the Yawning Portal

The Yawning Portal inn, built in 1306 DR by the later Lords of Waterdeep, Durnan on the ruins of Halaster Blackcloak's old tower, gained most of its renown for being the primary open route to the Undermountain. A well within its walls leads down into the first dungeon of Undermountain.
The Yawning Portal is located on Rainrun Street in Waterdeep's Castle Ward between Waterdeep Castle and Snail Street. A stone building with a slate roof, the Yawning Portal offers guest rooms on the three upper floors. Well-worn boards cover the floor, but the main impression is of comfort. Rich blue tapestries decorate the wood-paneled walls of the common room, which consist of a bar and tables of stout wood. A signboard that simply read "The Yawning Portal," hangs on chains from a black iron pole above the front door, announcing the entry to the inn.

Entry to Undermountain

The inn is built around a well that serves as an entry point to Undermountain. The well measures 40 feet in diameter, descends 140 feet, and is located between the bar and dining tables. This dry well is the main and only publicly known passage to Undermountain. A waist-high stone ring was built around the well to prevent customers and objects from falling into the dungeon. Around passing the 50 feet point, the well grew completely dark and on reaching the floor, one entered a sandy floor with stone walls decorated with shields. These shields were rusty to the point of uselessness but for one purpose: people who wanted to be drawn up hit these shields and the noise made that way was considered a sign that people below wanted to be pulled up from the dungeon.

Atmosphere

The clientele consists mostly of adventurers eager to enter the depths of Undermountain. The Called, as they are sometimes known, listen to Waterdhavians, who are only too keen on sharing rumors and stories about the dungeon. As Durnan, despite his age, is still a brawny and well respected man, the Yawning Portal remains safe from toughs and brawlers.

Services

Ales and spirits are abundantly available. A typical dish served at the Yawning Portal consists of quipper and chips. Shadowdark ale is a popular beverage served in the taproom.
The Yawning Portal is a full service inn. Rooms are a silver a night and are clean and modestly appointed.
Durnan and the local church of Tymora have a deal. Durnan pays the church a daily fee and the church sends a cleric of theirs over as medical personnel. The clergy's service cost the injured a donation, which was effectively a fee for it was enforced and not merely expected, in the form of cash.
While this is not exactly a service of the inn, it is quite common for customers to gamble on the success of those who venture into Undermountain.
Durnan also sells adventuring supplies including weapons and armor consigned from various Waterdhavian vendors, as well as healing potions and occasional magical trinkets.

Type

Inn