In today’s installment of “What Did Spencer Eat For Lunch?” I visited BAES Fried Chicken in downtown Portland. I hadn’t been here for a while, and I didn’t realize that BAES had turned into somewhat of an institution and franchise, with several locations around town. From the buzzy restauranteur Micah Camden, who knows a thing or two about franchising, BAES focuses on one thing: fried chicken. You can order a sando, wings, or a whole bird along with some tasty sides. There are a lot of great fried chicken options in town, and while this one isn’t necessarily #1, it is a solid bet. Also I prefer it to that other buzzy new spot in NW serving fried chicken who shall remain nameless….

I got the fried chicken sando, which can be served 3 ways: traditional, Nashville hot, or honey butter. I got the Nashville hot. Got a side of waffle fries and a beer to wash it down with. The fried chicken was solid, a decent amount of heat from the spice, with a good sauce and pickles. Nothing fancy, just solid. This is a good go-to chicken sando. I give it a 8/10 rating. The waffle fries are excellent, and their sauces are great too, especially the comeback sauce. I usually get the waffle fries, but the other sides are solid and worth ordering as well. Food comes out quick, and the restaurant is pleasant to eat in. I’ve only been to the downtown Ash location, so can’t speak to the others, though I imagine they would all be similar. Definitely recommend if you are in the area and craving fried chicken. Happy eating!