Where authentic Southern soul meets Pacific Northwest sensibility, Screen Door Portland has redefined comfort dining since 2006, transforming a simple East Burnside storefront into the city's most beloved brunch destination. Founded by Louisiana natives Nicole and David Mouton, this woman-owned establishment bridges the culinary gap between Creole tradition and Oregon's farm-to-table ethos, creating a dining experience that feels both nostalgically familiar and refreshingly local.

The Moutons' vision emerged from homesickness and opportunity—bringing the warmth of Southern hospitality to Portland's evolving food scene. What began as a single location has grown into a local institution, with a second Pearl District outpost opening in 2021 and an airport presence serving travelers seeking that final taste of Portland's culinary character. Screen Door's success lies not in reinventing Southern cuisine, but in executing it with unwavering authenticity while embracing the Pacific Northwest's commitment to fresh, local ingredients.

The menu reads like a love letter to the American South, anchored by their legendary buttermilk-battered fried chicken—a symphony of crackling crust and succulent meat that pairs perfectly with sweet potato waffles drizzled in pure maple syrup. Weekend brunch transforms the dining room into a celebration of indulgence, where towering stacks of Bananas Foster French toast compete for attention with creamy shrimp and grits featuring Oregon bay shrimp nestled atop stone-ground grits. The praline bacon alone justifies the inevitable wait, while their blackened catfish with Creole remoulade delivers the kind of authentic heat that transports diners straight to the French Quarter. Hushpuppies, gumbo, and beignets round out a menu that refuses to compromise on tradition while celebrating local sourcing.

The atmosphere captures Southern warmth without theatrical pretense—spacious dining rooms buzz with conversation over clinking coffee cups and the gentle sizzle of cast iron skillets. Service embodies genuine hospitality, with servers who understand that exceptional fried chicken requires patience and that every guest deserves to feel like family. The full bar complements the hearty fare with classic cocktails, local beers, and wines that enhance rather than compete with the bold flavors emerging from the kitchen. Weekend waits are legendary, but the Pearl District location offers limited reservations for those seeking to avoid the crowds.

Screen Door Portland represents more than exceptional Southern cuisine—it's a testament to how authentic hospitality and unwavering quality create lasting community connections. Whether you're craving the perfect hangover cure or celebrating a special occasion with comfort food elevated to art, reservations at either location promise an experience that satisfies both soul and palate.