Hawthorne Boulevard is getting a new hangout, and this one comes with burgers, bologna sandwiches, and a self-declared “ultimate chill zone.” The owner of Sellwood staple Smitty's Taphouse has purchased the former Gigantic Brewing pub on SE Hawthorne and is turning it into Steely’s Taproom, a new neighborhood-focused bar-and-burger spot in the high-traffic corridor.
Instead of chasing tasting menus or fussy cocktails, the plan is straightforward: a classic tavern, a carefully chosen tap list, and food that plays nicely with a pint. In a part of town that never exactly hurts for bars, the bet here is on comfort, regulars, and a low-key vibe over high concept.
According to the Portland Business Journal, the project pairs the Smitty’s owner with the team behind the Little Brother burger pop-up. The outlet identifies Quinn Gilsdorf as one half of the Little Brother duo and reports that the partners bought the Hawthorne building specifically to launch Steely’s Taproom.
Gigantic Brewing has already said its goodbyes. The brewery’s website confirms that its Hawthorne pub has closed and offers a short “thank you to Hawthorne” message as the company turns its attention to its other locations. Bridgetown Bites notes that the Hawthorne spot poured its last beers on Saturday, January 24, and that the building subsequently went up for sale.
What Steely's Will Serve
Bridgetown Bites reports that Steely’s menu will stick to classic tavern fare like burgers, bologna sandwiches, wings and fries, paired with a curated set of beers on tap. The team has described its goal as creating “the world’s first ultimate chill zone, the most non sports bar sports bar,” which should give Hawthorne residents a sense of the laid-back, neighborhood-first atmosphere they are aiming for. It sounds less like a place to obsess over hop varieties and more like a spot to meet your friends and stay awhile.
From Sellwood To Hawthorne
Smitty’s Taphouse has been operating in Sellwood for years, quietly building a reputation for its rotating tap list and regular collaborations. The bar has hosted pop-up partners such as Little Brother, so this new partnership on Hawthorne should feel familiar to its established crowd. Smitty’s calendar of recurring events and guest-food nights on its site also hints at what Steely’s might eventually offer once it finds its footing.
The timeline, however, is still a work in progress. The Portland Business Journal reports that the partners have not set an opening date yet, as they are finalizing plans and preparing for the build-out. Permits, construction, and an official announcement will ultimately determine when Hawthorne’s former Gigantic space starts pouring under its new Steely’s banner.
