night out on the town, just…well, laissez le bon temps rouler. Enough said.

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Menu Highlights:
Gris Gris Margarita, $7
Tapalaya Jambalaya, $8
Crabby Mac, $7
Beet Salad, $5

Hours:
Monday - Thursday, 4:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Friday & Saturday, 4:30 pm - 10:30 pm
Sunday, 4:30 pm - 9 pm