Cocktail bar Fools and Horses slings sultry vibes, paniolo flavors in the Pearl District

Fools and Horses presents a unique opportunity to taste the blending of Western cattle ranching culture and Pacific island ingredients.

A plate with olives, crackers, preserved meats, cheeses, and various vegetables sits atop a dark wood table surrounded by drinks.

Pickled leeks and edible flowers take Fools and Horses’ charcuterie board to unique heights.

Photo by Cambrie Juarez, PDXtoday

It took very little convincing to get us through the doors of Fools and Horses — the name alone piqued our interest.

The Pearl District cocktail bar is where sophisticated meets rural. Despite being created by the same man who launched Pink Rabbit next door, Fools and Horses is the neon-lit watering hole’s atmospheric antithesis. Its sultry, mature vibe is the sum of its parts: dark walls, natural lighting, details alluding to Hawaiian ranching history, and a sprawling, backlit bar.

Bring your date, your bestie, or friends from work who appreciate fresh, seasonal flavors and a diverse range of cocktails, many of which showcase American whiskies. Try the Fools Gold and Direct Flight cocktails. Bright and refreshing, plus easy on the eyes.

You’ll also find small plates showcasing “frontier spirit” and paniolo culture. Local oysters ($1.50 each during happy hour), stuffed apricots, cheeses served with lilikoi butter, and cod lettuce wraps are on the menu, along with a build-your-own charcuterie board.

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