Bungalo Bar: Portland, Oregon

Bungalo Bar:

Portland,OR

What a treat it was spending the day at Bungalo Bar on the Historic Mississipi Ave here in Portland, Oregon. From first glance, you will know you are not in for a typical dining or drinking experience. This renovated - once residential home how hosts two fire pits, an upstairs pool/darts area, 5 large TV's, a small arcade room, and very laid-back outdoor hangout area, equipped with hammocks, and swigs lining a long swinging table. 

The Atmosphere of this place is unreal,the before opening stillness during which we took these photographs, quickly dissipated the moment the open sign turned on. People started pouring in, many just to taste their signature drink, my personal favourite, The Spicy Basil Martini. 

  The Spicy Basil Martini-

      It's very important to be that you imagine this concept with me as I explain. Fresh basil, Mixed with Vodka, Lime Juice, and Mango; shaken with a pinch of chilli flakes and served. 

  The first taste that overwhelms the senses, is the crisp fresh basil. But that quickly is washed over with the refreshing citrus, toned down by the smooth mango accompaniment. But then wait, Is that an ever so subtle chili after taste that makes sweet love to that wonderful mango finish? You bet your ass it is. There is obviously good reason, that this drink attracts the crowd and it's uniqueness, keeps them knowing that this is the only spot in town to get a drink this awesome. 

 The Food/

Yam Fries

Served with Lemon Cayenne Aioli

When it comes to their appetisers, their yam fries are definitely the most popular. These guys have absolutely mastered the art of making sure that there is flavour infused entirely through the yam, the fries themselves, have almost a salty lime seasoning, coupled amazingly with their Lemon Cayenne Aioli, which smoothes out the saltiness with it's creamy chilli citrus flavour. 

And with this great snack tolling in at only $4, you best believe, it is the perfect partner for any drink on the menu. 

(Right)Habanero Poppers

Stuffed w/ goat cheese and served with Tequila Salsa

(Left)Habanero Margarita

Classic Margarita w/ Habanero infused Tequila 

Oh my Damn. These Habanero infused treats do not mess around.

First, let me talk about these Poppers. They start off with Habanero peppers stuffed with goat cheese, battered, fried to perfection, then served in a shot glass smothered with their fresh, homemade mango habanero salsa. Your first impression will be the fruitiness of the salsa, and the perfect crunch of the crust. Very soon there after.... It happens... The spice. You go to wash it down with the Habanero Margarita and it helps for a second, it's delicious and refreshing. Then the Habanero Tequila makes its way across the tastebuds. 

Chef, and son of the Owner, LC said "Yea, we put that on the menu almost as a novelty to see who'd have the balls to try it." 

And with good reason, it is pretty damn spicy. But REALLY delicious. I've always argued that Indian food helped me toughen up my spicy pallet by coupling it's spice with equally as powerful flavour.. This dish does just that. It's intense spice is coupled amazingly with it's fruity homemade mango Habanero salsa. Another big win for the father - son team at Bungalo Bar.

The Bourbon Burger

Beef patty topped with Bourbon fried onions, caramelised mushrooms and Bourbon BBQ sauce

LC's idea with their menus is to keep them simple bar foods, done perfectly and served with style and presentation. (as made obvious by the aforementioned.) This burger, is clearly made under the same mantra. 

Now I'm going to level you you guys. At first, I full-heartedly expected my first taste to be the homemade bourbon BBQ sauce, or perhaps the bourbon fried onions. But I was delightfully mistaken. The first and most powerful taste, was indeed the perfectly char-grilled beef patty. The flavour and texture of the meat far surpassed my expectations for a bar burger. Next, came the juicy caramelised mushrooms, which paired divinely with the fried onions and Bourbon BBQ sauce. - This, is the burger you get your ass in the car and travel for. 

Final Thoughts.

 This Father-Son team renovated this residential spot into the laid back, foodie heaven it is today with their own hands. All that was built in the back, swings, and all; were conceptualised, then actualised by the owner, meanwhile, his son dreamt up all of these masterfully crafted dishes and drinks by himself (AND HE'S ONLY 22!) 

 I for one, rate this place off the charts for atmosphere and food. You really have to experience this place if you ever find yourself in the Portland area. 

A+