Alu Wine Bar on NE MLK opened to great fanfare back in 2007. Though it was a very cool, romantic space, the food never lived up to the atmosphere, and they closed in 2009. Later the same year, they reopened under new owners and a new chef.
Unfortunately, the business just never seemed to catch on. I liked it as a place that was off the beaten path, a nice place for a quiet glass of wine or a beer. But the parking was difficult, and the dash across MLK at night could be rather unnerving. Apparently, others thought so too, and word reached me today that Alu has closed its doors once again.
RIP
brett says
damn. Never used my Groupon. That’s a waste.
Shannon says
Wow, I just went there with some friends a few weeks ago and we all really like the atmosphere and vibe. I am sorry to hear this.
Neill says
This was a great place, and I’m bummed that it’s closed.
I found it because Toro Bravo always has a 1 hour wait, and Secret Society can’t hold all of the runoff. Too bad Alu couldn’t have picked up more of Toro Bravo’s runoff, they may have hung on…
Nay Shayan says
Darn! I really like that place and I had a Groupon to use. Totally sucks!
themick says
Dejalu!
aaron crane says
damn, really. sean temple is one of the most talented chefs in this city, doing things that no one else is doing and doing them well. too bad and best wishes to the crew.
Bonnie says
Wow, I was just there last night.
S.A. says
GROUPON will refund whatever you paid out … and they USUALLY know before we, the clients, do, and will e-mail you and tell you so. This time you know before them. Just call or e-mail them and they’ll credit your account (AND the accounts of all others who have an outstanding Groupon!)
Devlyn says
Wow, that really sucks. I really liked Alu and spent many an hour there chatting with their very knowledgeable wine staff. Plus, they had great pork rillettes and other food. :(
Lauren says
Hmm, I was just there this past Saturday (Oct. 2nd) for drinks. Is it an upcoming closure?
Edward Tylicki says
Sean Temple’s cooking was great. Hopefully he lands someplace else soon; one of Portland’s underappreciated really talented chefs. I feel back for the staff which was generally quite nice.
Alu says
Sadly it is true that Alu has closed its doors to regular business. However, we still have the space available for private parties and gatherings. Also, we plan to have a couple of retail wine sales. We will send out updates on Facebook for these events.
Rick Smith says
So much for my Groupon. Bought it ’cause I heard it was better the 2nd time they opened. I went there just before they closed the 1st time. It was all atmosphere. Horrible service (waited for 20 minutes before someone said hi) and the food was cold and bland. Bummer since I lived close to it. MLK is a tough piece of dirt to open a restaurant on – but if you do you better make it exceptional.
Alu says
@Rick Smith. Groupon will refund your money, just give them a call.