Screen Door Restaurant in Portland

Posted On January 19, 2024

Ever want Southern comfort food so bad you might ride a chicken on its back to get it? Well, buttercup, buckle up, because Screen Door Restaurant in Portland is serving up the type of soul-hugging grub that could begin a flavor revolution in your mouth.

From their fried chicken to those buttermilk biscuits that will make Grandma squeal with delight, this is where diet plans die, and every calorie is worth it.

Get ready to slam your elbows into a few of the most decadent dishes ever invented. I was wrapped in bacon and maple syrup as I walked into Screen Door’s kitchen. Every bite tells a tradition with a twist.

Consider crispy on the outside, fluffy inside cornbread as a sidekick for stews that stuff your insides like a sweater. And don’t skip over the star attraction: their fried chicken has even been the topic of impromptu proposals to the chef.

Stay tuned as I dish out much more on exactly why this eatery must be scribbled on your foodie bucket list ASAP!

Key points I touched upon in this post.

1. I really like the southern foods at Screen Door Restaurant in Portland; they do a twist on traditional dishes. Their menu is a mixture of Southern cooking and Pacific Northwest fare, like their crispy fried chicken or sweet potato waffle.

2. When I was there, it was really cozy and inviting—ideal for family dinners and date nights. Warm lights and rustic decor provide it with a really down-home feel, which goes well with the food.

3. What I like about Screen Door is that they use local ingredients. You are able to tell they go for fresh, high-quality produce in each and every dish, supporting local farmers and making each meal as fresh as you possibly can.

4. In case you are planning to visit, be ready for a wait. Screen Door is extremely popular, especially for brunch. But the wait was worth it when I finally got to try some of their comfort food classics.

5. Lastly, don’t miss out on their desserts; my fave is the pecan pie. It is rich and sweet without being heavy on the calories.

Pacific Northwest Southern Charm.

Walking into Screen Door Restaurant, I was immediately at home, surrounded by the smell of Southern comfort foods. Their menu is centered on traditional Southern cooking with a Pacific Northwest twist, so I was excited to try a few of their dishes that are both innovative and soul-filling.

The Chicken and Waffles of Iconic Waffles and Chicken.

The highlight of my culinary trip here was the chicken and waffles. This Southern classic was executed perfectly: golden, crispy chicken on fluffy waffles. The crunch was good, and then the waffle underneath was soft and delicious. Each bite was sweet and savory, dipped in maple syrup!

Creative Dishes Using Local Ingredients.

In addition to the menu, I liked that Screen Door utilizes local ingredients. This particular dedication not only ensures freshness but also reflects a strong community tie. The next Oregon trout I had was a testimony to that—beautifully smoked and with creamy grits that nearly sounded stone-ground and/or locally milled.

The Burst of Flavors in Seasonal Specials.

They had seasonal specials, which were an excellent example of the way they use regional produce and seasonal flair in traditional Southern dishes. I remember a very great summer squash casserole I made. It was bursting with fresh vegetables—light but filled with flavor.

Brunch is well worth the wait.

Talk about brunch at Screen Door, and you have to mention the queues, which I saw firsthand. The wait can be long, but with a spread that contains praline bacon and cult buttermilk biscuits, the wait is worth it.

Cocktails and comfort.

I had a classic cocktail to accompany my food. I went with a sweet tea Bourbon—a nod to Southern sweet tea. Its tangy taste with only a little kick went nicely with the richness of the meal, going well with the flavors on my plate.

An Ambience of Warmth-Welcoming.

The atmosphere at Screen Door may be referred to as welcoming. The rustic charm is tempered by the upbeat energy of the staff and diners. The Wall of Preserves instantly caught my eye—a colorful array of pickled goods and jams that showcase the restaurant’s homage to Southern pantry essentials.

Perfect service with a smile.

The service was outstanding during my visit. I had been greeted with smiles and hospitality. Staff were keen to share their very own favorites and even offered tidbits on how specific dishes are prepared, adding to the overall immersive experience.

My Tips for First-Time Visitors.

If this is your first visit, here are some pointers:

1. Arrive early or be ready for a wait; their popularity is no secret.

2. Try out the chicken and waffles; it is a classic!

3. Ask the server for specials and recommendations; they are going to rarely steer you wrong.

4. Save room for dessert if you can. The pecan pie is amazing.

5. Finally, enjoy the lively, warm atmosphere. It is part of the meal as much as the food itself.

Keep in mind that at Screen Door, it is more than just a meal; it is the entire Southern hospitality infused with Pacific Northwestern charm that produces this culinary destination all its own.

What tends to make Screen Door Restaurant unique among Portland restaurants?

Screen Door is an authentic Southern restaurant in Portland that brings the East Coast to the West. Their commitment to serving up big portions of classic Southern fare like fried chicken or shrimp and grit sets the mood for a hearty meal. They are a popular mixture of quality ingredients and classic Southern cooking methods.

Could you recommend some must-try dishes from Screen Door?

Ah, diving into the menu at Screen Door is like embarking on a flavorful journey! You can’t miss the buttermilk-battered, crispy fried chicken that everyone is referring to. Combining that with their creamy, stone-ground grits or the fluffy, sweet praline bacon waffles showcases the best of Southern comfort foods. Adventurous palates might try their crawfish etouffee.

How long will it take to wait at the screen door?

Patience is necessary when dining at Screen Door, especially at brunch or on the weekends. Wait times range from thirty minutes to over an hour; however, the food is worth it. Arrive early or dine on weekdays to avoid the rush. They do not take reservations for small parties, so plan accordingly.

Will Screen Door accept dietary restrictions?

Indeed, Screen Door is conscious of various dietary needs, offering gluten-free and vegetarian options all over their menu. Their staff is somewhat knowledgeable and happy to help guests with restrictions get a great meal without sacrificing taste or experience.

Does Screen Door have any seasonal specialties?

Seasonality is embraced at Screen Door, adding a dash of excitement to their staple offerings. They utilize seasonal produce and fresh ingredients in their dishes. It is always a delight to learn what unique twist they have put into their Southern classics.

How is the atmosphere and decor at Screen Door?

The ambiance at Screen Door pairs perfectly with their cuisine. It is rustic but inviting, and it has a celebratory feeling that recalls the South. The decor is quaint with wood finishes and very Southern.

Is there outdoor seating at the screen door?

You bet there are. The screen door provides outdoor seating for those who prefer to enjoy their meal al fresco. It is an enjoyable way to take in the Portland vibe while eating Southern fare.

How does Screen Door obtain its ingredients?

Screen Door utilizes locally sourced, organic ingredients whenever possible. They believe in supporting local farmers and producers so that their food is fresh and also supports the local community.

Does Screen Door serve alcoholic beverages?

Certainly! What is a Southern feast without some libation? Drinks at Screen Door include craft cocktails, beers, and wines. Their upbeat cocktails are a hit, often with Southern influences!

Are there options for private events or catering with Screen Door?

For all those wanting to bring the Screen Door experience to a private party or event, they do provide catering. Whether it be a small or big event, they can offer Southern hospitality at your next event.

Final Thoughts on Portland’s Screen Door Restaurant.

I always think of Screen Door as more than a restaurant. It is a hospitality experience that makes me think of the South. It has everything from the laid-back atmosphere to the full-on Southern fare—it embodies Portland’s eclectic food scene.

The scrumptious scents, the diner chatter, the bustling kitchen—everything comes together to feed the soul along with the body. Despite the wait times, I’ll always be back for much more because, quite simply, a meal at Screen Door is a reminder of exactly how food can be an expression of cultural tradition and culinary artistry.

Each visit makes me feel closer to the community, to local producers, and also to the food itself. Screen Door’s method of blending local ingredients with time-honored recipes is something I deeply appreciate.

It is an experience I would recommend to anybody who likes hearty, flavorful food prepared by individuals who care about what they’re making.

Whether you are a Portland native or passing through, stop by Screen Door for a taste of the South in the Pacific Northwest.