Matt Axiom
Okay, I’ll start with the not ideal thing. We got there and there were several tables open and we asked to be seated for two and the host said do you have a reservation I said no? Is there a wait? He said no I can take you at the bar so we went to the bar and with that being said, I anticipated that the several tables that were open were reserved and would get filled. In the entire time we were there which was an hour. None of those tables got seated. So kind of silly because we could have been seated at a table and preferred that.
That’s my only gripe because other than that the place was fantastic. The bartender was very good and quick and nice. The food was phenomenal and very reasonably priced. The flavor of everything was incredibly good and the portions were huge. I couldn’t even finish my brunch which is very rare.
The atmosphere is very nice and there’s a trendy clientele. I enjoyed my visit.
… moreAmaury S
New Orleans-style food in Portland?! You bet. The Bayou Kitchen is a slice of the South, right here in Maine. I won’t lie, I was a bit skeptical at first, but after a handful of visits, I can confidently say I’m a fan. This no-frills, diner-style restaurant fills my soul — and my belly — in all the best ways. The portions are huge (we actually had to take some home once, and we’re not usually those people), the Bloody Marys are strong, and the coffee seems to be endless. The service is always great too, in a way that genuinely reminds me of the South — and I mean that as a compliment.
I’ve had their (humongous) omelets, homemade cornbread (so good), andouille sausage, grits, jambalaya… basically half the menu by now. The portions, as mentioned, are generous, but I think the prices reflect that (most dishes range from $16–$20 before any add-ons; ie replacing sides). The flavors are usually on point, and everything is pretty delicious, though I’ve had a few semi-misses — the grits and jambalaya were a little bland on one occasion. Nothing a little hot sauce couldn’t fix, and thankfully, they’ve got plenty of that!
As others have mentioned, they don’t take reservations and it can get packed on weekends, but it’s worth the wait. From the moment you walk in, you’re transported to a place like no other in Maine — and that, plus the food, will keep us coming back.
… moreScarletteLane
It was not my favorite place to go for breakfast. The food was average, I wouldn’t say it was bad. The staff were all friendly and very efficient. The seating area was very small and almost felt cramped, but it may have been where we sat (I didn’t get to see the rest of the seating). Overall I’d say this place is okay to eat at, but there are better places to eat for breakfast in Portland.
… moreTara Konya
We popped in on a Saturday morning and were seated at the counter, which offered a great view of the cooking line and the staff’s banter—exactly what you’d expect at a quaint diner. We ordered an omelet and a burger (I know, not traditional) and opted for home fries with each dish. The potatoes were delicious, with the perfect amount of Cajun spice and cooked perfectly crisp. The burger was tasty, though I would have liked a bit more Cajun seasoning on it. The omelet was average. We wished the sausage had been Cajun or Andouille to provide more of that Louisiana flair. The service was quick and super friendly. Prices were reasonable, ranging from $15 to $16, with an extra $3 for coffee. The coffee was fresh, and you will want refills of that mug! We recommend stopping by and giving it a try—there’s something for everyone.
… morePeg Becksvoort
Great funky location for delicious breakfast and lunch. The gumbo is excellent and is go-to dish when I need some comfort food. Going on a weekday meant a more relaxed meal. On sunny Sundays there might be a wait. It’s worth it! The music is upbeat and you might even hear a few of the staff singing along.
Special bonus today: our wait staff ❤️
… moreJen B
Holy hot jambalaya! And a side of sumptuous jalapeño cornbread. Perfect lunch on a single digit day! My lunch mates had pancakes and French toast, which they also enjoyed. Loved this place.
… moreJohn McKenna
WOW! The food is AMAZING and the service is outstanding. The portions are very big and everything taste so good! We live in VT and have family in Maine so we are in the Portland area a few times a year. Bayou Kitchen will definitely be high on our list of places to come back to when we are in town.
… moreBriana
Absolutely love this place! Best breakfast in town. Reasonably priced for Portland, food is hot and comes out quick. Fun breakfast menu with the usuals as well as Cajun inspired entrees. You get a ton of food. Staff is also so friendly and helpful (especially when asking questions about dietary restrictions). We love their diner coffee, pancakes, and homemade hash.
… moreLena Marie
These guys cooked the most nostalgic breakfast I’ve had in awhile! I tried the cajun omelette (with crawfish). When my friend said she only wanted water for drink, they brought out a huge cup for her—yess. Love the funky decor and the staff were fabulous. Definitely coming back.
… moreL. L.
Great food and awesome service! The wait staff apologized profusely for our wait which we didn’t mind. Exceptional service and the coffee was always full! The Coffee flavored pancakes were incredible! The Huevos rancheros was very good and so was the Omelette. The corn bread was good, but I had better ones. Overall, reasonable price, good food, and great service. I will definitely come back again.
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