McMenamins Kalama Harbor Lodge

Nestled along the scenic banks of the Columbia River, McMenamins Kalama Harbor Lodge's Cloud Bar offers a serene escape with its rustic yet cozy ambiance and panoramic views. During my recent visit, the enthusiastic and friendly staff elevated the experience, providing excellent service that added to the enjoyment. The diverse menu offered delicious options, from the rich and flavorful seafood chowder to the mouthwatering Kalama Burger, all showcasing the chefs' passion for their craft. However, the highlight was undoubtedly the breathtaking view of the river, whether enjoyed indoors or from the spacious deck. This combination of welcoming atmosphere, delightful food, and stunning scenery made dining at the Cloud Bar an unforgettable experience, perfect for both local residents seeking a weekend getaway and travelers passing through the area.

Went for dinner on our Anniversary. The view was beautiful but really that was the only good thing. Maybe we expected too much. Staff were dressed in very casual clothing, blue jeans and all mismatched. Our service person looked like she had barely made it out of bed that afternoon. Her hair wasn’t even combed. No hostess to seat us, waited 15 minutes on a week night. Finally a server got us to our table. No friendly banter. The food, eh! Husband had steak and garlic mashed potatoes. Not even a sauce came on them. I had fish and chips that tasted like the came from a burger place. We watched a staff member light the outdoor fire pit and then smoke a cigarette with a guest. Really expected more.

Visit Jeremy at the Ahles Point Cabin down the path from the lodge. He is so friendly and knowledgeable about the area. We learned a lot and he answered all of our silly questions. And the service can’t be beat! We stopped in for a quick bite and beverage and he made our day! Such a nice guy.

Despite the captivating ambiance, scenic views, and an enticing drink selection at Kalama McMenamins, the culinary experience falls short due to a watered-down white bean and bacon soup lacking in both beans and bacon and a dried-out flavorless chicken sandwich. It seems the owners should consider investing in culinary classes for their staff to ensure the overall dining quality matches the price and charm of their establishment.

I had high hopes for this new hotel located on the Columbia River and it was only an hour away from Portland. Yes, I'll give it a high five for great view of the river and mostly private porch. Having said that, this hotel is not particularly well run. Elevators not working all day on Sunday - so if you're on the 4th floor and need to haul your luggage down well... As far as on site restaurants - yes, they have great views as well, but same mediocre McMenamins food you get at any of their locations. If you're looking for a cozy bed, this is not the place. Sheets were low quality and scratchy. Management would be wise to keep staff on site and not send them home even if there is a slow period. Our staff member was working alone trying to serve quite a few people. She did a good job but sure could have used a helping hand. Yes, there is a coffee bar downstairs off the main lounge, but don't count on it being re-supplied if the coffee or cream are empty. For the money that was spent for a night (as in $387) I probably would have driven to Seattle and stayed at 4-star hotel with a view!

10/10 as always! Sarah at the front desk was absolutely incredible! We had excellent service in every one of the restaurants! Always a special treat to stay at McMenamins! Literally, I'm in awe of how lovely the staff is across the board. Thank you!!! Can't wait to come back!

The only reason this restaurant is still standing, is because they have a captive audience. The worst salmon, on top of an even more horrific Caesar salad. Our server was either in capable or overwhelmed, and we never could get her attention long enough to find out the reason. Keep driving!

The worst service, front desk, restaurants and bar. Accidentally left a bag containing 2 beach towels, 2 travel mugs and a new IPhone charger and cord. Returned 11 days later to retrieve it and after at least half hour wait for them to search for it she handed me a ripped dog food shopping bag which was not mine..containing my 2 beach towels, soaking wet, muddy and rancid smelling(I had never once used), 1 of my travel mugs, no phone charger, someone else’s travel mug, someone else coozie, someone else’s sunglasses. When I questioned her about it she offered to go get me a phone charger in back because they had so many! Nope. Now…how did all this happen? Where is my canvas bag, phone charger and new travel mug and how did the few items they did return to me get in someone else bag amongst who knows whose items? And..they didn’t even bother to research! When we checked out after our stay (which was another nightmare) a man was complaining about his dinner experience, which we well understood. We also witnessed several people just shaking their heads as they left..probably in disbelief. As we were waiting a couple with a large, hairy dog walked into the restaurant. No thank you!

Being on the Columbia River and surrounded by a great park, is tough to beat. Not very quiet as it’s off I-5 and by the railroad tracks. Didn’t like at all is they don’t have a fridge or microwave in rooms. The Wi-Fi is horrible and it seems there are no cell towers near. We suffered but McMenamins is still a unique chain.