The best bars & nightlife in Portage County

4 places we’ve checked and would send a neighbor to. Open any one to read what we wrote about it.

4 places · newest first

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Water Street Tavern (opens in a new tab)

132 S Water St · Kent

Kent State fans gather here for pregame drinks & stay for the 20 TVs, live music & rooftop patio.

Kent State fans gather here for pregame drinks & stay for the 20 TVs, live music & rooftop patio.

Ray’s Place (opens in a new tab)

135 Franklin Ave · Kent

A convivial draft beer specialist serving burgers, salads & other familiar fare.

A convivial draft beer specialist serving burgers, salads & other familiar fare.

Pulp Juice and Smoothie Bar (opens in a new tab)

1708 E Main St · Kent

Local smoothie & juice chain with diverse beverage options, plus health-minded eats such as wraps.

Local smoothie & juice chain with diverse beverage options, plus health-minded eats such as wraps.

North Water Brewing Company (opens in a new tab)

101 Crain Ave · Kent

North Water Brewing Company anchors Kent’s Mill District with world class craft beer, from approachable lagers to boundary pushing ales.…

North Water Brewing Company anchors Kent’s Mill District with world class craft beer, from approachable lagers to boundary pushing ales.

From the Kent newsletter, September 10, 2026