If you’re a restaurant or bar owner in Oregon, navigating the complex world of insurance can be daunting. You face unique risks that require specialized coverage to protect your business. This guide simplifies that journey, providing an easy-to-understand overview of what to look for in an insurance company and the types of insurance policies crucial for your business.
Coverage Options: General liability, liquor liability, loss of income, and property coverage.
Costs: Vary significantly—comparing options is essential.
Company Reputation: Choose companies with strong claims handling and customer satisfaction.
| Company | Coverage Options | Costs | Reputation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trusted Choice | Custom packages available | Varies; comparison recommended | Positive, with a large network of agents |
| Hospitality Insurance | Specializes in food & beverage industry | Competitive with discounts | Highly knowledgeable, Oregon/Washington focused |
| T.W. Morgan Insurance | Tailored to restaurant needs | Custom quotes based on needs | Strong local presence with personalized service |
Protects your business from:
Customer injuries (slips, falls)
Food-related illnesses
Damage to customer property
Legal fees and settlements
Coverage usually starts at $1 million—more coverage = better protection.
Required by Oregon law for businesses with liquor licenses. Covers:
Injuries or damage caused by intoxicated patrons
Legal defense costs
Property damage
Minimum: $300,000, but $1 million or more is recommended.
Covers damage to:
Your building
Equipment and furnishings
Inventory and supplies
Also includes:
Business interruption/loss of income
Equipment breakdown
Required for all employees. Covers:
Work-related injuries
Medical care and lost wages
Protection from employee lawsuits
Premiums depend on payroll, job type, and workplace safety.
Overview:
Large network of 300+ Oregon agents
Works with multiple top-rated insurers
Personalized support
Specialized Services:
All core coverages (liability, property, liquor, workers’ comp)
Risk reduction advice
Bundling discounts
Pros:
Huge local presence
Custom plans
Expert advice
Cons:
Quotes not available online
Services vary between agents
Cost Factors:
Type of restaurant
Business history
Safety measures (sprinklers, alarms)
Overview:
Based in Portland, OR
35+ years in restaurant/bar insurance
Focused on Oregon & Washington
Specialized Services:
All major coverages + loss of income
Claim assistance team
Coverage audits & discounts
Pros:
Industry-focused expertise
Multi-carrier options
Risk reduction guidance
Cons:
Less personal service
No online quotes or account tools
Cost Factors:
Type/location of business
Safety upgrades
Business age and claims history
Overview:
Local, family-owned agency in Portland
25+ years in business
Personalized, relationship-based service
Specialized Services:
Tailored coverage packages
Loss of income and equipment breakdown
Workers’ comp & claim support
Pros:
Deep restaurant/bar expertise
Local, flexible, and highly personal
Risk prevention support
Cons:
No online account management
Smaller brand presence
Cost Factors:
Type of restaurant
Coverage amount
Safety systems and loyalty discounts
| Company | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Trusted Choice | Many Oregon agents, personalized plans, expert advice | No online quotes, agent services may vary |
| Hospitality Insurance | Restaurant-specific knowledge, claims team, multi-carrier access | Less personalized, no digital tools |
| T.W. Morgan | Tailored policies, personal service, proactive risk guidance | Smaller brand, manual service only |
Bars/Nightclubs: Higher risk = higher premiums
Buffets/Salad Bars: Sanitation concerns affect rates
Drive-thrus: Vehicle risk increases general liability
Live Entertainment: More risk, more coverage needed
Outdoor Seating: Additional exposure to liability
Urban areas: Higher crime = higher rates
Coastal Oregon: Storm risk can drive up premiums
Rural/Eastern OR: Typically lower insurance costs
Proximity to fire stations can reduce premiums.
More staff = higher workers’ comp
More seats/customers = greater liability risk
Bigger buildings = more costly property insurance
Sprinklers, alarms, and cameras reduce risk = lower costs
Staff training and safety procedures can help secure discounts
Independent agents offer unique benefits:
Access to multiple carriers
Customized coverage for your needs
Local knowledge of Oregon regulations
Ongoing support for claims and policy changes
An independent agent can compare multiple quotes and give unbiased advice—helping you get better coverage at better rates.
Your restaurant is more than just a business—it’s your passion. Getting the right insurance coverage in Oregon protects what you’ve worked so hard to build. Whether you’re serving cocktails in Portland or running a cozy café in Bend, partnering with the right insurance provider will give you peace of mind.
Need Help Choosing?
Start with an independent agent familiar with Oregon’s hospitality scene. Their knowledge, connections, and experience can make all the difference.
