Starky's Restaurant & Bar — Portland, OR (1984–2015)
For more than three decades, Starky's was one of Portland's most beloved LGBTQ+ gathering places—a neighborhood institution where brunch was just as important as the nightlife.
Opened in 1984 at 2913 SE Stark Street, Starky's occupied a cozy chalet-style building in Portland's Kerns neighborhood. More restaurant than dance club, it developed a loyal following thanks to its welcoming atmosphere, hearty comfort food, legendary Bloody Marys, lively karaoke nights, and one of the city's favorite Sunday brunches. Its spacious patio became a destination in its own right, making Starky's feel more like a neighborhood home than simply another bar.
Over the years, Starky's became a gathering place for every corner of Portland's LGBTQ+ community. It hosted Pride events, supported local charities, welcomed organizations including the Oregon Bears and leather groups, and served as a meeting place where longtime regulars mixed effortlessly with first-time visitors. It wasn't about being the loudest bar in town—it was about making everyone feel like they belonged.
In 2004, longtime partners Joe Waldroff and Greg Simshaw purchased the business, continuing its tradition of community involvement until retirement led them to sell the property. After 28 years of operation, Starky's closed in September 2015, and the building was demolished later that year to make way for apartments. For many Portlanders, its closure marked the end of an era.
Today, Starky's is remembered not only for its food and drinks, but for the countless birthdays, fundraisers, first dates, karaoke performances, Pride celebrations, and ordinary afternoons that became extraordinary because of the people who gathered there.
