Bernie's Southern Bistro/Portland, OR

I make good fried chicken. My mother makes great fried chicken. We sneak some of our favorite Jamaican spices into our marinades--bringing the heat and a little bit of Caribbean flare.

When I go out to eat, I'm not usually in favor of eating at a southern food restaurant. If I want that kind of comfort food, I make it at home.

So, when I found myself at Bernie's Southern Bistro in Portland, Oregon for my friend's bachelorette party dinner, I was excited to eat some good fried chicken and drink to my friend's upcoming nuptials.

I started with fried oysters, because if I ever see oysters on a menu, I can't not order them. And, I was not disappointed.

The batter was crispy, light and flavorful while the oyster inside was perfectly cooked and juicy. It was heaven.

And the remoulade it was served with was delightfully creamy and spicy. It was the perfect balance for the oysters.

Next, we got the fried pickles, fried green tomatoes, and the hush puppies. All good, but not super memorable. I do, however, remember thinking how excited I was for the fried chicken I had ordered for dinner. This kitchen is very skilled at frying things to a perfect golden-brown, delicious state.

I was not disappointed.

My plate of chicken with a side of collard greens and macaroni and cheese made me salivate. The chicken was perfectly cooked. Just the right amount of crunch and spice, and the meat was incredibly tender.

That being said--the real star of the plate was the collard greens. My God. They were fantastic. Tender but still maintaining a firm bite. Salty, but with a touch of vinegar to cut that bold brine flavor. It was meaty--obviously slow cooked with hunks of delicious pork. I finished the small bowl of greens in a matter of minutes and almost ordered seconds.

The only thing I ate that night that left me feeling underwhelmed was the macaroni and cheese.

Everything else had been beautifully seasoned--except the mac.

It simply wasn't salty enough for my taste, and needed more sharp cheddar.

And, that's my only criticism.

The cocktails were fabulous, and our server knew the menu like the back of her hand, giving us all great recommendations.

I would definitely go back to Bernie's for dinner any night of the week...If only I lived in Portland--not Sacramento. So, if you find yourself in there, grab some great chicken and collard greens from Bernie's Southern Bistro. After your stuffed, work off some of those delicious calories with a walk to Salt and Straw Ice Cream just a few blocks down the street. A review of that place is coming soon. But, try it out. You'll thank me.