Bird & Co is the best Mexican spot in Portland…read more
I'm not saying it's the most authentic, I'm not saying it's perfect, I'm not saying their cocktail program is going to change your life, but...
1. They take reservations (including for brunch on the weekends) and it's super easy to do online. How many places in this city are doing this? The answer is: still not many.
2. Their menu is clearly labeled with what's vegan and vegetarian. No guessing here, and the staff has always been quick to double-check with the kitchen if there are any questions or concerns. Segue...
3. The chips and guacamole for currently $10 are the same quantity of (and I mean this lovingly) overly salted, house fried - sometimes too fried - chips and a tiny scoop of good guac as most places in town that are CHARGING YOU MORE. Segue...
4. There are places in town now charging $8 to $10 for ONE TACO. And they're sometimes quite small. The tacos here average between $4.75 and $6.50 for creative, flavorful, interesting, filling options (also you can get them on either flour or corn, no upcharge). The menu changes from time to time, and I wish they'd bring back the fried yuca taco, but the solid vegan solid options right now are Adobo Sweet Potato, Fried Plantain, and Crispy Tofu. Segue...
5. The taquitos, brussel sprouts, and cheesecake are all vegan. Segue...
6. The brunch (10am to 2pm, Saturday and Sundays) options for vegans are probably the most impressive in town: tofu or chorizo or fresh avocado tacos, huevos rancheros, churro french toast, avocado toast, chimichangas.
7. The Mexican cold brew might change your life (... or at least make you really happy when you're playing hooky from work and having an 11am drink). Switch the tequila for house whisky, skip the vespertino, ask for a side of oat milk... no changes to the price when doing this, by the way, because they're THAT kind of place that isn't trying to punish you constantly with extra fees.
8. The staff is so accommodating, they're thoughtful, they check-in just the right amount. Sure, I've had a few bad experiences here, but overall... sit at the bar, make a friend, and just ask/just talk to them if you're missing something/need something etc.
9. The atmosphere here is Portland right before it became too cool (IYKYK). It's casual and relaxed, it can be intimate and loud when it's busy, it feels quite trendy yet still approachable when they've got their newly updated outside area set-up.
10. It's off peninsula which also changes the demographic and vibe entiiiiiiiiiirely. For the good.
6/5 no notes.