Big J's Chicken Shack

I like Big J's because it is one of only a few places that does this type of fried chicken (specifically chicken and waffles) in Portland. The chicken here is ok but I'm never truly impressed and always feel like the food wasn't cooked fresh. Tenders are a bit dry with hard, not crispy, breading; the texture you get from fast food that's left under a heating lamp for hours. That said, their hot sauces are great and the waffle fries are on point. If it was cheap I'd give it 4 stars but for the prices they charge I expect better.

The worst fried chicken I have ever had. Great location and that’s about it. The chicken is like shoe leather and I almost broke a tooth on the crust. Biscuits are salty soggy bread. Lunch for 2 was $30. Long wait, rude staff and dirty. Takes advantage of the Bissell crowd. Disgusting experience. Eat at your own risk.

I tried the chicken tenders and I would say they are better than average but not outstanding. However, they're half chicken is phenomenal. I also tried the mac and cheese which was good and the coleslaw which was also good. I live in the West End and I would say this is the best chicken available. Also a nice place with helpful staff.

6 Boneless Tenders - Nashville Hot: They were pretty good, fresh and hot. It seemed like there was a LOT of black pepper. It would have been 5 stars if there were some alternate house made Hot or BBq sauces to try on the table. Spicy is always different for everyone, the Nashville Hot gave me some mild head sweats but wasn't too hot. I am looking forward to getting some naked tenders and adding my own hot sauce.