Milwaukie, Oregon just keeps getting cooler. The long-awaited transformation of the historic Milwaukie City Hall and firehouse is officially complete and opened on April 7. The two businesses that now call Milwaukie home are pFriem Family Brewers and Keeper Coffee — two beloved Northwest brands that can now be found under one iconic roof.
Located in the heart of downtown Milwaukie, this landmark building has been restored and reimagined into a space that celebrates both the past of the building and the present of the city.
pFriem’s new tasting room brings their award-winning lineup of Belgian- and German-inspired beers to a new crowd — this time, served in a space rich with historic charm. The design honors the building’s original character while blending in an incredible attention to detail.
One of the most exciting features? The original fire pole that was used in the building now doubles as a draft line, pouring pFriem’s special beers. A subtle circular opening in the ceiling marks where firefighters once slid into action — now a visual nod to the building’s storied past, carefully preserved for visitors to admire. And the giant garage doors can still open. This time to make an incredible indoor/outdoor seating location, not for the fire engines.
Inside, you’ll find reclaimed basketball flooring, vintage furniture and walls adorned with archival photos of Milwaukie, the firehouse and pFriem’s own brewing journey. Architectural curves and arches throughout the space were inspired by the building's original entryway (an iconic arch known throughout the town), creating a warm, cohesive design that invites exploration and reflection no matter what section of the restaurant you're in.
Visitors will be able to experience:
Sharing the same historic space is Keeper Coffee, a Portland favorite known for its meticulously crafted espresso drinks, house-made pastries and welcoming atmosphere. Keeper Coffee is a woman-owned business renowned for its commitment to quality, community and inclusivity. They proudly serve Coava Coffee, known for sustainable sourcing and exceptional roasts, along with a selection of teas. All of their pastries are made in-house, featuring both traditional and vegan or gluten-free options, crafted with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.
Whether you're starting your day or winding down after exploring the nearby Milwaukie Riverfront Park, Keeper Coffee is the perfect stop for your morning brew or an afternoon pick-me-up.
Located in the area around the building is the Milwaukie Sculpture Garden. This area is an engaging outdoor art space featuring six sculptures on a two-year rotation cycle, with three new pieces introduced annually. Whether you're a craft beer connoisseur, a coffee lover or a fan of historic buildings, this revitalized space in Milwaukie offers something for everyone. The next time you're in Milwaukie make sure to raise a glass (of coffee or craft beverage) to what’s possible when great design, history and hospitality come together.