McMenamins Kalama Harbor Lodge

The only employee that was really friendly at this hotel and their restraunts was Rachel at check in. She was so sweet and accommodating. We ate at the cloud bar on the 4th floor. We also ate at the McMinnimums restraunt down stairs on the first floor. I have to say the employees were so very unfriendly in the restraunts. No smile, no chit chat, they all just seem miserable. We did encounter a male bar tender that was kind of friendly. But all female bar tenders and wait staff were very unhappy looking. McMinnimins needs to look into why their employees are so unhappy. The hotel was a treat, the secret rooms were a blast to find. Our room was 214, we loved it!! Thank you again Rachel!!!

For the price ($340), this was a disappointment. The room was “town view”, which should be called “parking lot and freeway view”. The front desk guy was unwelcoming, the restaurant staff was abrupt and not attentive. The room decor was pretty but there was no refrigerator or microwave. The towels were small and thin.

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.

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!