Mama Bird

Mama Bird had a bit of a controversial start, it opened in NW Portland in September 2019, but then closed temporarily about a month later to install special scrubbers, due to neighborhood complaints about smoke.

The concept is grilled chicken and when I walked in, I understood why there might have been issues with smoke, because they have an absolutely massive grill. The space is super pleasant, all white and blue with light wood tables and high ceilings. You order at the counter and then sit down.

You can order some chicken with sides and sauces or go for the chef’s plate. I am a sucker for polenta and the chef’s plate was chicken with polenta and kale, so I didn’t have to think about it very hard.

And the polenta was really good. The chicken was fine too, very tender and moist.