Reel M Inn

"Eating fried chicken and thick-cut potato jojos is a sacred ritual in Portland, whether you’re getting them at Sadie Mae’s, Jojo, or Alberta Market (aka Jack’s). But often, when Portlanders talk about chicken and jojos, one name comes to mind: Reel M Inn, also known as the Reel, is a true Portland institution, standing in one form or another for 50 years. Sure, big-deal chefs and writers have praised the colorful dive for ages, but it’s also treasured by locals, who happily spend an evening playing pool, knocking back shots of whiskey, and dunking crispy hunks of potato and chicken into ranch and Frank’s hot sauce." - Ben Coleman, Eater Staff

"There’s a reason this old-school dive bar is nationally renowned for its fried chicken: It’s super crispy, super juicy, and — perhaps most importantly — unfussy. Some people say the secret is that the chicken sits in its dredge, which helps the coating adhere to the skin; some say it’s the fryer. Whatever it is, it’s best enjoyed in the Christmas-light-adorned bar, with a pile of jojos and a pint of beer." - Ron Scott, Thom Hilton

"A dive bar in its purest form, this local haunt with national buzz and a recent starring role on Hulu is open until 2:30 a.m. It’s a one-person-show, meaning you’ll have to wait and meditate over a few stiff drinks, but the patience will be rewarded with some of the city’s best fried chicken and jojos (monster-sized potato wedges)." - Thom Hilton, Paolo Bicchieri

"Eating fried chicken and thick-cut potato jojos is a sacred ritual in Portland, whether you’re getting them at Sadie Mae’s, Jojo, or Alberta Market (aka Jack’s). But often, when Portlanders talk about chicken and jojos, one name comes to mind: Reel M Inn, also known as the Reel, is a true Portland institution, standing in one form or another for 50 years. Sure, big-deal chefs and writers have praised the colorful dive for ages, but it’s also treasured by locals, who happily spend an evening playing pool, knocking back shots of whiskey, and dunking crispy hunks of potato and chicken into ranch and Frank’s hot sauce." - Brooke Jackson-Glidden

"Reel 'M Inn is the quintessential dive bar with the bonus of delicious fried chicken. The space is cozy and dark and the drinks are cheap & stiff, like a good dive bar should deliver on. This unassuming, rough around the edges gem is a nice break from all the shiny new businesses up and down Division Street. There's not much to show about this place and that's what makes it so great." - Factory North