Tough Luck & Lil' Barbecue

Tough Luck is a proper neighborhood cocktail bar on NE Dekum, but the main reason you’re here is for the smell of woodsmoke coming from its kitchen. A large, dog-friendly patio with a fire pit and plenty of seating – some of it covered – dominates the space, making it a center of gravity for the Woodlawn neighborhood. Walk inside, and you’ll find a classic bar setup with an impressive wall of liquor behind the counter and a laid-back, unpretentious feel. That kitchen is home to Lil' Barbecue, a full-on Texas-style operation from the founder of Austin’s acclaimed La Barbecue and a pitmaster who trained there. Smoked meats are the core of the menu, with brisket, pork ribs, and sausage made from brisket trimmings all served by the pound or on a platter. You’ll also find smoked chicken thighs – a dish unique to this Portland location – and a very simple flat-top burger made from brisket trimmings with American cheese, mustard, and pickles. The sides are just as serious, especially the tater tots, which have a perfectly crispy shell and an almost mashed-potato texture inside. There are even vegan "beet ends" for anyone skipping the meat. Unlike most serious barbecue spots, this one runs seven days a week and serves late into the evening. The vibe stays relaxed, especially on weekend afternoons when a DJ might be spinning records out on the patio. Minors are welcome until 9 p.m., and the bar pours frozen margaritas and Shiner Bock that are a perfect match for the food. For groups, the large combination platters are the easiest way to sample everything the kitchen puts out.