Creative and excellent! Think they should upgrade the site when possible and join the dinner offerings in Portland...In the meantime awesome food good prices friendly staff give them a try!
(5)
Dia D.
We had the lobster roll with the Brussels sprouts (with sweet chili and queso fresco). The lobster roll was a 3, but the Brussels sprouts were a 5...excellent. This was the first of 3 restaurants in Portland whose seating consisted of stools/benches and a counter and by the time we left Portland we were sick of balancing on stools while we ate.
(4)
Mark D.
I really want to love this place because of what it is. A fast food option that is not a chain. Unfortunately they keep falling a little short. I will say that their tots have never let me down. I love the tot-tine which is a twist on Canadian poutine. However other things I have ordered were just not that good. I ordered the Rooster Blue which I assumed to be their signature sandwich given the name. it was a couple pieces of fried chicken with cole-slaw and some type of blue-cheese dressing all in a big toasty bun. While it sounded delicious to me, the eating experience left me wanting something more. the fried chicken was dry, which was accentuated by the large bulky roll and not enough slaw or blue cheese dressing. I hate dry sandwiches. I've also tried their Colombiano hot-dog which had Roots slaw, avocado, "rosada" sauce, queso fresco,and shoestring fries. I did not like this hot-dog at all. Way to many flavors going on here, and avocado and hot dog just don't mix for me. I'm going to continue to try this place and I'm hoping I find something on the menu other then the Tots that I like.
(3)
Steff D.
I had been stalking Blue Rooster Food Co. for some time now. I'm always on the hunt for local eats open late so I can proudly tell outta statahs who whine that "there's nothing open" what's what. I would definitely send them to Blue Rooster should they be craving a delicious snack post-bars closing! For that matter, I'd send them there if they needed a little lunch fix during their Old Port excursion! It's a very small, but clean and inviting space that's ideally located and offers prime people watching. The staff is also VERY friendly and the menu is creative, interesting, reasonably rice, and delicious... if you're not a vegetarian that is. We came for lunch on a Monday afternoon and ordered the chickpea sandwich, potato salad, and fried Brussels sprouts (three of the five things we, as herbivores, could eat there). There was some confusion between me and the man taking my order though, and instead of getting The Farmer Ted (the hummus, goat cheese, and veg sandwich) we got the chickpea salad instead. Not the end of the world, but the miscommunication was frustrating when we didn't get what we thought we had ordered. The potato salad was good, but underseasoned. It was very nice, don't get me wrong, it just wasn't flavorful or memorable. The chickpea salad was a blend of Mediterranean flavors - whole chickpeas, red peppers, olives, fennel, thyme - that worked really well together. It was good, but (if you're someone who cooks frequently) it wasn't worth the price tag when you could make something similar at home. And then, there were the fried Brussels sprouts. Listen, if you're coming to Blue Rooster Food Co. for the first time and you don't order the Brussels sprouts, well then, SHAME ON YOU. These sprouts, covered in a sweet chili sauce and topped with sesame seeds and queso fresco, are alone worth coming for. They are definitely the stand-out item here, and are a unique food item in the city that Blue Rooster alone is making. They are a textural and flavor wonderland, though I wish there'd be more queso fresco on them (this is totally a personal thing though - everything, in my opinion, could have more cheese on it!). Would I come back here? Maybe. But, because of it's lackluster veg-options (and I totally understand that I'm not their target audience; as a matter of fact, I appreciate the offerings they DO have... I'm still gonna get the The Farmer Ted someday) I'd probably be better suited elsewhere, especially considering I've eaten just about everything I can eat off their menu already!
(3)
Britney S.
This place is amazing and worth every penny! I am in love with their sandwiches. This is definitely my favorite place to get a sandwich in the old port. My current obsession is "the godfather." Everything I've tried there has been consistently good. I ordered something one day that I enjoyed so I ordered it again the next day at night with a whole different crew on staff and the sandwhich still came out the same. They are very consistent. The woman that took my order was very friendly and polite.. Good people on staff. The fried brussel sprouts and fried cauliflower are amazing. Unfortunately I have not had the priviledge to try their tots or hot dogs which is their signature but I have heard nothing but good things. They also remodelled the store so there is more seating for their guests. This is a definite must-try if you are in the area. Love it!
(5)
Matt J.
So good! This place is tucked away on a side street in Old Port and packs some serious foodie flavors into its unassuming doors. The tots are fantastic... Perfectly crisp with awesome topping choices... We had the early bird which has hot sauce, maple mayo, a Sunnyside up egg, and cheese for a great flavor combo. The hot sauce (sriracha-esque but homemade) adds a sweet and hot vinegary punch that absolutely makes this dish. The beefsquatch was equally fantastic... if Indian and Mexican flavors gave birth to a gyro, this would be it. So fresh and full of flavor. Each bit starts crisp and fresh and build to a hot and complex explosion in your mouth...a must try. My wife also has the farmer Tess, which was quite good... Very light and fresh with a blend of great flavors.
(5)
Jaime M.
Ordered kimchi and macaroni and cheese. The good: wow-me-gently flavor on the creamy mac (but then, I never eat anything so rich at home) paired with the gentle crunch of the breadcrumbs. The better(?): the gobble-able spice and sourness level on the giant portion of kimchi. I could have eaten the full quarter-pound or so of cabbage I was served if I weren't already full of mac. The best: My stomach now sounds like a bluegrass concert. Apparently, the combination of ferment plus dairy = twine time. The details: The staff members were super nice. Everything is house-made, so it takes a minute more than your average counter service. I wish it were a buck or two cheaper (as far as the kimchi, they could get away with charging $2.50 and halving the portion!) but that's probably because I don't get out much. They made "an exception" and gave me tap water; IMO, they should not be so concerned about the bottom line that they are stingy with tap water. Not much room to eat, but it wasn't a problem. I don't love that all the food was served in disposable or recyclable containers as opposed to reusable ones, but I guess it's primarily a takeout business (or at least that's what the very small dining area indicated to me). The worst: I put my kimchi leftovers in my purse. I now have a kimchi-flavored purse, which makes vacation harder. The container was leaky!
(5)
Michelle E.
Still waiting for a cup of water. My husband I are here for the first time tonight. It was empty inside (and has been every time we've walked by), but the menu sounded so good. We ordered and paid. Then, I asked for a cup of water. The guy at the counter said "we've just got the bottled water for a dollar". He turned and walked away as he said this. Seriously. You won't give me a cup of water. And you know it's d--- move so you won't look at me while you say it. We each ordered a hotdog - the Barking Dog and the Pineapple Express. Both were delish. The tots were also really yummy. But, I'm completely turned off that you wouldn't give me a cup of water. Sorry, won't be back.
(3)
Mike S.
Tots... Who doesn't like them?! They do other things but I don't come here for anything but the awesome tots! It also is a great place to get a snack when you're out for a night on the town visiting different places to get your favorite beers!
(4)
Asya P.
Awesome! I ordered delivery via 2dinein The loss of 1 star is entirely due to the price, which I feel is just a dollar or two higher than it should be on every dish. This is low-labor food to produce, though the ingredients they use do seem to be top-notch. I had the vegetarian Farmer Tess sandwich, which was big and very filling. Truly healthy but also rich in flavor. And then there were the fried Brussels sprouts in a chili sauce with queso fresco. Oh, my god. Delicious!! I will be trying to imitate these at home for sure!!! Not spicy, just flavorful. I will definitely come here when I want to indulge, have an empty fridge, but don't want to feel gross afterwards.
(4)
Jeffrey L.
I wanted to eat somewhere unhealthy for my cheat day for my diet and I asked a coworker where to go. He suggested Blue Rooster. I wanted to try their Pastrami "Cuban" Rueben which he had the other day, but they were out of pastrami. I settled on the Red Eye Breakfast, along with a small order of tater tots and an iced tea. For $6 the sandwich was well proportioned, a big homemade biscuit filled with egg, hash browns and pork belly. The biscuit was a bit on the crumbly side but it had a nice richness to it, although the flavors did tend to meld together... I think a little salt would have helped to balance it out. The tots were good... they were still hot when I got them and the homemade ketchup had a really good rosemary kick to it. I opted for the sweetened version of their ice tea, and it was just the right amount - often times iced tea can be sacharine but this had just the slightest taste of molasses which was a pleasant surprise. Next time I go (I will go again), I'd like to try their Reuben, along with their homemade chips and maybe their lemonade.
(4)
Bob W.
I'm giving four stars only because my first order here was so small -- a Das Boot dog and a small Brussels sprouts side. It was 12:30 am after all. But the food was outstanding, the service friendly, and the vibe quite good. Reminds me of Cochon Butcher in NOLA (a very good thing). We will be back for sure!
(4)
Betsy C.
Cute atmosphere, friendly service, fresh food prepared fast. I'm afraid that's all this place has going for it. Taste was lacking, especially on those fried brussel sprouts other reviews have raved about. They were terrible compared to Pei Men Miyake's version and the same dish at Boda. These sprouts just tasted like bland fried bits of veg, I'll pass. Unless you are a hot dog connoisseur, in which case there is a hot dog vendor right on the corner where locals gravitate, I wouldn't recommend going out of your way to eat here.
(2)
Craig B.
This place has the best sandwiches and the Brussels and homemade chips are out of this world. Really affordable too.
(5)
Peter W.
We were looking for a local take out sandwich place yesterday, didn't want a chain. We stumbled upon the Blue Rooster. I had a terrific lobster roll and my wife had a great veggie sandwich. Highly recommend this place
(5)
Rishi S.
We had the Lobster Banh Mi and the Veggie Sandwich with the homemade thai chips and the brussel sprouts. Everything was delicious and fresh. Great spot for quick meal! Owner was extremely friendly and happy to provide recommendations and explain the menu.
(5)
Sara P.
Interesting, funky hot dogs and lobster rolls and such. Everyone enjoyed what they ordered. One of these days we're going to try the tater tot poutine, but it was too hot this weekend. The restaurant is very small -- basically a take out counter and a few stools at a counter for eat-in customers. And there's no air conditioning. But it is right down in the Old Port are, and a good choice if you're tired of the more usual tourist fare.
(4)
Christa H.
Tots. Do I need to say more? Tots, tots, tots. What keeps me coming back here? Crispy potato goodness covered in whatever you like or buck naked. Tot-tine with cheese curds and gravy is my new best friend (sorry real friends!). The gravy is perfect and the cheese curds are the real deal. I recommend inhaling it like I do or the tots can get a little soggy from the gravy. The three little pigs is also another of my favorites. It's the Tot-tine topped with bacon, sausage and pork belly. Heart attack city? You bet. Guilty pleasure? 100%. If you are a tot purist, you can get them plain and just enjoy the crispy goodness. Have I said enough about the tots? Oh probably. To keep the goodness going, try a sandwich or a hot dog. You can get a hot dog wrapped in bacon! Yes! What an amazing idea. The toppings are varied and different from your average hot dog vendor. You can go messy or simple, it doesn't matter because they are all good. The sandwiches are unique and you'll look at the board and wonder "hmm...I wonder how those flavors will go together." Be adventurous. You won't be disappointed. I recently have the chicken PBLT which is chicken thigh, confit pork belly, lettuce, pickled green tomatoes and chipotle mayo. It was wonderful. I'm pretty sure it was on a ciabatta roll and there was just the right amount of mayo. I'm looking forward to going back and trying one of the vegetarian options. The falafel sandwich has arugula pesto and a watermelon, radish and fennel slaw on it. That sounds very intriguing.
(5)
Kenneth P.
The hot dogs here were not too impressive. I had the pineapple express and my friend had a das boot. We were both unimpressed with our hot dogs. The pineapple express has Pickled mango salsa, cilantro jalapeno pineapple mustard. The jalepeño is the only thing that had a strong flavor. There was not a hint of pineapple or mustard. The was a small hint of mango. As for the bacon, it lacked any flavor and crunch to it.
(2)
Rebecca W.
The food was good but average. There seems to be too much thought on the hot dog toppings and not enough in the quality of the hot dogs. I tried to growly dog which didn't seem to have nearly the amount of bacon I pictured and I have no idea what the boss sauce is that came on it. The bun was soft and fresh. The tater tots with all the different topping is a cool idea and a good way to feed those salty food cravings. I tried the buffalo flavor which had an excellent ratio of buffalo sauce to blue cheese. It comes topped with carrot and celery shreds. Not a very good addition. The nacho tater tots had excellent chili and nacho sauce and what what must be house made salsa. The ingredients were all fresh and had a nice spicy kick. Overall it was a good experience with friendly staff, but not one I will be regular at.
(3)
Nancy R.
Great eclectic food choices, with many options for gluten free. My husband is a bacon lover and he was in heaven, while my fried Brussel sprouts with a sweet chili sauce were amazing. Definitely don't miss this gem.
(5)
Hilary J.
This place is fantastic. My boyfriend and I went for breakfast and split 2 small orders of tots, a small kimchi, a small chickpea salad and small fried Brussels sprouts (the ones with queso fresco and sweet chili sauce) The tots were perfect- got one order with a fried egg on top and order of buffalo tots. The egg was PERFECTION. The Brussels sprouts were the best I've ever had- anywhere. The kimchi was spicy and delicious and the chickpea salad was light and fresh. We took home most of the kimchi and chickpea salad and left feeling full but not gross. I absolutely wish there was one of these in Los Angeles. Everything was awesome. Keep up the good work and holy crap, don't change a thing.
(5)
J M.
This spot is tucked away from the busy port street. I was on the search for my first lobster roll. The food came out in about 10 minutes. My tots were hot and the bun was warm. I was expecting a heavy buttery lobster roll but in turn received a refreshing twist on the sandwich. The slaw mixture over pewees the taste of the lobster. Think it was to many layers of flavor for the rather tiny lobster roll. They also have tater tots in many different forms. The house ketchup taste is for a select group of palettes. Not a fan but to each is on. I also tried the tot-tine, which is just like poutine(gravy cheese curds on fries) my friend had most of this and said it was decadent and savory. Ate it so fast I almost didn't get to try it. Overall a nice spot for a variety of sandwiches. Real small dining area and food staff. When busy expect a long wait. Well in enjoy!!
(3)
Tessa L.
Stopped in for lunch with a group, including a toddler who's a bit of a picky eater, and everyone left happy. The sandwiches are inventive and delicious, the bread is very fresh, and the staff is so friendly. We'll be back next time we're in town for sure. Be sure and try the tots, we all really enjoyed the "tot-tine."
(5)
Michael G.
Five weeks ago, I started a new job located in Old Port. Discovered The Blue Rooster on my 1st day and have enjoyed one of their incredible sandwiches every week since. Clean facility, friendly staff and a creative, fresh sandwich on each visit. And all the hype in prior reviews on Blue Rooster's tots: Yea, they are that awesome!
(5)
A K.
It is a small place. One would miss it while walking past it. We wet as part of the foodie tour. The sandwich was great. They had a lot of interesting toppings on the menu. Sadly we did not go back to try them.
(4)
Sarah H.
Good, classic tots and creative hot dog options. The tots were great and I'll try the pouting or Bayou Tots next time. The dogs are good and their sandwich menu has some great looking options.
(4)
Nathan G.
I wish I'd known about this place sooner, because the food is fantastic. It's on a side street in downtown Portland, not very conspicuous, but well worth tracking down. All the menu items are creatively named, and provide some inventive choices. I had the Dirty Bird tots (chili, cheese, egg, and a bit of hot sauce) and the Pineapple Express Dog (pickled mango salsa, pineapple cilantro jalapeno mustard) and both were awesome. If you're looking for a great place to eat in Portland that's a little different, you can't go wrong with the Blue Rooster. One side note: the restaurant is pretty small, definitely aiming more for takeout. They have a few booths, but I'd imagine during tourist season you should be prepared to take your food and eat elsewhere.
(5)
Anna D.
Was not impressed by the menu size, but I was very impressed by my barley salad, paired with several chopped veggies and an amazing pesto sauce to top it off. I used this pint of deliciousness as my lunch and it held me over until dinner! I'll most certainly be back for a sandwich, if not this tasty surprise! There was a short line at noon, but I was in and out in less than five minutes and under five bucks.
(3)
Bill M.
Nothing says America like burgers and dogs. Not even Apple pie. They are such a quintessential staple of our food and culture. So I say congratulations to Blue Rooster for applying the gastropub treatment to the formerly humble hot dog. On our first visit earlier this week I tried one of their specialty dogs created by guest chef Ricky from the Portland Hunt and Alpine Club. This rich and satisfying dog was topped with a succulent lamb chili,salsa verde and a delightful pile of cheese curd. Yumalicious! Accompanying my fine dog was a side of the most golden home made tator tots Portland has ever seen. I particularly loved the big visible flakes of freshly ground pepper that added a touch of heat. Not a fan of hot dogs (really?), they also offer a wide array of truly special sandwiches and even have a salad on the menu( Are you sure you don't want to try one of the hot dogs? They are so good). Continuing with the good stuff. Despite arriving with the lunch crowd service was still fast and friendly, and parking was plentiful mid-week. I look forward to stopping in again soon.
(4)
Leah W.
This is my favorite weekend location for either a quick lunch or a late night snack. This restaurant is more of a "fast food" style place but with a friendlier and less processed (healthy is debatable) flare. It is counter service with a few benches, but these probably would sit a total of maybe 12 adults. I prefer to take my food to go and either walk around or hang out on the Prom in nice weather. I absolutely love the tater tots. While I have had them and love them plain, one of the best things to split between friends is one of their more doctored concoctions. Currently, my friends and I have the early riser option as our favorite. I have had multiple sandwiches and a few hot dog options here as well. The food is always fresh and delicious. The combinations are sometimes unusual, however, every time I have tried something new I have loved it. There really have not ever been any misses for me (thus the five star rating). The restaurant does change up its menu every once in a while, so don't expect to always get the same thing. It is a little hidden, so many of my friends had not heard of it before. Anytime I bring someone here, I always hear from them that they come back again and again and they love it!
(5)
X M.
After a whole day walk in Portland, we were in a rush to drive to our hotel and we decided to get some fast-food with Lobster. and then We Found This Place!!! I love their lobster roll and their tots!!!
(4)
Lindsay W.
For some reason I thought this place was only hot dogs and tater tots, which don't get me wrong, there's nothing wrong with that. I actually love hot dogs. And they have a lot of good ones. But they also have awesome sandwiches which is great because it's a block from my work so I can now depend on them for lunch. I got their steak sandwich on naan bread. It was really unique and I wasn't sure I was going to like it but I really did! I loved it actually. Their not cheap sandwiches. Mine was $9 but it's worth it. They have tons of unique food items and I'm looking forward to trying one of their souped up hotdogs and tater tots when I decided to binge in the future.
(4)
Maura Q.
The menu is small, but the tater tots are delicious and come in large portions. I purchased The Das Boot hot dog and some of the loaded tots. It wasn't too expensive and the hot dog was good! The staff is also very friendly and patient, especially with the intoxicated people they must get on the weekend nights. I don't crave hot dogs all of the time, but when I do, I imagine I'll return to the Blue Rooster. I missed their chef summer series this past season, but hopefully they'll continue something like it next summer. If you're looking for a gourmet dog and something more than one from a stand (not that there's anything wrong with those!), this would be your place to go. They also have a prime people watching spot. I just wish their place was a little bit bigger, but I understand the location and it makes sense.
(3)
Jessica H.
Pretty yummy food. Not for you if your on a diet, but maybe worth a "cheat" meal.
(4)
Jake H.
Very good quick food, I got the chickpea salad an loved it. Service was fast. Farmer Tess was also good, but lacked a bit of crunch as a sandwich
(4)
Gabrielle B.
Stopped in for an afternoon snack, and we tried the Three Little Pigs. Best choice!! So good!
(5)
Jaime M.
Ordered kimchi and macaroni and cheese. The good: wow-me-gently flavor on the creamy mac (but then, I never eat anything so rich at home) paired with the gentle crunch of the breadcrumbs. The better(?): the gobble-able spice and sourness level on the giant portion of kimchi. I could have eaten the full quarter-pound or so of cabbage I was served if I weren't already full of mac. The best: My stomach now sounds like a bluegrass concert. Apparently, the combination of ferment plus dairy = twine time. The details: The staff members were super nice. Everything is house-made, so it takes a minute more than your average counter service. I wish it were a buck or two cheaper (as far as the kimchi, they could get away with charging $2.50 and halving the portion!) but that's probably because I don't get out much. They made "an exception" and gave me tap water; IMO, they should not be so concerned about the bottom line that they are stingy with tap water. Not much room to eat, but it wasn't a problem. I don't love that all the food was served in disposable or recyclable containers as opposed to reusable ones, but I guess it's primarily a takeout business (or at least that's what the very small dining area indicated to me). The worst: I put my kimchi leftovers in my purse. I now have a kimchi-flavored purse, which makes vacation harder. The container was leaky!
(5)
Michelle E.
Still waiting for a cup of water. My husband I are here for the first time tonight. It was empty inside (and has been every time we've walked by), but the menu sounded so good. We ordered and paid. Then, I asked for a cup of water. The guy at the counter said "we've just got the bottled water for a dollar". He turned and walked away as he said this. Seriously. You won't give me a cup of water. And you know it's d--- move so you won't look at me while you say it. We each ordered a hotdog - the Barking Dog and the Pineapple Express. Both were delish. The tots were also really yummy. But, I'm completely turned off that you wouldn't give me a cup of water. Sorry, won't be back.
(3)
Mike S.
Tots... Who doesn't like them?! They do other things but I don't come here for anything but the awesome tots! It also is a great place to get a snack when you're out for a night on the town visiting different places to get your favorite beers!
(4)
Asya P.
Awesome! I ordered delivery via 2dinein The loss of 1 star is entirely due to the price, which I feel is just a dollar or two higher than it should be on every dish. This is low-labor food to produce, though the ingredients they use do seem to be top-notch. I had the vegetarian Farmer Tess sandwich, which was big and very filling. Truly healthy but also rich in flavor. And then there were the fried Brussels sprouts in a chili sauce with queso fresco. Oh, my god. Delicious!! I will be trying to imitate these at home for sure!!! Not spicy, just flavorful. I will definitely come here when I want to indulge, have an empty fridge, but don't want to feel gross afterwards.
(4)
Steff D.
I had been stalking Blue Rooster Food Co. for some time now. I'm always on the hunt for local eats open late so I can proudly tell outta statahs who whine that "there's nothing open" what's what. I would definitely send them to Blue Rooster should they be craving a delicious snack post-bars closing! For that matter, I'd send them there if they needed a little lunch fix during their Old Port excursion! It's a very small, but clean and inviting space that's ideally located and offers prime people watching. The staff is also VERY friendly and the menu is creative, interesting, reasonably rice, and delicious... if you're not a vegetarian that is. We came for lunch on a Monday afternoon and ordered the chickpea sandwich, potato salad, and fried Brussels sprouts (three of the five things we, as herbivores, could eat there). There was some confusion between me and the man taking my order though, and instead of getting The Farmer Ted (the hummus, goat cheese, and veg sandwich) we got the chickpea salad instead. Not the end of the world, but the miscommunication was frustrating when we didn't get what we thought we had ordered. The potato salad was good, but underseasoned. It was very nice, don't get me wrong, it just wasn't flavorful or memorable. The chickpea salad was a blend of Mediterranean flavors - whole chickpeas, red peppers, olives, fennel, thyme - that worked really well together. It was good, but (if you're someone who cooks frequently) it wasn't worth the price tag when you could make something similar at home. And then, there were the fried Brussels sprouts. Listen, if you're coming to Blue Rooster Food Co. for the first time and you don't order the Brussels sprouts, well then, SHAME ON YOU. These sprouts, covered in a sweet chili sauce and topped with sesame seeds and queso fresco, are alone worth coming for. They are definitely the stand-out item here, and are a unique food item in the city that Blue Rooster alone is making. They are a textural and flavor wonderland, though I wish there'd be more queso fresco on them (this is totally a personal thing though - everything, in my opinion, could have more cheese on it!). Would I come back here? Maybe. But, because of it's lackluster veg-options (and I totally understand that I'm not their target audience; as a matter of fact, I appreciate the offerings they DO have... I'm still gonna get the The Farmer Ted someday) I'd probably be better suited elsewhere, especially considering I've eaten just about everything I can eat off their menu already!
(3)
Britney S.
This place is amazing and worth every penny! I am in love with their sandwiches. This is definitely my favorite place to get a sandwich in the old port. My current obsession is "the godfather." Everything I've tried there has been consistently good. I ordered something one day that I enjoyed so I ordered it again the next day at night with a whole different crew on staff and the sandwhich still came out the same. They are very consistent. The woman that took my order was very friendly and polite.. Good people on staff. The fried brussel sprouts and fried cauliflower are amazing. Unfortunately I have not had the priviledge to try their tots or hot dogs which is their signature but I have heard nothing but good things. They also remodelled the store so there is more seating for their guests. This is a definite must-try if you are in the area. Love it!
(5)
Matt J.
So good! This place is tucked away on a side street in Old Port and packs some serious foodie flavors into its unassuming doors. The tots are fantastic... Perfectly crisp with awesome topping choices... We had the early bird which has hot sauce, maple mayo, a Sunnyside up egg, and cheese for a great flavor combo. The hot sauce (sriracha-esque but homemade) adds a sweet and hot vinegary punch that absolutely makes this dish. The beefsquatch was equally fantastic... if Indian and Mexican flavors gave birth to a gyro, this would be it. So fresh and full of flavor. Each bit starts crisp and fresh and build to a hot and complex explosion in your mouth...a must try. My wife also has the farmer Tess, which was quite good... Very light and fresh with a blend of great flavors.
(5)
Karen F.
Creative and excellent! Think they should upgrade the site when possible and join the dinner offerings in Portland...In the meantime awesome food good prices friendly staff give them a try!
(5)
Dia D.
We had the lobster roll with the Brussels sprouts (with sweet chili and queso fresco). The lobster roll was a 3, but the Brussels sprouts were a 5...excellent. This was the first of 3 restaurants in Portland whose seating consisted of stools/benches and a counter and by the time we left Portland we were sick of balancing on stools while we ate.
(4)
Mark D.
I really want to love this place because of what it is. A fast food option that is not a chain. Unfortunately they keep falling a little short. I will say that their tots have never let me down. I love the tot-tine which is a twist on Canadian poutine. However other things I have ordered were just not that good. I ordered the Rooster Blue which I assumed to be their signature sandwich given the name. it was a couple pieces of fried chicken with cole-slaw and some type of blue-cheese dressing all in a big toasty bun. While it sounded delicious to me, the eating experience left me wanting something more. the fried chicken was dry, which was accentuated by the large bulky roll and not enough slaw or blue cheese dressing. I hate dry sandwiches. I've also tried their Colombiano hot-dog which had Roots slaw, avocado, "rosada" sauce, queso fresco,and shoestring fries. I did not like this hot-dog at all. Way to many flavors going on here, and avocado and hot dog just don't mix for me. I'm going to continue to try this place and I'm hoping I find something on the menu other then the Tots that I like.
(3)
Matthew P.
Viva La Late Night Food! If you are looking for some delicious late night food in Portland, The Blue Rooster is the place. I went here two nights while visiting Portland. I ordered the lobster roll (Bahn Mi style) and the Brussels sprouts. The Bahn Mi style was a great idea for the lobster roll. The pickled veggies were really fresh and complimented the lobster. The Brussels sprouts were beyond awesome for a side. They are flash fried and then covered in a light vinegar-based hot sauce topped with queso fresco = beyond awesome. The Blue Rooster also offers several hot dog varieties which all looked delicious. It's a relief to see late night food done right. Late night eateries beware...The Blue Rooster is preaching the gospel of awesome.
(5)
Briana R.
Yum! How can you beat hot dogs and tots? I got the Das Boot and my husband got the Three Little Pigs. I so wish I would have got the tots too. They were amazing. The Das Boot was good, very basic dog with kraut, mustard and of course bacon wrapped around the hot dog. I wish I lived in Portland so I could come here to fill my food cravings!
(5)
Caitlin T.
Everything on the menu sounded delicious, it was one of those scenarios that I wanted to order everything because I couldn't decide. The boy and I ordered the very yummy and amply portioned tater tots with a side of blue cheese mayo (!) and a side of one of the most amazing thing I have ever had.. Deep fried Caesar style Brussels sprouts. I was so happy with both choices, and can't wait to try the buffalo tots or nacho tots next visit. The hot dogs we ordered were the Das Boot (bacon wrapped with house kraut and home made mustard) and the Pineapple Express (pineapple salsa and jalapeño honey mustard), both were quite tasty, though the rolls were a little less fresh or maybe just not toasted enough for what was inside. The roll over shadowed a bit, but I could tell that the house made fun combination of ingredients was there. Two guys behind the counter were sweet, seemed to be pretty pumped to be behind what they sell and the prices were completely fair! I can't wait to try more when I visit again!
(4)
Victoria S.
5 stars for the creativity factor - it's fast food, complete with smaller menu, plenty of fried potato options, quick service, but with a unique menu and friendly service of a small, local business. I went with my mom what was, I think, their first month open, so things may have changed a bit since. I had a house pate de campagne sandwich with pickled veg on a baguette that was solid. My mom had a bahn-mi inspired lobster roll that was, hands down, my favorite lobster roll after spending nearly 6 months in Maine. And the brussel sprouts? A revelation. Who needs boring old french fries when you can get your fried side fix with these? Crunchy, but with a depth of flavor and texture unlike more conventional sides, the hot sauce and cheese do a great job of cutting the oil and balancing each other and the hint of brussel-sprout funk. Definitely worth going in just to grab a basket of these to munch as you wander the old port area. When I went there wasn't much in the way of seating, but service is quick enough that it is a valid grab'n'go option.
(4)
Daniel M.
I've had all of their tot dishes, a few hotdogs and lunch and breakfast sandwiches. For comfort food or a great late night bite (after midnight) after some drinks on Fore street, this place can't be missed. The price is fair.
(5)
Aaron P.
The food is so good it almost makes me forget about their $9 minimum on credit card charges. Almost. A $9 minimum when their average sandwich is under $9, including tax, just rubs me the wrong way. Are they doing this so that I'm nudged to add some tots and a drink to my order to bring it over $9, or are they just really worried about the percentage that the credit card companies are skimming off of their transactions? Either way, it irks me something fierce, and upon doing some light research, it may actually be illegal. Honestly, I'd prefer if they were cash-only. At least that's fair. All that aside, their food is outstanding. I've had a sandwich, a bacon-wrapped hot dog, and tater tots from them, and they've all be absolutely wonderful. I got my tots and dog to go, and they asked me if I wanted ketchup and/or hot sauce, and put them in little plastic containers for me in my to-go bag. They even marked the hot sauce with a "HS" in sharpie so I didn't mix it up with the ketchup. Upon opening my tots container, I noticed they had put a little wooden prong with which to poke my tots. A really lovely touch. Great attention to detail. And so, I love Blue Rooster, but I'm also mad at them. "Change your ways!" I scream at them while shaking my fist, but in the other fist I tightly grasp one of their bacon-wrapped hot dogs. Did I mention their bacon-wrapped hot dogs yet? So good.
(4)
Beau C.
Really good sandwiches with lots of fresh ingredients and great flavor combinations. The poutine tater tots with bacon, pork belly and sausage is AMAZING! It's a tiny place with seating for about ten people along the walls and no bathroom (just go up the hill to Five Guys for a restroom)
(4)
Nancy S.
Stopped in for a quick sandwich last night Had probably the WORST sandwich ever. I've been frequenting this sandwich shop since it opened and must say the quality has gone SOUTH! I had what was billed as a chicken cutlet sandwich: A fried/burnt piece of meat,substance that was a framed in red slaw (that was overpoweringly fermented) and some kind of mayo. This flavorless meat was paper thin, and so over cooked that I sent it back, only to get basically the same thing the second time. All this badness for only $9.00. Are you kidding me?? The tuna sandwich I had a month ago was almost equally unimpressive. My companion's hot dog was bland and of poor quality. This place has gone downhill in a big way. Or maybe the Friday night staff does not know how to cook? The tater tots we great, as usual, but heck, those require no skill to make.
(2)
Erica R.
I try to stop in to the Blue Rooster every time I am in Portland. The Brussels sprouts are AMAZING- definitely the best I have ever had from a restaurant. The mac and cheese is also delicious. The staff has always been super friendly to me and the wait is never too long.
(5)
Aesop V.
Summary: great for late night foods, open late for post-bar munchies, AWESOME tater tots. I didn't like my other foods but I will be willing to try something else. Pros: Open later, great tater tots. Cons: Parking, small dining area. I went on a Sunday afternoon with the girlfriend after a day of roaming the city and we luckily found a parking spot right in front of the place, but there are limited spots around the area so just be mindful when going here. It's probably better off as a place to go to after you've done some exploring around the city. It's a small space to get your food and have a quick bite or a quick, casual lunch. We went in and it was empty so it was perfect to explore everything about the place. The menu had sandwiches hot dogs and our fav: tater tots. We opted for the three little pigs tater tots, small brussels sprouts (per recommendation of Yelpers) and the Seoul Dog. Tater tots: need I say more? Tots are delicious by themselves and the combo with cheese, and bacon makes it even more delicious. Left me wanting more. Brussels Sprouts: I've never liked brussels sprouts but wanted to give them a try since Yelpers raved about them. I still don't like brussels sprouts. They were grilled and had some sauce and cheese on them but I couldn't get over the brussels taste. Seoul Hot Dog: I've had better dogs themselves. It wasn't anything spectacular. The kim-chi on it was more vinegar-y than I usually like it. I probably don't try it again, but I will be willing to try another dog. This will be my new spot for post-bar munchies with tater tots!
(4)
Jason T.
I called a friend as soon as I left this place and told them I just had the best sandwich ever. Seriously, I have never done that before. I ordered the Cherry Bomb. Steak, onion, cherry pepper, cheddar covered with an over easy egg. Yep! It took me a minute to plan my attack, but I just grabbed a stack of napkins, faced the wall and didn't talk to anyone for a bit...just went to town. This was 2 days ago, still talking about it. Enjoy!
(5)
Kelly S.
This is the first review I have ever written and I hate to have it be a bad one. I was so looking forward to trying Blue Rooster as I had seen pictures of their food on instagram. I got the cuckoo's nest sandwich and tater tots. The tater tots were good but the sandwich was not, I got a piece of bone within a couple of bites. It really ruined it for me but I thought it was just a fluke. I took the other half of my sandwich to go and my boyfriend tried it and he got a piece of bone in the first bite. I don't think I will go back.
(1)
A. M.
After searching for some late night eats while visiting, I was really pumped to come across this place. Tots? Dogs? I'm down. Sadly, it fell short of my reasonable expectations. Service wasn't that friendly and the basic hot dog tasted like it wasn't even cooked. Sad and cold. The tots however were warm, but average. Nothing that would be worth coming back for. Maybe I'd give the other dogs a try again? Not sure. Some other reviews mentioned a hot dog truck so I might check that out first.
(2)
Matthew P.
Viva La Late Night Food! If you are looking for some delicious late night food in Portland, The Blue Rooster is the place. I went here two nights while visiting Portland. I ordered the lobster roll (Bahn Mi style) and the Brussels sprouts. The Bahn Mi style was a great idea for the lobster roll. The pickled veggies were really fresh and complimented the lobster. The Brussels sprouts were beyond awesome for a side. They are flash fried and then covered in a light vinegar-based hot sauce topped with queso fresco = beyond awesome. The Blue Rooster also offers several hot dog varieties which all looked delicious. It's a relief to see late night food done right. Late night eateries beware...The Blue Rooster is preaching the gospel of awesome.
(5)
Briana R.
Yum! How can you beat hot dogs and tots? I got the Das Boot and my husband got the Three Little Pigs. I so wish I would have got the tots too. They were amazing. The Das Boot was good, very basic dog with kraut, mustard and of course bacon wrapped around the hot dog. I wish I lived in Portland so I could come here to fill my food cravings!
(5)
Caitlin T.
Everything on the menu sounded delicious, it was one of those scenarios that I wanted to order everything because I couldn't decide. The boy and I ordered the very yummy and amply portioned tater tots with a side of blue cheese mayo (!) and a side of one of the most amazing thing I have ever had.. Deep fried Caesar style Brussels sprouts. I was so happy with both choices, and can't wait to try the buffalo tots or nacho tots next visit. The hot dogs we ordered were the Das Boot (bacon wrapped with house kraut and home made mustard) and the Pineapple Express (pineapple salsa and jalapeño honey mustard), both were quite tasty, though the rolls were a little less fresh or maybe just not toasted enough for what was inside. The roll over shadowed a bit, but I could tell that the house made fun combination of ingredients was there. Two guys behind the counter were sweet, seemed to be pretty pumped to be behind what they sell and the prices were completely fair! I can't wait to try more when I visit again!
(4)
Victoria S.
5 stars for the creativity factor - it's fast food, complete with smaller menu, plenty of fried potato options, quick service, but with a unique menu and friendly service of a small, local business. I went with my mom what was, I think, their first month open, so things may have changed a bit since. I had a house pate de campagne sandwich with pickled veg on a baguette that was solid. My mom had a bahn-mi inspired lobster roll that was, hands down, my favorite lobster roll after spending nearly 6 months in Maine. And the brussel sprouts? A revelation. Who needs boring old french fries when you can get your fried side fix with these? Crunchy, but with a depth of flavor and texture unlike more conventional sides, the hot sauce and cheese do a great job of cutting the oil and balancing each other and the hint of brussel-sprout funk. Definitely worth going in just to grab a basket of these to munch as you wander the old port area. When I went there wasn't much in the way of seating, but service is quick enough that it is a valid grab'n'go option.
(4)
Daniel M.
I've had all of their tot dishes, a few hotdogs and lunch and breakfast sandwiches. For comfort food or a great late night bite (after midnight) after some drinks on Fore street, this place can't be missed. The price is fair.
(5)
Aaron P.
The food is so good it almost makes me forget about their $9 minimum on credit card charges. Almost. A $9 minimum when their average sandwich is under $9, including tax, just rubs me the wrong way. Are they doing this so that I'm nudged to add some tots and a drink to my order to bring it over $9, or are they just really worried about the percentage that the credit card companies are skimming off of their transactions? Either way, it irks me something fierce, and upon doing some light research, it may actually be illegal. Honestly, I'd prefer if they were cash-only. At least that's fair. All that aside, their food is outstanding. I've had a sandwich, a bacon-wrapped hot dog, and tater tots from them, and they've all be absolutely wonderful. I got my tots and dog to go, and they asked me if I wanted ketchup and/or hot sauce, and put them in little plastic containers for me in my to-go bag. They even marked the hot sauce with a "HS" in sharpie so I didn't mix it up with the ketchup. Upon opening my tots container, I noticed they had put a little wooden prong with which to poke my tots. A really lovely touch. Great attention to detail. And so, I love Blue Rooster, but I'm also mad at them. "Change your ways!" I scream at them while shaking my fist, but in the other fist I tightly grasp one of their bacon-wrapped hot dogs. Did I mention their bacon-wrapped hot dogs yet? So good.
(4)
Beau C.
Really good sandwiches with lots of fresh ingredients and great flavor combinations. The poutine tater tots with bacon, pork belly and sausage is AMAZING! It's a tiny place with seating for about ten people along the walls and no bathroom (just go up the hill to Five Guys for a restroom)
(4)
Nancy S.
Stopped in for a quick sandwich last night Had probably the WORST sandwich ever. I've been frequenting this sandwich shop since it opened and must say the quality has gone SOUTH! I had what was billed as a chicken cutlet sandwich: A fried/burnt piece of meat,substance that was a framed in red slaw (that was overpoweringly fermented) and some kind of mayo. This flavorless meat was paper thin, and so over cooked that I sent it back, only to get basically the same thing the second time. All this badness for only $9.00. Are you kidding me?? The tuna sandwich I had a month ago was almost equally unimpressive. My companion's hot dog was bland and of poor quality. This place has gone downhill in a big way. Or maybe the Friday night staff does not know how to cook? The tater tots we great, as usual, but heck, those require no skill to make.
(2)
Erica R.
I try to stop in to the Blue Rooster every time I am in Portland. The Brussels sprouts are AMAZING- definitely the best I have ever had from a restaurant. The mac and cheese is also delicious. The staff has always been super friendly to me and the wait is never too long.
(5)
Aesop V.
Summary: great for late night foods, open late for post-bar munchies, AWESOME tater tots. I didn't like my other foods but I will be willing to try something else. Pros: Open later, great tater tots. Cons: Parking, small dining area. I went on a Sunday afternoon with the girlfriend after a day of roaming the city and we luckily found a parking spot right in front of the place, but there are limited spots around the area so just be mindful when going here. It's probably better off as a place to go to after you've done some exploring around the city. It's a small space to get your food and have a quick bite or a quick, casual lunch. We went in and it was empty so it was perfect to explore everything about the place. The menu had sandwiches hot dogs and our fav: tater tots. We opted for the three little pigs tater tots, small brussels sprouts (per recommendation of Yelpers) and the Seoul Dog. Tater tots: need I say more? Tots are delicious by themselves and the combo with cheese, and bacon makes it even more delicious. Left me wanting more. Brussels Sprouts: I've never liked brussels sprouts but wanted to give them a try since Yelpers raved about them. I still don't like brussels sprouts. They were grilled and had some sauce and cheese on them but I couldn't get over the brussels taste. Seoul Hot Dog: I've had better dogs themselves. It wasn't anything spectacular. The kim-chi on it was more vinegar-y than I usually like it. I probably don't try it again, but I will be willing to try another dog. This will be my new spot for post-bar munchies with tater tots!
(4)
AJ P.
Tots! With a menu of hot dogs, sandwiches, and tater tots, this place is good place for a quick lunch. But honestly, its best for late night fare after a night in the old port to help soak up all the alcohol that might be sitting in your system. The brussel sprouts are awesome and same with the three little pigs: tots with bacon, sausage and pork belly. They have a small selection of hot sauces which is always appreciated. Don't come in expecting a good place to rest - there's not a lot of sitting room, just a few stools along the side walls.
(4)
Joseph M.
What can I say about this place that hasn't been said. Great junk food. If I lived in Portland I would hit this place up any drinking night. I am glad I don't work near by or I would get seriously fat going there for lunch. Only drag is they don't really have much seating. It's definitely a to-go place.
(4)
B P.
Dank sandwiches. Unique, tasty, and just downright awesome. Worth a stop. The flavor combinations really compliment. This place is an underrated part of Portland's awesome food culture.
(5)
CB W.
We had a nice lunch at Blue Rooster Food Co. The buffalo tots were really tasty as was the mac and cheese, thai iced tea and lemonade. Maybe a little pricey for the large tots at $12, but not outrageous. They did have great music playing and friendly service.
(3)
Trevor J.
Good food
(5)
Whit D.
I've never been disappointed, but I've never been blown away either. Fast, friendly, and open late. Definitely the front runner at 1 AM when you want to grab something decent and catch a cab, but not a "can't miss" lunch spot in my opinion.
(3)
Jeff K.
The green salad was excellent, the slaw delicious and the brussel sprouts were simply EXTRAORDINARY. One of the best values in Maine, Blue Rooster stands out in a city with amazing food. One great thing about blue rooster: they are open late Saturday night. check it out, you'll be glad you did.
(5)
Jennifer M.
After hearing many a tale of their luscious offerings, my husband and I finally tried The Blue Rooster. It was good, but not as great as I had expected. For starters, I didn't realize that it was primarily geared to the take-out crowd. It has very limited seating and little atmosphere. Not a huge fan of hot dogs, seemingly their signature food, I ordered a "Jack Kerou-Weck," a roast beef sandwich with au jus and horseradish served on a caraway roll. I must say, it was pretty tasty, but it was not rare, as described on the menu. On the other hand, the tots we ordered were fan-freekin-tastic, and I could have kept eating them for days. They were a little saltier than I would have preferred, but no matter, they were awesome! I will definitely go back again just for the tots, and next time, I'll try another sandwich.
(4)
H C.
Stopped in for a quick bite while passing through Portland. Had the Jack Kerou-Wack (roast beef dipped in au jus). What truly made this sandwich amazing was the caraway and sea salt roll on which it was served! Yum! Kids had hot dogs with a healthier, homemade version of relish. Great service too. Highly recommended!
(5)
David F.
Had the Caesar fried Brussels sprouts and the Charlie Noble sandwich. Both hit the spot. Loved the vibe in this place - chill music, really friendly guy behind the counter. I would like to see a few more vegetarian options on the menu. Otherwise, this is a pretty sweet establishment.
(4)
Robert J.
This is a review based on three visits, each time with a different friend. They all had questions about exactly what was in the the dishes and the each time the cashier was able to describe the ingredients. This was especially valuable for one of my friends that has trouble with some gluten. It was pointed out that the facility handles bread and nuts so people deathly allergic should call ahead but frankly people in that situation should be doing that anyway. Luckily my friend doesn't fall into that category. Downsides to this place, no bathrooms and limited seating, parking downtown can be problematic but thats true anywhere in portland. Upside , great food for people on their way to/from somewhere else
(4)
d w.
These guys are the real deal. So happy to have found this place. I have to admit the first time I tried this restaurant, I had the Seoul Dog and I was hooked. Now every time I go in, I have the Seoul Dog, the tater tots and usually split the Brussel sprouts with a friend. It is all so good! You will enjoy it.
(5)
Patrice L.
YUM....just YUM. Vegetarians should flock here en masse. We tried the brussels sprouts caesar salad, incredible. Hot tots with buffalo sauce and blue cheese, out of this world. Simple green salad with lemony dressing, give me more! The food is service quickly and conveniently in compostable containers, easy to stay and eat in or take away. I can't wait to visit Blue Rooster on my next trip to Portland!
(5)
Lauren H.
Blue Rooster combines high quality, local ingredients with friendly service, late night hours, and cheap prices to boot. Sign me up! My boyfriend and I (read: tourists) stumbled in here after aimlessly wandering around on our first day in Portland; we were starving and didn't want to spend a lot on lunch, as we had already planned a spendy dinner elsewhere. And this place offered exactly what we needed. Colombiano: Just delicious. I love a good dressed-up hotdog. The hotdog itself was really high quality, and all the ingredients were fresh and went perfectly together. Lobster banh-mi: I didn't taste my boyfriend's but he really enjoyed it. Tater tots: Yes! Homemade ketchup: YES! YES! Get the iced coffee! Ask them to sweeten it for you with liquid sugar and add cream. It was the perfect addition to my meal.
(4)
Sam B.
Wow, what an excellent little spot! I was visiting Portland for a wedding from Burlington Vermont and was drawn down a side street in search of lunch. I saw the sign for Blue Rooster and went in to check it out. I choose to eat gluten free, dairy free and only fish in terms of meat. Needless to say that makes dining out difficult. When I inquired about gluten free options for sandwiches the gentlemen working the counter was incredibly helpful and offered to put all the ingredients on a salad for me. I ordered the Fez which comes with tuna, red onions, peppers, paprika and roasted potatoes. I also ordered a small side of friend brussle sprouts with the sweet chilli sauce...AMAZING. I highly recommend this little local spot with its diverse menu and good atmosphere! I hope to return next time I am in Portland!
(5)
Lauren W.
This is a great little place in Old Port. We stumbled past it by happenstance and it did not disappoint. I got the Godfather which was an Italian sandwich with mortadella and a house Pickadilli. My yelp check in partner got the Junkyard Dog which was a bacon wrapped hot dog topped with chili, tater tots, & some slaw. We also ordered the fried Brussel Sprouts, which I typically love anywhere, and they were amazing. Probably my favorite part of the meal. The Lobster Bahn Mi was also screaming my name but I passed on it. I guess it just gives me a reason to come back next time. If you are into hot sauces they had an unlabeled one on the countertops along with 9 other small, spicy bottles to choose from. Great spot for lunch.
(4)
Dan O.
Love this place. I work in the Old Port of Portland and have eaten here 5 times since it opened. It has specific segment in Portland's growing foodie landscape. The turkey sandwich and "Red Eye" breakfast sandwiches are highlights of the current menu from my personal perspective. I always get a side of the Brussels Sprouts as well. I recently brought my family here while on the Friday Art Walk and fed our family of four under $25 with food that was craft made with intentionality and skill. The staff were also super-friendly to my family and made everyone feel very welcome. If you looking for unique sandwiches or a special hot dog, stop in to the Blue Rooster for a bite, you'll be happy you did.
(4)
brian d.
The fried sprouts were nasty, barely fried, mostly raw..I also got a chicken wrap, that was SLIMY and just nasty..I didn't finish either, and paid $18..Go anywhere else but here..!
(1)
Matthew C.
GREAT FOOD AND FRIENDLY SERVICE. You have to try the Farmer Ted veggie sandwich on focaccia. The bread is baked fresh everyday. The fried brussel sprouts were tasty as well. Had a little kick to them. The Poutine Toter Tots were also something new to us. Nice blend. My wife and I enjoyed everything we ordered. Super friendly staff helped make us feel right at home. I wish we had something like this back in California. I think people traveling here from the west coast would enjoy this place. It was nice to take a little break from fish for a few nights. We will be back and thank you! M&M Yorba Linda, Ca.
(5)
Roseann C.
A place known for its tater tots?? Sign. Me. Up!! They also have sandwiches, hot dogs, which I did not try. My tater tot version of poutine was tasty, though my request to have them without the gravy meant that I was pretty much eating cold cheese curds on hot tots. That's not one that should be monkeyed with just because I am not a fan of chicken gravy. My bad. The buffalo tater tots I tasted were super (and I wished I had gotten them instead). And do not even get me started on the fried Brussels sprouts. Wowee!!! I'm a happier person knowing that these are in the world. It's pretty much just a counter place, but it's kitschy and cool and the workers are very friendly. Note: coolest thing in there = the Christopher Walken napkin holder. Yes, I want one! Go there if you want post-cocktail vittles and don't mind eating on your feet.
(4)
Jason T.
I called a friend as soon as I left this place and told them I just had the best sandwich ever. Seriously, I have never done that before. I ordered the Cherry Bomb. Steak, onion, cherry pepper, cheddar covered with an over easy egg. Yep! It took me a minute to plan my attack, but I just grabbed a stack of napkins, faced the wall and didn't talk to anyone for a bit...just went to town. This was 2 days ago, still talking about it. Enjoy!
(5)
Kelly S.
This is the first review I have ever written and I hate to have it be a bad one. I was so looking forward to trying Blue Rooster as I had seen pictures of their food on instagram. I got the cuckoo's nest sandwich and tater tots. The tater tots were good but the sandwich was not, I got a piece of bone within a couple of bites. It really ruined it for me but I thought it was just a fluke. I took the other half of my sandwich to go and my boyfriend tried it and he got a piece of bone in the first bite. I don't think I will go back.
(1)
A. M.
After searching for some late night eats while visiting, I was really pumped to come across this place. Tots? Dogs? I'm down. Sadly, it fell short of my reasonable expectations. Service wasn't that friendly and the basic hot dog tasted like it wasn't even cooked. Sad and cold. The tots however were warm, but average. Nothing that would be worth coming back for. Maybe I'd give the other dogs a try again? Not sure. Some other reviews mentioned a hot dog truck so I might check that out first.
(2)
Gabrielle B.
Stopped in for an afternoon snack, and we tried the Three Little Pigs. Best choice!! So good!
(5)
Christa H.
Tots. Do I need to say more? Tots, tots, tots. What keeps me coming back here? Crispy potato goodness covered in whatever you like or buck naked. Tot-tine with cheese curds and gravy is my new best friend (sorry real friends!). The gravy is perfect and the cheese curds are the real deal. I recommend inhaling it like I do or the tots can get a little soggy from the gravy. The three little pigs is also another of my favorites. It's the Tot-tine topped with bacon, sausage and pork belly. Heart attack city? You bet. Guilty pleasure? 100%. If you are a tot purist, you can get them plain and just enjoy the crispy goodness. Have I said enough about the tots? Oh probably. To keep the goodness going, try a sandwich or a hot dog. You can get a hot dog wrapped in bacon! Yes! What an amazing idea. The toppings are varied and different from your average hot dog vendor. You can go messy or simple, it doesn't matter because they are all good. The sandwiches are unique and you'll look at the board and wonder "hmm...I wonder how those flavors will go together." Be adventurous. You won't be disappointed. I recently have the chicken PBLT which is chicken thigh, confit pork belly, lettuce, pickled green tomatoes and chipotle mayo. It was wonderful. I'm pretty sure it was on a ciabatta roll and there was just the right amount of mayo. I'm looking forward to going back and trying one of the vegetarian options. The falafel sandwich has arugula pesto and a watermelon, radish and fennel slaw on it. That sounds very intriguing.
(5)
Kenneth P.
The hot dogs here were not too impressive. I had the pineapple express and my friend had a das boot. We were both unimpressed with our hot dogs. The pineapple express has Pickled mango salsa, cilantro jalapeno pineapple mustard. The jalepeño is the only thing that had a strong flavor. There was not a hint of pineapple or mustard. The was a small hint of mango. As for the bacon, it lacked any flavor and crunch to it.
(2)
Rebecca W.
The food was good but average. There seems to be too much thought on the hot dog toppings and not enough in the quality of the hot dogs. I tried to growly dog which didn't seem to have nearly the amount of bacon I pictured and I have no idea what the boss sauce is that came on it. The bun was soft and fresh. The tater tots with all the different topping is a cool idea and a good way to feed those salty food cravings. I tried the buffalo flavor which had an excellent ratio of buffalo sauce to blue cheese. It comes topped with carrot and celery shreds. Not a very good addition. The nacho tater tots had excellent chili and nacho sauce and what what must be house made salsa. The ingredients were all fresh and had a nice spicy kick. Overall it was a good experience with friendly staff, but not one I will be regular at.
(3)
Nancy R.
Great eclectic food choices, with many options for gluten free. My husband is a bacon lover and he was in heaven, while my fried Brussel sprouts with a sweet chili sauce were amazing. Definitely don't miss this gem.
(5)
Hilary J.
This place is fantastic. My boyfriend and I went for breakfast and split 2 small orders of tots, a small kimchi, a small chickpea salad and small fried Brussels sprouts (the ones with queso fresco and sweet chili sauce) The tots were perfect- got one order with a fried egg on top and order of buffalo tots. The egg was PERFECTION. The Brussels sprouts were the best I've ever had- anywhere. The kimchi was spicy and delicious and the chickpea salad was light and fresh. We took home most of the kimchi and chickpea salad and left feeling full but not gross. I absolutely wish there was one of these in Los Angeles. Everything was awesome. Keep up the good work and holy crap, don't change a thing.
(5)
J M.
This spot is tucked away from the busy port street. I was on the search for my first lobster roll. The food came out in about 10 minutes. My tots were hot and the bun was warm. I was expecting a heavy buttery lobster roll but in turn received a refreshing twist on the sandwich. The slaw mixture over pewees the taste of the lobster. Think it was to many layers of flavor for the rather tiny lobster roll. They also have tater tots in many different forms. The house ketchup taste is for a select group of palettes. Not a fan but to each is on. I also tried the tot-tine, which is just like poutine(gravy cheese curds on fries) my friend had most of this and said it was decadent and savory. Ate it so fast I almost didn't get to try it. Overall a nice spot for a variety of sandwiches. Real small dining area and food staff. When busy expect a long wait. Well in enjoy!!
(3)
Tessa L.
Stopped in for lunch with a group, including a toddler who's a bit of a picky eater, and everyone left happy. The sandwiches are inventive and delicious, the bread is very fresh, and the staff is so friendly. We'll be back next time we're in town for sure. Be sure and try the tots, we all really enjoyed the "tot-tine."
(5)
Michael G.
Five weeks ago, I started a new job located in Old Port. Discovered The Blue Rooster on my 1st day and have enjoyed one of their incredible sandwiches every week since. Clean facility, friendly staff and a creative, fresh sandwich on each visit. And all the hype in prior reviews on Blue Rooster's tots: Yea, they are that awesome!
(5)
A K.
It is a small place. One would miss it while walking past it. We wet as part of the foodie tour. The sandwich was great. They had a lot of interesting toppings on the menu. Sadly we did not go back to try them.
(4)
Sarah H.
Good, classic tots and creative hot dog options. The tots were great and I'll try the pouting or Bayou Tots next time. The dogs are good and their sandwich menu has some great looking options.
(4)
Nathan G.
I wish I'd known about this place sooner, because the food is fantastic. It's on a side street in downtown Portland, not very conspicuous, but well worth tracking down. All the menu items are creatively named, and provide some inventive choices. I had the Dirty Bird tots (chili, cheese, egg, and a bit of hot sauce) and the Pineapple Express Dog (pickled mango salsa, pineapple cilantro jalapeno mustard) and both were awesome. If you're looking for a great place to eat in Portland that's a little different, you can't go wrong with the Blue Rooster. One side note: the restaurant is pretty small, definitely aiming more for takeout. They have a few booths, but I'd imagine during tourist season you should be prepared to take your food and eat elsewhere.
(5)
Anna D.
Was not impressed by the menu size, but I was very impressed by my barley salad, paired with several chopped veggies and an amazing pesto sauce to top it off. I used this pint of deliciousness as my lunch and it held me over until dinner! I'll most certainly be back for a sandwich, if not this tasty surprise! There was a short line at noon, but I was in and out in less than five minutes and under five bucks.
(3)
Bill M.
Nothing says America like burgers and dogs. Not even Apple pie. They are such a quintessential staple of our food and culture. So I say congratulations to Blue Rooster for applying the gastropub treatment to the formerly humble hot dog. On our first visit earlier this week I tried one of their specialty dogs created by guest chef Ricky from the Portland Hunt and Alpine Club. This rich and satisfying dog was topped with a succulent lamb chili,salsa verde and a delightful pile of cheese curd. Yumalicious! Accompanying my fine dog was a side of the most golden home made tator tots Portland has ever seen. I particularly loved the big visible flakes of freshly ground pepper that added a touch of heat. Not a fan of hot dogs (really?), they also offer a wide array of truly special sandwiches and even have a salad on the menu( Are you sure you don't want to try one of the hot dogs? They are so good). Continuing with the good stuff. Despite arriving with the lunch crowd service was still fast and friendly, and parking was plentiful mid-week. I look forward to stopping in again soon.
(4)
Leah W.
This is my favorite weekend location for either a quick lunch or a late night snack. This restaurant is more of a "fast food" style place but with a friendlier and less processed (healthy is debatable) flare. It is counter service with a few benches, but these probably would sit a total of maybe 12 adults. I prefer to take my food to go and either walk around or hang out on the Prom in nice weather. I absolutely love the tater tots. While I have had them and love them plain, one of the best things to split between friends is one of their more doctored concoctions. Currently, my friends and I have the early riser option as our favorite. I have had multiple sandwiches and a few hot dog options here as well. The food is always fresh and delicious. The combinations are sometimes unusual, however, every time I have tried something new I have loved it. There really have not ever been any misses for me (thus the five star rating). The restaurant does change up its menu every once in a while, so don't expect to always get the same thing. It is a little hidden, so many of my friends had not heard of it before. Anytime I bring someone here, I always hear from them that they come back again and again and they love it!
(5)
X M.
After a whole day walk in Portland, we were in a rush to drive to our hotel and we decided to get some fast-food with Lobster. and then We Found This Place!!! I love their lobster roll and their tots!!!
(4)
Lindsay W.
For some reason I thought this place was only hot dogs and tater tots, which don't get me wrong, there's nothing wrong with that. I actually love hot dogs. And they have a lot of good ones. But they also have awesome sandwiches which is great because it's a block from my work so I can now depend on them for lunch. I got their steak sandwich on naan bread. It was really unique and I wasn't sure I was going to like it but I really did! I loved it actually. Their not cheap sandwiches. Mine was $9 but it's worth it. They have tons of unique food items and I'm looking forward to trying one of their souped up hotdogs and tater tots when I decided to binge in the future.
(4)
Maura Q.
The menu is small, but the tater tots are delicious and come in large portions. I purchased The Das Boot hot dog and some of the loaded tots. It wasn't too expensive and the hot dog was good! The staff is also very friendly and patient, especially with the intoxicated people they must get on the weekend nights. I don't crave hot dogs all of the time, but when I do, I imagine I'll return to the Blue Rooster. I missed their chef summer series this past season, but hopefully they'll continue something like it next summer. If you're looking for a gourmet dog and something more than one from a stand (not that there's anything wrong with those!), this would be your place to go. They also have a prime people watching spot. I just wish their place was a little bit bigger, but I understand the location and it makes sense.
(3)
Jessica H.
Pretty yummy food. Not for you if your on a diet, but maybe worth a "cheat" meal.
(4)
Jake H.
Very good quick food, I got the chickpea salad an loved it. Service was fast. Farmer Tess was also good, but lacked a bit of crunch as a sandwich
(4)
AJ P.
Tots! With a menu of hot dogs, sandwiches, and tater tots, this place is good place for a quick lunch. But honestly, its best for late night fare after a night in the old port to help soak up all the alcohol that might be sitting in your system. The brussel sprouts are awesome and same with the three little pigs: tots with bacon, sausage and pork belly. They have a small selection of hot sauces which is always appreciated. Don't come in expecting a good place to rest - there's not a lot of sitting room, just a few stools along the side walls.
(4)
Joseph M.
What can I say about this place that hasn't been said. Great junk food. If I lived in Portland I would hit this place up any drinking night. I am glad I don't work near by or I would get seriously fat going there for lunch. Only drag is they don't really have much seating. It's definitely a to-go place.
(4)
B P.
Dank sandwiches. Unique, tasty, and just downright awesome. Worth a stop. The flavor combinations really compliment. This place is an underrated part of Portland's awesome food culture.
(5)
CB W.
We had a nice lunch at Blue Rooster Food Co. The buffalo tots were really tasty as was the mac and cheese, thai iced tea and lemonade. Maybe a little pricey for the large tots at $12, but not outrageous. They did have great music playing and friendly service.
(3)
Trevor J.
Good food
(5)
Whit D.
I've never been disappointed, but I've never been blown away either. Fast, friendly, and open late. Definitely the front runner at 1 AM when you want to grab something decent and catch a cab, but not a "can't miss" lunch spot in my opinion.
(3)
Jeff K.
The green salad was excellent, the slaw delicious and the brussel sprouts were simply EXTRAORDINARY. One of the best values in Maine, Blue Rooster stands out in a city with amazing food. One great thing about blue rooster: they are open late Saturday night. check it out, you'll be glad you did.
(5)
Jennifer M.
After hearing many a tale of their luscious offerings, my husband and I finally tried The Blue Rooster. It was good, but not as great as I had expected. For starters, I didn't realize that it was primarily geared to the take-out crowd. It has very limited seating and little atmosphere. Not a huge fan of hot dogs, seemingly their signature food, I ordered a "Jack Kerou-Weck," a roast beef sandwich with au jus and horseradish served on a caraway roll. I must say, it was pretty tasty, but it was not rare, as described on the menu. On the other hand, the tots we ordered were fan-freekin-tastic, and I could have kept eating them for days. They were a little saltier than I would have preferred, but no matter, they were awesome! I will definitely go back again just for the tots, and next time, I'll try another sandwich.
(4)
H C.
Stopped in for a quick bite while passing through Portland. Had the Jack Kerou-Wack (roast beef dipped in au jus). What truly made this sandwich amazing was the caraway and sea salt roll on which it was served! Yum! Kids had hot dogs with a healthier, homemade version of relish. Great service too. Highly recommended!
(5)
David F.
Had the Caesar fried Brussels sprouts and the Charlie Noble sandwich. Both hit the spot. Loved the vibe in this place - chill music, really friendly guy behind the counter. I would like to see a few more vegetarian options on the menu. Otherwise, this is a pretty sweet establishment.
(4)
Robert J.
This is a review based on three visits, each time with a different friend. They all had questions about exactly what was in the the dishes and the each time the cashier was able to describe the ingredients. This was especially valuable for one of my friends that has trouble with some gluten. It was pointed out that the facility handles bread and nuts so people deathly allergic should call ahead but frankly people in that situation should be doing that anyway. Luckily my friend doesn't fall into that category. Downsides to this place, no bathrooms and limited seating, parking downtown can be problematic but thats true anywhere in portland. Upside , great food for people on their way to/from somewhere else
(4)
d w.
These guys are the real deal. So happy to have found this place. I have to admit the first time I tried this restaurant, I had the Seoul Dog and I was hooked. Now every time I go in, I have the Seoul Dog, the tater tots and usually split the Brussel sprouts with a friend. It is all so good! You will enjoy it.
(5)
Patrice L.
YUM....just YUM. Vegetarians should flock here en masse. We tried the brussels sprouts caesar salad, incredible. Hot tots with buffalo sauce and blue cheese, out of this world. Simple green salad with lemony dressing, give me more! The food is service quickly and conveniently in compostable containers, easy to stay and eat in or take away. I can't wait to visit Blue Rooster on my next trip to Portland!
(5)
Lauren H.
Blue Rooster combines high quality, local ingredients with friendly service, late night hours, and cheap prices to boot. Sign me up! My boyfriend and I (read: tourists) stumbled in here after aimlessly wandering around on our first day in Portland; we were starving and didn't want to spend a lot on lunch, as we had already planned a spendy dinner elsewhere. And this place offered exactly what we needed. Colombiano: Just delicious. I love a good dressed-up hotdog. The hotdog itself was really high quality, and all the ingredients were fresh and went perfectly together. Lobster banh-mi: I didn't taste my boyfriend's but he really enjoyed it. Tater tots: Yes! Homemade ketchup: YES! YES! Get the iced coffee! Ask them to sweeten it for you with liquid sugar and add cream. It was the perfect addition to my meal.
(4)
Sam B.
Wow, what an excellent little spot! I was visiting Portland for a wedding from Burlington Vermont and was drawn down a side street in search of lunch. I saw the sign for Blue Rooster and went in to check it out. I choose to eat gluten free, dairy free and only fish in terms of meat. Needless to say that makes dining out difficult. When I inquired about gluten free options for sandwiches the gentlemen working the counter was incredibly helpful and offered to put all the ingredients on a salad for me. I ordered the Fez which comes with tuna, red onions, peppers, paprika and roasted potatoes. I also ordered a small side of friend brussle sprouts with the sweet chilli sauce...AMAZING. I highly recommend this little local spot with its diverse menu and good atmosphere! I hope to return next time I am in Portland!
(5)
Lauren W.
This is a great little place in Old Port. We stumbled past it by happenstance and it did not disappoint. I got the Godfather which was an Italian sandwich with mortadella and a house Pickadilli. My yelp check in partner got the Junkyard Dog which was a bacon wrapped hot dog topped with chili, tater tots, & some slaw. We also ordered the fried Brussel Sprouts, which I typically love anywhere, and they were amazing. Probably my favorite part of the meal. The Lobster Bahn Mi was also screaming my name but I passed on it. I guess it just gives me a reason to come back next time. If you are into hot sauces they had an unlabeled one on the countertops along with 9 other small, spicy bottles to choose from. Great spot for lunch.
(4)
Jeffrey L.
I wanted to eat somewhere unhealthy for my cheat day for my diet and I asked a coworker where to go. He suggested Blue Rooster. I wanted to try their Pastrami "Cuban" Rueben which he had the other day, but they were out of pastrami. I settled on the Red Eye Breakfast, along with a small order of tater tots and an iced tea. For $6 the sandwich was well proportioned, a big homemade biscuit filled with egg, hash browns and pork belly. The biscuit was a bit on the crumbly side but it had a nice richness to it, although the flavors did tend to meld together... I think a little salt would have helped to balance it out. The tots were good... they were still hot when I got them and the homemade ketchup had a really good rosemary kick to it. I opted for the sweetened version of their ice tea, and it was just the right amount - often times iced tea can be sacharine but this had just the slightest taste of molasses which was a pleasant surprise. Next time I go (I will go again), I'd like to try their Reuben, along with their homemade chips and maybe their lemonade.
(4)
Bob W.
I'm giving four stars only because my first order here was so small -- a Das Boot dog and a small Brussels sprouts side. It was 12:30 am after all. But the food was outstanding, the service friendly, and the vibe quite good. Reminds me of Cochon Butcher in NOLA (a very good thing). We will be back for sure!
(4)
Betsy C.
Cute atmosphere, friendly service, fresh food prepared fast. I'm afraid that's all this place has going for it. Taste was lacking, especially on those fried brussel sprouts other reviews have raved about. They were terrible compared to Pei Men Miyake's version and the same dish at Boda. These sprouts just tasted like bland fried bits of veg, I'll pass. Unless you are a hot dog connoisseur, in which case there is a hot dog vendor right on the corner where locals gravitate, I wouldn't recommend going out of your way to eat here.
(2)
Craig B.
This place has the best sandwiches and the Brussels and homemade chips are out of this world. Really affordable too.
(5)
Peter W.
We were looking for a local take out sandwich place yesterday, didn't want a chain. We stumbled upon the Blue Rooster. I had a terrific lobster roll and my wife had a great veggie sandwich. Highly recommend this place
(5)
Rishi S.
We had the Lobster Banh Mi and the Veggie Sandwich with the homemade thai chips and the brussel sprouts. Everything was delicious and fresh. Great spot for quick meal! Owner was extremely friendly and happy to provide recommendations and explain the menu.
(5)
Sara P.
Interesting, funky hot dogs and lobster rolls and such. Everyone enjoyed what they ordered. One of these days we're going to try the tater tot poutine, but it was too hot this weekend. The restaurant is very small -- basically a take out counter and a few stools at a counter for eat-in customers. And there's no air conditioning. But it is right down in the Old Port are, and a good choice if you're tired of the more usual tourist fare.
(4)
Dan O.
Love this place. I work in the Old Port of Portland and have eaten here 5 times since it opened. It has specific segment in Portland's growing foodie landscape. The turkey sandwich and "Red Eye" breakfast sandwiches are highlights of the current menu from my personal perspective. I always get a side of the Brussels Sprouts as well. I recently brought my family here while on the Friday Art Walk and fed our family of four under $25 with food that was craft made with intentionality and skill. The staff were also super-friendly to my family and made everyone feel very welcome. If you looking for unique sandwiches or a special hot dog, stop in to the Blue Rooster for a bite, you'll be happy you did.
(4)
brian d.
The fried sprouts were nasty, barely fried, mostly raw..I also got a chicken wrap, that was SLIMY and just nasty..I didn't finish either, and paid $18..Go anywhere else but here..!
(1)
Matthew C.
GREAT FOOD AND FRIENDLY SERVICE. You have to try the Farmer Ted veggie sandwich on focaccia. The bread is baked fresh everyday. The fried brussel sprouts were tasty as well. Had a little kick to them. The Poutine Toter Tots were also something new to us. Nice blend. My wife and I enjoyed everything we ordered. Super friendly staff helped make us feel right at home. I wish we had something like this back in California. I think people traveling here from the west coast would enjoy this place. It was nice to take a little break from fish for a few nights. We will be back and thank you! M&M Yorba Linda, Ca.
(5)
Roseann C.
A place known for its tater tots?? Sign. Me. Up!! They also have sandwiches, hot dogs, which I did not try. My tater tot version of poutine was tasty, though my request to have them without the gravy meant that I was pretty much eating cold cheese curds on hot tots. That's not one that should be monkeyed with just because I am not a fan of chicken gravy. My bad. The buffalo tater tots I tasted were super (and I wished I had gotten them instead). And do not even get me started on the fried Brussels sprouts. Wowee!!! I'm a happier person knowing that these are in the world. It's pretty much just a counter place, but it's kitschy and cool and the workers are very friendly. Note: coolest thing in there = the Christopher Walken napkin holder. Yes, I want one! Go there if you want post-cocktail vittles and don't mind eating on your feet.
(4)
AJ P.
Tots! With a menu of hot dogs, sandwiches, and tater tots, this place is good place for a quick lunch. But honestly, its best for late night fare after a night in the old port to help soak up all the alcohol that might be sitting in your system. The brussel sprouts are awesome and same with the three little pigs: tots with bacon, sausage and pork belly. They have a small selection of hot sauces which is always appreciated. Don't come in expecting a good place to rest - there's not a lot of sitting room, just a few stools along the side walls.
(4)
Joseph M.
What can I say about this place that hasn't been said. Great junk food. If I lived in Portland I would hit this place up any drinking night. I am glad I don't work near by or I would get seriously fat going there for lunch. Only drag is they don't really have much seating. It's definitely a to-go place.
(4)
B P.
Dank sandwiches. Unique, tasty, and just downright awesome. Worth a stop. The flavor combinations really compliment. This place is an underrated part of Portland's awesome food culture.
(5)
CB W.
We had a nice lunch at Blue Rooster Food Co. The buffalo tots were really tasty as was the mac and cheese, thai iced tea and lemonade. Maybe a little pricey for the large tots at $12, but not outrageous. They did have great music playing and friendly service.
(3)
Jeff K.
The green salad was excellent, the slaw delicious and the brussel sprouts were simply EXTRAORDINARY. One of the best values in Maine, Blue Rooster stands out in a city with amazing food. One great thing about blue rooster: they are open late Saturday night. check it out, you'll be glad you did.
(5)
Jennifer M.
After hearing many a tale of their luscious offerings, my husband and I finally tried The Blue Rooster. It was good, but not as great as I had expected. For starters, I didn't realize that it was primarily geared to the take-out crowd. It has very limited seating and little atmosphere. Not a huge fan of hot dogs, seemingly their signature food, I ordered a "Jack Kerou-Weck," a roast beef sandwich with au jus and horseradish served on a caraway roll. I must say, it was pretty tasty, but it was not rare, as described on the menu. On the other hand, the tots we ordered were fan-freekin-tastic, and I could have kept eating them for days. They were a little saltier than I would have preferred, but no matter, they were awesome! I will definitely go back again just for the tots, and next time, I'll try another sandwich.
(4)
H C.
Stopped in for a quick bite while passing through Portland. Had the Jack Kerou-Wack (roast beef dipped in au jus). What truly made this sandwich amazing was the caraway and sea salt roll on which it was served! Yum! Kids had hot dogs with a healthier, homemade version of relish. Great service too. Highly recommended!
(5)
David F.
Had the Caesar fried Brussels sprouts and the Charlie Noble sandwich. Both hit the spot. Loved the vibe in this place - chill music, really friendly guy behind the counter. I would like to see a few more vegetarian options on the menu. Otherwise, this is a pretty sweet establishment.
(4)
Robert J.
This is a review based on three visits, each time with a different friend. They all had questions about exactly what was in the the dishes and the each time the cashier was able to describe the ingredients. This was especially valuable for one of my friends that has trouble with some gluten. It was pointed out that the facility handles bread and nuts so people deathly allergic should call ahead but frankly people in that situation should be doing that anyway. Luckily my friend doesn't fall into that category. Downsides to this place, no bathrooms and limited seating, parking downtown can be problematic but thats true anywhere in portland. Upside , great food for people on their way to/from somewhere else
(4)
Matthew C.
GREAT FOOD AND FRIENDLY SERVICE. You have to try the Farmer Ted veggie sandwich on focaccia. The bread is baked fresh everyday. The fried brussel sprouts were tasty as well. Had a little kick to them. The Poutine Toter Tots were also something new to us. Nice blend. My wife and I enjoyed everything we ordered. Super friendly staff helped make us feel right at home. I wish we had something like this back in California. I think people traveling here from the west coast would enjoy this place. It was nice to take a little break from fish for a few nights. We will be back and thank you! M&M Yorba Linda, Ca.
(5)
d w.
These guys are the real deal. So happy to have found this place. I have to admit the first time I tried this restaurant, I had the Seoul Dog and I was hooked. Now every time I go in, I have the Seoul Dog, the tater tots and usually split the Brussel sprouts with a friend. It is all so good! You will enjoy it.
(5)
Patrice L.
YUM....just YUM. Vegetarians should flock here en masse. We tried the brussels sprouts caesar salad, incredible. Hot tots with buffalo sauce and blue cheese, out of this world. Simple green salad with lemony dressing, give me more! The food is service quickly and conveniently in compostable containers, easy to stay and eat in or take away. I can't wait to visit Blue Rooster on my next trip to Portland!
(5)
Lauren H.
Blue Rooster combines high quality, local ingredients with friendly service, late night hours, and cheap prices to boot. Sign me up! My boyfriend and I (read: tourists) stumbled in here after aimlessly wandering around on our first day in Portland; we were starving and didn't want to spend a lot on lunch, as we had already planned a spendy dinner elsewhere. And this place offered exactly what we needed. Colombiano: Just delicious. I love a good dressed-up hotdog. The hotdog itself was really high quality, and all the ingredients were fresh and went perfectly together. Lobster banh-mi: I didn't taste my boyfriend's but he really enjoyed it. Tater tots: Yes! Homemade ketchup: YES! YES! Get the iced coffee! Ask them to sweeten it for you with liquid sugar and add cream. It was the perfect addition to my meal.
(4)
Sam B.
Wow, what an excellent little spot! I was visiting Portland for a wedding from Burlington Vermont and was drawn down a side street in search of lunch. I saw the sign for Blue Rooster and went in to check it out. I choose to eat gluten free, dairy free and only fish in terms of meat. Needless to say that makes dining out difficult. When I inquired about gluten free options for sandwiches the gentlemen working the counter was incredibly helpful and offered to put all the ingredients on a salad for me. I ordered the Fez which comes with tuna, red onions, peppers, paprika and roasted potatoes. I also ordered a small side of friend brussle sprouts with the sweet chilli sauce...AMAZING. I highly recommend this little local spot with its diverse menu and good atmosphere! I hope to return next time I am in Portland!
(5)
Lauren W.
This is a great little place in Old Port. We stumbled past it by happenstance and it did not disappoint. I got the Godfather which was an Italian sandwich with mortadella and a house Pickadilli. My yelp check in partner got the Junkyard Dog which was a bacon wrapped hot dog topped with chili, tater tots, & some slaw. We also ordered the fried Brussel Sprouts, which I typically love anywhere, and they were amazing. Probably my favorite part of the meal. The Lobster Bahn Mi was also screaming my name but I passed on it. I guess it just gives me a reason to come back next time. If you are into hot sauces they had an unlabeled one on the countertops along with 9 other small, spicy bottles to choose from. Great spot for lunch.
(4)
Dan O.
Love this place. I work in the Old Port of Portland and have eaten here 5 times since it opened. It has specific segment in Portland's growing foodie landscape. The turkey sandwich and "Red Eye" breakfast sandwiches are highlights of the current menu from my personal perspective. I always get a side of the Brussels Sprouts as well. I recently brought my family here while on the Friday Art Walk and fed our family of four under $25 with food that was craft made with intentionality and skill. The staff were also super-friendly to my family and made everyone feel very welcome. If you looking for unique sandwiches or a special hot dog, stop in to the Blue Rooster for a bite, you'll be happy you did.
(4)
brian d.
The fried sprouts were nasty, barely fried, mostly raw..I also got a chicken wrap, that was SLIMY and just nasty..I didn't finish either, and paid $18..Go anywhere else but here..!
(1)
Roseann C.
A place known for its tater tots?? Sign. Me. Up!! They also have sandwiches, hot dogs, which I did not try. My tater tot version of poutine was tasty, though my request to have them without the gravy meant that I was pretty much eating cold cheese curds on hot tots. That's not one that should be monkeyed with just because I am not a fan of chicken gravy. My bad. The buffalo tater tots I tasted were super (and I wished I had gotten them instead). And do not even get me started on the fried Brussels sprouts. Wowee!!! I'm a happier person knowing that these are in the world. It's pretty much just a counter place, but it's kitschy and cool and the workers are very friendly. Note: coolest thing in there = the Christopher Walken napkin holder. Yes, I want one! Go there if you want post-cocktail vittles and don't mind eating on your feet.
(4)
Jason T.
I called a friend as soon as I left this place and told them I just had the best sandwich ever. Seriously, I have never done that before. I ordered the Cherry Bomb. Steak, onion, cherry pepper, cheddar covered with an over easy egg. Yep! It took me a minute to plan my attack, but I just grabbed a stack of napkins, faced the wall and didn't talk to anyone for a bit...just went to town. This was 2 days ago, still talking about it. Enjoy!
(5)
Kelly S.
This is the first review I have ever written and I hate to have it be a bad one. I was so looking forward to trying Blue Rooster as I had seen pictures of their food on instagram. I got the cuckoo's nest sandwich and tater tots. The tater tots were good but the sandwich was not, I got a piece of bone within a couple of bites. It really ruined it for me but I thought it was just a fluke. I took the other half of my sandwich to go and my boyfriend tried it and he got a piece of bone in the first bite. I don't think I will go back.
(1)
A. M.
After searching for some late night eats while visiting, I was really pumped to come across this place. Tots? Dogs? I'm down. Sadly, it fell short of my reasonable expectations. Service wasn't that friendly and the basic hot dog tasted like it wasn't even cooked. Sad and cold. The tots however were warm, but average. Nothing that would be worth coming back for. Maybe I'd give the other dogs a try again? Not sure. Some other reviews mentioned a hot dog truck so I might check that out first.
(2)
Jeffrey L.
I wanted to eat somewhere unhealthy for my cheat day for my diet and I asked a coworker where to go. He suggested Blue Rooster. I wanted to try their Pastrami "Cuban" Rueben which he had the other day, but they were out of pastrami. I settled on the Red Eye Breakfast, along with a small order of tater tots and an iced tea. For $6 the sandwich was well proportioned, a big homemade biscuit filled with egg, hash browns and pork belly. The biscuit was a bit on the crumbly side but it had a nice richness to it, although the flavors did tend to meld together... I think a little salt would have helped to balance it out. The tots were good... they were still hot when I got them and the homemade ketchup had a really good rosemary kick to it. I opted for the sweetened version of their ice tea, and it was just the right amount - often times iced tea can be sacharine but this had just the slightest taste of molasses which was a pleasant surprise. Next time I go (I will go again), I'd like to try their Reuben, along with their homemade chips and maybe their lemonade.
(4)
Bob W.
I'm giving four stars only because my first order here was so small -- a Das Boot dog and a small Brussels sprouts side. It was 12:30 am after all. But the food was outstanding, the service friendly, and the vibe quite good. Reminds me of Cochon Butcher in NOLA (a very good thing). We will be back for sure!
(4)
Betsy C.
Cute atmosphere, friendly service, fresh food prepared fast. I'm afraid that's all this place has going for it. Taste was lacking, especially on those fried brussel sprouts other reviews have raved about. They were terrible compared to Pei Men Miyake's version and the same dish at Boda. These sprouts just tasted like bland fried bits of veg, I'll pass. Unless you are a hot dog connoisseur, in which case there is a hot dog vendor right on the corner where locals gravitate, I wouldn't recommend going out of your way to eat here.
(2)
Craig B.
This place has the best sandwiches and the Brussels and homemade chips are out of this world. Really affordable too.
(5)
Peter W.
We were looking for a local take out sandwich place yesterday, didn't want a chain. We stumbled upon the Blue Rooster. I had a terrific lobster roll and my wife had a great veggie sandwich. Highly recommend this place
(5)
Rishi S.
We had the Lobster Banh Mi and the Veggie Sandwich with the homemade thai chips and the brussel sprouts. Everything was delicious and fresh. Great spot for quick meal! Owner was extremely friendly and happy to provide recommendations and explain the menu.
(5)
Sara P.
Interesting, funky hot dogs and lobster rolls and such. Everyone enjoyed what they ordered. One of these days we're going to try the tater tot poutine, but it was too hot this weekend. The restaurant is very small -- basically a take out counter and a few stools at a counter for eat-in customers. And there's no air conditioning. But it is right down in the Old Port are, and a good choice if you're tired of the more usual tourist fare.
(4)
Maura Q.
The menu is small, but the tater tots are delicious and come in large portions. I purchased The Das Boot hot dog and some of the loaded tots. It wasn't too expensive and the hot dog was good! The staff is also very friendly and patient, especially with the intoxicated people they must get on the weekend nights. I don't crave hot dogs all of the time, but when I do, I imagine I'll return to the Blue Rooster. I missed their chef summer series this past season, but hopefully they'll continue something like it next summer. If you're looking for a gourmet dog and something more than one from a stand (not that there's anything wrong with those!), this would be your place to go. They also have a prime people watching spot. I just wish their place was a little bit bigger, but I understand the location and it makes sense.
(3)
Jessica H.
Pretty yummy food. Not for you if your on a diet, but maybe worth a "cheat" meal.
(4)
Jake H.
Very good quick food, I got the chickpea salad an loved it. Service was fast. Farmer Tess was also good, but lacked a bit of crunch as a sandwich
(4)
Gabrielle B.
Stopped in for an afternoon snack, and we tried the Three Little Pigs. Best choice!! So good!
(5)
Jaime M.
Ordered kimchi and macaroni and cheese. The good: wow-me-gently flavor on the creamy mac (but then, I never eat anything so rich at home) paired with the gentle crunch of the breadcrumbs. The better(?): the gobble-able spice and sourness level on the giant portion of kimchi. I could have eaten the full quarter-pound or so of cabbage I was served if I weren't already full of mac. The best: My stomach now sounds like a bluegrass concert. Apparently, the combination of ferment plus dairy = twine time. The details: The staff members were super nice. Everything is house-made, so it takes a minute more than your average counter service. I wish it were a buck or two cheaper (as far as the kimchi, they could get away with charging $2.50 and halving the portion!) but that's probably because I don't get out much. They made "an exception" and gave me tap water; IMO, they should not be so concerned about the bottom line that they are stingy with tap water. Not much room to eat, but it wasn't a problem. I don't love that all the food was served in disposable or recyclable containers as opposed to reusable ones, but I guess it's primarily a takeout business (or at least that's what the very small dining area indicated to me). The worst: I put my kimchi leftovers in my purse. I now have a kimchi-flavored purse, which makes vacation harder. The container was leaky!
(5)
Mark D.
I really want to love this place because of what it is. A fast food option that is not a chain. Unfortunately they keep falling a little short. I will say that their tots have never let me down. I love the tot-tine which is a twist on Canadian poutine. However other things I have ordered were just not that good. I ordered the Rooster Blue which I assumed to be their signature sandwich given the name. it was a couple pieces of fried chicken with cole-slaw and some type of blue-cheese dressing all in a big toasty bun. While it sounded delicious to me, the eating experience left me wanting something more. the fried chicken was dry, which was accentuated by the large bulky roll and not enough slaw or blue cheese dressing. I hate dry sandwiches. I've also tried their Colombiano hot-dog which had Roots slaw, avocado, "rosada" sauce, queso fresco,and shoestring fries. I did not like this hot-dog at all. Way to many flavors going on here, and avocado and hot dog just don't mix for me. I'm going to continue to try this place and I'm hoping I find something on the menu other then the Tots that I like.
(3)
X M.
After a whole day walk in Portland, we were in a rush to drive to our hotel and we decided to get some fast-food with Lobster. and then We Found This Place!!! I love their lobster roll and their tots!!!
(4)
Christa H.
Tots. Do I need to say more? Tots, tots, tots. What keeps me coming back here? Crispy potato goodness covered in whatever you like or buck naked. Tot-tine with cheese curds and gravy is my new best friend (sorry real friends!). The gravy is perfect and the cheese curds are the real deal. I recommend inhaling it like I do or the tots can get a little soggy from the gravy. The three little pigs is also another of my favorites. It's the Tot-tine topped with bacon, sausage and pork belly. Heart attack city? You bet. Guilty pleasure? 100%. If you are a tot purist, you can get them plain and just enjoy the crispy goodness. Have I said enough about the tots? Oh probably. To keep the goodness going, try a sandwich or a hot dog. You can get a hot dog wrapped in bacon! Yes! What an amazing idea. The toppings are varied and different from your average hot dog vendor. You can go messy or simple, it doesn't matter because they are all good. The sandwiches are unique and you'll look at the board and wonder "hmm...I wonder how those flavors will go together." Be adventurous. You won't be disappointed. I recently have the chicken PBLT which is chicken thigh, confit pork belly, lettuce, pickled green tomatoes and chipotle mayo. It was wonderful. I'm pretty sure it was on a ciabatta roll and there was just the right amount of mayo. I'm looking forward to going back and trying one of the vegetarian options. The falafel sandwich has arugula pesto and a watermelon, radish and fennel slaw on it. That sounds very intriguing.
(5)
Kenneth P.
The hot dogs here were not too impressive. I had the pineapple express and my friend had a das boot. We were both unimpressed with our hot dogs. The pineapple express has Pickled mango salsa, cilantro jalapeno pineapple mustard. The jalepeño is the only thing that had a strong flavor. There was not a hint of pineapple or mustard. The was a small hint of mango. As for the bacon, it lacked any flavor and crunch to it.
(2)
Rebecca W.
The food was good but average. There seems to be too much thought on the hot dog toppings and not enough in the quality of the hot dogs. I tried to growly dog which didn't seem to have nearly the amount of bacon I pictured and I have no idea what the boss sauce is that came on it. The bun was soft and fresh. The tater tots with all the different topping is a cool idea and a good way to feed those salty food cravings. I tried the buffalo flavor which had an excellent ratio of buffalo sauce to blue cheese. It comes topped with carrot and celery shreds. Not a very good addition. The nacho tater tots had excellent chili and nacho sauce and what what must be house made salsa. The ingredients were all fresh and had a nice spicy kick. Overall it was a good experience with friendly staff, but not one I will be regular at.
(3)
Nancy R.
Great eclectic food choices, with many options for gluten free. My husband is a bacon lover and he was in heaven, while my fried Brussel sprouts with a sweet chili sauce were amazing. Definitely don't miss this gem.
(5)
Hilary J.
This place is fantastic. My boyfriend and I went for breakfast and split 2 small orders of tots, a small kimchi, a small chickpea salad and small fried Brussels sprouts (the ones with queso fresco and sweet chili sauce) The tots were perfect- got one order with a fried egg on top and order of buffalo tots. The egg was PERFECTION. The Brussels sprouts were the best I've ever had- anywhere. The kimchi was spicy and delicious and the chickpea salad was light and fresh. We took home most of the kimchi and chickpea salad and left feeling full but not gross. I absolutely wish there was one of these in Los Angeles. Everything was awesome. Keep up the good work and holy crap, don't change a thing.
(5)
J M.
This spot is tucked away from the busy port street. I was on the search for my first lobster roll. The food came out in about 10 minutes. My tots were hot and the bun was warm. I was expecting a heavy buttery lobster roll but in turn received a refreshing twist on the sandwich. The slaw mixture over pewees the taste of the lobster. Think it was to many layers of flavor for the rather tiny lobster roll. They also have tater tots in many different forms. The house ketchup taste is for a select group of palettes. Not a fan but to each is on. I also tried the tot-tine, which is just like poutine(gravy cheese curds on fries) my friend had most of this and said it was decadent and savory. Ate it so fast I almost didn't get to try it. Overall a nice spot for a variety of sandwiches. Real small dining area and food staff. When busy expect a long wait. Well in enjoy!!
(3)
Tessa L.
Stopped in for lunch with a group, including a toddler who's a bit of a picky eater, and everyone left happy. The sandwiches are inventive and delicious, the bread is very fresh, and the staff is so friendly. We'll be back next time we're in town for sure. Be sure and try the tots, we all really enjoyed the "tot-tine."
(5)
Michael G.
Five weeks ago, I started a new job located in Old Port. Discovered The Blue Rooster on my 1st day and have enjoyed one of their incredible sandwiches every week since. Clean facility, friendly staff and a creative, fresh sandwich on each visit. And all the hype in prior reviews on Blue Rooster's tots: Yea, they are that awesome!
(5)
A K.
It is a small place. One would miss it while walking past it. We wet as part of the foodie tour. The sandwich was great. They had a lot of interesting toppings on the menu. Sadly we did not go back to try them.
(4)
Sarah H.
Good, classic tots and creative hot dog options. The tots were great and I'll try the pouting or Bayou Tots next time. The dogs are good and their sandwich menu has some great looking options.
(4)
Nathan G.
I wish I'd known about this place sooner, because the food is fantastic. It's on a side street in downtown Portland, not very conspicuous, but well worth tracking down. All the menu items are creatively named, and provide some inventive choices. I had the Dirty Bird tots (chili, cheese, egg, and a bit of hot sauce) and the Pineapple Express Dog (pickled mango salsa, pineapple cilantro jalapeno mustard) and both were awesome. If you're looking for a great place to eat in Portland that's a little different, you can't go wrong with the Blue Rooster. One side note: the restaurant is pretty small, definitely aiming more for takeout. They have a few booths, but I'd imagine during tourist season you should be prepared to take your food and eat elsewhere.
(5)
Anna D.
Was not impressed by the menu size, but I was very impressed by my barley salad, paired with several chopped veggies and an amazing pesto sauce to top it off. I used this pint of deliciousness as my lunch and it held me over until dinner! I'll most certainly be back for a sandwich, if not this tasty surprise! There was a short line at noon, but I was in and out in less than five minutes and under five bucks.
(3)
Bill M.
Nothing says America like burgers and dogs. Not even Apple pie. They are such a quintessential staple of our food and culture. So I say congratulations to Blue Rooster for applying the gastropub treatment to the formerly humble hot dog. On our first visit earlier this week I tried one of their specialty dogs created by guest chef Ricky from the Portland Hunt and Alpine Club. This rich and satisfying dog was topped with a succulent lamb chili,salsa verde and a delightful pile of cheese curd. Yumalicious! Accompanying my fine dog was a side of the most golden home made tator tots Portland has ever seen. I particularly loved the big visible flakes of freshly ground pepper that added a touch of heat. Not a fan of hot dogs (really?), they also offer a wide array of truly special sandwiches and even have a salad on the menu( Are you sure you don't want to try one of the hot dogs? They are so good). Continuing with the good stuff. Despite arriving with the lunch crowd service was still fast and friendly, and parking was plentiful mid-week. I look forward to stopping in again soon.
(4)
Leah W.
This is my favorite weekend location for either a quick lunch or a late night snack. This restaurant is more of a "fast food" style place but with a friendlier and less processed (healthy is debatable) flare. It is counter service with a few benches, but these probably would sit a total of maybe 12 adults. I prefer to take my food to go and either walk around or hang out on the Prom in nice weather. I absolutely love the tater tots. While I have had them and love them plain, one of the best things to split between friends is one of their more doctored concoctions. Currently, my friends and I have the early riser option as our favorite. I have had multiple sandwiches and a few hot dog options here as well. The food is always fresh and delicious. The combinations are sometimes unusual, however, every time I have tried something new I have loved it. There really have not ever been any misses for me (thus the five star rating). The restaurant does change up its menu every once in a while, so don't expect to always get the same thing. It is a little hidden, so many of my friends had not heard of it before. Anytime I bring someone here, I always hear from them that they come back again and again and they love it!
(5)
Lindsay W.
For some reason I thought this place was only hot dogs and tater tots, which don't get me wrong, there's nothing wrong with that. I actually love hot dogs. And they have a lot of good ones. But they also have awesome sandwiches which is great because it's a block from my work so I can now depend on them for lunch. I got their steak sandwich on naan bread. It was really unique and I wasn't sure I was going to like it but I really did! I loved it actually. Their not cheap sandwiches. Mine was $9 but it's worth it. They have tons of unique food items and I'm looking forward to trying one of their souped up hotdogs and tater tots when I decided to binge in the future.
(4)
Michelle E.
Still waiting for a cup of water. My husband I are here for the first time tonight. It was empty inside (and has been every time we've walked by), but the menu sounded so good. We ordered and paid. Then, I asked for a cup of water. The guy at the counter said "we've just got the bottled water for a dollar". He turned and walked away as he said this. Seriously. You won't give me a cup of water. And you know it's d--- move so you won't look at me while you say it. We each ordered a hotdog - the Barking Dog and the Pineapple Express. Both were delish. The tots were also really yummy. But, I'm completely turned off that you wouldn't give me a cup of water. Sorry, won't be back.
(3)
Mike S.
Tots... Who doesn't like them?! They do other things but I don't come here for anything but the awesome tots! It also is a great place to get a snack when you're out for a night on the town visiting different places to get your favorite beers!
(4)
Steff D.
I had been stalking Blue Rooster Food Co. for some time now. I'm always on the hunt for local eats open late so I can proudly tell outta statahs who whine that "there's nothing open" what's what. I would definitely send them to Blue Rooster should they be craving a delicious snack post-bars closing! For that matter, I'd send them there if they needed a little lunch fix during their Old Port excursion! It's a very small, but clean and inviting space that's ideally located and offers prime people watching. The staff is also VERY friendly and the menu is creative, interesting, reasonably rice, and delicious... if you're not a vegetarian that is. We came for lunch on a Monday afternoon and ordered the chickpea sandwich, potato salad, and fried Brussels sprouts (three of the five things we, as herbivores, could eat there). There was some confusion between me and the man taking my order though, and instead of getting The Farmer Ted (the hummus, goat cheese, and veg sandwich) we got the chickpea salad instead. Not the end of the world, but the miscommunication was frustrating when we didn't get what we thought we had ordered. The potato salad was good, but underseasoned. It was very nice, don't get me wrong, it just wasn't flavorful or memorable. The chickpea salad was a blend of Mediterranean flavors - whole chickpeas, red peppers, olives, fennel, thyme - that worked really well together. It was good, but (if you're someone who cooks frequently) it wasn't worth the price tag when you could make something similar at home. And then, there were the fried Brussels sprouts. Listen, if you're coming to Blue Rooster Food Co. for the first time and you don't order the Brussels sprouts, well then, SHAME ON YOU. These sprouts, covered in a sweet chili sauce and topped with sesame seeds and queso fresco, are alone worth coming for. They are definitely the stand-out item here, and are a unique food item in the city that Blue Rooster alone is making. They are a textural and flavor wonderland, though I wish there'd be more queso fresco on them (this is totally a personal thing though - everything, in my opinion, could have more cheese on it!). Would I come back here? Maybe. But, because of it's lackluster veg-options (and I totally understand that I'm not their target audience; as a matter of fact, I appreciate the offerings they DO have... I'm still gonna get the The Farmer Ted someday) I'd probably be better suited elsewhere, especially considering I've eaten just about everything I can eat off their menu already!
(3)
Britney S.
This place is amazing and worth every penny! I am in love with their sandwiches. This is definitely my favorite place to get a sandwich in the old port. My current obsession is "the godfather." Everything I've tried there has been consistently good. I ordered something one day that I enjoyed so I ordered it again the next day at night with a whole different crew on staff and the sandwhich still came out the same. They are very consistent. The woman that took my order was very friendly and polite.. Good people on staff. The fried brussel sprouts and fried cauliflower are amazing. Unfortunately I have not had the priviledge to try their tots or hot dogs which is their signature but I have heard nothing but good things. They also remodelled the store so there is more seating for their guests. This is a definite must-try if you are in the area. Love it!
(5)
Asya P.
Awesome! I ordered delivery via 2dinein The loss of 1 star is entirely due to the price, which I feel is just a dollar or two higher than it should be on every dish. This is low-labor food to produce, though the ingredients they use do seem to be top-notch. I had the vegetarian Farmer Tess sandwich, which was big and very filling. Truly healthy but also rich in flavor. And then there were the fried Brussels sprouts in a chili sauce with queso fresco. Oh, my god. Delicious!! I will be trying to imitate these at home for sure!!! Not spicy, just flavorful. I will definitely come here when I want to indulge, have an empty fridge, but don't want to feel gross afterwards.
(4)
Matt J.
So good! This place is tucked away on a side street in Old Port and packs some serious foodie flavors into its unassuming doors. The tots are fantastic... Perfectly crisp with awesome topping choices... We had the early bird which has hot sauce, maple mayo, a Sunnyside up egg, and cheese for a great flavor combo. The hot sauce (sriracha-esque but homemade) adds a sweet and hot vinegary punch that absolutely makes this dish. The beefsquatch was equally fantastic... if Indian and Mexican flavors gave birth to a gyro, this would be it. So fresh and full of flavor. Each bit starts crisp and fresh and build to a hot and complex explosion in your mouth...a must try. My wife also has the farmer Tess, which was quite good... Very light and fresh with a blend of great flavors.
(5)
Karen F.
Creative and excellent! Think they should upgrade the site when possible and join the dinner offerings in Portland...In the meantime awesome food good prices friendly staff give them a try!
(5)
Dia D.
We had the lobster roll with the Brussels sprouts (with sweet chili and queso fresco). The lobster roll was a 3, but the Brussels sprouts were a 5...excellent. This was the first of 3 restaurants in Portland whose seating consisted of stools/benches and a counter and by the time we left Portland we were sick of balancing on stools while we ate.
(4)
Matthew P.
Viva La Late Night Food! If you are looking for some delicious late night food in Portland, The Blue Rooster is the place. I went here two nights while visiting Portland. I ordered the lobster roll (Bahn Mi style) and the Brussels sprouts. The Bahn Mi style was a great idea for the lobster roll. The pickled veggies were really fresh and complimented the lobster. The Brussels sprouts were beyond awesome for a side. They are flash fried and then covered in a light vinegar-based hot sauce topped with queso fresco = beyond awesome. The Blue Rooster also offers several hot dog varieties which all looked delicious. It's a relief to see late night food done right. Late night eateries beware...The Blue Rooster is preaching the gospel of awesome.
(5)
Briana R.
Yum! How can you beat hot dogs and tots? I got the Das Boot and my husband got the Three Little Pigs. I so wish I would have got the tots too. They were amazing. The Das Boot was good, very basic dog with kraut, mustard and of course bacon wrapped around the hot dog. I wish I lived in Portland so I could come here to fill my food cravings!
(5)
Caitlin T.
Everything on the menu sounded delicious, it was one of those scenarios that I wanted to order everything because I couldn't decide. The boy and I ordered the very yummy and amply portioned tater tots with a side of blue cheese mayo (!) and a side of one of the most amazing thing I have ever had.. Deep fried Caesar style Brussels sprouts. I was so happy with both choices, and can't wait to try the buffalo tots or nacho tots next visit. The hot dogs we ordered were the Das Boot (bacon wrapped with house kraut and home made mustard) and the Pineapple Express (pineapple salsa and jalapeño honey mustard), both were quite tasty, though the rolls were a little less fresh or maybe just not toasted enough for what was inside. The roll over shadowed a bit, but I could tell that the house made fun combination of ingredients was there. Two guys behind the counter were sweet, seemed to be pretty pumped to be behind what they sell and the prices were completely fair! I can't wait to try more when I visit again!
(4)
Victoria S.
5 stars for the creativity factor - it's fast food, complete with smaller menu, plenty of fried potato options, quick service, but with a unique menu and friendly service of a small, local business. I went with my mom what was, I think, their first month open, so things may have changed a bit since. I had a house pate de campagne sandwich with pickled veg on a baguette that was solid. My mom had a bahn-mi inspired lobster roll that was, hands down, my favorite lobster roll after spending nearly 6 months in Maine. And the brussel sprouts? A revelation. Who needs boring old french fries when you can get your fried side fix with these? Crunchy, but with a depth of flavor and texture unlike more conventional sides, the hot sauce and cheese do a great job of cutting the oil and balancing each other and the hint of brussel-sprout funk. Definitely worth going in just to grab a basket of these to munch as you wander the old port area. When I went there wasn't much in the way of seating, but service is quick enough that it is a valid grab'n'go option.
(4)
Daniel M.
I've had all of their tot dishes, a few hotdogs and lunch and breakfast sandwiches. For comfort food or a great late night bite (after midnight) after some drinks on Fore street, this place can't be missed. The price is fair.
(5)
Aaron P.
The food is so good it almost makes me forget about their $9 minimum on credit card charges. Almost. A $9 minimum when their average sandwich is under $9, including tax, just rubs me the wrong way. Are they doing this so that I'm nudged to add some tots and a drink to my order to bring it over $9, or are they just really worried about the percentage that the credit card companies are skimming off of their transactions? Either way, it irks me something fierce, and upon doing some light research, it may actually be illegal. Honestly, I'd prefer if they were cash-only. At least that's fair. All that aside, their food is outstanding. I've had a sandwich, a bacon-wrapped hot dog, and tater tots from them, and they've all be absolutely wonderful. I got my tots and dog to go, and they asked me if I wanted ketchup and/or hot sauce, and put them in little plastic containers for me in my to-go bag. They even marked the hot sauce with a "HS" in sharpie so I didn't mix it up with the ketchup. Upon opening my tots container, I noticed they had put a little wooden prong with which to poke my tots. A really lovely touch. Great attention to detail. And so, I love Blue Rooster, but I'm also mad at them. "Change your ways!" I scream at them while shaking my fist, but in the other fist I tightly grasp one of their bacon-wrapped hot dogs. Did I mention their bacon-wrapped hot dogs yet? So good.
(4)
Beau C.
Really good sandwiches with lots of fresh ingredients and great flavor combinations. The poutine tater tots with bacon, pork belly and sausage is AMAZING! It's a tiny place with seating for about ten people along the walls and no bathroom (just go up the hill to Five Guys for a restroom)
(4)
Trevor J.
Good food
(5)
Whit D.
I've never been disappointed, but I've never been blown away either. Fast, friendly, and open late. Definitely the front runner at 1 AM when you want to grab something decent and catch a cab, but not a "can't miss" lunch spot in my opinion.
(3)
Nancy S.
Stopped in for a quick sandwich last night Had probably the WORST sandwich ever. I've been frequenting this sandwich shop since it opened and must say the quality has gone SOUTH! I had what was billed as a chicken cutlet sandwich: A fried/burnt piece of meat,substance that was a framed in red slaw (that was overpoweringly fermented) and some kind of mayo. This flavorless meat was paper thin, and so over cooked that I sent it back, only to get basically the same thing the second time. All this badness for only $9.00. Are you kidding me?? The tuna sandwich I had a month ago was almost equally unimpressive. My companion's hot dog was bland and of poor quality. This place has gone downhill in a big way. Or maybe the Friday night staff does not know how to cook? The tater tots we great, as usual, but heck, those require no skill to make.
(2)
Erica R.
I try to stop in to the Blue Rooster every time I am in Portland. The Brussels sprouts are AMAZING- definitely the best I have ever had from a restaurant. The mac and cheese is also delicious. The staff has always been super friendly to me and the wait is never too long.
(5)
Aesop V.
Summary: great for late night foods, open late for post-bar munchies, AWESOME tater tots. I didn't like my other foods but I will be willing to try something else. Pros: Open later, great tater tots. Cons: Parking, small dining area. I went on a Sunday afternoon with the girlfriend after a day of roaming the city and we luckily found a parking spot right in front of the place, but there are limited spots around the area so just be mindful when going here. It's probably better off as a place to go to after you've done some exploring around the city. It's a small space to get your food and have a quick bite or a quick, casual lunch. We went in and it was empty so it was perfect to explore everything about the place. The menu had sandwiches hot dogs and our fav: tater tots. We opted for the three little pigs tater tots, small brussels sprouts (per recommendation of Yelpers) and the Seoul Dog. Tater tots: need I say more? Tots are delicious by themselves and the combo with cheese, and bacon makes it even more delicious. Left me wanting more. Brussels Sprouts: I've never liked brussels sprouts but wanted to give them a try since Yelpers raved about them. I still don't like brussels sprouts. They were grilled and had some sauce and cheese on them but I couldn't get over the brussels taste. Seoul Hot Dog: I've had better dogs themselves. It wasn't anything spectacular. The kim-chi on it was more vinegar-y than I usually like it. I probably don't try it again, but I will be willing to try another dog. This will be my new spot for post-bar munchies with tater tots!
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : No Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : No Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : No Outdoor Seating : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : No Caters : Yes
Karen F.
Creative and excellent! Think they should upgrade the site when possible and join the dinner offerings in Portland...In the meantime awesome food good prices friendly staff give them a try!
(5)Dia D.
We had the lobster roll with the Brussels sprouts (with sweet chili and queso fresco). The lobster roll was a 3, but the Brussels sprouts were a 5...excellent. This was the first of 3 restaurants in Portland whose seating consisted of stools/benches and a counter and by the time we left Portland we were sick of balancing on stools while we ate.
(4)Mark D.
I really want to love this place because of what it is. A fast food option that is not a chain. Unfortunately they keep falling a little short. I will say that their tots have never let me down. I love the tot-tine which is a twist on Canadian poutine. However other things I have ordered were just not that good. I ordered the Rooster Blue which I assumed to be their signature sandwich given the name. it was a couple pieces of fried chicken with cole-slaw and some type of blue-cheese dressing all in a big toasty bun. While it sounded delicious to me, the eating experience left me wanting something more. the fried chicken was dry, which was accentuated by the large bulky roll and not enough slaw or blue cheese dressing. I hate dry sandwiches. I've also tried their Colombiano hot-dog which had Roots slaw, avocado, "rosada" sauce, queso fresco,and shoestring fries. I did not like this hot-dog at all. Way to many flavors going on here, and avocado and hot dog just don't mix for me. I'm going to continue to try this place and I'm hoping I find something on the menu other then the Tots that I like.
(3)Steff D.
I had been stalking Blue Rooster Food Co. for some time now. I'm always on the hunt for local eats open late so I can proudly tell outta statahs who whine that "there's nothing open" what's what. I would definitely send them to Blue Rooster should they be craving a delicious snack post-bars closing! For that matter, I'd send them there if they needed a little lunch fix during their Old Port excursion! It's a very small, but clean and inviting space that's ideally located and offers prime people watching. The staff is also VERY friendly and the menu is creative, interesting, reasonably rice, and delicious... if you're not a vegetarian that is. We came for lunch on a Monday afternoon and ordered the chickpea sandwich, potato salad, and fried Brussels sprouts (three of the five things we, as herbivores, could eat there). There was some confusion between me and the man taking my order though, and instead of getting The Farmer Ted (the hummus, goat cheese, and veg sandwich) we got the chickpea salad instead. Not the end of the world, but the miscommunication was frustrating when we didn't get what we thought we had ordered. The potato salad was good, but underseasoned. It was very nice, don't get me wrong, it just wasn't flavorful or memorable. The chickpea salad was a blend of Mediterranean flavors - whole chickpeas, red peppers, olives, fennel, thyme - that worked really well together. It was good, but (if you're someone who cooks frequently) it wasn't worth the price tag when you could make something similar at home. And then, there were the fried Brussels sprouts. Listen, if you're coming to Blue Rooster Food Co. for the first time and you don't order the Brussels sprouts, well then, SHAME ON YOU. These sprouts, covered in a sweet chili sauce and topped with sesame seeds and queso fresco, are alone worth coming for. They are definitely the stand-out item here, and are a unique food item in the city that Blue Rooster alone is making. They are a textural and flavor wonderland, though I wish there'd be more queso fresco on them (this is totally a personal thing though - everything, in my opinion, could have more cheese on it!). Would I come back here? Maybe. But, because of it's lackluster veg-options (and I totally understand that I'm not their target audience; as a matter of fact, I appreciate the offerings they DO have... I'm still gonna get the The Farmer Ted someday) I'd probably be better suited elsewhere, especially considering I've eaten just about everything I can eat off their menu already!
(3)Britney S.
This place is amazing and worth every penny! I am in love with their sandwiches. This is definitely my favorite place to get a sandwich in the old port. My current obsession is "the godfather." Everything I've tried there has been consistently good. I ordered something one day that I enjoyed so I ordered it again the next day at night with a whole different crew on staff and the sandwhich still came out the same. They are very consistent. The woman that took my order was very friendly and polite.. Good people on staff. The fried brussel sprouts and fried cauliflower are amazing. Unfortunately I have not had the priviledge to try their tots or hot dogs which is their signature but I have heard nothing but good things. They also remodelled the store so there is more seating for their guests. This is a definite must-try if you are in the area. Love it!
(5)Matt J.
So good! This place is tucked away on a side street in Old Port and packs some serious foodie flavors into its unassuming doors. The tots are fantastic... Perfectly crisp with awesome topping choices... We had the early bird which has hot sauce, maple mayo, a Sunnyside up egg, and cheese for a great flavor combo. The hot sauce (sriracha-esque but homemade) adds a sweet and hot vinegary punch that absolutely makes this dish. The beefsquatch was equally fantastic... if Indian and Mexican flavors gave birth to a gyro, this would be it. So fresh and full of flavor. Each bit starts crisp and fresh and build to a hot and complex explosion in your mouth...a must try. My wife also has the farmer Tess, which was quite good... Very light and fresh with a blend of great flavors.
(5)Jaime M.
Ordered kimchi and macaroni and cheese. The good: wow-me-gently flavor on the creamy mac (but then, I never eat anything so rich at home) paired with the gentle crunch of the breadcrumbs. The better(?): the gobble-able spice and sourness level on the giant portion of kimchi. I could have eaten the full quarter-pound or so of cabbage I was served if I weren't already full of mac. The best: My stomach now sounds like a bluegrass concert. Apparently, the combination of ferment plus dairy = twine time. The details: The staff members were super nice. Everything is house-made, so it takes a minute more than your average counter service. I wish it were a buck or two cheaper (as far as the kimchi, they could get away with charging $2.50 and halving the portion!) but that's probably because I don't get out much. They made "an exception" and gave me tap water; IMO, they should not be so concerned about the bottom line that they are stingy with tap water. Not much room to eat, but it wasn't a problem. I don't love that all the food was served in disposable or recyclable containers as opposed to reusable ones, but I guess it's primarily a takeout business (or at least that's what the very small dining area indicated to me). The worst: I put my kimchi leftovers in my purse. I now have a kimchi-flavored purse, which makes vacation harder. The container was leaky!
(5)Michelle E.
Still waiting for a cup of water. My husband I are here for the first time tonight. It was empty inside (and has been every time we've walked by), but the menu sounded so good. We ordered and paid. Then, I asked for a cup of water. The guy at the counter said "we've just got the bottled water for a dollar". He turned and walked away as he said this. Seriously. You won't give me a cup of water. And you know it's d--- move so you won't look at me while you say it. We each ordered a hotdog - the Barking Dog and the Pineapple Express. Both were delish. The tots were also really yummy. But, I'm completely turned off that you wouldn't give me a cup of water. Sorry, won't be back.
(3)Mike S.
Tots... Who doesn't like them?! They do other things but I don't come here for anything but the awesome tots! It also is a great place to get a snack when you're out for a night on the town visiting different places to get your favorite beers!
(4)Asya P.
Awesome! I ordered delivery via 2dinein The loss of 1 star is entirely due to the price, which I feel is just a dollar or two higher than it should be on every dish. This is low-labor food to produce, though the ingredients they use do seem to be top-notch. I had the vegetarian Farmer Tess sandwich, which was big and very filling. Truly healthy but also rich in flavor. And then there were the fried Brussels sprouts in a chili sauce with queso fresco. Oh, my god. Delicious!! I will be trying to imitate these at home for sure!!! Not spicy, just flavorful. I will definitely come here when I want to indulge, have an empty fridge, but don't want to feel gross afterwards.
(4)Jeffrey L.
I wanted to eat somewhere unhealthy for my cheat day for my diet and I asked a coworker where to go. He suggested Blue Rooster. I wanted to try their Pastrami "Cuban" Rueben which he had the other day, but they were out of pastrami. I settled on the Red Eye Breakfast, along with a small order of tater tots and an iced tea. For $6 the sandwich was well proportioned, a big homemade biscuit filled with egg, hash browns and pork belly. The biscuit was a bit on the crumbly side but it had a nice richness to it, although the flavors did tend to meld together... I think a little salt would have helped to balance it out. The tots were good... they were still hot when I got them and the homemade ketchup had a really good rosemary kick to it. I opted for the sweetened version of their ice tea, and it was just the right amount - often times iced tea can be sacharine but this had just the slightest taste of molasses which was a pleasant surprise. Next time I go (I will go again), I'd like to try their Reuben, along with their homemade chips and maybe their lemonade.
(4)Bob W.
I'm giving four stars only because my first order here was so small -- a Das Boot dog and a small Brussels sprouts side. It was 12:30 am after all. But the food was outstanding, the service friendly, and the vibe quite good. Reminds me of Cochon Butcher in NOLA (a very good thing). We will be back for sure!
(4)Betsy C.
Cute atmosphere, friendly service, fresh food prepared fast. I'm afraid that's all this place has going for it. Taste was lacking, especially on those fried brussel sprouts other reviews have raved about. They were terrible compared to Pei Men Miyake's version and the same dish at Boda. These sprouts just tasted like bland fried bits of veg, I'll pass. Unless you are a hot dog connoisseur, in which case there is a hot dog vendor right on the corner where locals gravitate, I wouldn't recommend going out of your way to eat here.
(2)Craig B.
This place has the best sandwiches and the Brussels and homemade chips are out of this world. Really affordable too.
(5)Peter W.
We were looking for a local take out sandwich place yesterday, didn't want a chain. We stumbled upon the Blue Rooster. I had a terrific lobster roll and my wife had a great veggie sandwich. Highly recommend this place
(5)Rishi S.
We had the Lobster Banh Mi and the Veggie Sandwich with the homemade thai chips and the brussel sprouts. Everything was delicious and fresh. Great spot for quick meal! Owner was extremely friendly and happy to provide recommendations and explain the menu.
(5)Sara P.
Interesting, funky hot dogs and lobster rolls and such. Everyone enjoyed what they ordered. One of these days we're going to try the tater tot poutine, but it was too hot this weekend. The restaurant is very small -- basically a take out counter and a few stools at a counter for eat-in customers. And there's no air conditioning. But it is right down in the Old Port are, and a good choice if you're tired of the more usual tourist fare.
(4)Christa H.
Tots. Do I need to say more? Tots, tots, tots. What keeps me coming back here? Crispy potato goodness covered in whatever you like or buck naked. Tot-tine with cheese curds and gravy is my new best friend (sorry real friends!). The gravy is perfect and the cheese curds are the real deal. I recommend inhaling it like I do or the tots can get a little soggy from the gravy. The three little pigs is also another of my favorites. It's the Tot-tine topped with bacon, sausage and pork belly. Heart attack city? You bet. Guilty pleasure? 100%. If you are a tot purist, you can get them plain and just enjoy the crispy goodness. Have I said enough about the tots? Oh probably. To keep the goodness going, try a sandwich or a hot dog. You can get a hot dog wrapped in bacon! Yes! What an amazing idea. The toppings are varied and different from your average hot dog vendor. You can go messy or simple, it doesn't matter because they are all good. The sandwiches are unique and you'll look at the board and wonder "hmm...I wonder how those flavors will go together." Be adventurous. You won't be disappointed. I recently have the chicken PBLT which is chicken thigh, confit pork belly, lettuce, pickled green tomatoes and chipotle mayo. It was wonderful. I'm pretty sure it was on a ciabatta roll and there was just the right amount of mayo. I'm looking forward to going back and trying one of the vegetarian options. The falafel sandwich has arugula pesto and a watermelon, radish and fennel slaw on it. That sounds very intriguing.
(5)Kenneth P.
The hot dogs here were not too impressive. I had the pineapple express and my friend had a das boot. We were both unimpressed with our hot dogs. The pineapple express has Pickled mango salsa, cilantro jalapeno pineapple mustard. The jalepeño is the only thing that had a strong flavor. There was not a hint of pineapple or mustard. The was a small hint of mango. As for the bacon, it lacked any flavor and crunch to it.
(2)Rebecca W.
The food was good but average. There seems to be too much thought on the hot dog toppings and not enough in the quality of the hot dogs. I tried to growly dog which didn't seem to have nearly the amount of bacon I pictured and I have no idea what the boss sauce is that came on it. The bun was soft and fresh. The tater tots with all the different topping is a cool idea and a good way to feed those salty food cravings. I tried the buffalo flavor which had an excellent ratio of buffalo sauce to blue cheese. It comes topped with carrot and celery shreds. Not a very good addition. The nacho tater tots had excellent chili and nacho sauce and what what must be house made salsa. The ingredients were all fresh and had a nice spicy kick. Overall it was a good experience with friendly staff, but not one I will be regular at.
(3)Nancy R.
Great eclectic food choices, with many options for gluten free. My husband is a bacon lover and he was in heaven, while my fried Brussel sprouts with a sweet chili sauce were amazing. Definitely don't miss this gem.
(5)Hilary J.
This place is fantastic. My boyfriend and I went for breakfast and split 2 small orders of tots, a small kimchi, a small chickpea salad and small fried Brussels sprouts (the ones with queso fresco and sweet chili sauce) The tots were perfect- got one order with a fried egg on top and order of buffalo tots. The egg was PERFECTION. The Brussels sprouts were the best I've ever had- anywhere. The kimchi was spicy and delicious and the chickpea salad was light and fresh. We took home most of the kimchi and chickpea salad and left feeling full but not gross. I absolutely wish there was one of these in Los Angeles. Everything was awesome. Keep up the good work and holy crap, don't change a thing.
(5)J M.
This spot is tucked away from the busy port street. I was on the search for my first lobster roll. The food came out in about 10 minutes. My tots were hot and the bun was warm. I was expecting a heavy buttery lobster roll but in turn received a refreshing twist on the sandwich. The slaw mixture over pewees the taste of the lobster. Think it was to many layers of flavor for the rather tiny lobster roll. They also have tater tots in many different forms. The house ketchup taste is for a select group of palettes. Not a fan but to each is on. I also tried the tot-tine, which is just like poutine(gravy cheese curds on fries) my friend had most of this and said it was decadent and savory. Ate it so fast I almost didn't get to try it. Overall a nice spot for a variety of sandwiches. Real small dining area and food staff. When busy expect a long wait. Well in enjoy!!
(3)Tessa L.
Stopped in for lunch with a group, including a toddler who's a bit of a picky eater, and everyone left happy. The sandwiches are inventive and delicious, the bread is very fresh, and the staff is so friendly. We'll be back next time we're in town for sure. Be sure and try the tots, we all really enjoyed the "tot-tine."
(5)Michael G.
Five weeks ago, I started a new job located in Old Port. Discovered The Blue Rooster on my 1st day and have enjoyed one of their incredible sandwiches every week since. Clean facility, friendly staff and a creative, fresh sandwich on each visit. And all the hype in prior reviews on Blue Rooster's tots: Yea, they are that awesome!
(5)A K.
It is a small place. One would miss it while walking past it. We wet as part of the foodie tour. The sandwich was great. They had a lot of interesting toppings on the menu. Sadly we did not go back to try them.
(4)Sarah H.
Good, classic tots and creative hot dog options. The tots were great and I'll try the pouting or Bayou Tots next time. The dogs are good and their sandwich menu has some great looking options.
(4)Nathan G.
I wish I'd known about this place sooner, because the food is fantastic. It's on a side street in downtown Portland, not very conspicuous, but well worth tracking down. All the menu items are creatively named, and provide some inventive choices. I had the Dirty Bird tots (chili, cheese, egg, and a bit of hot sauce) and the Pineapple Express Dog (pickled mango salsa, pineapple cilantro jalapeno mustard) and both were awesome. If you're looking for a great place to eat in Portland that's a little different, you can't go wrong with the Blue Rooster. One side note: the restaurant is pretty small, definitely aiming more for takeout. They have a few booths, but I'd imagine during tourist season you should be prepared to take your food and eat elsewhere.
(5)Anna D.
Was not impressed by the menu size, but I was very impressed by my barley salad, paired with several chopped veggies and an amazing pesto sauce to top it off. I used this pint of deliciousness as my lunch and it held me over until dinner! I'll most certainly be back for a sandwich, if not this tasty surprise! There was a short line at noon, but I was in and out in less than five minutes and under five bucks.
(3)Bill M.
Nothing says America like burgers and dogs. Not even Apple pie. They are such a quintessential staple of our food and culture. So I say congratulations to Blue Rooster for applying the gastropub treatment to the formerly humble hot dog. On our first visit earlier this week I tried one of their specialty dogs created by guest chef Ricky from the Portland Hunt and Alpine Club. This rich and satisfying dog was topped with a succulent lamb chili,salsa verde and a delightful pile of cheese curd. Yumalicious! Accompanying my fine dog was a side of the most golden home made tator tots Portland has ever seen. I particularly loved the big visible flakes of freshly ground pepper that added a touch of heat. Not a fan of hot dogs (really?), they also offer a wide array of truly special sandwiches and even have a salad on the menu( Are you sure you don't want to try one of the hot dogs? They are so good). Continuing with the good stuff. Despite arriving with the lunch crowd service was still fast and friendly, and parking was plentiful mid-week. I look forward to stopping in again soon.
(4)Leah W.
This is my favorite weekend location for either a quick lunch or a late night snack. This restaurant is more of a "fast food" style place but with a friendlier and less processed (healthy is debatable) flare. It is counter service with a few benches, but these probably would sit a total of maybe 12 adults. I prefer to take my food to go and either walk around or hang out on the Prom in nice weather. I absolutely love the tater tots. While I have had them and love them plain, one of the best things to split between friends is one of their more doctored concoctions. Currently, my friends and I have the early riser option as our favorite. I have had multiple sandwiches and a few hot dog options here as well. The food is always fresh and delicious. The combinations are sometimes unusual, however, every time I have tried something new I have loved it. There really have not ever been any misses for me (thus the five star rating). The restaurant does change up its menu every once in a while, so don't expect to always get the same thing. It is a little hidden, so many of my friends had not heard of it before. Anytime I bring someone here, I always hear from them that they come back again and again and they love it!
(5)X M.
After a whole day walk in Portland, we were in a rush to drive to our hotel and we decided to get some fast-food with Lobster. and then We Found This Place!!! I love their lobster roll and their tots!!!
(4)Lindsay W.
For some reason I thought this place was only hot dogs and tater tots, which don't get me wrong, there's nothing wrong with that. I actually love hot dogs. And they have a lot of good ones. But they also have awesome sandwiches which is great because it's a block from my work so I can now depend on them for lunch. I got their steak sandwich on naan bread. It was really unique and I wasn't sure I was going to like it but I really did! I loved it actually. Their not cheap sandwiches. Mine was $9 but it's worth it. They have tons of unique food items and I'm looking forward to trying one of their souped up hotdogs and tater tots when I decided to binge in the future.
(4)Maura Q.
The menu is small, but the tater tots are delicious and come in large portions. I purchased The Das Boot hot dog and some of the loaded tots. It wasn't too expensive and the hot dog was good! The staff is also very friendly and patient, especially with the intoxicated people they must get on the weekend nights. I don't crave hot dogs all of the time, but when I do, I imagine I'll return to the Blue Rooster. I missed their chef summer series this past season, but hopefully they'll continue something like it next summer. If you're looking for a gourmet dog and something more than one from a stand (not that there's anything wrong with those!), this would be your place to go. They also have a prime people watching spot. I just wish their place was a little bit bigger, but I understand the location and it makes sense.
(3)Jessica H.
Pretty yummy food. Not for you if your on a diet, but maybe worth a "cheat" meal.
(4)Jake H.
Very good quick food, I got the chickpea salad an loved it. Service was fast. Farmer Tess was also good, but lacked a bit of crunch as a sandwich
(4)Gabrielle B.
Stopped in for an afternoon snack, and we tried the Three Little Pigs. Best choice!! So good!
(5)Jaime M.
Ordered kimchi and macaroni and cheese. The good: wow-me-gently flavor on the creamy mac (but then, I never eat anything so rich at home) paired with the gentle crunch of the breadcrumbs. The better(?): the gobble-able spice and sourness level on the giant portion of kimchi. I could have eaten the full quarter-pound or so of cabbage I was served if I weren't already full of mac. The best: My stomach now sounds like a bluegrass concert. Apparently, the combination of ferment plus dairy = twine time. The details: The staff members were super nice. Everything is house-made, so it takes a minute more than your average counter service. I wish it were a buck or two cheaper (as far as the kimchi, they could get away with charging $2.50 and halving the portion!) but that's probably because I don't get out much. They made "an exception" and gave me tap water; IMO, they should not be so concerned about the bottom line that they are stingy with tap water. Not much room to eat, but it wasn't a problem. I don't love that all the food was served in disposable or recyclable containers as opposed to reusable ones, but I guess it's primarily a takeout business (or at least that's what the very small dining area indicated to me). The worst: I put my kimchi leftovers in my purse. I now have a kimchi-flavored purse, which makes vacation harder. The container was leaky!
(5)Michelle E.
Still waiting for a cup of water. My husband I are here for the first time tonight. It was empty inside (and has been every time we've walked by), but the menu sounded so good. We ordered and paid. Then, I asked for a cup of water. The guy at the counter said "we've just got the bottled water for a dollar". He turned and walked away as he said this. Seriously. You won't give me a cup of water. And you know it's d--- move so you won't look at me while you say it. We each ordered a hotdog - the Barking Dog and the Pineapple Express. Both were delish. The tots were also really yummy. But, I'm completely turned off that you wouldn't give me a cup of water. Sorry, won't be back.
(3)Mike S.
Tots... Who doesn't like them?! They do other things but I don't come here for anything but the awesome tots! It also is a great place to get a snack when you're out for a night on the town visiting different places to get your favorite beers!
(4)Asya P.
Awesome! I ordered delivery via 2dinein The loss of 1 star is entirely due to the price, which I feel is just a dollar or two higher than it should be on every dish. This is low-labor food to produce, though the ingredients they use do seem to be top-notch. I had the vegetarian Farmer Tess sandwich, which was big and very filling. Truly healthy but also rich in flavor. And then there were the fried Brussels sprouts in a chili sauce with queso fresco. Oh, my god. Delicious!! I will be trying to imitate these at home for sure!!! Not spicy, just flavorful. I will definitely come here when I want to indulge, have an empty fridge, but don't want to feel gross afterwards.
(4)Steff D.
I had been stalking Blue Rooster Food Co. for some time now. I'm always on the hunt for local eats open late so I can proudly tell outta statahs who whine that "there's nothing open" what's what. I would definitely send them to Blue Rooster should they be craving a delicious snack post-bars closing! For that matter, I'd send them there if they needed a little lunch fix during their Old Port excursion! It's a very small, but clean and inviting space that's ideally located and offers prime people watching. The staff is also VERY friendly and the menu is creative, interesting, reasonably rice, and delicious... if you're not a vegetarian that is. We came for lunch on a Monday afternoon and ordered the chickpea sandwich, potato salad, and fried Brussels sprouts (three of the five things we, as herbivores, could eat there). There was some confusion between me and the man taking my order though, and instead of getting The Farmer Ted (the hummus, goat cheese, and veg sandwich) we got the chickpea salad instead. Not the end of the world, but the miscommunication was frustrating when we didn't get what we thought we had ordered. The potato salad was good, but underseasoned. It was very nice, don't get me wrong, it just wasn't flavorful or memorable. The chickpea salad was a blend of Mediterranean flavors - whole chickpeas, red peppers, olives, fennel, thyme - that worked really well together. It was good, but (if you're someone who cooks frequently) it wasn't worth the price tag when you could make something similar at home. And then, there were the fried Brussels sprouts. Listen, if you're coming to Blue Rooster Food Co. for the first time and you don't order the Brussels sprouts, well then, SHAME ON YOU. These sprouts, covered in a sweet chili sauce and topped with sesame seeds and queso fresco, are alone worth coming for. They are definitely the stand-out item here, and are a unique food item in the city that Blue Rooster alone is making. They are a textural and flavor wonderland, though I wish there'd be more queso fresco on them (this is totally a personal thing though - everything, in my opinion, could have more cheese on it!). Would I come back here? Maybe. But, because of it's lackluster veg-options (and I totally understand that I'm not their target audience; as a matter of fact, I appreciate the offerings they DO have... I'm still gonna get the The Farmer Ted someday) I'd probably be better suited elsewhere, especially considering I've eaten just about everything I can eat off their menu already!
(3)Britney S.
This place is amazing and worth every penny! I am in love with their sandwiches. This is definitely my favorite place to get a sandwich in the old port. My current obsession is "the godfather." Everything I've tried there has been consistently good. I ordered something one day that I enjoyed so I ordered it again the next day at night with a whole different crew on staff and the sandwhich still came out the same. They are very consistent. The woman that took my order was very friendly and polite.. Good people on staff. The fried brussel sprouts and fried cauliflower are amazing. Unfortunately I have not had the priviledge to try their tots or hot dogs which is their signature but I have heard nothing but good things. They also remodelled the store so there is more seating for their guests. This is a definite must-try if you are in the area. Love it!
(5)Matt J.
So good! This place is tucked away on a side street in Old Port and packs some serious foodie flavors into its unassuming doors. The tots are fantastic... Perfectly crisp with awesome topping choices... We had the early bird which has hot sauce, maple mayo, a Sunnyside up egg, and cheese for a great flavor combo. The hot sauce (sriracha-esque but homemade) adds a sweet and hot vinegary punch that absolutely makes this dish. The beefsquatch was equally fantastic... if Indian and Mexican flavors gave birth to a gyro, this would be it. So fresh and full of flavor. Each bit starts crisp and fresh and build to a hot and complex explosion in your mouth...a must try. My wife also has the farmer Tess, which was quite good... Very light and fresh with a blend of great flavors.
(5)Karen F.
Creative and excellent! Think they should upgrade the site when possible and join the dinner offerings in Portland...In the meantime awesome food good prices friendly staff give them a try!
(5)Dia D.
We had the lobster roll with the Brussels sprouts (with sweet chili and queso fresco). The lobster roll was a 3, but the Brussels sprouts were a 5...excellent. This was the first of 3 restaurants in Portland whose seating consisted of stools/benches and a counter and by the time we left Portland we were sick of balancing on stools while we ate.
(4)Mark D.
I really want to love this place because of what it is. A fast food option that is not a chain. Unfortunately they keep falling a little short. I will say that their tots have never let me down. I love the tot-tine which is a twist on Canadian poutine. However other things I have ordered were just not that good. I ordered the Rooster Blue which I assumed to be their signature sandwich given the name. it was a couple pieces of fried chicken with cole-slaw and some type of blue-cheese dressing all in a big toasty bun. While it sounded delicious to me, the eating experience left me wanting something more. the fried chicken was dry, which was accentuated by the large bulky roll and not enough slaw or blue cheese dressing. I hate dry sandwiches. I've also tried their Colombiano hot-dog which had Roots slaw, avocado, "rosada" sauce, queso fresco,and shoestring fries. I did not like this hot-dog at all. Way to many flavors going on here, and avocado and hot dog just don't mix for me. I'm going to continue to try this place and I'm hoping I find something on the menu other then the Tots that I like.
(3)Matthew P.
Viva La Late Night Food! If you are looking for some delicious late night food in Portland, The Blue Rooster is the place. I went here two nights while visiting Portland. I ordered the lobster roll (Bahn Mi style) and the Brussels sprouts. The Bahn Mi style was a great idea for the lobster roll. The pickled veggies were really fresh and complimented the lobster. The Brussels sprouts were beyond awesome for a side. They are flash fried and then covered in a light vinegar-based hot sauce topped with queso fresco = beyond awesome. The Blue Rooster also offers several hot dog varieties which all looked delicious. It's a relief to see late night food done right. Late night eateries beware...The Blue Rooster is preaching the gospel of awesome.
(5)Briana R.
Yum! How can you beat hot dogs and tots? I got the Das Boot and my husband got the Three Little Pigs. I so wish I would have got the tots too. They were amazing. The Das Boot was good, very basic dog with kraut, mustard and of course bacon wrapped around the hot dog. I wish I lived in Portland so I could come here to fill my food cravings!
(5)Caitlin T.
Everything on the menu sounded delicious, it was one of those scenarios that I wanted to order everything because I couldn't decide. The boy and I ordered the very yummy and amply portioned tater tots with a side of blue cheese mayo (!) and a side of one of the most amazing thing I have ever had.. Deep fried Caesar style Brussels sprouts. I was so happy with both choices, and can't wait to try the buffalo tots or nacho tots next visit. The hot dogs we ordered were the Das Boot (bacon wrapped with house kraut and home made mustard) and the Pineapple Express (pineapple salsa and jalapeño honey mustard), both were quite tasty, though the rolls were a little less fresh or maybe just not toasted enough for what was inside. The roll over shadowed a bit, but I could tell that the house made fun combination of ingredients was there. Two guys behind the counter were sweet, seemed to be pretty pumped to be behind what they sell and the prices were completely fair! I can't wait to try more when I visit again!
(4)Victoria S.
5 stars for the creativity factor - it's fast food, complete with smaller menu, plenty of fried potato options, quick service, but with a unique menu and friendly service of a small, local business. I went with my mom what was, I think, their first month open, so things may have changed a bit since. I had a house pate de campagne sandwich with pickled veg on a baguette that was solid. My mom had a bahn-mi inspired lobster roll that was, hands down, my favorite lobster roll after spending nearly 6 months in Maine. And the brussel sprouts? A revelation. Who needs boring old french fries when you can get your fried side fix with these? Crunchy, but with a depth of flavor and texture unlike more conventional sides, the hot sauce and cheese do a great job of cutting the oil and balancing each other and the hint of brussel-sprout funk. Definitely worth going in just to grab a basket of these to munch as you wander the old port area. When I went there wasn't much in the way of seating, but service is quick enough that it is a valid grab'n'go option.
(4)Daniel M.
I've had all of their tot dishes, a few hotdogs and lunch and breakfast sandwiches. For comfort food or a great late night bite (after midnight) after some drinks on Fore street, this place can't be missed. The price is fair.
(5)Aaron P.
The food is so good it almost makes me forget about their $9 minimum on credit card charges. Almost. A $9 minimum when their average sandwich is under $9, including tax, just rubs me the wrong way. Are they doing this so that I'm nudged to add some tots and a drink to my order to bring it over $9, or are they just really worried about the percentage that the credit card companies are skimming off of their transactions? Either way, it irks me something fierce, and upon doing some light research, it may actually be illegal. Honestly, I'd prefer if they were cash-only. At least that's fair. All that aside, their food is outstanding. I've had a sandwich, a bacon-wrapped hot dog, and tater tots from them, and they've all be absolutely wonderful. I got my tots and dog to go, and they asked me if I wanted ketchup and/or hot sauce, and put them in little plastic containers for me in my to-go bag. They even marked the hot sauce with a "HS" in sharpie so I didn't mix it up with the ketchup. Upon opening my tots container, I noticed they had put a little wooden prong with which to poke my tots. A really lovely touch. Great attention to detail. And so, I love Blue Rooster, but I'm also mad at them. "Change your ways!" I scream at them while shaking my fist, but in the other fist I tightly grasp one of their bacon-wrapped hot dogs. Did I mention their bacon-wrapped hot dogs yet? So good.
(4)Beau C.
Really good sandwiches with lots of fresh ingredients and great flavor combinations. The poutine tater tots with bacon, pork belly and sausage is AMAZING! It's a tiny place with seating for about ten people along the walls and no bathroom (just go up the hill to Five Guys for a restroom)
(4)Nancy S.
Stopped in for a quick sandwich last night Had probably the WORST sandwich ever. I've been frequenting this sandwich shop since it opened and must say the quality has gone SOUTH! I had what was billed as a chicken cutlet sandwich: A fried/burnt piece of meat,substance that was a framed in red slaw (that was overpoweringly fermented) and some kind of mayo. This flavorless meat was paper thin, and so over cooked that I sent it back, only to get basically the same thing the second time. All this badness for only $9.00. Are you kidding me?? The tuna sandwich I had a month ago was almost equally unimpressive. My companion's hot dog was bland and of poor quality. This place has gone downhill in a big way. Or maybe the Friday night staff does not know how to cook? The tater tots we great, as usual, but heck, those require no skill to make.
(2)Erica R.
I try to stop in to the Blue Rooster every time I am in Portland. The Brussels sprouts are AMAZING- definitely the best I have ever had from a restaurant. The mac and cheese is also delicious. The staff has always been super friendly to me and the wait is never too long.
(5)Aesop V.
Summary: great for late night foods, open late for post-bar munchies, AWESOME tater tots. I didn't like my other foods but I will be willing to try something else. Pros: Open later, great tater tots. Cons: Parking, small dining area. I went on a Sunday afternoon with the girlfriend after a day of roaming the city and we luckily found a parking spot right in front of the place, but there are limited spots around the area so just be mindful when going here. It's probably better off as a place to go to after you've done some exploring around the city. It's a small space to get your food and have a quick bite or a quick, casual lunch. We went in and it was empty so it was perfect to explore everything about the place. The menu had sandwiches hot dogs and our fav: tater tots. We opted for the three little pigs tater tots, small brussels sprouts (per recommendation of Yelpers) and the Seoul Dog. Tater tots: need I say more? Tots are delicious by themselves and the combo with cheese, and bacon makes it even more delicious. Left me wanting more. Brussels Sprouts: I've never liked brussels sprouts but wanted to give them a try since Yelpers raved about them. I still don't like brussels sprouts. They were grilled and had some sauce and cheese on them but I couldn't get over the brussels taste. Seoul Hot Dog: I've had better dogs themselves. It wasn't anything spectacular. The kim-chi on it was more vinegar-y than I usually like it. I probably don't try it again, but I will be willing to try another dog. This will be my new spot for post-bar munchies with tater tots!
(4)Jason T.
I called a friend as soon as I left this place and told them I just had the best sandwich ever. Seriously, I have never done that before. I ordered the Cherry Bomb. Steak, onion, cherry pepper, cheddar covered with an over easy egg. Yep! It took me a minute to plan my attack, but I just grabbed a stack of napkins, faced the wall and didn't talk to anyone for a bit...just went to town. This was 2 days ago, still talking about it. Enjoy!
(5)Kelly S.
This is the first review I have ever written and I hate to have it be a bad one. I was so looking forward to trying Blue Rooster as I had seen pictures of their food on instagram. I got the cuckoo's nest sandwich and tater tots. The tater tots were good but the sandwich was not, I got a piece of bone within a couple of bites. It really ruined it for me but I thought it was just a fluke. I took the other half of my sandwich to go and my boyfriend tried it and he got a piece of bone in the first bite. I don't think I will go back.
(1)A. M.
After searching for some late night eats while visiting, I was really pumped to come across this place. Tots? Dogs? I'm down. Sadly, it fell short of my reasonable expectations. Service wasn't that friendly and the basic hot dog tasted like it wasn't even cooked. Sad and cold. The tots however were warm, but average. Nothing that would be worth coming back for. Maybe I'd give the other dogs a try again? Not sure. Some other reviews mentioned a hot dog truck so I might check that out first.
(2)Matthew P.
Viva La Late Night Food! If you are looking for some delicious late night food in Portland, The Blue Rooster is the place. I went here two nights while visiting Portland. I ordered the lobster roll (Bahn Mi style) and the Brussels sprouts. The Bahn Mi style was a great idea for the lobster roll. The pickled veggies were really fresh and complimented the lobster. The Brussels sprouts were beyond awesome for a side. They are flash fried and then covered in a light vinegar-based hot sauce topped with queso fresco = beyond awesome. The Blue Rooster also offers several hot dog varieties which all looked delicious. It's a relief to see late night food done right. Late night eateries beware...The Blue Rooster is preaching the gospel of awesome.
(5)Briana R.
Yum! How can you beat hot dogs and tots? I got the Das Boot and my husband got the Three Little Pigs. I so wish I would have got the tots too. They were amazing. The Das Boot was good, very basic dog with kraut, mustard and of course bacon wrapped around the hot dog. I wish I lived in Portland so I could come here to fill my food cravings!
(5)Caitlin T.
Everything on the menu sounded delicious, it was one of those scenarios that I wanted to order everything because I couldn't decide. The boy and I ordered the very yummy and amply portioned tater tots with a side of blue cheese mayo (!) and a side of one of the most amazing thing I have ever had.. Deep fried Caesar style Brussels sprouts. I was so happy with both choices, and can't wait to try the buffalo tots or nacho tots next visit. The hot dogs we ordered were the Das Boot (bacon wrapped with house kraut and home made mustard) and the Pineapple Express (pineapple salsa and jalapeño honey mustard), both were quite tasty, though the rolls were a little less fresh or maybe just not toasted enough for what was inside. The roll over shadowed a bit, but I could tell that the house made fun combination of ingredients was there. Two guys behind the counter were sweet, seemed to be pretty pumped to be behind what they sell and the prices were completely fair! I can't wait to try more when I visit again!
(4)Victoria S.
5 stars for the creativity factor - it's fast food, complete with smaller menu, plenty of fried potato options, quick service, but with a unique menu and friendly service of a small, local business. I went with my mom what was, I think, their first month open, so things may have changed a bit since. I had a house pate de campagne sandwich with pickled veg on a baguette that was solid. My mom had a bahn-mi inspired lobster roll that was, hands down, my favorite lobster roll after spending nearly 6 months in Maine. And the brussel sprouts? A revelation. Who needs boring old french fries when you can get your fried side fix with these? Crunchy, but with a depth of flavor and texture unlike more conventional sides, the hot sauce and cheese do a great job of cutting the oil and balancing each other and the hint of brussel-sprout funk. Definitely worth going in just to grab a basket of these to munch as you wander the old port area. When I went there wasn't much in the way of seating, but service is quick enough that it is a valid grab'n'go option.
(4)Daniel M.
I've had all of their tot dishes, a few hotdogs and lunch and breakfast sandwiches. For comfort food or a great late night bite (after midnight) after some drinks on Fore street, this place can't be missed. The price is fair.
(5)Aaron P.
The food is so good it almost makes me forget about their $9 minimum on credit card charges. Almost. A $9 minimum when their average sandwich is under $9, including tax, just rubs me the wrong way. Are they doing this so that I'm nudged to add some tots and a drink to my order to bring it over $9, or are they just really worried about the percentage that the credit card companies are skimming off of their transactions? Either way, it irks me something fierce, and upon doing some light research, it may actually be illegal. Honestly, I'd prefer if they were cash-only. At least that's fair. All that aside, their food is outstanding. I've had a sandwich, a bacon-wrapped hot dog, and tater tots from them, and they've all be absolutely wonderful. I got my tots and dog to go, and they asked me if I wanted ketchup and/or hot sauce, and put them in little plastic containers for me in my to-go bag. They even marked the hot sauce with a "HS" in sharpie so I didn't mix it up with the ketchup. Upon opening my tots container, I noticed they had put a little wooden prong with which to poke my tots. A really lovely touch. Great attention to detail. And so, I love Blue Rooster, but I'm also mad at them. "Change your ways!" I scream at them while shaking my fist, but in the other fist I tightly grasp one of their bacon-wrapped hot dogs. Did I mention their bacon-wrapped hot dogs yet? So good.
(4)Beau C.
Really good sandwiches with lots of fresh ingredients and great flavor combinations. The poutine tater tots with bacon, pork belly and sausage is AMAZING! It's a tiny place with seating for about ten people along the walls and no bathroom (just go up the hill to Five Guys for a restroom)
(4)Nancy S.
Stopped in for a quick sandwich last night Had probably the WORST sandwich ever. I've been frequenting this sandwich shop since it opened and must say the quality has gone SOUTH! I had what was billed as a chicken cutlet sandwich: A fried/burnt piece of meat,substance that was a framed in red slaw (that was overpoweringly fermented) and some kind of mayo. This flavorless meat was paper thin, and so over cooked that I sent it back, only to get basically the same thing the second time. All this badness for only $9.00. Are you kidding me?? The tuna sandwich I had a month ago was almost equally unimpressive. My companion's hot dog was bland and of poor quality. This place has gone downhill in a big way. Or maybe the Friday night staff does not know how to cook? The tater tots we great, as usual, but heck, those require no skill to make.
(2)Erica R.
I try to stop in to the Blue Rooster every time I am in Portland. The Brussels sprouts are AMAZING- definitely the best I have ever had from a restaurant. The mac and cheese is also delicious. The staff has always been super friendly to me and the wait is never too long.
(5)Aesop V.
Summary: great for late night foods, open late for post-bar munchies, AWESOME tater tots. I didn't like my other foods but I will be willing to try something else. Pros: Open later, great tater tots. Cons: Parking, small dining area. I went on a Sunday afternoon with the girlfriend after a day of roaming the city and we luckily found a parking spot right in front of the place, but there are limited spots around the area so just be mindful when going here. It's probably better off as a place to go to after you've done some exploring around the city. It's a small space to get your food and have a quick bite or a quick, casual lunch. We went in and it was empty so it was perfect to explore everything about the place. The menu had sandwiches hot dogs and our fav: tater tots. We opted for the three little pigs tater tots, small brussels sprouts (per recommendation of Yelpers) and the Seoul Dog. Tater tots: need I say more? Tots are delicious by themselves and the combo with cheese, and bacon makes it even more delicious. Left me wanting more. Brussels Sprouts: I've never liked brussels sprouts but wanted to give them a try since Yelpers raved about them. I still don't like brussels sprouts. They were grilled and had some sauce and cheese on them but I couldn't get over the brussels taste. Seoul Hot Dog: I've had better dogs themselves. It wasn't anything spectacular. The kim-chi on it was more vinegar-y than I usually like it. I probably don't try it again, but I will be willing to try another dog. This will be my new spot for post-bar munchies with tater tots!
(4)AJ P.
Tots! With a menu of hot dogs, sandwiches, and tater tots, this place is good place for a quick lunch. But honestly, its best for late night fare after a night in the old port to help soak up all the alcohol that might be sitting in your system. The brussel sprouts are awesome and same with the three little pigs: tots with bacon, sausage and pork belly. They have a small selection of hot sauces which is always appreciated. Don't come in expecting a good place to rest - there's not a lot of sitting room, just a few stools along the side walls.
(4)Joseph M.
What can I say about this place that hasn't been said. Great junk food. If I lived in Portland I would hit this place up any drinking night. I am glad I don't work near by or I would get seriously fat going there for lunch. Only drag is they don't really have much seating. It's definitely a to-go place.
(4)B P.
Dank sandwiches. Unique, tasty, and just downright awesome. Worth a stop. The flavor combinations really compliment. This place is an underrated part of Portland's awesome food culture.
(5)CB W.
We had a nice lunch at Blue Rooster Food Co. The buffalo tots were really tasty as was the mac and cheese, thai iced tea and lemonade. Maybe a little pricey for the large tots at $12, but not outrageous. They did have great music playing and friendly service.
(3)Trevor J.
Good food
(5)Whit D.
I've never been disappointed, but I've never been blown away either. Fast, friendly, and open late. Definitely the front runner at 1 AM when you want to grab something decent and catch a cab, but not a "can't miss" lunch spot in my opinion.
(3)Jeff K.
The green salad was excellent, the slaw delicious and the brussel sprouts were simply EXTRAORDINARY. One of the best values in Maine, Blue Rooster stands out in a city with amazing food. One great thing about blue rooster: they are open late Saturday night. check it out, you'll be glad you did.
(5)Jennifer M.
After hearing many a tale of their luscious offerings, my husband and I finally tried The Blue Rooster. It was good, but not as great as I had expected. For starters, I didn't realize that it was primarily geared to the take-out crowd. It has very limited seating and little atmosphere. Not a huge fan of hot dogs, seemingly their signature food, I ordered a "Jack Kerou-Weck," a roast beef sandwich with au jus and horseradish served on a caraway roll. I must say, it was pretty tasty, but it was not rare, as described on the menu. On the other hand, the tots we ordered were fan-freekin-tastic, and I could have kept eating them for days. They were a little saltier than I would have preferred, but no matter, they were awesome! I will definitely go back again just for the tots, and next time, I'll try another sandwich.
(4)H C.
Stopped in for a quick bite while passing through Portland. Had the Jack Kerou-Wack (roast beef dipped in au jus). What truly made this sandwich amazing was the caraway and sea salt roll on which it was served! Yum! Kids had hot dogs with a healthier, homemade version of relish. Great service too. Highly recommended!
(5)David F.
Had the Caesar fried Brussels sprouts and the Charlie Noble sandwich. Both hit the spot. Loved the vibe in this place - chill music, really friendly guy behind the counter. I would like to see a few more vegetarian options on the menu. Otherwise, this is a pretty sweet establishment.
(4)Robert J.
This is a review based on three visits, each time with a different friend. They all had questions about exactly what was in the the dishes and the each time the cashier was able to describe the ingredients. This was especially valuable for one of my friends that has trouble with some gluten. It was pointed out that the facility handles bread and nuts so people deathly allergic should call ahead but frankly people in that situation should be doing that anyway. Luckily my friend doesn't fall into that category. Downsides to this place, no bathrooms and limited seating, parking downtown can be problematic but thats true anywhere in portland. Upside , great food for people on their way to/from somewhere else
(4)d w.
These guys are the real deal. So happy to have found this place. I have to admit the first time I tried this restaurant, I had the Seoul Dog and I was hooked. Now every time I go in, I have the Seoul Dog, the tater tots and usually split the Brussel sprouts with a friend. It is all so good! You will enjoy it.
(5)Patrice L.
YUM....just YUM. Vegetarians should flock here en masse. We tried the brussels sprouts caesar salad, incredible. Hot tots with buffalo sauce and blue cheese, out of this world. Simple green salad with lemony dressing, give me more! The food is service quickly and conveniently in compostable containers, easy to stay and eat in or take away. I can't wait to visit Blue Rooster on my next trip to Portland!
(5)Lauren H.
Blue Rooster combines high quality, local ingredients with friendly service, late night hours, and cheap prices to boot. Sign me up! My boyfriend and I (read: tourists) stumbled in here after aimlessly wandering around on our first day in Portland; we were starving and didn't want to spend a lot on lunch, as we had already planned a spendy dinner elsewhere. And this place offered exactly what we needed. Colombiano: Just delicious. I love a good dressed-up hotdog. The hotdog itself was really high quality, and all the ingredients were fresh and went perfectly together. Lobster banh-mi: I didn't taste my boyfriend's but he really enjoyed it. Tater tots: Yes! Homemade ketchup: YES! YES! Get the iced coffee! Ask them to sweeten it for you with liquid sugar and add cream. It was the perfect addition to my meal.
(4)Sam B.
Wow, what an excellent little spot! I was visiting Portland for a wedding from Burlington Vermont and was drawn down a side street in search of lunch. I saw the sign for Blue Rooster and went in to check it out. I choose to eat gluten free, dairy free and only fish in terms of meat. Needless to say that makes dining out difficult. When I inquired about gluten free options for sandwiches the gentlemen working the counter was incredibly helpful and offered to put all the ingredients on a salad for me. I ordered the Fez which comes with tuna, red onions, peppers, paprika and roasted potatoes. I also ordered a small side of friend brussle sprouts with the sweet chilli sauce...AMAZING. I highly recommend this little local spot with its diverse menu and good atmosphere! I hope to return next time I am in Portland!
(5)Lauren W.
This is a great little place in Old Port. We stumbled past it by happenstance and it did not disappoint. I got the Godfather which was an Italian sandwich with mortadella and a house Pickadilli. My yelp check in partner got the Junkyard Dog which was a bacon wrapped hot dog topped with chili, tater tots, & some slaw. We also ordered the fried Brussel Sprouts, which I typically love anywhere, and they were amazing. Probably my favorite part of the meal. The Lobster Bahn Mi was also screaming my name but I passed on it. I guess it just gives me a reason to come back next time. If you are into hot sauces they had an unlabeled one on the countertops along with 9 other small, spicy bottles to choose from. Great spot for lunch.
(4)Dan O.
Love this place. I work in the Old Port of Portland and have eaten here 5 times since it opened. It has specific segment in Portland's growing foodie landscape. The turkey sandwich and "Red Eye" breakfast sandwiches are highlights of the current menu from my personal perspective. I always get a side of the Brussels Sprouts as well. I recently brought my family here while on the Friday Art Walk and fed our family of four under $25 with food that was craft made with intentionality and skill. The staff were also super-friendly to my family and made everyone feel very welcome. If you looking for unique sandwiches or a special hot dog, stop in to the Blue Rooster for a bite, you'll be happy you did.
(4)brian d.
The fried sprouts were nasty, barely fried, mostly raw..I also got a chicken wrap, that was SLIMY and just nasty..I didn't finish either, and paid $18..Go anywhere else but here..!
(1)Matthew C.
GREAT FOOD AND FRIENDLY SERVICE. You have to try the Farmer Ted veggie sandwich on focaccia. The bread is baked fresh everyday. The fried brussel sprouts were tasty as well. Had a little kick to them. The Poutine Toter Tots were also something new to us. Nice blend. My wife and I enjoyed everything we ordered. Super friendly staff helped make us feel right at home. I wish we had something like this back in California. I think people traveling here from the west coast would enjoy this place. It was nice to take a little break from fish for a few nights. We will be back and thank you! M&M Yorba Linda, Ca.
(5)Roseann C.
A place known for its tater tots?? Sign. Me. Up!! They also have sandwiches, hot dogs, which I did not try. My tater tot version of poutine was tasty, though my request to have them without the gravy meant that I was pretty much eating cold cheese curds on hot tots. That's not one that should be monkeyed with just because I am not a fan of chicken gravy. My bad. The buffalo tater tots I tasted were super (and I wished I had gotten them instead). And do not even get me started on the fried Brussels sprouts. Wowee!!! I'm a happier person knowing that these are in the world. It's pretty much just a counter place, but it's kitschy and cool and the workers are very friendly. Note: coolest thing in there = the Christopher Walken napkin holder. Yes, I want one! Go there if you want post-cocktail vittles and don't mind eating on your feet.
(4)Jason T.
I called a friend as soon as I left this place and told them I just had the best sandwich ever. Seriously, I have never done that before. I ordered the Cherry Bomb. Steak, onion, cherry pepper, cheddar covered with an over easy egg. Yep! It took me a minute to plan my attack, but I just grabbed a stack of napkins, faced the wall and didn't talk to anyone for a bit...just went to town. This was 2 days ago, still talking about it. Enjoy!
(5)Kelly S.
This is the first review I have ever written and I hate to have it be a bad one. I was so looking forward to trying Blue Rooster as I had seen pictures of their food on instagram. I got the cuckoo's nest sandwich and tater tots. The tater tots were good but the sandwich was not, I got a piece of bone within a couple of bites. It really ruined it for me but I thought it was just a fluke. I took the other half of my sandwich to go and my boyfriend tried it and he got a piece of bone in the first bite. I don't think I will go back.
(1)A. M.
After searching for some late night eats while visiting, I was really pumped to come across this place. Tots? Dogs? I'm down. Sadly, it fell short of my reasonable expectations. Service wasn't that friendly and the basic hot dog tasted like it wasn't even cooked. Sad and cold. The tots however were warm, but average. Nothing that would be worth coming back for. Maybe I'd give the other dogs a try again? Not sure. Some other reviews mentioned a hot dog truck so I might check that out first.
(2)Gabrielle B.
Stopped in for an afternoon snack, and we tried the Three Little Pigs. Best choice!! So good!
(5)Christa H.
Tots. Do I need to say more? Tots, tots, tots. What keeps me coming back here? Crispy potato goodness covered in whatever you like or buck naked. Tot-tine with cheese curds and gravy is my new best friend (sorry real friends!). The gravy is perfect and the cheese curds are the real deal. I recommend inhaling it like I do or the tots can get a little soggy from the gravy. The three little pigs is also another of my favorites. It's the Tot-tine topped with bacon, sausage and pork belly. Heart attack city? You bet. Guilty pleasure? 100%. If you are a tot purist, you can get them plain and just enjoy the crispy goodness. Have I said enough about the tots? Oh probably. To keep the goodness going, try a sandwich or a hot dog. You can get a hot dog wrapped in bacon! Yes! What an amazing idea. The toppings are varied and different from your average hot dog vendor. You can go messy or simple, it doesn't matter because they are all good. The sandwiches are unique and you'll look at the board and wonder "hmm...I wonder how those flavors will go together." Be adventurous. You won't be disappointed. I recently have the chicken PBLT which is chicken thigh, confit pork belly, lettuce, pickled green tomatoes and chipotle mayo. It was wonderful. I'm pretty sure it was on a ciabatta roll and there was just the right amount of mayo. I'm looking forward to going back and trying one of the vegetarian options. The falafel sandwich has arugula pesto and a watermelon, radish and fennel slaw on it. That sounds very intriguing.
(5)Kenneth P.
The hot dogs here were not too impressive. I had the pineapple express and my friend had a das boot. We were both unimpressed with our hot dogs. The pineapple express has Pickled mango salsa, cilantro jalapeno pineapple mustard. The jalepeño is the only thing that had a strong flavor. There was not a hint of pineapple or mustard. The was a small hint of mango. As for the bacon, it lacked any flavor and crunch to it.
(2)Rebecca W.
The food was good but average. There seems to be too much thought on the hot dog toppings and not enough in the quality of the hot dogs. I tried to growly dog which didn't seem to have nearly the amount of bacon I pictured and I have no idea what the boss sauce is that came on it. The bun was soft and fresh. The tater tots with all the different topping is a cool idea and a good way to feed those salty food cravings. I tried the buffalo flavor which had an excellent ratio of buffalo sauce to blue cheese. It comes topped with carrot and celery shreds. Not a very good addition. The nacho tater tots had excellent chili and nacho sauce and what what must be house made salsa. The ingredients were all fresh and had a nice spicy kick. Overall it was a good experience with friendly staff, but not one I will be regular at.
(3)Nancy R.
Great eclectic food choices, with many options for gluten free. My husband is a bacon lover and he was in heaven, while my fried Brussel sprouts with a sweet chili sauce were amazing. Definitely don't miss this gem.
(5)Hilary J.
This place is fantastic. My boyfriend and I went for breakfast and split 2 small orders of tots, a small kimchi, a small chickpea salad and small fried Brussels sprouts (the ones with queso fresco and sweet chili sauce) The tots were perfect- got one order with a fried egg on top and order of buffalo tots. The egg was PERFECTION. The Brussels sprouts were the best I've ever had- anywhere. The kimchi was spicy and delicious and the chickpea salad was light and fresh. We took home most of the kimchi and chickpea salad and left feeling full but not gross. I absolutely wish there was one of these in Los Angeles. Everything was awesome. Keep up the good work and holy crap, don't change a thing.
(5)J M.
This spot is tucked away from the busy port street. I was on the search for my first lobster roll. The food came out in about 10 minutes. My tots were hot and the bun was warm. I was expecting a heavy buttery lobster roll but in turn received a refreshing twist on the sandwich. The slaw mixture over pewees the taste of the lobster. Think it was to many layers of flavor for the rather tiny lobster roll. They also have tater tots in many different forms. The house ketchup taste is for a select group of palettes. Not a fan but to each is on. I also tried the tot-tine, which is just like poutine(gravy cheese curds on fries) my friend had most of this and said it was decadent and savory. Ate it so fast I almost didn't get to try it. Overall a nice spot for a variety of sandwiches. Real small dining area and food staff. When busy expect a long wait. Well in enjoy!!
(3)Tessa L.
Stopped in for lunch with a group, including a toddler who's a bit of a picky eater, and everyone left happy. The sandwiches are inventive and delicious, the bread is very fresh, and the staff is so friendly. We'll be back next time we're in town for sure. Be sure and try the tots, we all really enjoyed the "tot-tine."
(5)Michael G.
Five weeks ago, I started a new job located in Old Port. Discovered The Blue Rooster on my 1st day and have enjoyed one of their incredible sandwiches every week since. Clean facility, friendly staff and a creative, fresh sandwich on each visit. And all the hype in prior reviews on Blue Rooster's tots: Yea, they are that awesome!
(5)A K.
It is a small place. One would miss it while walking past it. We wet as part of the foodie tour. The sandwich was great. They had a lot of interesting toppings on the menu. Sadly we did not go back to try them.
(4)Sarah H.
Good, classic tots and creative hot dog options. The tots were great and I'll try the pouting or Bayou Tots next time. The dogs are good and their sandwich menu has some great looking options.
(4)Nathan G.
I wish I'd known about this place sooner, because the food is fantastic. It's on a side street in downtown Portland, not very conspicuous, but well worth tracking down. All the menu items are creatively named, and provide some inventive choices. I had the Dirty Bird tots (chili, cheese, egg, and a bit of hot sauce) and the Pineapple Express Dog (pickled mango salsa, pineapple cilantro jalapeno mustard) and both were awesome. If you're looking for a great place to eat in Portland that's a little different, you can't go wrong with the Blue Rooster. One side note: the restaurant is pretty small, definitely aiming more for takeout. They have a few booths, but I'd imagine during tourist season you should be prepared to take your food and eat elsewhere.
(5)Anna D.
Was not impressed by the menu size, but I was very impressed by my barley salad, paired with several chopped veggies and an amazing pesto sauce to top it off. I used this pint of deliciousness as my lunch and it held me over until dinner! I'll most certainly be back for a sandwich, if not this tasty surprise! There was a short line at noon, but I was in and out in less than five minutes and under five bucks.
(3)Bill M.
Nothing says America like burgers and dogs. Not even Apple pie. They are such a quintessential staple of our food and culture. So I say congratulations to Blue Rooster for applying the gastropub treatment to the formerly humble hot dog. On our first visit earlier this week I tried one of their specialty dogs created by guest chef Ricky from the Portland Hunt and Alpine Club. This rich and satisfying dog was topped with a succulent lamb chili,salsa verde and a delightful pile of cheese curd. Yumalicious! Accompanying my fine dog was a side of the most golden home made tator tots Portland has ever seen. I particularly loved the big visible flakes of freshly ground pepper that added a touch of heat. Not a fan of hot dogs (really?), they also offer a wide array of truly special sandwiches and even have a salad on the menu( Are you sure you don't want to try one of the hot dogs? They are so good). Continuing with the good stuff. Despite arriving with the lunch crowd service was still fast and friendly, and parking was plentiful mid-week. I look forward to stopping in again soon.
(4)Leah W.
This is my favorite weekend location for either a quick lunch or a late night snack. This restaurant is more of a "fast food" style place but with a friendlier and less processed (healthy is debatable) flare. It is counter service with a few benches, but these probably would sit a total of maybe 12 adults. I prefer to take my food to go and either walk around or hang out on the Prom in nice weather. I absolutely love the tater tots. While I have had them and love them plain, one of the best things to split between friends is one of their more doctored concoctions. Currently, my friends and I have the early riser option as our favorite. I have had multiple sandwiches and a few hot dog options here as well. The food is always fresh and delicious. The combinations are sometimes unusual, however, every time I have tried something new I have loved it. There really have not ever been any misses for me (thus the five star rating). The restaurant does change up its menu every once in a while, so don't expect to always get the same thing. It is a little hidden, so many of my friends had not heard of it before. Anytime I bring someone here, I always hear from them that they come back again and again and they love it!
(5)X M.
After a whole day walk in Portland, we were in a rush to drive to our hotel and we decided to get some fast-food with Lobster. and then We Found This Place!!! I love their lobster roll and their tots!!!
(4)Lindsay W.
For some reason I thought this place was only hot dogs and tater tots, which don't get me wrong, there's nothing wrong with that. I actually love hot dogs. And they have a lot of good ones. But they also have awesome sandwiches which is great because it's a block from my work so I can now depend on them for lunch. I got their steak sandwich on naan bread. It was really unique and I wasn't sure I was going to like it but I really did! I loved it actually. Their not cheap sandwiches. Mine was $9 but it's worth it. They have tons of unique food items and I'm looking forward to trying one of their souped up hotdogs and tater tots when I decided to binge in the future.
(4)Maura Q.
The menu is small, but the tater tots are delicious and come in large portions. I purchased The Das Boot hot dog and some of the loaded tots. It wasn't too expensive and the hot dog was good! The staff is also very friendly and patient, especially with the intoxicated people they must get on the weekend nights. I don't crave hot dogs all of the time, but when I do, I imagine I'll return to the Blue Rooster. I missed their chef summer series this past season, but hopefully they'll continue something like it next summer. If you're looking for a gourmet dog and something more than one from a stand (not that there's anything wrong with those!), this would be your place to go. They also have a prime people watching spot. I just wish their place was a little bit bigger, but I understand the location and it makes sense.
(3)Jessica H.
Pretty yummy food. Not for you if your on a diet, but maybe worth a "cheat" meal.
(4)Jake H.
Very good quick food, I got the chickpea salad an loved it. Service was fast. Farmer Tess was also good, but lacked a bit of crunch as a sandwich
(4)AJ P.
Tots! With a menu of hot dogs, sandwiches, and tater tots, this place is good place for a quick lunch. But honestly, its best for late night fare after a night in the old port to help soak up all the alcohol that might be sitting in your system. The brussel sprouts are awesome and same with the three little pigs: tots with bacon, sausage and pork belly. They have a small selection of hot sauces which is always appreciated. Don't come in expecting a good place to rest - there's not a lot of sitting room, just a few stools along the side walls.
(4)Joseph M.
What can I say about this place that hasn't been said. Great junk food. If I lived in Portland I would hit this place up any drinking night. I am glad I don't work near by or I would get seriously fat going there for lunch. Only drag is they don't really have much seating. It's definitely a to-go place.
(4)B P.
Dank sandwiches. Unique, tasty, and just downright awesome. Worth a stop. The flavor combinations really compliment. This place is an underrated part of Portland's awesome food culture.
(5)CB W.
We had a nice lunch at Blue Rooster Food Co. The buffalo tots were really tasty as was the mac and cheese, thai iced tea and lemonade. Maybe a little pricey for the large tots at $12, but not outrageous. They did have great music playing and friendly service.
(3)Trevor J.
Good food
(5)Whit D.
I've never been disappointed, but I've never been blown away either. Fast, friendly, and open late. Definitely the front runner at 1 AM when you want to grab something decent and catch a cab, but not a "can't miss" lunch spot in my opinion.
(3)Jeff K.
The green salad was excellent, the slaw delicious and the brussel sprouts were simply EXTRAORDINARY. One of the best values in Maine, Blue Rooster stands out in a city with amazing food. One great thing about blue rooster: they are open late Saturday night. check it out, you'll be glad you did.
(5)Jennifer M.
After hearing many a tale of their luscious offerings, my husband and I finally tried The Blue Rooster. It was good, but not as great as I had expected. For starters, I didn't realize that it was primarily geared to the take-out crowd. It has very limited seating and little atmosphere. Not a huge fan of hot dogs, seemingly their signature food, I ordered a "Jack Kerou-Weck," a roast beef sandwich with au jus and horseradish served on a caraway roll. I must say, it was pretty tasty, but it was not rare, as described on the menu. On the other hand, the tots we ordered were fan-freekin-tastic, and I could have kept eating them for days. They were a little saltier than I would have preferred, but no matter, they were awesome! I will definitely go back again just for the tots, and next time, I'll try another sandwich.
(4)H C.
Stopped in for a quick bite while passing through Portland. Had the Jack Kerou-Wack (roast beef dipped in au jus). What truly made this sandwich amazing was the caraway and sea salt roll on which it was served! Yum! Kids had hot dogs with a healthier, homemade version of relish. Great service too. Highly recommended!
(5)David F.
Had the Caesar fried Brussels sprouts and the Charlie Noble sandwich. Both hit the spot. Loved the vibe in this place - chill music, really friendly guy behind the counter. I would like to see a few more vegetarian options on the menu. Otherwise, this is a pretty sweet establishment.
(4)Robert J.
This is a review based on three visits, each time with a different friend. They all had questions about exactly what was in the the dishes and the each time the cashier was able to describe the ingredients. This was especially valuable for one of my friends that has trouble with some gluten. It was pointed out that the facility handles bread and nuts so people deathly allergic should call ahead but frankly people in that situation should be doing that anyway. Luckily my friend doesn't fall into that category. Downsides to this place, no bathrooms and limited seating, parking downtown can be problematic but thats true anywhere in portland. Upside , great food for people on their way to/from somewhere else
(4)d w.
These guys are the real deal. So happy to have found this place. I have to admit the first time I tried this restaurant, I had the Seoul Dog and I was hooked. Now every time I go in, I have the Seoul Dog, the tater tots and usually split the Brussel sprouts with a friend. It is all so good! You will enjoy it.
(5)Patrice L.
YUM....just YUM. Vegetarians should flock here en masse. We tried the brussels sprouts caesar salad, incredible. Hot tots with buffalo sauce and blue cheese, out of this world. Simple green salad with lemony dressing, give me more! The food is service quickly and conveniently in compostable containers, easy to stay and eat in or take away. I can't wait to visit Blue Rooster on my next trip to Portland!
(5)Lauren H.
Blue Rooster combines high quality, local ingredients with friendly service, late night hours, and cheap prices to boot. Sign me up! My boyfriend and I (read: tourists) stumbled in here after aimlessly wandering around on our first day in Portland; we were starving and didn't want to spend a lot on lunch, as we had already planned a spendy dinner elsewhere. And this place offered exactly what we needed. Colombiano: Just delicious. I love a good dressed-up hotdog. The hotdog itself was really high quality, and all the ingredients were fresh and went perfectly together. Lobster banh-mi: I didn't taste my boyfriend's but he really enjoyed it. Tater tots: Yes! Homemade ketchup: YES! YES! Get the iced coffee! Ask them to sweeten it for you with liquid sugar and add cream. It was the perfect addition to my meal.
(4)Sam B.
Wow, what an excellent little spot! I was visiting Portland for a wedding from Burlington Vermont and was drawn down a side street in search of lunch. I saw the sign for Blue Rooster and went in to check it out. I choose to eat gluten free, dairy free and only fish in terms of meat. Needless to say that makes dining out difficult. When I inquired about gluten free options for sandwiches the gentlemen working the counter was incredibly helpful and offered to put all the ingredients on a salad for me. I ordered the Fez which comes with tuna, red onions, peppers, paprika and roasted potatoes. I also ordered a small side of friend brussle sprouts with the sweet chilli sauce...AMAZING. I highly recommend this little local spot with its diverse menu and good atmosphere! I hope to return next time I am in Portland!
(5)Lauren W.
This is a great little place in Old Port. We stumbled past it by happenstance and it did not disappoint. I got the Godfather which was an Italian sandwich with mortadella and a house Pickadilli. My yelp check in partner got the Junkyard Dog which was a bacon wrapped hot dog topped with chili, tater tots, & some slaw. We also ordered the fried Brussel Sprouts, which I typically love anywhere, and they were amazing. Probably my favorite part of the meal. The Lobster Bahn Mi was also screaming my name but I passed on it. I guess it just gives me a reason to come back next time. If you are into hot sauces they had an unlabeled one on the countertops along with 9 other small, spicy bottles to choose from. Great spot for lunch.
(4)Jeffrey L.
I wanted to eat somewhere unhealthy for my cheat day for my diet and I asked a coworker where to go. He suggested Blue Rooster. I wanted to try their Pastrami "Cuban" Rueben which he had the other day, but they were out of pastrami. I settled on the Red Eye Breakfast, along with a small order of tater tots and an iced tea. For $6 the sandwich was well proportioned, a big homemade biscuit filled with egg, hash browns and pork belly. The biscuit was a bit on the crumbly side but it had a nice richness to it, although the flavors did tend to meld together... I think a little salt would have helped to balance it out. The tots were good... they were still hot when I got them and the homemade ketchup had a really good rosemary kick to it. I opted for the sweetened version of their ice tea, and it was just the right amount - often times iced tea can be sacharine but this had just the slightest taste of molasses which was a pleasant surprise. Next time I go (I will go again), I'd like to try their Reuben, along with their homemade chips and maybe their lemonade.
(4)Bob W.
I'm giving four stars only because my first order here was so small -- a Das Boot dog and a small Brussels sprouts side. It was 12:30 am after all. But the food was outstanding, the service friendly, and the vibe quite good. Reminds me of Cochon Butcher in NOLA (a very good thing). We will be back for sure!
(4)Betsy C.
Cute atmosphere, friendly service, fresh food prepared fast. I'm afraid that's all this place has going for it. Taste was lacking, especially on those fried brussel sprouts other reviews have raved about. They were terrible compared to Pei Men Miyake's version and the same dish at Boda. These sprouts just tasted like bland fried bits of veg, I'll pass. Unless you are a hot dog connoisseur, in which case there is a hot dog vendor right on the corner where locals gravitate, I wouldn't recommend going out of your way to eat here.
(2)Craig B.
This place has the best sandwiches and the Brussels and homemade chips are out of this world. Really affordable too.
(5)Peter W.
We were looking for a local take out sandwich place yesterday, didn't want a chain. We stumbled upon the Blue Rooster. I had a terrific lobster roll and my wife had a great veggie sandwich. Highly recommend this place
(5)Rishi S.
We had the Lobster Banh Mi and the Veggie Sandwich with the homemade thai chips and the brussel sprouts. Everything was delicious and fresh. Great spot for quick meal! Owner was extremely friendly and happy to provide recommendations and explain the menu.
(5)Sara P.
Interesting, funky hot dogs and lobster rolls and such. Everyone enjoyed what they ordered. One of these days we're going to try the tater tot poutine, but it was too hot this weekend. The restaurant is very small -- basically a take out counter and a few stools at a counter for eat-in customers. And there's no air conditioning. But it is right down in the Old Port are, and a good choice if you're tired of the more usual tourist fare.
(4)Dan O.
Love this place. I work in the Old Port of Portland and have eaten here 5 times since it opened. It has specific segment in Portland's growing foodie landscape. The turkey sandwich and "Red Eye" breakfast sandwiches are highlights of the current menu from my personal perspective. I always get a side of the Brussels Sprouts as well. I recently brought my family here while on the Friday Art Walk and fed our family of four under $25 with food that was craft made with intentionality and skill. The staff were also super-friendly to my family and made everyone feel very welcome. If you looking for unique sandwiches or a special hot dog, stop in to the Blue Rooster for a bite, you'll be happy you did.
(4)brian d.
The fried sprouts were nasty, barely fried, mostly raw..I also got a chicken wrap, that was SLIMY and just nasty..I didn't finish either, and paid $18..Go anywhere else but here..!
(1)Matthew C.
GREAT FOOD AND FRIENDLY SERVICE. You have to try the Farmer Ted veggie sandwich on focaccia. The bread is baked fresh everyday. The fried brussel sprouts were tasty as well. Had a little kick to them. The Poutine Toter Tots were also something new to us. Nice blend. My wife and I enjoyed everything we ordered. Super friendly staff helped make us feel right at home. I wish we had something like this back in California. I think people traveling here from the west coast would enjoy this place. It was nice to take a little break from fish for a few nights. We will be back and thank you! M&M Yorba Linda, Ca.
(5)Roseann C.
A place known for its tater tots?? Sign. Me. Up!! They also have sandwiches, hot dogs, which I did not try. My tater tot version of poutine was tasty, though my request to have them without the gravy meant that I was pretty much eating cold cheese curds on hot tots. That's not one that should be monkeyed with just because I am not a fan of chicken gravy. My bad. The buffalo tater tots I tasted were super (and I wished I had gotten them instead). And do not even get me started on the fried Brussels sprouts. Wowee!!! I'm a happier person knowing that these are in the world. It's pretty much just a counter place, but it's kitschy and cool and the workers are very friendly. Note: coolest thing in there = the Christopher Walken napkin holder. Yes, I want one! Go there if you want post-cocktail vittles and don't mind eating on your feet.
(4)AJ P.
Tots! With a menu of hot dogs, sandwiches, and tater tots, this place is good place for a quick lunch. But honestly, its best for late night fare after a night in the old port to help soak up all the alcohol that might be sitting in your system. The brussel sprouts are awesome and same with the three little pigs: tots with bacon, sausage and pork belly. They have a small selection of hot sauces which is always appreciated. Don't come in expecting a good place to rest - there's not a lot of sitting room, just a few stools along the side walls.
(4)Joseph M.
What can I say about this place that hasn't been said. Great junk food. If I lived in Portland I would hit this place up any drinking night. I am glad I don't work near by or I would get seriously fat going there for lunch. Only drag is they don't really have much seating. It's definitely a to-go place.
(4)B P.
Dank sandwiches. Unique, tasty, and just downright awesome. Worth a stop. The flavor combinations really compliment. This place is an underrated part of Portland's awesome food culture.
(5)CB W.
We had a nice lunch at Blue Rooster Food Co. The buffalo tots were really tasty as was the mac and cheese, thai iced tea and lemonade. Maybe a little pricey for the large tots at $12, but not outrageous. They did have great music playing and friendly service.
(3)Jeff K.
The green salad was excellent, the slaw delicious and the brussel sprouts were simply EXTRAORDINARY. One of the best values in Maine, Blue Rooster stands out in a city with amazing food. One great thing about blue rooster: they are open late Saturday night. check it out, you'll be glad you did.
(5)Jennifer M.
After hearing many a tale of their luscious offerings, my husband and I finally tried The Blue Rooster. It was good, but not as great as I had expected. For starters, I didn't realize that it was primarily geared to the take-out crowd. It has very limited seating and little atmosphere. Not a huge fan of hot dogs, seemingly their signature food, I ordered a "Jack Kerou-Weck," a roast beef sandwich with au jus and horseradish served on a caraway roll. I must say, it was pretty tasty, but it was not rare, as described on the menu. On the other hand, the tots we ordered were fan-freekin-tastic, and I could have kept eating them for days. They were a little saltier than I would have preferred, but no matter, they were awesome! I will definitely go back again just for the tots, and next time, I'll try another sandwich.
(4)H C.
Stopped in for a quick bite while passing through Portland. Had the Jack Kerou-Wack (roast beef dipped in au jus). What truly made this sandwich amazing was the caraway and sea salt roll on which it was served! Yum! Kids had hot dogs with a healthier, homemade version of relish. Great service too. Highly recommended!
(5)David F.
Had the Caesar fried Brussels sprouts and the Charlie Noble sandwich. Both hit the spot. Loved the vibe in this place - chill music, really friendly guy behind the counter. I would like to see a few more vegetarian options on the menu. Otherwise, this is a pretty sweet establishment.
(4)Robert J.
This is a review based on three visits, each time with a different friend. They all had questions about exactly what was in the the dishes and the each time the cashier was able to describe the ingredients. This was especially valuable for one of my friends that has trouble with some gluten. It was pointed out that the facility handles bread and nuts so people deathly allergic should call ahead but frankly people in that situation should be doing that anyway. Luckily my friend doesn't fall into that category. Downsides to this place, no bathrooms and limited seating, parking downtown can be problematic but thats true anywhere in portland. Upside , great food for people on their way to/from somewhere else
(4)Matthew C.
GREAT FOOD AND FRIENDLY SERVICE. You have to try the Farmer Ted veggie sandwich on focaccia. The bread is baked fresh everyday. The fried brussel sprouts were tasty as well. Had a little kick to them. The Poutine Toter Tots were also something new to us. Nice blend. My wife and I enjoyed everything we ordered. Super friendly staff helped make us feel right at home. I wish we had something like this back in California. I think people traveling here from the west coast would enjoy this place. It was nice to take a little break from fish for a few nights. We will be back and thank you! M&M Yorba Linda, Ca.
(5)d w.
These guys are the real deal. So happy to have found this place. I have to admit the first time I tried this restaurant, I had the Seoul Dog and I was hooked. Now every time I go in, I have the Seoul Dog, the tater tots and usually split the Brussel sprouts with a friend. It is all so good! You will enjoy it.
(5)Patrice L.
YUM....just YUM. Vegetarians should flock here en masse. We tried the brussels sprouts caesar salad, incredible. Hot tots with buffalo sauce and blue cheese, out of this world. Simple green salad with lemony dressing, give me more! The food is service quickly and conveniently in compostable containers, easy to stay and eat in or take away. I can't wait to visit Blue Rooster on my next trip to Portland!
(5)Lauren H.
Blue Rooster combines high quality, local ingredients with friendly service, late night hours, and cheap prices to boot. Sign me up! My boyfriend and I (read: tourists) stumbled in here after aimlessly wandering around on our first day in Portland; we were starving and didn't want to spend a lot on lunch, as we had already planned a spendy dinner elsewhere. And this place offered exactly what we needed. Colombiano: Just delicious. I love a good dressed-up hotdog. The hotdog itself was really high quality, and all the ingredients were fresh and went perfectly together. Lobster banh-mi: I didn't taste my boyfriend's but he really enjoyed it. Tater tots: Yes! Homemade ketchup: YES! YES! Get the iced coffee! Ask them to sweeten it for you with liquid sugar and add cream. It was the perfect addition to my meal.
(4)Sam B.
Wow, what an excellent little spot! I was visiting Portland for a wedding from Burlington Vermont and was drawn down a side street in search of lunch. I saw the sign for Blue Rooster and went in to check it out. I choose to eat gluten free, dairy free and only fish in terms of meat. Needless to say that makes dining out difficult. When I inquired about gluten free options for sandwiches the gentlemen working the counter was incredibly helpful and offered to put all the ingredients on a salad for me. I ordered the Fez which comes with tuna, red onions, peppers, paprika and roasted potatoes. I also ordered a small side of friend brussle sprouts with the sweet chilli sauce...AMAZING. I highly recommend this little local spot with its diverse menu and good atmosphere! I hope to return next time I am in Portland!
(5)Lauren W.
This is a great little place in Old Port. We stumbled past it by happenstance and it did not disappoint. I got the Godfather which was an Italian sandwich with mortadella and a house Pickadilli. My yelp check in partner got the Junkyard Dog which was a bacon wrapped hot dog topped with chili, tater tots, & some slaw. We also ordered the fried Brussel Sprouts, which I typically love anywhere, and they were amazing. Probably my favorite part of the meal. The Lobster Bahn Mi was also screaming my name but I passed on it. I guess it just gives me a reason to come back next time. If you are into hot sauces they had an unlabeled one on the countertops along with 9 other small, spicy bottles to choose from. Great spot for lunch.
(4)Dan O.
Love this place. I work in the Old Port of Portland and have eaten here 5 times since it opened. It has specific segment in Portland's growing foodie landscape. The turkey sandwich and "Red Eye" breakfast sandwiches are highlights of the current menu from my personal perspective. I always get a side of the Brussels Sprouts as well. I recently brought my family here while on the Friday Art Walk and fed our family of four under $25 with food that was craft made with intentionality and skill. The staff were also super-friendly to my family and made everyone feel very welcome. If you looking for unique sandwiches or a special hot dog, stop in to the Blue Rooster for a bite, you'll be happy you did.
(4)brian d.
The fried sprouts were nasty, barely fried, mostly raw..I also got a chicken wrap, that was SLIMY and just nasty..I didn't finish either, and paid $18..Go anywhere else but here..!
(1)Roseann C.
A place known for its tater tots?? Sign. Me. Up!! They also have sandwiches, hot dogs, which I did not try. My tater tot version of poutine was tasty, though my request to have them without the gravy meant that I was pretty much eating cold cheese curds on hot tots. That's not one that should be monkeyed with just because I am not a fan of chicken gravy. My bad. The buffalo tater tots I tasted were super (and I wished I had gotten them instead). And do not even get me started on the fried Brussels sprouts. Wowee!!! I'm a happier person knowing that these are in the world. It's pretty much just a counter place, but it's kitschy and cool and the workers are very friendly. Note: coolest thing in there = the Christopher Walken napkin holder. Yes, I want one! Go there if you want post-cocktail vittles and don't mind eating on your feet.
(4)Jason T.
I called a friend as soon as I left this place and told them I just had the best sandwich ever. Seriously, I have never done that before. I ordered the Cherry Bomb. Steak, onion, cherry pepper, cheddar covered with an over easy egg. Yep! It took me a minute to plan my attack, but I just grabbed a stack of napkins, faced the wall and didn't talk to anyone for a bit...just went to town. This was 2 days ago, still talking about it. Enjoy!
(5)Kelly S.
This is the first review I have ever written and I hate to have it be a bad one. I was so looking forward to trying Blue Rooster as I had seen pictures of their food on instagram. I got the cuckoo's nest sandwich and tater tots. The tater tots were good but the sandwich was not, I got a piece of bone within a couple of bites. It really ruined it for me but I thought it was just a fluke. I took the other half of my sandwich to go and my boyfriend tried it and he got a piece of bone in the first bite. I don't think I will go back.
(1)A. M.
After searching for some late night eats while visiting, I was really pumped to come across this place. Tots? Dogs? I'm down. Sadly, it fell short of my reasonable expectations. Service wasn't that friendly and the basic hot dog tasted like it wasn't even cooked. Sad and cold. The tots however were warm, but average. Nothing that would be worth coming back for. Maybe I'd give the other dogs a try again? Not sure. Some other reviews mentioned a hot dog truck so I might check that out first.
(2)Jeffrey L.
I wanted to eat somewhere unhealthy for my cheat day for my diet and I asked a coworker where to go. He suggested Blue Rooster. I wanted to try their Pastrami "Cuban" Rueben which he had the other day, but they were out of pastrami. I settled on the Red Eye Breakfast, along with a small order of tater tots and an iced tea. For $6 the sandwich was well proportioned, a big homemade biscuit filled with egg, hash browns and pork belly. The biscuit was a bit on the crumbly side but it had a nice richness to it, although the flavors did tend to meld together... I think a little salt would have helped to balance it out. The tots were good... they were still hot when I got them and the homemade ketchup had a really good rosemary kick to it. I opted for the sweetened version of their ice tea, and it was just the right amount - often times iced tea can be sacharine but this had just the slightest taste of molasses which was a pleasant surprise. Next time I go (I will go again), I'd like to try their Reuben, along with their homemade chips and maybe their lemonade.
(4)Bob W.
I'm giving four stars only because my first order here was so small -- a Das Boot dog and a small Brussels sprouts side. It was 12:30 am after all. But the food was outstanding, the service friendly, and the vibe quite good. Reminds me of Cochon Butcher in NOLA (a very good thing). We will be back for sure!
(4)Betsy C.
Cute atmosphere, friendly service, fresh food prepared fast. I'm afraid that's all this place has going for it. Taste was lacking, especially on those fried brussel sprouts other reviews have raved about. They were terrible compared to Pei Men Miyake's version and the same dish at Boda. These sprouts just tasted like bland fried bits of veg, I'll pass. Unless you are a hot dog connoisseur, in which case there is a hot dog vendor right on the corner where locals gravitate, I wouldn't recommend going out of your way to eat here.
(2)Craig B.
This place has the best sandwiches and the Brussels and homemade chips are out of this world. Really affordable too.
(5)Peter W.
We were looking for a local take out sandwich place yesterday, didn't want a chain. We stumbled upon the Blue Rooster. I had a terrific lobster roll and my wife had a great veggie sandwich. Highly recommend this place
(5)Rishi S.
We had the Lobster Banh Mi and the Veggie Sandwich with the homemade thai chips and the brussel sprouts. Everything was delicious and fresh. Great spot for quick meal! Owner was extremely friendly and happy to provide recommendations and explain the menu.
(5)Sara P.
Interesting, funky hot dogs and lobster rolls and such. Everyone enjoyed what they ordered. One of these days we're going to try the tater tot poutine, but it was too hot this weekend. The restaurant is very small -- basically a take out counter and a few stools at a counter for eat-in customers. And there's no air conditioning. But it is right down in the Old Port are, and a good choice if you're tired of the more usual tourist fare.
(4)Maura Q.
The menu is small, but the tater tots are delicious and come in large portions. I purchased The Das Boot hot dog and some of the loaded tots. It wasn't too expensive and the hot dog was good! The staff is also very friendly and patient, especially with the intoxicated people they must get on the weekend nights. I don't crave hot dogs all of the time, but when I do, I imagine I'll return to the Blue Rooster. I missed their chef summer series this past season, but hopefully they'll continue something like it next summer. If you're looking for a gourmet dog and something more than one from a stand (not that there's anything wrong with those!), this would be your place to go. They also have a prime people watching spot. I just wish their place was a little bit bigger, but I understand the location and it makes sense.
(3)Jessica H.
Pretty yummy food. Not for you if your on a diet, but maybe worth a "cheat" meal.
(4)Jake H.
Very good quick food, I got the chickpea salad an loved it. Service was fast. Farmer Tess was also good, but lacked a bit of crunch as a sandwich
(4)Gabrielle B.
Stopped in for an afternoon snack, and we tried the Three Little Pigs. Best choice!! So good!
(5)Jaime M.
Ordered kimchi and macaroni and cheese. The good: wow-me-gently flavor on the creamy mac (but then, I never eat anything so rich at home) paired with the gentle crunch of the breadcrumbs. The better(?): the gobble-able spice and sourness level on the giant portion of kimchi. I could have eaten the full quarter-pound or so of cabbage I was served if I weren't already full of mac. The best: My stomach now sounds like a bluegrass concert. Apparently, the combination of ferment plus dairy = twine time. The details: The staff members were super nice. Everything is house-made, so it takes a minute more than your average counter service. I wish it were a buck or two cheaper (as far as the kimchi, they could get away with charging $2.50 and halving the portion!) but that's probably because I don't get out much. They made "an exception" and gave me tap water; IMO, they should not be so concerned about the bottom line that they are stingy with tap water. Not much room to eat, but it wasn't a problem. I don't love that all the food was served in disposable or recyclable containers as opposed to reusable ones, but I guess it's primarily a takeout business (or at least that's what the very small dining area indicated to me). The worst: I put my kimchi leftovers in my purse. I now have a kimchi-flavored purse, which makes vacation harder. The container was leaky!
(5)Mark D.
I really want to love this place because of what it is. A fast food option that is not a chain. Unfortunately they keep falling a little short. I will say that their tots have never let me down. I love the tot-tine which is a twist on Canadian poutine. However other things I have ordered were just not that good. I ordered the Rooster Blue which I assumed to be their signature sandwich given the name. it was a couple pieces of fried chicken with cole-slaw and some type of blue-cheese dressing all in a big toasty bun. While it sounded delicious to me, the eating experience left me wanting something more. the fried chicken was dry, which was accentuated by the large bulky roll and not enough slaw or blue cheese dressing. I hate dry sandwiches. I've also tried their Colombiano hot-dog which had Roots slaw, avocado, "rosada" sauce, queso fresco,and shoestring fries. I did not like this hot-dog at all. Way to many flavors going on here, and avocado and hot dog just don't mix for me. I'm going to continue to try this place and I'm hoping I find something on the menu other then the Tots that I like.
(3)X M.
After a whole day walk in Portland, we were in a rush to drive to our hotel and we decided to get some fast-food with Lobster. and then We Found This Place!!! I love their lobster roll and their tots!!!
(4)Christa H.
Tots. Do I need to say more? Tots, tots, tots. What keeps me coming back here? Crispy potato goodness covered in whatever you like or buck naked. Tot-tine with cheese curds and gravy is my new best friend (sorry real friends!). The gravy is perfect and the cheese curds are the real deal. I recommend inhaling it like I do or the tots can get a little soggy from the gravy. The three little pigs is also another of my favorites. It's the Tot-tine topped with bacon, sausage and pork belly. Heart attack city? You bet. Guilty pleasure? 100%. If you are a tot purist, you can get them plain and just enjoy the crispy goodness. Have I said enough about the tots? Oh probably. To keep the goodness going, try a sandwich or a hot dog. You can get a hot dog wrapped in bacon! Yes! What an amazing idea. The toppings are varied and different from your average hot dog vendor. You can go messy or simple, it doesn't matter because they are all good. The sandwiches are unique and you'll look at the board and wonder "hmm...I wonder how those flavors will go together." Be adventurous. You won't be disappointed. I recently have the chicken PBLT which is chicken thigh, confit pork belly, lettuce, pickled green tomatoes and chipotle mayo. It was wonderful. I'm pretty sure it was on a ciabatta roll and there was just the right amount of mayo. I'm looking forward to going back and trying one of the vegetarian options. The falafel sandwich has arugula pesto and a watermelon, radish and fennel slaw on it. That sounds very intriguing.
(5)Kenneth P.
The hot dogs here were not too impressive. I had the pineapple express and my friend had a das boot. We were both unimpressed with our hot dogs. The pineapple express has Pickled mango salsa, cilantro jalapeno pineapple mustard. The jalepeño is the only thing that had a strong flavor. There was not a hint of pineapple or mustard. The was a small hint of mango. As for the bacon, it lacked any flavor and crunch to it.
(2)Rebecca W.
The food was good but average. There seems to be too much thought on the hot dog toppings and not enough in the quality of the hot dogs. I tried to growly dog which didn't seem to have nearly the amount of bacon I pictured and I have no idea what the boss sauce is that came on it. The bun was soft and fresh. The tater tots with all the different topping is a cool idea and a good way to feed those salty food cravings. I tried the buffalo flavor which had an excellent ratio of buffalo sauce to blue cheese. It comes topped with carrot and celery shreds. Not a very good addition. The nacho tater tots had excellent chili and nacho sauce and what what must be house made salsa. The ingredients were all fresh and had a nice spicy kick. Overall it was a good experience with friendly staff, but not one I will be regular at.
(3)Nancy R.
Great eclectic food choices, with many options for gluten free. My husband is a bacon lover and he was in heaven, while my fried Brussel sprouts with a sweet chili sauce were amazing. Definitely don't miss this gem.
(5)Hilary J.
This place is fantastic. My boyfriend and I went for breakfast and split 2 small orders of tots, a small kimchi, a small chickpea salad and small fried Brussels sprouts (the ones with queso fresco and sweet chili sauce) The tots were perfect- got one order with a fried egg on top and order of buffalo tots. The egg was PERFECTION. The Brussels sprouts were the best I've ever had- anywhere. The kimchi was spicy and delicious and the chickpea salad was light and fresh. We took home most of the kimchi and chickpea salad and left feeling full but not gross. I absolutely wish there was one of these in Los Angeles. Everything was awesome. Keep up the good work and holy crap, don't change a thing.
(5)J M.
This spot is tucked away from the busy port street. I was on the search for my first lobster roll. The food came out in about 10 minutes. My tots were hot and the bun was warm. I was expecting a heavy buttery lobster roll but in turn received a refreshing twist on the sandwich. The slaw mixture over pewees the taste of the lobster. Think it was to many layers of flavor for the rather tiny lobster roll. They also have tater tots in many different forms. The house ketchup taste is for a select group of palettes. Not a fan but to each is on. I also tried the tot-tine, which is just like poutine(gravy cheese curds on fries) my friend had most of this and said it was decadent and savory. Ate it so fast I almost didn't get to try it. Overall a nice spot for a variety of sandwiches. Real small dining area and food staff. When busy expect a long wait. Well in enjoy!!
(3)Tessa L.
Stopped in for lunch with a group, including a toddler who's a bit of a picky eater, and everyone left happy. The sandwiches are inventive and delicious, the bread is very fresh, and the staff is so friendly. We'll be back next time we're in town for sure. Be sure and try the tots, we all really enjoyed the "tot-tine."
(5)Michael G.
Five weeks ago, I started a new job located in Old Port. Discovered The Blue Rooster on my 1st day and have enjoyed one of their incredible sandwiches every week since. Clean facility, friendly staff and a creative, fresh sandwich on each visit. And all the hype in prior reviews on Blue Rooster's tots: Yea, they are that awesome!
(5)A K.
It is a small place. One would miss it while walking past it. We wet as part of the foodie tour. The sandwich was great. They had a lot of interesting toppings on the menu. Sadly we did not go back to try them.
(4)Sarah H.
Good, classic tots and creative hot dog options. The tots were great and I'll try the pouting or Bayou Tots next time. The dogs are good and their sandwich menu has some great looking options.
(4)Nathan G.
I wish I'd known about this place sooner, because the food is fantastic. It's on a side street in downtown Portland, not very conspicuous, but well worth tracking down. All the menu items are creatively named, and provide some inventive choices. I had the Dirty Bird tots (chili, cheese, egg, and a bit of hot sauce) and the Pineapple Express Dog (pickled mango salsa, pineapple cilantro jalapeno mustard) and both were awesome. If you're looking for a great place to eat in Portland that's a little different, you can't go wrong with the Blue Rooster. One side note: the restaurant is pretty small, definitely aiming more for takeout. They have a few booths, but I'd imagine during tourist season you should be prepared to take your food and eat elsewhere.
(5)Anna D.
Was not impressed by the menu size, but I was very impressed by my barley salad, paired with several chopped veggies and an amazing pesto sauce to top it off. I used this pint of deliciousness as my lunch and it held me over until dinner! I'll most certainly be back for a sandwich, if not this tasty surprise! There was a short line at noon, but I was in and out in less than five minutes and under five bucks.
(3)Bill M.
Nothing says America like burgers and dogs. Not even Apple pie. They are such a quintessential staple of our food and culture. So I say congratulations to Blue Rooster for applying the gastropub treatment to the formerly humble hot dog. On our first visit earlier this week I tried one of their specialty dogs created by guest chef Ricky from the Portland Hunt and Alpine Club. This rich and satisfying dog was topped with a succulent lamb chili,salsa verde and a delightful pile of cheese curd. Yumalicious! Accompanying my fine dog was a side of the most golden home made tator tots Portland has ever seen. I particularly loved the big visible flakes of freshly ground pepper that added a touch of heat. Not a fan of hot dogs (really?), they also offer a wide array of truly special sandwiches and even have a salad on the menu( Are you sure you don't want to try one of the hot dogs? They are so good). Continuing with the good stuff. Despite arriving with the lunch crowd service was still fast and friendly, and parking was plentiful mid-week. I look forward to stopping in again soon.
(4)Leah W.
This is my favorite weekend location for either a quick lunch or a late night snack. This restaurant is more of a "fast food" style place but with a friendlier and less processed (healthy is debatable) flare. It is counter service with a few benches, but these probably would sit a total of maybe 12 adults. I prefer to take my food to go and either walk around or hang out on the Prom in nice weather. I absolutely love the tater tots. While I have had them and love them plain, one of the best things to split between friends is one of their more doctored concoctions. Currently, my friends and I have the early riser option as our favorite. I have had multiple sandwiches and a few hot dog options here as well. The food is always fresh and delicious. The combinations are sometimes unusual, however, every time I have tried something new I have loved it. There really have not ever been any misses for me (thus the five star rating). The restaurant does change up its menu every once in a while, so don't expect to always get the same thing. It is a little hidden, so many of my friends had not heard of it before. Anytime I bring someone here, I always hear from them that they come back again and again and they love it!
(5)Lindsay W.
For some reason I thought this place was only hot dogs and tater tots, which don't get me wrong, there's nothing wrong with that. I actually love hot dogs. And they have a lot of good ones. But they also have awesome sandwiches which is great because it's a block from my work so I can now depend on them for lunch. I got their steak sandwich on naan bread. It was really unique and I wasn't sure I was going to like it but I really did! I loved it actually. Their not cheap sandwiches. Mine was $9 but it's worth it. They have tons of unique food items and I'm looking forward to trying one of their souped up hotdogs and tater tots when I decided to binge in the future.
(4)Michelle E.
Still waiting for a cup of water. My husband I are here for the first time tonight. It was empty inside (and has been every time we've walked by), but the menu sounded so good. We ordered and paid. Then, I asked for a cup of water. The guy at the counter said "we've just got the bottled water for a dollar". He turned and walked away as he said this. Seriously. You won't give me a cup of water. And you know it's d--- move so you won't look at me while you say it. We each ordered a hotdog - the Barking Dog and the Pineapple Express. Both were delish. The tots were also really yummy. But, I'm completely turned off that you wouldn't give me a cup of water. Sorry, won't be back.
(3)Mike S.
Tots... Who doesn't like them?! They do other things but I don't come here for anything but the awesome tots! It also is a great place to get a snack when you're out for a night on the town visiting different places to get your favorite beers!
(4)Steff D.
I had been stalking Blue Rooster Food Co. for some time now. I'm always on the hunt for local eats open late so I can proudly tell outta statahs who whine that "there's nothing open" what's what. I would definitely send them to Blue Rooster should they be craving a delicious snack post-bars closing! For that matter, I'd send them there if they needed a little lunch fix during their Old Port excursion! It's a very small, but clean and inviting space that's ideally located and offers prime people watching. The staff is also VERY friendly and the menu is creative, interesting, reasonably rice, and delicious... if you're not a vegetarian that is. We came for lunch on a Monday afternoon and ordered the chickpea sandwich, potato salad, and fried Brussels sprouts (three of the five things we, as herbivores, could eat there). There was some confusion between me and the man taking my order though, and instead of getting The Farmer Ted (the hummus, goat cheese, and veg sandwich) we got the chickpea salad instead. Not the end of the world, but the miscommunication was frustrating when we didn't get what we thought we had ordered. The potato salad was good, but underseasoned. It was very nice, don't get me wrong, it just wasn't flavorful or memorable. The chickpea salad was a blend of Mediterranean flavors - whole chickpeas, red peppers, olives, fennel, thyme - that worked really well together. It was good, but (if you're someone who cooks frequently) it wasn't worth the price tag when you could make something similar at home. And then, there were the fried Brussels sprouts. Listen, if you're coming to Blue Rooster Food Co. for the first time and you don't order the Brussels sprouts, well then, SHAME ON YOU. These sprouts, covered in a sweet chili sauce and topped with sesame seeds and queso fresco, are alone worth coming for. They are definitely the stand-out item here, and are a unique food item in the city that Blue Rooster alone is making. They are a textural and flavor wonderland, though I wish there'd be more queso fresco on them (this is totally a personal thing though - everything, in my opinion, could have more cheese on it!). Would I come back here? Maybe. But, because of it's lackluster veg-options (and I totally understand that I'm not their target audience; as a matter of fact, I appreciate the offerings they DO have... I'm still gonna get the The Farmer Ted someday) I'd probably be better suited elsewhere, especially considering I've eaten just about everything I can eat off their menu already!
(3)Britney S.
This place is amazing and worth every penny! I am in love with their sandwiches. This is definitely my favorite place to get a sandwich in the old port. My current obsession is "the godfather." Everything I've tried there has been consistently good. I ordered something one day that I enjoyed so I ordered it again the next day at night with a whole different crew on staff and the sandwhich still came out the same. They are very consistent. The woman that took my order was very friendly and polite.. Good people on staff. The fried brussel sprouts and fried cauliflower are amazing. Unfortunately I have not had the priviledge to try their tots or hot dogs which is their signature but I have heard nothing but good things. They also remodelled the store so there is more seating for their guests. This is a definite must-try if you are in the area. Love it!
(5)Asya P.
Awesome! I ordered delivery via 2dinein The loss of 1 star is entirely due to the price, which I feel is just a dollar or two higher than it should be on every dish. This is low-labor food to produce, though the ingredients they use do seem to be top-notch. I had the vegetarian Farmer Tess sandwich, which was big and very filling. Truly healthy but also rich in flavor. And then there were the fried Brussels sprouts in a chili sauce with queso fresco. Oh, my god. Delicious!! I will be trying to imitate these at home for sure!!! Not spicy, just flavorful. I will definitely come here when I want to indulge, have an empty fridge, but don't want to feel gross afterwards.
(4)Matt J.
So good! This place is tucked away on a side street in Old Port and packs some serious foodie flavors into its unassuming doors. The tots are fantastic... Perfectly crisp with awesome topping choices... We had the early bird which has hot sauce, maple mayo, a Sunnyside up egg, and cheese for a great flavor combo. The hot sauce (sriracha-esque but homemade) adds a sweet and hot vinegary punch that absolutely makes this dish. The beefsquatch was equally fantastic... if Indian and Mexican flavors gave birth to a gyro, this would be it. So fresh and full of flavor. Each bit starts crisp and fresh and build to a hot and complex explosion in your mouth...a must try. My wife also has the farmer Tess, which was quite good... Very light and fresh with a blend of great flavors.
(5)Karen F.
Creative and excellent! Think they should upgrade the site when possible and join the dinner offerings in Portland...In the meantime awesome food good prices friendly staff give them a try!
(5)Dia D.
We had the lobster roll with the Brussels sprouts (with sweet chili and queso fresco). The lobster roll was a 3, but the Brussels sprouts were a 5...excellent. This was the first of 3 restaurants in Portland whose seating consisted of stools/benches and a counter and by the time we left Portland we were sick of balancing on stools while we ate.
(4)Matthew P.
Viva La Late Night Food! If you are looking for some delicious late night food in Portland, The Blue Rooster is the place. I went here two nights while visiting Portland. I ordered the lobster roll (Bahn Mi style) and the Brussels sprouts. The Bahn Mi style was a great idea for the lobster roll. The pickled veggies were really fresh and complimented the lobster. The Brussels sprouts were beyond awesome for a side. They are flash fried and then covered in a light vinegar-based hot sauce topped with queso fresco = beyond awesome. The Blue Rooster also offers several hot dog varieties which all looked delicious. It's a relief to see late night food done right. Late night eateries beware...The Blue Rooster is preaching the gospel of awesome.
(5)Briana R.
Yum! How can you beat hot dogs and tots? I got the Das Boot and my husband got the Three Little Pigs. I so wish I would have got the tots too. They were amazing. The Das Boot was good, very basic dog with kraut, mustard and of course bacon wrapped around the hot dog. I wish I lived in Portland so I could come here to fill my food cravings!
(5)Caitlin T.
Everything on the menu sounded delicious, it was one of those scenarios that I wanted to order everything because I couldn't decide. The boy and I ordered the very yummy and amply portioned tater tots with a side of blue cheese mayo (!) and a side of one of the most amazing thing I have ever had.. Deep fried Caesar style Brussels sprouts. I was so happy with both choices, and can't wait to try the buffalo tots or nacho tots next visit. The hot dogs we ordered were the Das Boot (bacon wrapped with house kraut and home made mustard) and the Pineapple Express (pineapple salsa and jalapeño honey mustard), both were quite tasty, though the rolls were a little less fresh or maybe just not toasted enough for what was inside. The roll over shadowed a bit, but I could tell that the house made fun combination of ingredients was there. Two guys behind the counter were sweet, seemed to be pretty pumped to be behind what they sell and the prices were completely fair! I can't wait to try more when I visit again!
(4)Victoria S.
5 stars for the creativity factor - it's fast food, complete with smaller menu, plenty of fried potato options, quick service, but with a unique menu and friendly service of a small, local business. I went with my mom what was, I think, their first month open, so things may have changed a bit since. I had a house pate de campagne sandwich with pickled veg on a baguette that was solid. My mom had a bahn-mi inspired lobster roll that was, hands down, my favorite lobster roll after spending nearly 6 months in Maine. And the brussel sprouts? A revelation. Who needs boring old french fries when you can get your fried side fix with these? Crunchy, but with a depth of flavor and texture unlike more conventional sides, the hot sauce and cheese do a great job of cutting the oil and balancing each other and the hint of brussel-sprout funk. Definitely worth going in just to grab a basket of these to munch as you wander the old port area. When I went there wasn't much in the way of seating, but service is quick enough that it is a valid grab'n'go option.
(4)Daniel M.
I've had all of their tot dishes, a few hotdogs and lunch and breakfast sandwiches. For comfort food or a great late night bite (after midnight) after some drinks on Fore street, this place can't be missed. The price is fair.
(5)Aaron P.
The food is so good it almost makes me forget about their $9 minimum on credit card charges. Almost. A $9 minimum when their average sandwich is under $9, including tax, just rubs me the wrong way. Are they doing this so that I'm nudged to add some tots and a drink to my order to bring it over $9, or are they just really worried about the percentage that the credit card companies are skimming off of their transactions? Either way, it irks me something fierce, and upon doing some light research, it may actually be illegal. Honestly, I'd prefer if they were cash-only. At least that's fair. All that aside, their food is outstanding. I've had a sandwich, a bacon-wrapped hot dog, and tater tots from them, and they've all be absolutely wonderful. I got my tots and dog to go, and they asked me if I wanted ketchup and/or hot sauce, and put them in little plastic containers for me in my to-go bag. They even marked the hot sauce with a "HS" in sharpie so I didn't mix it up with the ketchup. Upon opening my tots container, I noticed they had put a little wooden prong with which to poke my tots. A really lovely touch. Great attention to detail. And so, I love Blue Rooster, but I'm also mad at them. "Change your ways!" I scream at them while shaking my fist, but in the other fist I tightly grasp one of their bacon-wrapped hot dogs. Did I mention their bacon-wrapped hot dogs yet? So good.
(4)Beau C.
Really good sandwiches with lots of fresh ingredients and great flavor combinations. The poutine tater tots with bacon, pork belly and sausage is AMAZING! It's a tiny place with seating for about ten people along the walls and no bathroom (just go up the hill to Five Guys for a restroom)
(4)Trevor J.
Good food
(5)Whit D.
I've never been disappointed, but I've never been blown away either. Fast, friendly, and open late. Definitely the front runner at 1 AM when you want to grab something decent and catch a cab, but not a "can't miss" lunch spot in my opinion.
(3)Nancy S.
Stopped in for a quick sandwich last night Had probably the WORST sandwich ever. I've been frequenting this sandwich shop since it opened and must say the quality has gone SOUTH! I had what was billed as a chicken cutlet sandwich: A fried/burnt piece of meat,substance that was a framed in red slaw (that was overpoweringly fermented) and some kind of mayo. This flavorless meat was paper thin, and so over cooked that I sent it back, only to get basically the same thing the second time. All this badness for only $9.00. Are you kidding me?? The tuna sandwich I had a month ago was almost equally unimpressive. My companion's hot dog was bland and of poor quality. This place has gone downhill in a big way. Or maybe the Friday night staff does not know how to cook? The tater tots we great, as usual, but heck, those require no skill to make.
(2)Erica R.
I try to stop in to the Blue Rooster every time I am in Portland. The Brussels sprouts are AMAZING- definitely the best I have ever had from a restaurant. The mac and cheese is also delicious. The staff has always been super friendly to me and the wait is never too long.
(5)Aesop V.
Summary: great for late night foods, open late for post-bar munchies, AWESOME tater tots. I didn't like my other foods but I will be willing to try something else. Pros: Open later, great tater tots. Cons: Parking, small dining area. I went on a Sunday afternoon with the girlfriend after a day of roaming the city and we luckily found a parking spot right in front of the place, but there are limited spots around the area so just be mindful when going here. It's probably better off as a place to go to after you've done some exploring around the city. It's a small space to get your food and have a quick bite or a quick, casual lunch. We went in and it was empty so it was perfect to explore everything about the place. The menu had sandwiches hot dogs and our fav: tater tots. We opted for the three little pigs tater tots, small brussels sprouts (per recommendation of Yelpers) and the Seoul Dog. Tater tots: need I say more? Tots are delicious by themselves and the combo with cheese, and bacon makes it even more delicious. Left me wanting more. Brussels Sprouts: I've never liked brussels sprouts but wanted to give them a try since Yelpers raved about them. I still don't like brussels sprouts. They were grilled and had some sauce and cheese on them but I couldn't get over the brussels taste. Seoul Hot Dog: I've had better dogs themselves. It wasn't anything spectacular. The kim-chi on it was more vinegar-y than I usually like it. I probably don't try it again, but I will be willing to try another dog. This will be my new spot for post-bar munchies with tater tots!
(4)