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Name: Mother’s Bistro & Bar
Address: 212 SW Stark St, Portland, OR, 97204
Telephone: (503) 464-1122
Price range: Under $11
Rating: 4.26

Mother’s Bistro & Bar

212 SW Stark St, Portland, OR, 97204

(503) 464-1122
Store is closed

Mother’s Bistro & Bar Menu

Eggs

Two Eggs, Any Style

Grilled Portabella Mushroom Scramble

Omelet Du Jour

Mike's Special Scramble

Stuffed Frittata

Biscuit Breakfast

Pork Apple Sausage & Cheddar Cheese Scramble

Migas

Greek Frittata

Wild Salmon Hash

Tofu Hash

Two Eggs, Any Style

Grilled Portabella Mushroom Scramble

Omelet Du Jour

Mike's Special Scramble

Stuffed Frittata

Biscuit Breakfast

Pork Apple Sausage & Cheddar Cheese Scramble

Migas

Greek Frittata

Wild Salmon Hash

Tofu Hash
From The Griddle

Breakfast Nachos

Buttermilk Pancakes

Belgian Waffle

Crunchy French Toast

Breakfast Nachos

Buttermilk Pancakes

Belgian Waffle

Crunchy French Toast
Other Yummy Delights

Bob's Red Mill Oatmeal

New York's H & H Bagel & Cream Cheese

House-Cured Lox Platter

Fresh Fruit

Bob's Red Mill Oatmeal

New York's H & H Bagel & Cream Cheese

House-Cured Lox Platter

Fresh Fruit
Sides

Egg

Toast

Ham

Roasted Potatoes

Yogurt

Salsa

Pure Maple Syrup

Pork Apple Sausage

Honey-Cured Bacon

Egg

Toast

Ham

Roasted Potatoes

Yogurt

Salsa

Pure Maple Syrup

Pork Apple Sausage

Honey-Cured Bacon

Healthy Meal suggestions for Mother’s Bistro & Bar

Eggs

Two Eggs, Any Style [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Grilled Portabella Mushroom Scramble [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Omelet Du Jour [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Mike's Special Scramble [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Stuffed Frittata [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Biscuit Breakfast [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pork Apple Sausage & Cheddar Cheese Scramble [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Migas [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Greek Frittata [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Wild Salmon Hash [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tofu Hash [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Two Eggs, Any Style [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Grilled Portabella Mushroom Scramble [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Omelet Du Jour [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Mike's Special Scramble [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Stuffed Frittata [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Biscuit Breakfast [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pork Apple Sausage & Cheddar Cheese Scramble [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Migas [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Greek Frittata [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Wild Salmon Hash [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Tofu Hash [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
From The Griddle

Breakfast Nachos [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Buttermilk Pancakes [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Belgian Waffle [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Crunchy French Toast [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Breakfast Nachos [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Buttermilk Pancakes [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Belgian Waffle [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Crunchy French Toast [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Other Yummy Delights

Bob's Red Mill Oatmeal [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

New York's H & H Bagel & Cream Cheese [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

House-Cured Lox Platter [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fresh Fruit [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Bob's Red Mill Oatmeal [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

New York's H & H Bagel & Cream Cheese [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

House-Cured Lox Platter [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fresh Fruit [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Sides

Egg [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Toast [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Ham [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Roasted Potatoes [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Yogurt [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Salsa [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pure Maple Syrup [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pork Apple Sausage [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Honey-Cured Bacon [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Egg [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Toast [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Ham [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Roasted Potatoes [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Yogurt [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Salsa [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pure Maple Syrup [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pork Apple Sausage [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Honey-Cured Bacon [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Sorry, We are updating this restaurant blood pressure menu details.

Sorry, We are updating this restaurant cholesterol menu details.

Write An Anonymous Review

Russell B.

Great idea, poor execution. Rude hostess, mac and cheese special was watery stove top, crab cake had too much breading. Maybe it's only a good spot for brunch, but dinner is not their high point. The blueberry vodka lemonade was pretty tasty. The only highlight. Seeing the owner walk around helping anyway she could was inspiring.
(2)
Cat S.

The salmon hash is excellent. Seriously. And the gravy on the biscuits and gravy was so good that I stole all the gravy from the other half's plate! We were again lucky enough to not have a wait and were seated right away. The server and service in general were on point and we never had to wait long for anything.
(4)
Wennie H.

The first time I came in, I had the French toast and that was years ago. The other times I've come in (read previous reviews) I had an ok experience. Since I moved to Portland, Mothers is more accessible now. I finally made a stop in for brunch and can safely say the French toast is still as amazing as always. Crunchy exterior, soft mid section, every thing I love about an awesome brunch staple. Oh and of course I got a side of bacon, it was melt in your mouth. I was one happy girl...even the rain couldn't deter my mood. Super busy on a Saturday around 1030, we opted for bar seating which moved quickly but we still had to wait around 30 minutes. Service was quick and friendly. The dessert display looked great and I wish I had the room in my stomach to try one or three...
(4)
Alexis E.

This brunch was nothing short of amazing! We arrived around 12, expecting a wait... Only 5 minutes which was awesome! For such a huge restaurant the noise level was well controlled. Our server was Adrian, he was so attentive and knowledgeable. He looked very busy but still managed to check in on us and delivered great device. I ordered the Bloody Mary-spicy and the wild salmon hash. It was delicious. My grandma orders the two eggs with apple sausage. Both dishes came with toast and on the table was this amazing homemade raspberry jam! It was too good to pass up, even when I was so full from the main dish. We also ordered a side of bacon just to try it and it was perfection. If you want great food and great service come to Mothers.
(5)
Joan F.

This is a fabulous restaurant with solid service if... 1. You don't have food allergies--Mothers makes no attempt to be gluten free. Sad truth. 2. You arrive at the perfect time--for us, the sweet spot of service happened after 7:30 pm on a Saturday night. If you go for their skinny "afternoon delights" menu, be prepared for slack tide in service, too. We sat next to the jam, ketchup, salt / pepper table sorting on a Saturday afternoon, and it was distracting and awkward as the wait staff letdown their hair and verbally processed annoying, demanding customers, which I'm sure is true, but it was uncomfortable to be a fly on the wall as we tried to figure out what to eat. 3. You don't mind packed close tables and don't need to get up to use the bathroom. This is a busy place with no great place to stand out of the way of the gracefully moving staff. The lack of space reminds me of an air plane--It's best to wait until landing to use the bathroom somewhere else. However, it's a solid 5 stars for the lovely roasted chicken--the best I've ever had. I'll be back, after the dinner rush, for more paprika-rubbed, crispy skinned, moist chicken. It's also 5 stars for the best bacon and coffee in town. And if you're lucky enough to eat eggs and gluten without ill-effects, this is your haven. The fresh, mini pies look remarkable.
(3)
Calvin L.

For some reason, this wasn't on our list to eat when we traveled to Portland. Some friends saw that we were heading to Portland and INSISTED that we came to Mother's, so we ended up scratching one of the other brunch places off to make room for Mother's (sorry! we only have so much room in this tummy). Wild Salmon Hash ($14.95) I don't pray before I eat, but if I did, I would thank God twice before getting my hands on the Wild Salmon Hash. Best dish I had in Portland. It's money. The sauce that goes on top of the hash has so much awesome flavor that you'll take that toast (that you probably won't even eat otherwise) and just smear it all over that sauce. Smoothie of the Day Today's smoothie was strawberry banana. It was pretty good but nothing I couldn't make at home. I probably won't be getting this again. If you come here, you I demand you to order the Salmon Hash. It will change your life. Thank me later.
(5)
Dec A.

Love this place so much we went two days in a row for breakfast. Great location, decor, service, food and coffee! We enjoyed the salmon hash, crunchy french toast, biscuits and gravy, and a ridiculous cinnamon roll special. The wait is short if you get there early. YUM!!! Wish we could go back for lunch/dinner/dessert
(5)
Darin J.

I will be eating here again, next week when I am in Portland. Wow. Mike's Scramble was absolutely fantastic and the service was top notch. If this place were local I would have to consider it being my new favorite place over Rusty Pelican. My wife enjoyed her food too, and the biscuits & gravy were delicious. We went on a Thursday, about 9:30am, and there was absolutely no wait. It is a shame this place has to be in Portland.
(5)
J.C. L.

Came here on a recommendation... and owe a huge thanks to the recommender. This place is a treasure. We went for dinner, but heard legendary status is deserved for their brunch. I'm guessing there's a heck of a queue to get in... but if dinner was any indication, I'd wait as long as it takes to get in. Amazing "motherly" theme... and I absolutely adore the fact that they name a mother-of-the-month and serve up her dishes as the specials. Total comfort food to the max. We ran through the rain to get here... so the food was exactly what we needed. Pierogi, dumplings, meatloaf, fried chicken. Oh, yes. A+ TIP: If you can't decide between two of the entrees... then don't... they'll serve you half-portions of two of them for the same price as a whole one. That's the stuff of genius. Also... parents... there's a little play room tucked away in a corner by the restrooms. Our 16-month-old toddled away back there while they seated us at an adjacent table. It was almost like a date night. We loved it. She played, we got a rare quiet meal.
(5)
Nic L.

Stopped here for brunch on an impulse. Surprisingly the wait wasn't too long, 15 minutes. Atmosphere was very chill even though the places was packed. I ordered the Stuffed Fritter, an open omelet with cheddar baked into the top. It was awesome and filling. You could probably feed two people with easy. My friend ordered chocolate chips and chocolate sauce with pancakes on the side. All in all a really great brunch spot to bring a friend/more than a friend/parent/mortal enemy/etc.
(5)
Jenn N.

Holiday weekend = busy, busy! Our estimated time for a table was half (20 mins) what they quoted (40 mins). The manmosa, a large mimosa, is the perfect size. Mikes special is a ham & egg scramble served with potatoes & wheat toast. The scramble is very savory and fresh. The potatoes are very crispy on the outside & pillowy on the inside. Our food took awhile to be served, so our awesome waiter - Jason brought us a huge cinnamon roll to make up for the wait. I was underwhelmed with the crunchy French toast, it was just a bit oily for my taste.
(3)
Mindy B.

So glad the waitress suggested a half order of the potatoes nachos with an egg. It was delicious and still so much goodness food. Salmon has was delicious too.
(5)
Jenna T.

Website said they don't open until 8:00 AM on Sunday. We arrived at 10 before and lots of people were already sat and eating! Definitely go early to avoid the wait. Food was great. I had the stuffed frittata, which basically tastes like stuffed potato skins with eggs for breakfast. Amazing. Tried my son's pancake which was fluffy and delicious. Fruit bowl was fresh and a nice way to balance out the heaviness of the meal. If you're visiting Portland, you must go! There is a great kid play area and it's very family friendly.
(5)
AnnMarie S.

if you like brunch, you will love this spot. adorable decor, awesome bartenders and yummy food. skip the breakfast nachos, they are bit to oily and no eggs... what?! go for the Grilled Portabella Mushroom Scramble was super yummy! people around us had the belgum waffles and they loved them, looked really good too. we will be back!
(4)
Shaedyn M.

They have yet to prove to me why they need anything less than 5 stars. Not only because of the fact that they have the best biscuits and gravy I have ever had. Or maybe that's it... But I've had other things and they are still worth 5 stars, I'd just give them 10 for biscuits and gravy alone.
(5)
Rho L.

I didn't do much foodie homework prior to our visit to Portland because I gave that job to my bridesmaids. For once, I wasn't going to do my due diligence. Well.... hey I really can't help it when the discussion is brunch. brunch with overflowing alcohol of course. Mother's is top rated amongst breafkast joints in the downtown portland area. I made reservations for Friday morning -- not too early cause of course we'd all be somewhat hung over from the previous evening of debauchery. We set on foot to Mothers and got there in merely a few minutes. Just enough to work up a good appetite. It is crazy packed in here. I heard walk ins having to wait for at least 2 hours, despite the place covering a good amount of real estate. We were seated shortly and I totally loved the mix matched ambiance and vibe. The staff was very cool, sarcastically fun, my kind of people! We ordered a lot of food, and I mean a lot. Notably delicious were the biscuits and gravy, fritata, cruncy french toast, oh and the bacon were nice, thick, long slabs of bacon, none of that chinsey stuff you get from elsewhere. We lapped it all up and food coma'd for several hours after, and I mean cold knocked out comas. We loved this place so much we went back the next day. And they totally recognized us. We got a different server this time who, I'm shocked to say, was even much more fun than our previous one. We started off with a few rounds of drinks, which mind you, were very generously made, and again ordered a large chunk of the whole menu, some repeat items and some new. We enjoyed every bit of it and raved about our experience. Absolutely loved Mothers and is on my top 5 must eat places in downtown portland.
(5)
Anastacia W.

So delicious! Great service!! The portions are HUGE!!definitely enough to share. They play relaxed oldies music in the bathroom. Very cute decor! I had the biscuits and gravy and would highly recommend if you're a fan of this type of dish!
(5)
Linda N.

I know this place is always raved about and I can see why people love it here. I just think it's overrated. If you're a big traditional brunch fan, you'll probably find items that you love here. I went a bunch of friends visiting from out of town a while back and we tried a lot of things from the menu. Nothing was SPECTULAR in my opinion.
(2)
Matt G.

visiting here from Seattle we were looking for a great bfast spot. We'd heard about Tastee and Alder and tried to get in there each day of our 3 day stay here but each time the wait was at least 45 min. Instead of wait we decided upon Mothers and so happy we did. The food was outstanding (even though we had to wait here too). The kale scramble, the mushroom scramble and the daily frittata were excellent and fresh. Service was outstanding and the owner was even walking around filling coffee, etc. We finally did get into T & A today and now don't understand why the line is so long here as our overall experience at Mothers was much better. Enjoy!
(4)
Heather C.

What is with this place? Can't they carefully pour a drink? We waited 45 minutes on a hot Saturday afternoon not realizing we should have brought our ponchos from our last visit to Seaworld. Note: anywhere you sit here is apparently a splash zone. I've been here a couple of other times and thought they were just too busy to politely pour a drink. However, I had a few people approach our table at this visit, and they all pour incredibly sloppily. I wish I would have taken a picture of the table afterward. The waitress even poured iced tea into my water as she pulled away from filling my actual iced tea. She didn't say anything. She just walked away. The food is decent enough here, but just watch out when they walk toward you with a pitcher of any kind.
(3)
Sunny S.

So glad we came here (and that I made reservations) during a trip to Portland this past weekend. I called about a week ago and made reservations for Friday morning at 10:30. When we got there, they informed us they were setting up our table and I realized why I was so happy I made a reservation - the line was out the door! On a Friday. At 10:30am. When our table was ready, we got escorted to the other side of the restaurant, which is divided by a narrow hallway and an elevator/stairs - assuming there are apartments or businesses above. The part of the restaurant we were in was very large and nicely decorated. It had a fancy/Victorian theme mixed in with a NYC-style loft ambiance (exposed dark pipes/vents that ran above). Need to give our waiter, Jason, a shout-out here. He was extremely nice, upbeat, and friendly. He was genuinely happy and that shows when you're working in a customer-service job. He was very patient with our group of seven, and had recommendations for us also. A few of us got coffee and he recommended we get two french press pitchers, both of which were amazing (a dark style and light style). Being in Portland, and with more then half the group vegetarian, we weren't worried about finding something to eat. This place has a ton of veggie options and my friend and I split two brunch entrees: Tofu Hash - unique concept and tasted great. It's listed under the Eggs section, but there's no eggs in it...it's roasted/grilled veggies and tofu, but their spices and flavors make the veggies and tofu taste delicious. They were a bit dry, so I added some ketchup and hot sauce to bring more flavor into it. Migas - this dish was huge and super filling. There are a lot of eggs in this dish and I added jalapenos to it to give it an extra kick. The chipotle sour cream was a nice touch. I also substituted the toast for a biscuit, but I wasn't impressed with it - really chewy and dry. I was hoping for a more flaky southern-style biscuit. Overall, it was a fantastic meal and we all thoroughly enjoyed our dishes. The ambiance is perfect and the wait staff seems awesome, so I definitely understand the long lines. Will definitely come back the next time I'm in Portland!
(5)
Debbie O.

Got here 5 minutes before 8am on Saturday - No wait. Check. Girly decor and comfy booth seating. Check Cutest cups to remind you to call your mother. Check Awesome, friendly servers. Check Buttery, moist Cinnamon Rolls. Check Hearty scrambles and huge portions. Check Boyfriend picking up the bill. Check. I don't have ANY complaints about my first time at Mother's. It was the unexpected best brunch ever. I'm not sure how I'll top this experience next time around, but I can't wait to try!
(5)
Anthony C.

Awesome food! Try their freshly squeezed OJ and Apple Juice. The breakfast here is done right and legit! Try the french toast! Something a little different from what you are used too (they coat it in corn flakes).
(5)
G B.

TLDR: went in July long weekend 2014. Food was meh, lines were long, owner was a bit snappy, her employees were afraid. Was in Portland for the 4th of July long weekend 2014 (yeah this review has been long due). Went in for brunch cuz word around town: "OMG mother's sooo good". For a party of 2, had to wait (no biggie, I'm from San Francisco, land of brunch lines), but you've the option to either eat at the bar or wait for a table. Right before we are about to grab a seat at the bar, the hostess pulls us out for a table. Then begins a wait for another 20 mins. Meanwhile another couple gets seated (Things did seem a little disorganized). My golden rule is not to upset any management at a eating joint until I've eaten. Anyway, my girlfriend goes up to the owner (I wouldn't have dared) and tells her that we should've been sitting and ordering by now. The owner snaps back that this is a popular place and everyone has to wait. The hostess sensing our shock rushed to us and promptly found our seat. She later told my gf that the owner runs a tight ship and no one crosses her. My gf, after ordering went back to the owner and told her that she didn't like her attitude and the owner should've been more empathetic. The Owner remarkably took it pretty well. When the check came my gf's portion was taken off the bill. So she ate for free. Anyway food was very meh. Mimosas looked delish. Coffee was good. Never again!
(2)
Rubie G.

This little bistro was packed when we got there, but the wait was well worth it. The kid's corner was awesome and we were seated within eyesight, making it even better. The menu changes all of the time, so I can't guarantee that my review will promise great food when you are there...sorry. But I will say that our food was good. FOOD We ordered the macaroni and cheese, and it was a bummer because they added bacon to it, and the server stated that they couldn't remove it. I can't stand bacon. Bacon on everything is a travesty. My friend ordered the meatloaf and he really enjoyed it. The gravy, according to him, was better than his grandmother's....which is say a lot. His gma's gravy is through the roof delicious. SERVICE The service was fantastic. He was attentive. He maintained my water glass, which is always hard because I drink soo much water. But, he never let it go empty. PRICE A little pricey, but I can see why. Any bistro that represents a changing menu is always more expensive than a restaurant with a static menu.
(4)
Stephanie S.

Great food, great service, great restaurant. We came here for breakfast on a Thursday morning around 1030 and there was only like a 15 minute wait. Our server was excellent and she took our orders promptly. I ordered the Greek frittata. So incredibly delicious. It was also huge! It had feta cheese, Greek olives, spinach and tomatoes. So tasty i wish I could have eaten the entire thing, but it was giant! It also came with potatoes and toast. The potatoes were good, but again i really didn't eat them or need them with my frittata. I also tried a bite of the biscuits and gravy, the biscuits were light and the gravy was thinner but really good. This was definitely a good stop I would definitely get breakfast again sometime here!
(5)
Leah A.

I cannot express how impressed I was with Mother's. I love brunch, and I did a lot of research before my recent trip to Portland. I made a reservation in advance, and I am glad I did; there were lots of people waiting at 10:30 on a Friday morning. I had the stuffed frittata without bacon, and my husband had Mike's Special Scramble without ham. My frittata was amazing (and huge; I would have gotten a half order if available)! And the manmosa (large mimosa) was made with a dash of strawberry syrup, which made it taste so much better than a regular mimosa. We had great service too. Overall a wonderful experience.
(5)
Kate K.

Mother's is the real deal when it comes to breakfast. The interior (and exterior) are charming yet hip with chandeliers, gold gilded mirrors, and plenty of natural light- even on a cloudy morning. We were seated on the right side of the restaurant right away. I do wish we sat on the left side since it seemed a lot brighter and had better views of the street, however it also had a lot more people so the bar area was quiet and pleasant. Our server was sweet and totally on top of refills, and our food arrived surprisingly fast. Hot Stumptown coffee and fresh squeezed OJ were the perfect start. Breakfast cocktails looked fantastic but since we were traveling, we sadly passed. The Belgian waffle with whipped cream and the buttermilk pancakes were seriously some of the best I've ever had. The batter was perfect! Light, fluffy, and so flavorful that they didn't even need butter. For the atmosphere and quality of food, the prices are really reasonable. I so badly wished they served Eggs Benny during the week since we are leaving town before the weekend hits, but next time I'm in Portland I will absolutely be back for breakfast and possibly lunch and dinner, too.
(5)
Nida A B.

Beyond beyond beyond amazing!!! Really glad my friend made a reservation before we got to Portland from LA couple of days prior b/c we would've waited a while for a table, however it was a little bit of an early wake for us to get to Mother's Bistro because the reservation was for 8:30am and if we didn't make it on time we would've been charged; annnnd of course lets not forget to thanks LAX for the wonderful delay into Portland the night prior that we lost hours of our sleep. A bunch of us flew out to Portland for a wedding so we wanted to use our time wisely for the tourist things to do. Friday was our Downtown Portland time and first thing we did was try Mother's, it was DELICIOUS to say the least. It was the wake up call we needed and kick-off to our trip. We all had a variety of orders, mainly the different omelettes offered, I can't even list you one specific omelet because you really can't go wrong in your choices. Another friend of mine got the Belgium Waffle and omgawwwd melt in your mouth goodness. Sidenote: I ordered the Hot Apple Cider with Cinnamon and usually not a fan but wanted to give it a shot anyways (waiter recommended) and damn was he right! Soothing warm drink with a kick. After being thoroughly satisfied with our breakfast we all continued our day touring around Portland. Oh also the atmosphere of the restaurant is super cute, well decorated, way bigger than expected and from the seating hosts to the waiters everyone was SUPER FRIENDLY & WELCOMING! even to the point where they gave us some free cookies for the road :) Can't be mad at that! haha. recommend to everyone!!!
(5)
Kyle R.

Not even close to 5 stars. But below 3 stars? Nope. Arrived at 145pm Saturday, got seated by 230pm. So why not 5 stars? Food just above average. Ordered Peach and Cream Waffle and hubby got Reuben, fries, and soup. He said soup wasn't good, and reuben just average. My waffle was above average, but nothing great. Fries were not good, stringy and dry. UGH. We'd prolly go back, and try something else BUT would never wait so long for average food. Service was EXCELLENT and food served in a timely manner.
(3)
maggie b.

Great service. Good food. Nice start to a Saturday morning at the market. Though I will taste the roasted garlic in Mike's Scramble, it was worth it.
(5)
S G.

Food was good, but the welcome was a bit rude. Unfortunately, that sours the whole experience.
(1)
Jay V.

Amazing! Worth the drive from Vancouver, BC, Canada! Definitely order the eggs Benedict - easily best of the menu.
(5)
Stacy G.

This place is great on the weekdays for breakfast and lunch however the weekends are extremely chaotic. I love their matzo ball soup in the winter!
(4)
Mark B.

I love coming here for the matza ball soup, brought some out of town friends here for the happy hour and every one found food they loved!
(4)
Joe V.

I'm a culinary professional (chef), been cooking in restaurants and hotels for over 12 years, I work for a very large food and beverage company and travel to many states training cooks and chefs. I eat out as a form of sport, I love to eat at restaurants I have never been to and really walk in with an open heart and mind and let the experience happen. Last night I was in Portland with my best friend who is also a culinary pro (chef/manager) for a well known restaurant group in Seattle. We both agreed happily that our meal was outstanding. What we look for (we do this a lot): Food quality (appearance, seasoning, plating, temperature and texture and of course taste.) Mother's scored very high for us, they exceeded our expectations on all food fronts. One thing we did notice was that our salads were served on warm plates. That is a no no, but it didn't detract from the overall experience. Customer service was excellent, helpful, informed and ever present. We had: fried ravioli ( I have never seen this dish outside of New York City, where I grew up and learned to cook) Delicious!! Fried calamari, just cooked perfectly and seasoned perfectly with the texture of the breading hitting almost a perfect 10. I think I recognize the breading, I'll keep that one a secret! Caesar salad, well done! Steak frites. Very nice for the price (10 oz rib eye.) The biscuits are awesome, great starter. I would definitely recommend this place and I would definitely would like to try other menu items. Nice job team!!
(5)
Deena L.

Great breakfast spot in Portland! Ordered their eggs Benedict and mimosa. Their mimosas are delicious. Make sure to get the one with strawberry in it!
(5)
Laura M.

Pretty good. We went for dinner. We both ordered one of the daily specials, a red snapper dish with dumplings and sauteed spinach. It wasn't bad, but it wasn't amazing either. Just OK. I read such great reviews of this place before our trip so I had to try it out, but was just slightly disappointed in the food. Maybe they do brunch better? I loved the decor and atmosphere, very cute!
(4)
Christina M.

#Mother'sBistro is at the very least an "experience!" The food is fantastic and the atmosphere very welcoming. Decor reminds me of relaxing in Grandmas kitchen. You can tell that the servers enjoy being there as well. They all have great personalities and make you feel content. I never miss breakfast at Mother's when I am in Ptown.
(5)
Christina R.

Yumm-e! My only regret is that I didn't listen to the specials before ordering (I couldn't have eaten the delicious sounding corned-beef, but then at least I would have no regrets....) Terrific, fresh, crumbly biscuits, with an awesome creamy gravy. Not too meaty, not too non-meaty. Eggs were cooked perfectly, orange juice was fresh squeezed, and coffee was made to order (as well as by drip). I came early and am glad I did - there was a line when I left 45 minutes later.
(4)
Gayle P.

Great service - get here early if you don't wanna wait- wait wasn't even that bad- 45 min on July 4! Space has high ceilings and is super cozy and felt like a house. The food was delicious, I had a bit of everyone's meals. Definitely would hit up this spot again when I"m in portland next time-but would carefully plan the time so I wouldn't have to wait too long.
(5)
Jeanne S.

This is the first time we went there, brunch was really good! Super long wait but worth it. The only thing that's not satisfying was we waited for like an hour in the waiting area, and they didn't call out our name like they did to other people, instead they called us on our phone and said we missed the call so they deleted us on the wait list. But then they gave us a table right after. Be sure to make a reservation before you go, so you can skip the wait.
(4)
Kim F.

Delicious breakfast food. For biscuit and gravy lovers, get the Biscuit Breakfast. It was fantastic. Great atmosphere and friendly service.
(5)
Alisa G.

Classic, great food served quickly by a multitude of staff with a great attitude. You never find that in Portland! This place is huge but fills up quickly, so go early to get a seat with no waiting. I had the Greek frittata which was flavorful and full of feta, spinach, and sun dried tomatoes. There was plenty for two meals. Go here!
(5)
Alyssa G.

Really tasty food! The service was excellent and the restaurant itself was so cute! Highly recommend!
(5)
Sapna P.

Biscuits & gravy! Biscuits & gravy! Typical Portland 1.5hr wait, but killed time by waiting in line @ Voodoo! Good food, extensive menu, fun atmosphere, good service.
(4)
Josephine Y.

Cute little vintage restaurant, lots of mirrors on the wall. I would rate my entire experience 3.5 stars. When you first walk in, go to the left to be seated (I was a little confused at first). We got there around 8:15am on a Sunday & got seated immediately. Within 5 minutes of sitting, the place started filling up with people. I highly suggest coming in as soon as they open to avoid a wait. The latte ($3.25) & regular stumptown coffee ($2.50-refillable) were really good. I was a little bummed that there was no latte art though! Booo I got the wild salmon hash ($14.95) based on Yelp reviews, which was good & very filling. It came with 2 eggs & toast. The potatoes in the hash were very flavorful but I thought the salmon could've been a little more seasoned. I felt like this dish was a little overhyped. I couldn't finish the whole thing so looking back on it, I would've gotten the 1/2 portion ($8.50). Our server was really nice & attentive. He even offered to split the bill for us individually and was able to combine my bill with my bf's bill. More work on his end but he did it with no complaints. Really appreciated that! Definitely got more tip because of that gesture. If you have little ones, they provide coloring for the kids! :)
(4)
Tim R.

This place is good but not sure it's worth the looooong wait. We were here on a weekday for brunch and still about a 45 min wait. Went for the Salmon hash breakfast $12.95, it was delicious but a little heavy on the butter.
(4)
Mark O.

Portland, day 3, stop 1, breakfast. Crunchy French toast - 3/5 - Too dry on the inside. Still decent though. Biscuit breakfast - 4/5 - Although the biscuits were just average, the gravy was very good. Overall, "I'm a fan" of the gravy.
(4)
Ma-Lu M.

I was in Portland over Labour Day long weekend and found this awesome place online (10 Best Breakfast Restaurants in Portland). I had their tofu hash and a mimosa and everything was delicious! This bistro is also super cute, love the chandeliers. Service was great, very friendly and we got seated right away.
(5)
Karen C.

I have to say after reading all the reviews and comparing them to our experience here I was a little disappointed. We came for dinner on a Friday, I made sure to make reservations. The place was full but they had a spot for us. Our service throughout the night was spot on- both friendly and helpful. The food though, I just wasn't impressed. We started with pierogies. My husband is Polish so we know our pierogies and these missed the mark- the inside was actually pretty spot on but the dough- something was off and the texture was too rubbery. For entrees I couldn't decide so I did the 1/2 & 1/2- the chicken & dumplings and the special mac & cheese (bacon & garlic). The mac and cheese was a little on the dry side but the flavor was there- until they topped it with a dollop of sour cream and green onions, it just did not go with the dish at all. The chicken and dumplings...I make this often in the cold New England winters and both my husband and I both preferred the recipe I use. The "dumplings" (really just 1 or two gaint ones) were dry and crumbly on the inside. The broth was on the thin side. The cookies that came with our check were not the best either- dry and over-baked. Overall, we experienced good service but the food just didn't live up to the hype.
(3)
Deano G.

Just awesome. We made it in for dinner just about 35 minutes before they closed and they didn't miss a beat! The food is wonderful, the service is good and the owner is a peach! We loved it so much we went back for breakfast and had one of the best breakfasts of the trip! I will be back!
(5)
Lisa H.

Yesterday evening friends and I celebrated a birthday at Mother's Bistro. The dinner was terrific. Some of the dishes that were enjoyed included Chicken & Dumplings, Steak Frites, Beef Stroganoff, and the Macaroni & Cheese du Jour with spinach, ricotta & parmigiano reggiano. I just have to say that the service @ Mother's is always top notch. Our server, Jeffrey, was attentive, friendly and just made the experience so lovely. Thank you Mother's Bistro!
(5)
Alix C.

An absolute must eat! We walked here from the Westin based on the yelp reviews and we were not disappointed. We arrived at 930 and the wait was about 45min - they take your number and text you updates. Once seated our waiter was very nice and attentive and our food arrived wishing 20 minutes of ordering. I had a latte and boy, I don't think I've ever had a better cup. The whole experience was just perfect, we will absolutely be coming back!
(5)
Justin O.

If you are downtown Portland, you have to try this place out. The menu looks great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. I went for breakfast and was not disappointed. The food was freshly prepared and service excellent. The place can be chaotic, but that is due to their local success. Plan on a long line for Sunday morning. But the wait is worth it. If home cookin' is what u want, that is what u get. Look forward to the next visit!
(5)
Ana Marie L.

oh man this place is on point!!!! soon good! came here last year for an anniversary lunch and everything was scrumptious. ,y gf loved the chicken dumpling!! we need to go back!
(5)
Jeff S.

Came at 8AM and there was no line. Around 9AM we left and it was about half full. Every other time we came it was packed for brunch. I had the Waffles (ginger and pear) with a scoop off ice cream. Was really good. Altogether I wouldn't say the food was beyond amazing blow your mind, however it was hearty and good. If you can get in without waiting over 40 minutes it is well worth it.
(4)
SK W.

Simpy amazing. Great food, great ambience, great service. There were alot of people waiting on the Friday before the Rose Parade but it only took about 15 minutes to get seated. I wanted to eat everything on the menu.
(5)
Erik F.

Pretty good breakfast but a little unimpressive. Very friendly waitstaff and they worked quickly. Get here early on weekends to beat the crowd or be willing to wait an hour. Had the crunchy French toast, which was good but left me wanting more for the $9. Pancakes looked like the better option. 5 stars for the service and environment, 3.5 for the foods.
(4)
Kevin B.

This is my first ever 5-star review, and there's no doubt in my mind that this place deserves it. The drinks: The selection of beer all seemed delicious. I opted for the Breakside Flagship IPA (my new favorite IPA now!), and my lady got a peach vodka mixed drink. Both were phenomenal. The apps: We got a couple appetizers to share: the salmon rillette w/ crostini and the fried ravioli. The salmon rillette was amazing, and our waiter even brought out more crostini as he noticed we ran out! The mains: I got the chicken and dumplings. Huge pieces of chicken breast, four or five good sized dumplings, and overall it was a warming and homey dish. My lady got the chicken fried chicken breast with mash and collared greens, and to be honest, I liked hers even more! Spend the extra $ and your time will be well spent here!
(5)
Regine D.

My friend and I went here on Aug 14, Friday, morning for brunch. We waited exactly 18 minutes. I know this because they ask for your cellphone number so that they can alert you when your table is ready. It was convenient. There were a lot of people waiting outside. In the waiting area, they provide water and coffee for you in case you were thirsty, which is a nice option. I ordered the omelette. My friend ordered Mikes scramble. Both were delicious, but not the best I've ever had. If I could give 4.5, I would. Considering the wait time, price, quality of food, and customer service, we had a good experience.
(4)
Hannah L.

My boyfriend and I came here for the first time yesterday morning for breakfast around 11. The place was pretty packed and we got seated within 5 or 8 minutes, I'll definitely make reservations ahead of time next time since they were pretty busy on a Tuesday morning. It's a cute little vintage restaurant and they have really cute decor. Street parking only! But there are two or three parking lots near by. My boyfriend ordered the biscuit and sausage gravy with a side of ham. The gravy had a really great flavor to it, not too salty and you can taste some of the sausages. The biscuits were moist, flaky, and soft. I ordered the two eggs any style with chicken apple sausage. It came with whole wheat toast and roasted potatoes. I had my eggs over easy and they cooked it perfectly. The sausages were savory and sweet, and the roasted potatoes were seasoned well and crispy on the outside and tender in the inside. The toast was good too and the butter was fluffy and whipped. We also had fresh squeeze orange juice and a mimosa. The orange juice was naturally sweet and they add some type of strawberry purÃ©e to their mimosa, it was pretty good. Will definitely come back the next time we're in town! Friendly staff and the service was good.
(4)
Anne T.

No set plans in Portland except to eat and explore Portland. There were a couple brunch options and the boyfriend was set on having breakfast at Mother's. We rolled up and there was a line waiting already. We walked up to the hostess and requested for a table for 3. She took my phone number down and said she would text me in about 15 minutes. A few minutes later, I received a confirmation text to let me know that they have my reservation and that they'll text me again when the table is ready. So we took a walk around the area and thinking about the possibility for coffee while we wait. Well, we didn't get very far.. I got another text that my table was ready! So crazy. Didn't think it would have been that quick. We sat down and got our server and it was JASON! He recommended some yummy stuff. We chose the wild salmon hash, frittata and the biscuit breakfast. And then some Guatemalan coffee along with the pecan cinnamon roll. Wish they had a wheelchair to roll us out of there! Thanks for an awesome brunch, Mother!
(5)
Brian P.

Really great breakfast in downtown Portland. The restaurant is gigantic and has two main dining rooms. Just about about every seat was filled at 930 on Friday morning. Our food was fantastic. Loved my Mexican open omelet and my wife liked the French toast. Potato nachos were good but didn't blow me away. Be aware that they do half portions own case you can't decide on what to eat. Coffee is very good.
(5)
Baiju M.

This place was fun and the food was great. Our waiter minutes after we sat down, asked our group of 12 who wants the eggs benedict. They could only make four more, fortunately myself and one other person reserved ours. The benedict was excellent. Eggs benedict is my go dish at breakfast/brunch places. I also had the bloody mary to drink, it was nice and spicy and did not have an alcohol taste. Mother's was a great place to get breakfast. Our waiter was very attentive and even broke apart our check in six separate checks. I would highly recommend a visit to Mothers.
(5)
Megan R.

Get the mac and cheese, or a burger. No matter what you order it's going to be good. It's become a well-known brunch/lunch stop, so there is often a line.
(4)
Bronson J.

This place is not worth the attitude they give out. Service is as if they're doing you a favor. They will not seat incomplete parties, even if you want to order drinks and food while you wait. Food is okay, but nothing special for PDX - lacking in originality or a real identity.
(2)
Veronica D.

Brunch at mother's is exceptional. The salmon hash is heavenly and the Mayan mocha was perfect- not too sweet or heavy and the cayenne is subtle. The reason for the five stars, however, is truly the staff. From hostess to waiters and servers, everyone was friendly and fast. At one point my brunch buddy spilled his drink all over his plate (which was unfortunate because it was smoked salmon- yum!) and literally within two minutes he had a full replacement meal. Magical kitchen ninjas got us taken care of.
(5)
Patrick I.

Look no further, Mother's is a food lovers paradise. I was on a short layover in Portland, and was directed here via Yelp reviews. What a great recommendation! The egg scramble which I ordered was in the top 5 of breakfast dishes I have ever feasted on for breakfast. Oh, and don't forget the awesome rich coffee. Cannot wait to get back to PDX. I heart this Bistro! Patrick :-)
(5)
Tara J.

Long wait, but totally worth it. Our table had the Portobello scramble, salmon hash and biscuits & gravy. All amazing!! Each dish had so much flavor! My favorite was the portobello scramble. Hearty flavor... The balsamic vinegar mixed in really marries the flavors, and wow the potatoes that come with it!! Don't put anything on them, they have all the flavor they need! Our friends loved the salmon... The server talked us into them because of the quality of their salmon. You get a lot of salmon in this dish. The biscuits and gravy come with eggs any style. We did scrambled and had them add mushrooms & Asiago to it... It was really good!
(5)
Joe L.

We LOVED this place. The reviews for this place are spot on. I had a half of the breakfast nachos and a half of the green egg whites. The breakfast nachos were knock your socks off good. My wife got the eggs Benedict and the half order of macadamia nut coconut pancakes and a hot chocolate. The coconut pancakes and the hot chocolate were meh, but it didn't matter because everything else was so good. Bonus: they have outdoor seating and brought a water bowl out for our dog.
(5)
James P.

In a city that has an affinity towards having brunch, this is a good option. This was our last meal in the city and it was good sign off from a city with a plethora of great food. The migas I had and the waffles that my wife ordered were both really good and delicious. There are a ton of reviews here for a reason, so expect to wait a little when you put your name in, but it is worth the wait.
(5)
Kelly H.

Such a good place. My team and I went there for my going away lunch at work and thy were very accommodating. Friendly staff and good food! Highly recommend!
(5)
Drew M.

So we read that this place was dog friendly on patio but we showed up and the patio was not set up. We asked if there was a back patio which there was not but they quickly assembled an outside table to accommodate us and our dogs. Great service and friendly staff thanks Shauna
(5)
Loc N.

Holy Muther of bistro and bar! The food was great. The service was great. Even the people who sat next to me were great. Although there was a bit of a wait, it is expected at a place as good as this and 25 minutes is not unreasonable. Not to mention our waitress was hot.
(5)
Ambs W.

Great service, bustling, comfortable atmosphere. Crunchy French toast lived up to its reputation and the Bloody Mary was indeed peppery. No wait if you sit at the bar and it's a great spot to people watch! Glad I tried this place out.
(4)
Elena C.

I went there last Sunday and I had to wait about 40 minutes but it was worthy. They send you a text when your table is ready, so we just went for a walk in the area. I wish I knew beforehand that the portions were so big! I had the Breakfast nachos AND the Salmon hash - both were delicious. The service was pretty fast for such a busy day and our server was very helpful. I will definitely be back next time I'm in Portland!
(4)
Eric P.

The line was long, but was worth every minute. Food was delicious! Had the Brie Scramble, the Portabella Scramble and the amazing cinnamon roll. Would recommend everything and the rest of the menu looked just as good. A must go breakfast joint in Portland.
(5)
Brian A.

A nice quaint restaurant with very good breakfast at a fairly cheap price. While I preferred my partner's dish which consisted of roasted potatoes, ham, provolone cheese, and scrambled eggs, my salmon hash was still pretty good with the exception of my fish being slightly overcooked.
(4)
Ashley M.

Wow! Best breakfast I've ever had...I had a waffle topped with ice cream and strawberries, amazing! The staff is very friendly, it's decorated beautifully. Perfect place for breakfast.
(5)
Melanie G.

I have been to Mother's Bistro twice. I had read about it last year and tried it on my trip to Portland. I ordered the french toast and fell in LOVE! It was the BEST french toast I've ever eaten! I craved it all year and was excited to go back when we planned our trip to Portland. The french toast has a cereal coating that makes it super crispy but also soft! The maple syrup that it's served with is also really tasty. This time we had also ordered the rueben sandwich, mac n cheese with broccoli, a mexican type sandwich (chicken, avocado, tortilla chips) and maple sausage omelette. We were all very pleased with our dishes. The mac n cheese was a bit heavy for lunch so we weren't able to finish it but it was still really tasty. There is usually a line up but the wait is not long because the restaurant is deceivingly large. It can accommodate a lot of people. the decor is also really charming. They have chandeliers everywhere and it's really classy but still casual. I recommend going to Mother's Bistro to anyone I know who is going to Portland!
(5)
Shanel S.

This was my first stop when arriving in Portland. After reading review after mouth watering review, I had to give it a try. Once I walked in it immediately gave the feel like you're at your Aunt's house, or Mother's (hence the name). The building is shaped as if it was formed by two previous buildings or something. The kitchen is somewhat open and they even have a type of diner setup but towards the back it looks more like fine dining. All with a casual feel. Definitely unique. I was starving by the time we landed in Portland and their menu was huge so it was hard to look over with an empty stomach considering I wanted everything. Our waiter was really patient and helped answer all of our annoying questions. He gave us a few good laughs. I finally decided on a half salad half soup. Their house dressing was really good. Had a good tartness to it. It came with the usual nuts and cranberries I love. Very fresh and garnished with seasonal fruits. The soup I chose and that was suggested was the Jewish Penicillin. It was really hot the way I enjoy my soup. The portion seemed small but it ended up filling me up just right. When it came to dessert we decided to pass because we wanted to walk down the street to Voodoo Doughnuts. The only thing I forgot was a coffee mug. I love them! They say "Call Your Mother" which I am guilty of forgetting to do some times.
(4)
Yan T.

Five years ago, when I had my first taste of Portland, Mother's somehow became a brunch baptism by Benedict and pumpkin pancakes for three itinerant dudes from the East Coast. My friends and I went once on a local's recommendation, and kept returning day after satiating day. When I returned this fall, there was no way I wasn't going to pay homage to this ultimate brunchery. As some have pointed out, getting here early (think 7-8 am) is key, and quite reasonable if you're on eastern times. You'll be seated without any wait at this time by a very perky crew. Each of the staff have unique client-side personalities, from the the rhapsodic host to the ham of a waiter describing and promoting each dish with the exorbitant enthusiasm one normally reserves for their children. Our waiter was a very down-to-earth dude who strongly resembled Henry Cavill. A straight man, I found myself drowning in his eyes... Food and drink were both awesome as expected. The French press coffee that blew me away a half decade ago is still spot-on. The wild salmon scramble was delicious and the SO came away very happy as well.
(5)
Lindsay B.

I have found myself at Mother's twice in the last month and have never left disappointed. The food is solid and service is good. There's a pay parking lot across the street and actually street parking was plentiful last time I was there. Sometimes downtown parking can be tough, but not here from what I can tell. The tables are a little tight in there and I did find myself bumping into people or squishing behind people to get in and out, but the ambiance is very cozy. Breakfast is the ticket here! I had some kind of a salmon omelette or scramble that was delicious. If you are offered a roll, do not hesitate for a second...they have the yummiest fresh rolls served with butter. They are huge, fluffy and warm. This is a great place to take Mom!
(4)
Jon G.

If you are craving an amazing breakfast then this is your place. We eat here about once a month. The eggs Benedict are amazing. All the juices are fresh squeezed and their coffee is fantastic. If you're a foodie you must give this place a try.
(5)
Catalina L.

Come here for breakfast! Thanks Yelpers for the bullseye reviews on Mothers Bistro & Bar!! What a fun place for breakfast. Loved the charm of the restaurant with the vintage crystal chandeliers, vintage black velvet brocade wallpaper and gesso mirrors in a charming antique building. It was Saturday morning we arrived for breakfast at 8:25am with no line!! We were immediately seated at a cute table at the window. They also had a "bar" where people were also eating with a small TV and lots of cute tables already filled with customers enjoying their breakfast. Promise was our waiter but we were also helped by other wait staff. Clearly a high service helpful restaurant. Eggs Benedict is a big hit at this restaurant. Also the Red Mill Steel oatmeal with lots of sides looked good. Within 10 minutes of seating there was a line out the door. Guess we missed the wait line by minutes! What did I LOVE first? The Sumptown French press coffee. Luscious! The coffee and it's oils made the coffee robust and almost sweet. I was in coffee heaven. We ordered Migas, Crunchy French Toast, Mike's Special Scramble, sides of biscuits, hot chocolate and two pots of French press coffee. We loved it so much we walked out with two cups to go! The Migas had tortilla mixed in with the omelette. Marionberry jam was sinful. I loved it! The Crunchy French toast was filling. Nice ambience of great company with Oregon Ducks and Michigan State fans having breakfast before they drove to Eugene for their big game. We ate slowly throughout breakfast enjoying the ambience, the coffee, the food. We also met Lisa the owner who was very busy working but still taking time to say hello and asking about our meal and what we had planned for the day. We highly recommend coming to Mothers's for breakfast! Get here early to avoid the crowds. Their dinner menu looked good too!
(5)
Anthony F.

It was worth the the 20 minute wait. From the host seating us to the server taking our order I have no complaints. The food was fresh with local ingredients to the hot coffee. Hmmm found this place on Yelp and Definitely will come back when we visit Portland again. You have to check this place out.
(4)
Athena L.

Bitches love brunch and that's a given fact. No seriously. This place is an awesome place for brunch (and dinner as I've been told!) I've come here a couple of times and have never waited longer than 30 mins. Lucky me! Once you check in, there's a waiting room in the hall that has self-serve water and coffee. Beware! The coffee isn't free! Lol. The hostesses are really good about checking you in and then letting you know when your table is almost ready. They send you a text, which is pretty convenient if you're not waiting around. I love the atmosphere of this restaurant. Love all the mirrors and chandeliers. So pretty. They have a good list of cocktails that are perfect for brunch. For all you men out there, you can finally order a mimosa and not have to feel feminine about it! They have a MANmosa! My favorite drink is the Persephone. :) yummmmy The scrambles are delish, but my favorite and most memorable is the BREAKFAST NACHOS with an EGG on top! You can't go wrong!! It's basically nacho toppings on their potatoes... And their potatoes are amaaaazing! Their cornflake French toast was the only thing that I've tried that I wasn't impressed by. It was good, don't get me wrong... But it's not something I would recommend if you could only eat at mothers bistro once.
(4)
Meana K.

*3.5* If you know you have people coming into town, make reservations in advance -- more than one week prior. They won't accept reservations the weekend of the desired seating. Wait on a weekend is easily an hour. It gets hectic and crowded and downright claustrophobic and stressful standing in there. The system to put in your names vs check in to let them know you're here for your table after your name has been called -- poorly managed. The service - great. The food - good. Wha? Not great? I mean, it was good. It wasn't the best I've ever had. It was worth the wait, but I won't go out of the way to come all the time.
(3)
Jenel O.

Thank you Yelp for sending me to Mother's. After arriving the night before, I searched Yelp for my first Portland meal and Mother's came up. The direction we walked to Mother's, we ended up on the quaint side of the restaurant, very homely and inviting. Got here on a Friday morning maybe around 8:30 or so. They had awesome coloring sheets for the kids (one that kept them busy) and service was great! We had the crunch french toast and chocolate chip pancakes and everything was spot on. They recommended trying the jelly on the table and it went very well with the french toast, better than syrup! Prices were reasonable, each being about $8 or so. I also had a double shot mocha made with Stumptown coffee, which was REALLY good! Tried to get here again on a Saturday mid-morning and it was packed! Didn't realize they had a more lively side to the restaurant (which is also where you check in for the quaint side). Wait was 45 minutes+ for a large party so we ended up leaving. I would definitely eat here again and wouldn't have minded trying other dishes or coming for lunch.
(5)
Lori J.

One of my favorite breakfast spots in Portland.
(4)
Alyssa S.

The wait is long but this was so worth the wait. Mother's was hands down the best restaurant we ate at while in Portland. We went on Good Friday and as practicing Catholics, we had to go meat-less for the day. Difficult for me because my go-to breakfast item in places I've never gone to is generally corned beef hash or at least something with bacon. However, it actually turned out great that we were forced to not eat meat because we probably wouldn't have ordered what we did otherwise. I ordered the buttermilk pancakes and added bananas. Now, my favorite pancakes is from my local Millbrae Pancake House and no one ever comes close to comparing to that. Mother's did. Actually, they actually were better. I like my banana pancakes really tasting like bananas, not just random slices of bananas in a pancake. This tasted like they mashed a banana within the batter it was awesome banana goodness all the way through. My boyfriend ordered the Wild Salmon Hash, which was the star of the show. We've never even heard of salmon hash (again, I'm pretty devoted to corned beef hash) but every bite of that was awesome. My boyfriend still talks about it to this day and tells everyone and their mother how this was probably the best breakfast meal he's ever had. Sure, it's crowded as hell an the wait is long (we went on a Friday at 10:45am) but it was freakin worth it. In addition, it's cute inside and our waitress gave us great service.
(5)
Quinn C.

During our Valentines Day get-away we decided to try this place for Breakfast. We tempted fate by calling the day before for a reservation only to be told they were completely booked... HOWEVER they do accept walk ins so give it a shot. We were up around 7:30 and meandered over to tempt fate. Miraculously we were seated right away. No waiting. The hosts were awesome and sassy and seated us next to the bar at a cute little two top. It's a mini-vacay so yes I will have tequila for breakfast in this chocolate coffee concoction. It was awesome, usually drinks like that are too sweet for me (bar order: perfect Manhattan, gin martini, Tom Collins - hold the syrup) but this one hit the spot. I ordered eggs Benedict, oh what was that? You can do 1 crab cake bennie and one regular? YES, PLEASE. I don't remember what he got, but it was eggy and meaty and he enjoyed it. By the time we left it was difficult to navigate our way to the door and a line stretching 1/2 way down the block. We will be back next time we're in mP
(5)
Linda K.

omg .... their crunchy french toast!! I was in awe. I could not stop gasping after every bite. Then comes the main dish - Salmon hash. I was told this is one of their best dishes.. it was okay/good but not as good as I thought. Their biscuits and gravy was actually better than I thought! All my friends raved about this place and now I know why. I daydream about their crunchy french toast. YUMMM!
(5)
Eddie K.

The south is known for BBQ. New York and Chicago are known for pizza. Philadelphia is known for cheese steaks. San Diego is known for Mexican food. Portland is known for... brunch! Now I can't tell you how excited I was to try brunch in Portland. Breakfast is quite possibly my favorite meal, but I couldn't understand how anyone could make the standards eggs, toast, biscuits, and gravy any better than what you could find anywhere else. There's not much variety in technique that goes into standard breakfast foods, but apparently Portland and Mother's Bistro & Bar found the way. Interior: Mother's is located in an old building and has the interior reminds me of an old Victorian house. The restaurant is packed with tables, chairs, and people. Not the fanciest looking place but it does have a nice little homey feel. Service: The restaurant is super busy and super crowded so don't expect 5 star service here. The servers are very quick and straight to the point, but they definitely aren't rude about it. Food: Oh man... the best breakfast/ brunch I've ever had in my life. I decided to follow my heart and get the biscuits and gravy. I also got a side of potatoes which was almost half the price of my main dish. The eggs tasted like standard eggs and the biscuit tasted sweet like corn bread, nothing really amazing there. Then I got some of the gravy, WOW, best tasting gravy of my life. It was creamy, savory, and delicious. Next I tried some of the potatoes which had the same result. WOW, the potatoes were perfectly cooked and seasoned, definitely the best breakfast potatoes I've ever had in my life. Overall: By far the best meal I had in Portland (and I had a LOT). 5/5
(5)
Kelly G.

This place is always a nice place to stop in for a bite to eat, especially during breakfast hours when you can get the cornflake crusted French toast! Yes, you read that right, you must try it!
(5)
Zac R.

We had a family vacation in Portland recently. This was our favorite breakfast spot! Everything was good, but the blueberry pancakes were outstanding. Worth a wait.
(5)
Stephanie A.

The husband and I had a late brunch here on a Friday around noon. There was no wait and the service was friendly. It's a cute little place with a pretty big selection. He ordered Mike's scramble and I got the wild salmon hash and eggs. Both dishes were great! Down one star because my over easy eggs were hard, but other than that, it's a great spot!
(4)
Raquel Y.

How amazing can a brunch place be...it's just eggs and breakfast right? WRONG! Omg. Biscuits and gravy were AMAZING! So rich and creamy. Must get that and side of potatoes. Salmon hash was pretty good too, but damn, get that BISCUITS AND GRAVY!! We would've gone a second time on our 3 day trip there, but unfortunately it's closed on Mondays. Darn...I want.
(5)
Justin O.

One of those best brunch places I've had in Portland, our server was good but interesting and the food was great. We had: Breakfast nachos Mikes special scramble Two buttermilk pancakes Breakfast nachos were a must have
(4)
Priya S.

Well worth the ~45 min wait! Everyone in my family was unfettered in their love for Mother's. The cute cafe ambiance in which they encourage you to call your mothers during the wait, the friendly and helpful waiters and of course, the warm and yummy food, just like your mama would cook it! The highlights: 1. Perhaps one of the best Bloody Marys I've ever had. Spicy and delicious! 2. Mike's Special Scramble with ham 3. Biscuit Breakfast (amazing but Pine State Biscuits are definitely a tad better!) 4. Tofu Hash 5. Crunchy French Toast dipped in corn flakes and fried 6. Chicken noodle soup. Yes, it doesn't sound like the most creative brunch item but it's great on a cold morning! 7. Buttermilk pancakes with pecans So basically, you can't go wrong with anything on the menu! It's a phenomenal brunch spot that feels just like your mom's kitchen/dining room. Happy Eating, Yelpers!
(5)
MichÃ¨le S.

This is a very popular brunch place! The wait time was 70 minutes on a Saturday noon but they send you a text so we were able to go check in to the hotel (which was only two blocks away) and our table was ready when we were back. The omelet de jour (bacon and avocado) was very good and the portobello scramble was tasty too (although I had to ass some pepper and salt). The potatoes are very tasty and the food was hot when they served it which was really nice.
(4)
Anna F.

Always leaving Mothers on a full happy stomach. I have only came here for breakfast so far, but every time it has been great. Wether I'm eating the Omelet of the day or treating to my self to some amazing French toast ( coated in corn flakes yum!) the food is always excellent and full of flavor. As for drinks, I can never pass up getting a french press for the table, if you like coffee the Guatemala is a must try! There's not much else to say besides the service has always been great as well. Don't let the line of people intimidate you, it goes quick and it's worth the wait!
(5)
Pooja M.

The food and ambience at Mother's is good, but the service left a lot to be desired. Starting with the food first, I had the Belgian Waffles with whipped cream, blackberries, and syrup, and it was delicious -- definitely one the better Belgian Waffles I've had, but not the best. The waffle itself deserves four stars, but I dropped a star from this rating due to the poor service. The hosts came across as snooty, our waitress got two of our five orders wrong, and she dropped off our bill without asking if we wanted dessert. I felt that they were trying to rush us out of the restaurant due to the start of the busy Saturday lunch hour, and that pressured feeling to leave quickly detracted from my overall experience of this restaurant.
(3)
Carolyn L.

This was one of my favorite places to eat at during my time in Portland. The decor is so cute and the service is fabulous. I can't remember the name of my waiter, but he was so nice and personable! And best of all, the food is delicious! The Salmon Hash was my bf's favorite. There was a generous serving of salmon and it came with 2 eggs and toast. We chose to have our eggs poached and they came out perfectly runny. The Matzo Ball Soup was good. I wasn't a huge fan of the actual ball, but dayummm the soup was on point. The soup tasted so clean, flavorful, and comforting. The Pierogis were my favorite. Holy smokes was this dish delicious. These potato filled dumplings were topped with sour cream. I usually don't even like sour cream, but it just works with this dish. This skin and the filling were perfectly done. My mouth is watering just thinking about it. I highly recommend! If you plan on sharing, let your server know. My waiter asked us if we were and I'm glad he did because he went ahead and had the kitchen split our dish into 2 plates! Yay for awesome service! I recommend making reservations here. I made reservations a few days in advance and had limited options for times. This place is popular and I'll definitely come back if I'm in the area!
(4)
Rebecca N.

Really loved the ambiance of this place ... Food was great ... Service top notch . Only complaint would be tables are literally laying on top of each other ... Just packed like sardines . I mean seriously a great place like this ... Make it comfortable too. Over all though ... Awesome place
(4)
John M.

Came here because Scars on 45 (@ScarsOn45) mentioned it at last nighr's show. We came during the Afternoon Delights menu. Seafood Gumbo. It was nice & chunky if not seasoned a little timidly. The Girl had the Matzoh Ball soup and was extremely pleased. She loved the dill and plentiful chicken. Above average Latte. Corned Beef Special sandwich with Mac Salad. It was a healthy sandwich. The corned beef was a little bland and a little processed feeling. Mac Salad was average. The girl enjoyed her Chicken Salad sandwich and Ceasar Salad. The establishment is a four star restaurant among other similar places.
(4)
Michelle H.

Be prepared for a wait! My bf and I stopped by on a rainy Saturday morning for breakfast and waited maybe 15-20 minutes for a table. We were escorted to one of the dining rooms, essentially elbow to elbow, neck deep into the conversation at the table next to us. That awkward moment when... Anyways, our server was straight and to the point--no niceties, just order and pay. Not complaining, but some hospitality might've been nice. We ordered the Crunchy French Toast and Mike's Special Scramble to share, and struggled to fit all of the smaller dishes on our table to house our split plates. We settled for water so we can't speak for the coffee (which you can order at the coffee bar out front while you wait to be seated). All in all, I don't fully grasp the hype around this place, as the food was just mediocre. The scramble was overly salty, perhaps due to the prosciutto alone, or perhaps due to over-seasoning. The french toast was nothing out of the ordinary and I'm sad to say I've had better. The experience we had there wasn't one to bring us back, and given the many other breakfast places in and around Portland, we probably won't be returning.
(3)
Natalie P.

SO glad we came here. Service: AWESOME. Food: AWESOME Decor: AWESOME. I can't believe we would have left Portland and missed this gem! For some reason Mother's Bistro & Bar did not make our list of places to eat during Memorial Weekend in Portland. As fate would have it, the Original Pancake House was closed on Tuesday and I found Mother's Bistro on yelp (the cornflake french toast got me). Service: -Our server was great. He was attentive, fast, and kind. I happilly tipped him 20+%. Food: Mike's Special Surprisingly amazing! I was hesitant when my boyfriend ordered it but, the combination of basil, prosciutto ham, roasted garlic, etc. even rivaled the corn flake french toast! Crunch French Toast -ORDER THIS. I loved every part of experience at Mother's Bistro & Bar. I only wished I could have tried the fresh baked goods in the display case. Mother's Bistro & Bar please come to California! Specifically San Jose.
(5)
Angel K.

Portland is all about the brunch places! Loved my meal here at Mother's! The vibe is awesome! The wait staff are all dressed in their pjs and the decor is lovely! Ordered the crunchy french toast (had corn flakes on it) and it was pretty tasty. The lemon poppyseed pancake was pretty good as well. Eggs Benedict wasn't too special. The Lorraine's frittatas were the highlight. It was delicious! Their drinks are pretty good as well. I loved Mom's mocha and the lemon drop was super tasty as well! Only downside is the wait. Be prepared for a long, long wait. And your whole party must be present to be seated!
(4)
Ken G.

3.5 Stars Overall I thought this place was pretty good. I had Biscuits and Gravy with scrambled eggs and it was a great way to start the day. The meal was very satisfying since it was a large plate of stuff. The service was pretty good...it can get hectic since it's a popular spot and staff can seem a little stressed when trying to deal with all the customers, but everyone was very friendly.
(3)
Brian F.

Everytime we go it's a great experience! We stop in everytime we're in town. Expect a wait on the weekend but it's worth it for good service and food.
(5)
Jaclyn M.

Best eggs Benedict I've ever had. Little pricey with drinks, little crowded, but it's ridiculously good comfort food and great atmosphere
(5)
Amanda T.

This place has the usual Portland 'weird' mark for its decor but the food and service are great. Comfort food in the middle of this crazy city is such a good idea. I love it! I had the chicken 'in dumplings and the pulled pork (they had a half and half special for people who couldn't decide - like me). Very sweet place.
(5)
Vicky K.

YES. must come here if you're visiting. Must come here often if you live here. One of my favorite brunch places in Portland! French toast YUM.
(5)
Jill R.

One of the best breakfasts we've ever eaten!!! We started with a French press of Stumptown coffee. And then shared biscuits & gravy with over medium eggs and salmon hash with poached eggs. The eggs were cooked to perfection. And those were the best biscuits & gravy we've ever had. The salmon hash was also really good. We highly recommend this spot for breakfast/brunch/lunch!
(5)
Brian A.

The service was excellent and the breakfast got was a decent spin on traditional french toast. All told, it was a pleasant experience and (for breakfast at least) a great deal more casual than much of the decor lets on.
(4)
Camille L.

It was my first time to visit Portland and my friend brought me in Mother's Bistro & Bar for breakfast. I loved it! It's just a few walks at the downtown area. The restaurant's ambiance is nice and it's clean. The food is great and delicious. I love eating here every now and then :) Staff are also friendly.
(5)
A W.

Went there on a Wednesday morning at around 7:20am. There were maybe a good two handful of tables already taken. The waiter that served us was very nice & attentive, they served pretty smooth coffee, and had some nice decor around the place. As for the food though, it was ok. Got the Salmon Hash after I saw how raved about it was, but it was only ok for me. I am not a big scrambled eggs person but decided to get my eggs scrambled to see if they could impress me, but they didn't. It was a very sad moment. My dad got the Migas and he said that was just average for him as well. I'll probably come back here for dinner or lunch since their menu for those meals looked really good! I guess try again next time!
(3)
Steven J.

We heard it was good, but it was fantastic! Biscuits and gravy were the very buttery and the gravy was so rich. The best I have ever had! Like no other...
(5)
Latifa S.

Comfort food at it's best!! I've been a fan for Mother's since 2009! I love this place. It's a must for every Portland visit. And they are walking distance from most downtown hotels. What's not to love? The decor is super cozy and quaint. It gives you that warm and happy feeling as soon as you walk into your seat. They have three rooms and each one is different. And food! What can I say about Mother's food that haven't been said already? My first visit back in '09, I had an omelet and cava filled mimosa with French pressed coffee . I wasn't thrilled with the taste after an hour plus wait. But since then, I've tried a bunch of things here. So far I love all the omelets, sweet breakfast items (French toast & waffles )are my favorite. They all smell so good! With warm flaky tasty bites. Mac & cheese is pretty incredible too. And that mazo ball soup!! Yummmm. You'll just have to visit and experience this for yourself. It's a comfort food with a mother's love and stunning comfy atmosphere. I've also ran into few famous top chef judges here too. Gail Simmons being one of them last year! Talk about cool factor. Definitely one of my favorite /go to brunch places in Portland. Check it out for yourself so you can love it too.
(5)
Douglas G.

We walked down from the Benson hotel for Saturday breakfast. It was pretty busy, we were fortunate to find two seats at the bar. The bar staff was very friendly, and provided amazing service. Jordan was our server, she exceeded our expectations. Every staff member we encountered was friendly and accommodating. The food was perfect, hot and fresh. We had morning drinks that were good as well. This is probably the best breakfast place in the downtown area for sure. Don't miss out!!
(5)
KeshiaSkye S.

I attended a brunch meeting with a few co-workers and was very pleased with my first experience at Mother's. Thankfully we had reservations because this place is a bit of a mad house around 11:30. Once we were able to check-in though, we were seated within minutes. The atmosphere is quite loud, but still nice. It's an exciting dining experience. I will say it is hard to have a serious work related conversation though at that hour. The food was delicious. I had the Biscuit Breakfast, which is their B&Gs. It was very good. I've had better, but I would most definitely order this again. My co-workers went for the lunch. One with a Rueben and the other the corned beef cold sandwich. They were both very happy with their food as well. We all had plenty of left overs to take back from afternoon snack. I would highly recommend this restaurant. Do make reservations though :)
(4)
Linda C.

I once tried to come here for breakfast with the sweetheart but the long line out the door deterred us so we tried something else that day. Very recently I came here for dinner with my sisters. It was our annual sisters' day out and plans had changed drastically that day so we had to find a place that would seat 6 on short notice. It was approaching 8pm and we were finding that a lot of the places that we wanted to go to were either closed at 9pm, they weren't going to allow minors (we had one in our group), or they didn't have any room for a large party. When we arrived, we were greeted immediately by a friendly pair. The lady led us to our seats. The ambiance is nice. When I think about this place, I see sparkling chandeliers and golden light spilling over the table. Our waiter was great. He told us what the specials were, recommended a nice bottle of wine, and the wait time for the food wasn't long. The staff in general was very pleasant. The food was so good. The chicken dumplings come in its own little cute pot and is soooo good. The chicken is tender and the flavor makes my mouth water just thinking about it. One of the sisters ordered their mushroom risotto and that was delicious. Great flavor as well. I must come here for breakfast. This time, I will wait in line because it's worth it.
(5)
Jamie D.

We had a great experience here. Highly recommended.. We waited for an hour and a half just to have breakfast here but it's worth the wait coz the food was really good.. The crew are very nice, friendly & accommodating. We didn't get bored of waiting coz we walked to the mall next block and walked around. We received a text from them that our table is gonna be ready soon. It's very cozy there. There are lots of people but the service is fast
(5)
Jeff F.

Really good breakfast. There was no lineup when we showed up, but by the time we left, the place was lined up like crazy.... We started with a french press of some Stumptown Roasters Burundi blend... damn fine coffee. The cream left out had turned a little... my wife informed the server, and she offered either a drop in price for the coffee, or just a single press to make up for the lost coffee in her cup (nice touch). We opted for more of the yummy coffee. For breakfast, the wife had the crunchy french toast (french toast made with challah bread, and rolled in corn flakes before being put on the flattop). I had a pork apple sausage and cheddar cheese scramble. Both were delicious... The wife was trying to influence my rating to a 5 star... but the place has to be a 'must go to when in the area' type place for me to drop a 5 star. solid 4 to 4.5 here for breakfast at least though!
(4)
M P.

I'm not from Portland but every trip I make I always stop to eat at Mother's Bistro. This place is a real find in Portland. This trip I had the Benny's chicken. I have to say the sandwich was mouth watering delicious. The meat was tender and juicy and the texture of the bread was just right. The food was so good that I even had half a certified angus burger right after. I added a fried egg and avocado. Coffee wasn't the greatest and service isn't the fastest but that allows you to take in all the mirrors and chandeliers on decor.
(4)
Dan W.

Came here for breakfast and was impressed. Portland has so many good spots and this is one of them. Had the Stuffed Frittata which was tasty. The service is good and fast and the coffee is good.
(4)
MirMack M.

I had brunch here recently. There was a problem with my food and I sent it back. They were apologetic and nice about this. Everyone else's meal was good and I ended up having some potatoes and bacon which were really good. As I left they gave me a gift certificate for dinner. The problem with the food was just a common thing that can happen anywhere but they handled it really well. I'm looking forward to trying dinner there.
(4)
Jessica S.

Oh brother, the brunch at mothers! So this is one of those places that you just have to know there is going to be a wait unless you can make it during the week before the lunch crowd. That being said, the food is solid. I have been on a few different occasions. Twice for bunch on the weekend and twice for lunch during the week. I don't like eggs but so I opted for breakfast nachos! They get a star in my book just for having it on the menu. It was pretty good. The red potatoes crisp like I like them. Nice crispy bacon, cheese, sour cream, and green onions. The pancakes are nice and fluffy although I will say whatever seasonal version they have are better than just plain. Now when I came for lunch I went with the Dungeness crab cake sandwich blew me away! Cooked perfectly so that the loads of crab meat was super flavorful. Comes with coleslaw and fries. The coleslaw made the sandwich a tad messy but completely worth it. The fries, eh they were ok shoes string fries. So park in a nearby lot or be lucky enough to nab some street parking and come down to throw your name on the list. Just know it's a wait but they will text you. Enjoy
(4)
Chris G.

Stay as far away as you can...Yeah, the place is cute...Yeah, the waitstaff is great...Yeah, your girlfriend will want to come here...But the essential and defining element at any restaurant is how is the food? This place was average at best...I cannot fathom the slop that all the 4 and 5 star reviewers have eaten and thought "Hey this slop is pretty good"...The worst part about this experience is about an hour or two later when you'll be confronted with a massive exodus that can only be compared to the Jews leaving Egypt...REALLY...So unless your intention is to eat mediocre food and then suffer an all-day bout of explosive diarrhea and guy pain, then be my guest, but consider yourself warned...
(1)
Lisa H.

Mother's Bistro: just go there! But seriously, I've been many times and it never disappoints. Great food selection and preparation, good coffee, great drinks, courteous service staff. Try finding a slow day to go... But even on a busy day, ifs worth the wait. Yum!
(5)
Sharifa L.

Awesome food and great service! Went on a Thursday morning and got seated right away. The crunchy French toast is a must!! Definitely worth the extra calories I would need to find a way to burn today. Also try the pork Apple sausage...liked it better than the chicken Apple sausage.
(5)
Mark L.

Just had the apple sausage and cheddar cheese scramble and it was good. The best part was the side of bacon that I added that was cooked to perfection. Whether you get to sit inside or outside you get this warm welcoming feeling from the staff so I would recommend coming in for breakfast or brunch.
(4)
J. C.

We visited for dinner based on great reviews/gluten free options, but requesting gluten free was surprisingly difficult. Wait staff needed to consult the kitchen multiple times to clarify gluten free options. Also had to waive the bread basket at the start. Wait time for dinner was long - reservations were for 5:00pm, but we were not served dinner until well after 6:15pm. Surprisingly even though the wait for dinner was long, we were rushed through our appetizer, as wait staff asked to clear the table twice before we were done. After we let the first waiter know we were still working on our appetizer, a different wait staff member came and simply took it away without asking - and we had quite a bit of our appetizer left. Our seating near the children's play area was noisy as parents were hollering to each other over our table and cold as a nearby door that led outdoors that wasn't meant to be accessed kept being opened by disoriented patrons looking for the front door. It also felt cramped where we sat one of our chairs nearest the walkway kept getting bumped into. The food and drinks were just OK, but the atmosphere and service was disappointing. Definitely not what we expected based on the reviews or prices.
(2)
Mei H.

Maybe this is a brunch spot only... We came here because the starlight parade/run kept us from getting to our true conquest to lardo. We were deceived by all the great reviews - seems like a great spot for families, graduation dinners... It's a very 'safe restaurant' with not that much exploration in food/flavors. We sat down fairly quick, had good service, but overall not very memorable. Biscuits were good... The fried chicken and the meatloaf were one or two notches better than a meal you get on an airplane- but executed better. We were in and out by 30 mins. Could be good for brunch? But not a favorite in terms of dinner
(3)
Ruth G.

We enjoyed this quaint restaurant in downtown Portland. We went on a weekday and had no wait. My husband had the special corned beef hash in a Dijon mustard sauce and this is one of the best he has ever had. I had the crunchy French toast with bacon and loved each bite. I enjoyed the coffee. We had great service and we will be back in the future.
(5)
Stephanie J.

This was my second visit to Mother's and my second trip to Portland. The first experience was so memorable that I could not wait to go back again and Mother's did not disappoint. Since I was dining alone I sat at the bar. The bartender's were friendly and attentive. Everything on their menu sounds delicious and it took me quite a while to decide on my entrÃ©e. I landed on the Chicken and dumplings with mashed potatoes and I'm so glad that I did. It is among the best and most flavorful meals that I've ever had. They offer full bar service and their wine list is plentiful and features many varieties from the Willamette Valley. Mother's remains on my best of Portland list and I can't wait to visit again.
(4)
Marcy L.

Mummy! Oh, my, goodness gracious....yum. Saturday night we were roaming for comfort food when we received the recommendation for Mother's. Our stay was pleasant, the meal was exactly what we wanted, and the bill for four was completely manageable. First off, my observation regarding street parking in Portland is that it can involve multiple looped passes and final inching into a spot. Saturday night arrival around 8pm, no reservation, no problem! We were seated within moments of our arrival (though, I think that this may have been a glorious stroke of luck). We were seated near the bar in a room lined with mirrors of varying styles (tall ceilings, old mirrors, fleur design...I love it!). Right off the bat we ordered a round o drinks and pierogis for the table! I love that they have the M.O.M (Mom of the Month). Especially when this MOM recommends the Pierogi (hand-made potato-filled dumplings, topped with sautÃ©ed onions & sour cream 7.95$). ....this should be available in entree size, as I could have EASILY slurped down a VAT of these delectable dumplings. The creamy sauce was perfect (not gritty!) and the sauteed peppers and onions were an excellent accent. This is when the basket of biscuits arrived (seriously a perfect biscuit - big pillowy crumbly things). Vegetarian? Easy peasy. Most of the entrees are either veg-friendly or have modifications available. So many excellent comfort staples (Mom's Meatloaf & Gravy, Cheddar Cheese "Macaroni & Cheese" **or the mac'n'cheese du jour**, SautÃ©ed Seasonal Vegetables, Braised Seasonal Greens), but my selection was a lighter option. Vegan Stir Fry, Two Ways (tofu & vegetables (peppers, onions, broccoli, mushrooms, zucchini, carrots, green onions stir-fried with gluten-free ginger-soy sauce, served with jasmine rice 12.95$). I'm glad that I asked for light sauce (it was still pretty saucy), but this was exactly what the doctor ordered. Crunch veggies with light and fluffy jasmine rice. The plate was easily two meals worth (my friends could have eaten for WEEKS with their leftovers). My beverage, The Ginger Gold Rush classy cocktail ($9.00) was hella strong (nothing that MY Mama would mix up). But the flavor and potency for the price was appreciated, it lasted me throughout the meal! Just another medal of honor for Mother's to tack up - - - what a great find! Highly recommended if you're homesick (or just yearning for some home cookin').
(4)
Autumn S.

Stuffed fritatta was delicious. Loved that they offered so many different coffees. It was pretty busy but we only had to wait about 20 minutes for a table. The menu was large with lots of variety, which I really like. Our server was friendly but waaaay overbooked with tables. I think we waiting 15 minutes for coffee creamer. Would for sure try this place again.
(4)
Kelly R.

Unique and delicious breakfast combos. Had scramble with prosciutto, provolone. Garlic, and basil. Pretty Atmosphere like a bed an breakfast but lots of seating. Well worth the visit.
(5)
Nancy U.

Excellent service and food!! I will recommend it. I enjoy my salmon, was delicious. If you visit Portland, Oregon, put in your list to do.
(5)
James H.

Some really top notch food and genuine/good care... But the atmosphere is chaotic. Perhaps it was just the day/time went (Sunday brunch) that was so busy, but I did not enjoy my stay. If I had taken the food to-go I would rate the food alone at least 4-5 stars. Also the waiters were very friendly! Nice nice people! But it's impossible to be 100% cared for when 200 other people need or are wanting the same care. It felt like the place was about to literally burst from so many people. Plus all this crowding made for a very loud meal. It took use about an hour and fifteen minutes to get in with a group of 6. Again, I can not say that my experience would play out the same on a Monday or a Wednesday. I give three stars simply because of the uncomfortable atmosphere and long wait. It is a beautiful building though! Maybe try it on a week day, it may be a calmer/nicer experience then. :)
(3)
Nancy C.

You cannot go wrong in this place. ANYTHING you order will be amazing! I wasn't impressed by the menu as the items seemed very common (meatloaf, chicken fried chicken, chicken and dumplings, etc), but as soon as you taste them you can tell why this place is so famous and busy!
(5)
BB T.

Mothers knows a thing or two about breakfast, get whatever is on special, whatever sounds good to you or just jam your face fill with breakfast nachos. Service is really good here as well, there might be a wait but it's probably worth your time.
(5)
Sandy B.

Super friendly staff! Very welcoming we sat outside since we had our pup with us. We had breakfast there and it was really good! Good service good food what more could you ask for!?
(4)
Sandra C.

Mother's bistro offers a selection of comfort food that warms the tummy! I came here with a group of friends for dinner and we all left full and happy. A feeling between stuffed but satisfied; Which would be experienced after having dinner at any italian grandmas house. I ordered off the menu, where they select a mom of the month club and feature their Italian dishes, just like what they would serve at their homes. I chose to order mama's spicy sausages over spaghetti and my bf ordered the mushroom risotto ! My dish came with two long sausages and were a bit too spicy to my liking. But the bed of spaghetti was delicious. I coiled it and made sure I didn't make a mess. But the dish I love the most is the risotto dish. I had one bite and I never got a second bite afterwards. It was cooked with wonderful fragrance of mushrooms and chicken stock. I would come back for dinner and order the risotto. But the reviews I've read are for the brunch. I'll make sure to come here for the brunch next time!
(4)
Tony L.

The wife had to argue with host to get a seat, but he did come apologies after eating, Waiter was great The eggs taste terrible The wait is a typical 30 min Pancakes. Good Potatoes taste ok but texture is like they were over fried or microwaved Over all. Never come back Over rated
(1)
Chelsea R.

Literally all I can say is wow. We found this place because of amazing reviews and decided to wait the time to get a table on a Sunday, let me tell you, it is well worth the wait. You can wait up to hour, but you will not be disappointed. I had eggs Benedict and a mimosa, and my boyfriend had blueberry pancakes and a bloody Mary. Best breakfast meal we've ever had, hands down. My boyfriend is picky on his bloody Marys and he was seriously impressed. If I could eat here every morning I would. There dinner and lunch menu looked awesome as well. If your in Portland you must stop here for breakfast.
(5)
F T.

Great food options. I liked that you could split your entrees and pick two so you can try more items!! Tried the following and all delish -goat cheese and strawberry salad -Mac and cheese -chicken dumplings -pb ice cream sandwich=SO GOOD GET IT -banana cake=super dense You get cookies with your check. Yum. Cozy atmosphere!
(4)
Shila B.

At first glance one would be thrown off by the chandeliers and the elegant dÃ©cor as a Bistro that would be financially out of reach for the common person, however, it was to my best friend and I's surprise that this was in fact "within the budget." In fact the prices were very reasonable. The wait on a Sunday was 40 minutes, however, I just worked on my show review from the night before on my lap top. The service itself was very friendly, efficient and polite. I even convinced the waiter to wear my hamburger ear muffs while he took our order. I had the 3 scramble breakfast and my friend had waffles. Both made to perfection with just the right flavors and spices. I had mint tea made with fresh mint rather than packaged tea. It was $3.50 which was cheaper than packaged tea that rip you off by charging 2 - 3 bucks for bagged tea. My seat was in an odd location, heavy traffic area, so I kept bumping into other patrons and staff coming to and from. The noise level was at a decent volume that I was actually able to have a conversation with my best friend.
(5)
Jason D.

Even though we were there at 8:15 on a Saturday there was still a 15 min wait. Not a big deal. We were able to order coffee drinks while we waited. We were seated in the gorgeous bar room. Really that's the best feature about the place, the interior decor. Its impressive. Chandeliers, patterned velvet wallpaper, gold and wood trim. We had mimosas and Bloody Mary and both were average. The server didn't know if the mimosas were with pro secco or brut and when I asked her to check for sure she seemed annoyed. Pursed lips shorter more curt responses followed. Pro secco gives me headaches. The food was as average as the drinks. I had the scramble special, my friend had the gags Benedict which they are known for. It was a regular English muffin from the grocery store, a gross cold piece of Canadian bacon, over poached egg and some chilly gelatinous flavorless hollandaise. The plusses are that they do have a full bar and outdoor seating is pretty good on nice days.
(2)
YT Y.

Simply great all around, from service to food it was more than expected. Felt like a good friend was serving us and the food was just like moms; the rolls alone must have weighed a pound each. Super good choice for any occasion and prices are fair!
(5)
Rich N.

It was worth the wait! Great food. I will be be back with my family. Eat the biscuits and gravy.
(4)
Mary B.

Had their omelet of the day which had Carmelites onions and Gouda cheese with very good ham. It was heavenly and was big enough to share with my husband so I could have one of his heavenly pancakes. The service was friendly and efficient even though the place was extremely busy and we were sitting outside so our dog could join us.
(5)
Sam S.

Really great restaurant. The service is really great, the waiter accidently forgot to bring me my drink but apologised. The food is excellent! I got the cesaer salad chicken with dumplings the first time I came here and everything was superb. It's really great comfort food, that's simple bit delicious. The second time I came here, I got the macaroni and cheese (a different style -- it was a special) that was really good. It had penne pasta which was weird by macaroni and cheese standards but it worked! The desserts are to die for. The first time I got key lime bar and a coconut cream pie (I have a weakness for coconut) that was a specialty. Both melted in my mouth, I didn't want the dessert to end. The second time I got a chocolate cream pie (haven't eaten it yet but looks amazing). Also they gave us complimentary cookies at the end of our meal -- I'm not a big shortbread cookie fan but it was really nice.
(5)
Tim F.

Best French Toast in town!!! Hands down
(4)
Alan K.

This was a perfect meal, hands down. FOOD QUALITY: Ordered the Mike's Special Scramble, and I could not have asked for a better breakfast. Prosciutto, roasted garlic, fresh tomatoes, basil, and provolone cheese scramble served with toast and perfectly seasoned potatoes. I repeat: perfectly seasoned potatoes. You don't have to add ketchup to it at all. Bite into the scramble you taste the rich creaminess of the provolone cheese with a subtle sweetness and tones of savory that then links with the egg's sweet+saltiness and the prosciutto+garlic savoriness & saltiness. Then there's that very light bitterness from the basil. It's balanced. The flavors meld and link all together into that perfect bite .. especially when you eat that potato because you get that salt and pepper spice plus a dense texture to offset the lightness of the egg. Then there's your crunchy toast, which you can add a seemingly homemade jelly (with a consistency as if honey was mixed in with the jelly to make it a thick semi-syrup) to give you that strong sweetness. SERVICE: Service was great! I could say that about all of portland because.. well .. they're generally friendly people. Filled up water without having to ask, checked to see if we needed anything, etc. I probably couldn't have asked for anything more. ENVIRONMENT: Sat outside, but inside has a lot of seats for many to sit in. The only problem is that it seems the restaurant gets filled up all the time ... Overall, I'll be back to eat more of this if I ever find myself in Portland again since this was the best meal I've eaten here. Yum! Must go.
(5)
Troy N.

Always very busy so expect a wait. If you're solo you can usually get a seat at the bar if you don't mind elbows and lots of traffic around you. Had the eggs Benedict which was good but not the best I've had.
(3)
Bob M.

Mothers for breakfast, trying to impress the Boy from Cali. He was, I was not. I had to toss him on his train so we had to get in and out quick and they took care of our need for speed, which was very nice. We ate at the bar and had great service even if though the restaurant was slammed. He had the lox and bagel. I told him there was a bird flying through the restaurant and stole a bite while he wasn't looking; the lox was wonderful! I had the special omelet. It was quite disappointing. The different meats that were the filling seemed overcooked or floated too long. It had the consistency close to jerky. The omelet seemed like an egg pancake rather than a proper soft egg mixture. The toast was more of a melba toast sort of thing. The homemade jam was incredibly good. If this was a little diner, I suppose it would have been an OK breakfast. From Mother's on a busy day, I would have expected much more than this. I have had much better than this before. Perhaps Mother just wasn't in a good mood.
(2)
Joel T.

One of the first great restaurants I ate at after moving to Portland. I've never had a bad time at Mother's Bistro. Excellent comfort good that I've gotten for brunch and lunch on many occasions. It can be busy but is absolutely worth the half hour wait. You can call in a take out order and eat it in your car to speed things up. You'll still love everything about it, I promise. Get the French press at your table if you're a coffee fan. Get anything from the menu if you're a food fan. I haven't been back in a while as I've been trying the plethora of other brunch spots around town but plan to soon!
(5)
Crystal B.

The food was delicious and the portions were huge (we had blueberry pancakes and an egg scramble) and I also liked the decor of Mother's. One thing that made me take off two stars was the service of the bar staff. The were extremely rude when I first arrived alone and wanted to grab a bar stool. Of course the place was packed and I understood their frustrations, but one of the ladies at the bar snapped at me that I had to first ask everyone waiting in line by the windows if they were going to sit in the seat I walked up to. I didn't realize I was working for her... Then to make matters worse, after someone came to join me and the man next to me was literally already getting up from his seat, she snapped at me again saying seats for a party of two can't be had that way. Again, I understand wholeheartedly that they were packed, but I come from a family who owns restaurants and I don't like being treated that way. The three stars here is definitely for great food, but the bar lady needed some sweet sugar that morning.
(3)
Jan E.

A very busy place on a Saturday.. I ordered chicken Bento. The chicken breast was dry. Don't know that it's a place I would return to for the price. $12 for chicken, broccoli and a scoop of rice. Could have probably gotten a better deal at Sat. Market.
(3)
Stacy C.

Went once, havent been back. Perhaps an off day? Listed on PDX best mac n cheese list. nope. not even close. Cheese soup.
(1)
Lynne S.

Mother's has breakfast down to a science. As they will tell you, after 14 years, they have nailed down the art of serving delicious food to crowds of people without compromising quality. The pancakes are totally amazeballs, and chances are that there's a daily special pancake that you're missing if you're only looking at the regular menu. In summer, look out for the marionberry ones--they are totally out of this world. Also of note is the French toast, and if you skip the pork sausages or the chicken and apple sausages, you are losing out, my friend. Don't even get me started on the french-press coffee. They are great with accommodating any dietary issue you might have, and are happy to provide recommendations. I cannot recommend Mother's highly enough. If you are doubting it, just come! You will not regret it.
(5)
Cindu M.

I know it's called mother's but it really did feel as comforting as eating at my moms. fresh preserves, fresh juice, tea the way I like it and of course great food. The hollandaise on the eggs Benedict was creamy and delicious and the seasoning on their potatoes was really good. The building is beautiful- from the Victorian era. Staff was very attentive despite being so busy.
(5)
Amy Y.

We were told by both our waiter and Yelp that the things to get are the salmon hash and the biscuits and gravy, so obviously we got both. I was so so so excited for the salmon hash - when I read the description, it had my name all over it. It was unbelievably disappointing - probably the most flavorless, bland food I've ever had. Needed tons of hot sauce which improved it. However, the biscuits and gravy is probably the best biscuits and gravy I've ever tasted. The gravy is thick and savory and NOT full of cream like most other gravies are. Highly recommend this dish. Oh, and the Bloody Marys are super super spicy/peppery - you've been warned.
(3)
Liz K.

Everything was so good! Oh lawd. We had crunchy french toast and biscuits and gravy and the giant manmosas. Everything was amazing and the food was quick. I almost wish they took longer to make the food because I just wanted to stay longer!!! Thank you mother for being amazing.
(5)
Jason T.

I love a good hash dish, and the wild salmon hash was just heavenly. I got it with light cream (sensitive stomach) did not take away from the flavor at all. Also got over-medium eggs and they were just right. Our server Jason boxed up our leftovers and even provided to-go cups for what we had left of our coffee/tea. He said "we love to serve!" And I can tell. Will definitely return!
(4)
My L.

My friend really wanted to go here for brunch on our last day in Portland. I loved the decor, the chandeliers were a nice glam touch and it was awesome to hear Smashing Pumpkins in the background. The staff was really nice and the food is tasty as well. I had a fritata with some potatoes. Both were yums. My friend enjoyed her food as well, go early because a line forms at the door around an hour after it opens.
(4)
Christina L.

Brocade wallpaper, embroidered drapes, exposed brick walls, vintage mirrors, and dusty chandeliers all add to the decor. This bistro and bar offers plenty to see while you wait for your table. The dessert display at the entrance also invites the eye. L and I waited about 10 minutes to be seated around 9a on a Saturday. Water and coffee is available in the waiting room, but coffee is added to your final bill. The only "bad seat" I saw would be the table closest to the restrooms, but all other tables (at the bar, near the bar, by the window, outside the window) all offered a good vantage point. We liked the half booth/table we got across from the bar, as we had extra room to sit next to or across from each other. For drinks, we had the persephone (pomegranate and asti) and a bloody mary. Both drinks were well-made and delicious, the first a sweet alternative to a mimosa, and the second with a strong, spicy kick. Note: the drink menu is a separate menu available in the condiment caddy on the side of or in the middle of your table. Both the salmon hash and portabello scramble came with slices of toast, which we smothered with the pot of marionberry jam. That local jam on each table was heavenly. Definitely help yourself to it! The hash was 70% potato and 30% salmon, coated in a leek-based cream sauce. I wish it had more salmon, as every piece I found was delicious but left me wanting more. After a while, the surplus of potatoes made me feel full yet unsatisfied. The eggs (scrambled) were fine. L asked to have a substitute for her potatoes, and our server could only offer sliced tomatoes for an extra $1. The tomatoes were all right. It would have been nice if they could offer fruit or a vegetable instead. The omelette itself was very dense and cheesy. Neither of us were able to finish it, though we found the mushrooms and spinach a nice change from the potatoes and salmon on my dish. Perhaps we ordered wrong, but we found both dishes a bit too heavy and greasy, particularly with their plentiful portions. Should I return to Portland, I might try their french toast or their biscuits and gravy or opt for drinks only.
(3)
Jenny H.

I'm from California and was told this is the place to go when you're in Portland. I went here with my bf during brunch and the wait was no bad at all. The services here are excellent and the place has a nice elegant feel to it. I don't remember the name of the order that I got but it was a house bagel with smoked salmon, tomatoes and onions. It was delicious! The second visit around I got 2 sunny side up eggs with toast, hash, and bacon. Both meals and visit was right on point. I also ordered a vanilla latte there. I usually don't drink coffee but this place is an exception. Their latte is just right, just creamy and not too strong for me. At the end of your check they give you a cute post card for your visit.
(5)
Danielle A.

For the wait, I can't forgive. My family and I waited on a Friday morning for approximately 45 minutes to get seated. THEN after we ordered, we waited another 40 minutes for food. Yes, it tasted good, but not for the wait time. My parents got so hungry, they ate a cheesesteak at a stand down the street while we waited. The service was abysmal too. I understand that you're busy, but maybe the restaurant should employ more staff? The waitress was nice enough, from what I remember. Honestly, she moved so fast, I remember her as a blur.
(2)
Julianna I.

Reviews said coming here was a must, so like good tourists we obliged. We came mid day for brunch. Food: I am on a diet so I had the meatloaf sandwich-no mayo. And I guess no Love either because the sandwich was so plane. The salad was good and got me considering adding feta and cranberries to my own salad BUT I don't think the swap from pasta salad to real salad should cost $4 Price: they are clever. Everything is $x.99 so you aren't angry bc everything is only a couple bucks more for substitution but we usually only pay attention to the first number and don't realize the .99 is another dollar! A couple substitutions later and you might as well have bought another meal Environment: maybe this was a one off but we sat next to a mothers group or a mommy and me play date. So we sat by a lot of loud and compliany moms and their rowdy children. Seriously when they left,the level of stress in my body drastically dropped. Cookies: de-licious
(3)
Vivian K.

The wait was only 20 mins on a late Saturday afternoon, so I was incredibly thankful. The dÃ©cor was beautiful with black and gold wallpaper, mirrors and chandeliers everywhere. We ordered: - Matzoball Soup: I've never had this before but basically tasted like chicken noodle too me. The actual matzo ball was a little too intense for me (all that dough). But the soup itself was delicious and came with shredded chicken. - Cuban Sandwhich: So GOOD! Half was perfectly filling for me. - Fried Ravioli: First time I've ever had this dish and I think I may like this better than regular ravioli. Frying it gives it a great texture and crunch. The tomato sauce it came with to dip was AMAZING. I loved this beautiful brunch place. All the dishes were delicious and at a great price! PS. Loved both their slogans 1. Call your mother 2. Spooning leads to forking so use lots of condiments
(4)
Kinjal N.

Downright good home style cooking but with a flare for sure. I love the black and gold wallpaper and chandeliers too. It gives it so much pizzaz. Do try their waffles - they are crunchy on the outside and oh so soft on the inside. They have different kinds everyday. So so yum! A Portland definite!
(5)
Stephen S.

Lots to criticize about this place. They seem to have an arrogance about being successful that didn't sit well with me. We had 1 1/2 hrs. to eat before returning to our conference. We waited about 45 min. When we asked them how things were progressing, they were snotty in their answer. Finally seated, I looked at the menu. I'm gluten free. To order a sandwich required an extra dollar for each slice of gluten free bread (making my $8.50 sandwich now $10.50). Their side dish was a pasta salad. I explained that I was gluten free and asked if they could substitute fries. They could--for an extra $3!! It took over 30 min. to get our food guaranteeing that we would be late. I think you get the idea.
(1)
Gabriela S.

I have to say fr the time we walked in until the time we left everything was fantastic. I love the decor- tall ceilings, wall paper, drapes, cool nick-knacks- def a thought out plan and it works. Staff- friendly and attentive- we sat at the bar as did not want to wait for a table even at 8am line out the door (and I am not surprised). Bartender was knowledgeable and kept checking on us at all times. Never had to ask for refill. Ordered sausage gravy over biscuits and salmon hash both came with two eggs any style. The food was out of this world the portions huge! You do wait little longer than normal bfast place but it is worth it. Prices are very reasonable for the size of the portions and quality of food. When back in Portland we will definitely return.
(5)
D P.

WE LOVE MOTHER'S and don't even mind waiting for it. We take all PDX newbies to Mother's for brunch. Great food and great drinks.
(5)
craig s.

Fantastic breakfast! It took some work to find a great breakfast spot, and this is it. Great food, great service, very friendly, and wonderful decor. This is quite the happening place! Everyone seemed to be in great mood (customers and staff). We both had Mike's special scramble, and it was delicious. Walking out, we had to get the large cookies for dessert, which were also great. We had a few minutes to wait at 9 am on Friday, but the place was packed, and the wait seemed to be 10-15 minutes by 10 am.
(5)
anissa b.

Really cute spot in Downtown PDX. Wait can be while because it gets crowded, but they will text you she you're table is ready. I had the Salmon Hash which was AMAZING! Recommend getting it for sure! My boyfriend had Lorraine's Frittata which had caramelized onions, bacon, and cheese. The frittata was huge, could be shared between two. Best discovery was the Marionberry Jam! It's like crack...! So good!
(4)
Curtis C.

Had a great brunch recently to celebrate a friend's birthday. I lived downtown for years and never tried out Mother's as it was always too crowded. Well, we planned ahead and got there early so we didn't have a problem getting a table for 6. The waitress was awesome, and super efficient. We had a variety of dishes, and all shared so I got to try the Migas, omelet, fritatta, and biscuits and gravy. Everything was really tasty. Oh, and the birthday boy got the crunchy French toast which was killer! I'm glad I finally got to check this place out. Next time I want to try out the lunch menu!
(4)
Andrew H.

Overview: Mother's Restaurant is the place that you may have seen in one of the earliest episodes of Portlandia where they find out if the chicken served here has been ethically raised. Establishment: Dimly lit, suitable for both couples and large groups. Lots of different rooms keeps things cozy. Great location just west of the Willamette river. Mom themed. Lots of people bring their mom. It's cute. Food: I ordered the cod dinner special which was served with spinach and rice. Exceptionally flavorful. Portion size was moderate, and enough to satisfy 5'10" guy after said guy ate 3-4 bites of appetizers. Possibly too small if no appetizer is ordered. Service: Very attentive service. Water persistently filled. Very helpful for picking an option. Conclusions: Mother's Restaurant is a pretty standard American restaurant without too many out of the box items that will hit the spot if you're in for food that reminds you of your mom's cooking.
(4)
Stacie D.

This restaurant is a must for brunch! My husband and I agreed that it was the best we've ever had. I ordered the biscuits and gravy with eggs. I ordered the gravy on the side which they forgot but was ok with me after I tasted the deliciousness! I ordered a side of their red potatoes and they were so soft and tasty I was very impressed. To me red potatoes are always on the hard side and tasteless but they were so yummy. My husband ordered the scramble. It was really really good. We sat at the bar and were eying the mans cinnamon roll that was sitting next to us. We asked him how it was and he offered us a bite! Oregon people are super nice. We took a slice and it was soooo delicious. I mean melt in your mouth sweet sugary heaven! The atmosphere here is super cute and the wait staff is very nice and attentive. Like I said we sat at the bar and the bar staff was on it! Looked like a team effort and you could tell their number one priority was the customer.
(5)
Bran K.

Mikes special is amazing, we'll definitely be back for more! Visiting Portland for a week and Mothers was the highlight of the trip.
(5)
Sarah F.

An afternoon of shopping left my husband and I hungry. We had our 2 year old in tow and wanted a nice meal. Searching for "kid friendly" restaurants Mothers Place kept popping up as the place to go. So mid afternoon we parked and went. At first approaching our feel was this is NOT a kid friendly place, and it isn't. If you have small ones you know the experience of entertaining, feeding and enjoying a meal is a hardship when you're not in your comfort zone. My kid went bananas. There were mirrored walls to smear food on, places to run, a paper kids menu and some balls on wire to keep her occupied. Nothing out of the ordinary of any restaurant. The biggest problem was the tiny table we were seated at, it was intended to seat 4 but barely fit the 2 of us and a child. The food was okay. My turkey sandwich was on the severely dry side of the turkey world, macaroni salad came with it. I have never been a huge fan of macaroni salad, and theirs furthered my opinion, as I am never going to like macaroni drenched in relish and mayo. Not appetizing. Maybe the food is home-style Midwestern? My Kansas bred husband confirmed it was not his favorite either. He had a tuna sandwich, which was typical shredded tuna and mayo. He did not care for his sandwich either. We did hear this is quite the place to hit up for breakfast. We might return for a breakfast sometime, hopefully there will be more kids at that time and our kids will be more entertained or asleep.
(2)
Jonah K.

Eh! I guess I didn't see what the big deal is. Sure, the food was good, but nothing special. Service was decent, if slow -- granted, it was a Sunday morning, so I can't be too picky. Don't go on a weekend morning and you'll probably be fine. The salmon hash was good but not as earth-shattering as I had heard. Bonus points given for the coffee that is available while you wait.
(3)
Carrie C.

I've hit the mother lode of biscuit-dom!! Yowza. They give you these things at the start of your meal, and truly - I could have just had a couple of biscuits with some honey and butter and been totally happy. I was here for dinner, but I'm champing at the bit now to return for a leisurely breakfast. For dinner I had the chopped liver (pate) to start and steak frites, which was a massive ribeye. The liver was good - although I think I would have liked it with baguette slices instead of crackers. And maybe a touch of garlic to jazz things up just a wee bit. It was quite tasty however. My steak was delish. And huge. No was was I going to finish it. Fries were super crispy and nice and thin so they had a nice ratio of crispy bits. I am not a fan of fat fries which just end up being mealy I think. But I digress. The steak is a good value. I was not left with a single bit of room for desert however, which was a mistake. The beautiful display case of baked goods when you walk in is very very enticing and makes you want to just skip the dinner entirely and go for the goodies. Well, and a biscuit. The atmosphere was sort of cafÃ© cozy/eclectic French bistro and the service was excellent. Attentive without being overbearing. I'll also add that the wine list was quite nice and my server was very helpful with finding something I'd like - not hard to do in Oregon, but still. Love this place and can't wait to come again!!
(5)
Brown D.

We arrived and parked right out front. Comparing this city to San Francisco for parking 10 out of 10 San Fran 1-10. This place is very cozy and quant. Awesome old school boutique farm kitchen but with classy fancy chandeliers. But anyways arrived here and walked right in at 515 to the bar cocktail lounge. We put our names in for the seating were sat promptly at 530. Pleasant and knowledgeable Hostess who sat us. The Waiter was at our table within seconds for drinks. He brought out some amazing dinner rolls with soft butter. Drinks came and then our amazing appetizers. Dinner was amazing and so was the desserts. We will be back. Reminder or recommendation is this place fills up fast so make sure to arrive before 530.
(5)
Betty S.

I went here for lunch and had the pulled pork sandwich. It was dry and had a bitter after taste. I asked for bbq sauce to cover it. The complimentary cookie after lunch was too dry to eat. The creme brule was ok, but not great.
(2)
Monica L.

Omg! Eggs Benedict were delicious!!!! Gets really full, so expect to wait some time. Definitely coming back
(4)
Sandee T.

Mother of goodness... Long wait on a Saturday. Our solution? Put name down for the 45-60 minute wait, walk leisurely to Stumptown coffee on Stark, imbibe our java, walk leisurely back, oh our table is ready? Lovely. * GET - Pulled pork poblano omelette = One of the day's specials, spicy goodness! * GET - Proscuitto eggs scramble = Omg. SOO good! Added biscuit on the side. * GET - Had we known they served Stumptown as a staple here, we probably wouldn't have walked to cafe earlier. No matter! * YES - Very extensive menu. * YES - Friendly service. We told them we were in a time crunch to make our flight; no matter, our food still came out fast anyways. * WOA: - Two large rooms: one more darker & ornate on bar side. Brighter & more open on left side. We were automatically seated on the latter; cute chandeliers. - Sidewalk seating, great for sunny days. Worth the wait.
(4)
Brian S.

If you can get in for breakfast, the place is fantastic so it is best to stop by early on a weekday morning. This morning I had the Tofu Hash which I topped with pepper jack cheese. Oh my god, was it delicious. Everything was perfectly cooked with lots of potatoes, tofu, fresh spinach, mushrooms, tomatoes, and more. It was a nice size serving so I even got to bring some home as well. My girlfriend had the special omelette (three little pigs featuring 3 kinds of pork), which was served with roasted potatoes. She liked hers a lot as well.
(5)
Josie H.

I absolutely love the fact lots of restaurants in Portland have a first come first serve at the bar gets a seat and you can order real meals there too! We ended up getting the french toast and the mushroom omelet. Both were divine and best part was we didn't have to wait in a long ling because we managed to grabbed a seat at the bar! I do love their waiting list text option. Texting you with updated times and when your table is ready! More restaurants should adopt this!
(5)
Kim N.

Best breakfast food I've ever had. But the line is super, and I meant super long. Thats why I am giving it only 4 stars. It is super long that it would take easily 1 hour to get a table!
(4)
Dianna D.

Stopped by here for brunch at around 1PM Saturday. There was about a 15 minute wait. The hostess takes your name and number and they will call you when your table is ready. I had the special which was eggs benedict. I've had better. The hollandaise sauce was too rich and kind of sour. The potatoes were good though. My friends had the blueberry pancakes and the frittata and they both enjoyed it. Service was good and attentive.
(3)
Kelly J.

We had an amazing breakfast here! The place is huge and packed. We waited nearly an hour to be seated and it was worth it. Had awesome service from Erica who kept the cocktails flowing and that's always a most excellent way to start off the day in my book! We shared a few dishes that were excellent. Fried chicken over biscuits and gravy. Things I only eat when I'm on vacation and it's my birthday. Seriously. It's just too decadent otherwise. Another dish was a basil pesto scramble with apple chicken sausage that was incredible. I hardly knew what to take a bite of next. Their drinks are nothing short of spectacular. BF had a manmosa, which is really just mimosa in a big ass beer glass. It was delicious! I downed a couple greyhounds made with fresh ruby red texas grapefruits as well as a grapefruit infused vodka. Bliss!
(5)
Andy O.

Cornbeef hash wasn't on the menu but I was craving it! So I happened to ask the waitress and the made it for me. It was awesome! Definitely made from scratch and had huge potatoes, spinach, and corned beef.... Definitely somewhere I would recommend! Short walk from the hotel to see parts of downtown as well!
(5)
Kathleen N.

5 minute wait to be seated, 20 minute wait for food on a weekday at around 10:30 am (Breakfast ends at 11:30 am). I am a usual brunch goer and this is easily one the best. Clean restaurant with a great atmosphere. I had the Pork Apple sausage with potatoes and 2 slices of whole wheat bread. I finished my plate with a few chunks of potatoes and a slice of bread left but I would have been just as happy if I split the portion with someone. 4 stars because of the wait but would definitely come again.
(4)
Kristy N.

This wasn't my first trip to Portland but this was my first trip to Mother's! My family and I walked in and they said it was a 15 minute wait and that they can't seat us until our whole unit was there. No problem because we were all there anyways. We went on a weekday at 9:30 am and it turned out to be a 5 minute wait! The server was quick and attentive. Within minutes of sitting down, we ordered the Denver omelette, Mike's special scramble, and pork apple sausage scramble. The wait for the food was a bit longer than I would have wanted but the food was great! The portions were big and all plates came with wedged potatoes and two slices of wheat bread. (If you don't want wheat, you have the options of white or rye bread). I heard that the wait could be up to 90 minutes and tried to make a reservation but they do NOT make same day reservations. Location/ Parking: Location is in downtown Portland and nearby street parking is $1.60/ hour (maximum time is 90 minutes). There were a few parking garages nearby as well. It is just a block away from the Portland's waterfront!
(4)
Briana R.

I haven't been able to get near here for brunch so this is a review of dinner. Which is amazing. From the biscuits they serve when you sit down to the specials to the classics (chicken and dumplings anyone?) this place deserves the hype. If you don't feel like fighting off the brunch crowded, don't be afraid to come here for the dinner menu
(5)
Andy K.

By far my favorite restaurant experience from my Portland trip. Mother's Bistro is the perfect combination of great food and Portland's unique quirkiness. First off, it's great that the restaurant texts you when your table is ready. If you need more time, you can text back and get an extension. Super great for us busy tourists. Once we were seated, our awesome waiter (forgot his name but he just moved to Portland from Michigan) was so patient and gave us great advice on what to order. My order (all of which I recommend): - Salmon scramble with breakfast potatoes and whipped cream cheese. TO DIE FOR. Seriously..order it. Also, ask for their homemade berry jam for your toast. - Stumptown Roasters coffee (simple and delicious) - French Press coffee that we shared at the table. They have a huge selection of beans to choose from and they all sounded great Overall, Mother's Bistro is the perfect brunch spot in Portland. This will be a must the next time I visit that amazing city.
(5)
Marie K.

Amazing biscuits! Delightful and delicious ingredients with authentic flavors and real "home style" tastes. Good vibes and a lovely atmosphere. Highly recommended.
(5)
John L.

What an outstanding restaurant for breakfast. We were warned in advance to get to Mother's early on a weekend since the reservation list is filled up weeks in advance, and while the restaurant reserves tables for walk-ins, it's best to arrive when they open in order to have the best shot at one of the limited number of walk-in tables. The breakfast food was simply delicious. I had a Greek frittata which was huge, and filled with the perfect amount of olives, artichokes and spinach. My goodness was this tasty. I also had a small portion of their oatmeal (which was configurable with your choice of whole, reduced or skim milk) and I'm thankful I had the small portion, because I wouldn't have been able to finish both that and the frittata. Our server suggested that I order the half portion since I also ordered the frittata, and he was absolutely right. My wife ordered a waffle with a side of eggs, and she loved her meal as well. The prices were reasonable, the service was excellent, and the food was stellar. I can't recommend Mother's highly enough - a can't miss while dining in Portland.
(5)
Whitney P.

Great food, moderately priced. Everything I've eaten here has been amazing! The omelets are huge and really fluffy, juice is freshly squeezed, the red breakfast potatoes are cooked to perfection. The homemade fries are addictive. All of the salads are large portions. And the berry cobbler is YUM!!! The cobbler is also enough for 2-3 people to share. Two of my friends said the chair tea is delicious, the best they've ever had. Personally, I don't like chai, so I cannot give my opinion. But the people sitting at the table next to us last time I was there also said the chai was delicious.
(5)
Gee L.

Super food. Super service. Super atmosphere and dÃ©cor. The menu is diverse and everything, for all of us, was spot on. Did I say good service? Because these girls were swamped and they were never to busy to stop by, keep things hot, and of course take our picture...damn tourists! I will not only come back here, but I will recommend this place to anyone. Upscale brunch. Yummy.
(5)
Eddie A.

Greatness! Food was good and prices weren't outrageous. Enjoyed the French press coffee and service was spot on. Can you really ask for more for breakfast in Portland?
(5)
Michelle U.

I've been here twice now- once for Saturday morning brunch and once for happy hour dinner. The brunch was fun- my friend and I ate at the bar. The room was bustling, yet we received attentive and quick service; our coffee and mimosas were served and refilled promptly. I ordered the Crunchy French Toast (thick slices of challah bread, dipped in cornflakes & grilled golden brown, $7.95) and my friend ordered Mike's Special Scramble (with prosciutto ham, roasted garlic, fresh tomatoes, basil & provolone cheese $9.95). I loooooved my crunchy French toast! I'm really into food with a variety of textures and flavors, and this French toast hit the sweet spot, balancing moist and crunchy; sweet and salty. I had a bit of my friend's omelet and boy was that tasty as well. Her omelet dish was pretty massive, and the eggs were cooked nicely. For my second visit to Mother's (with the same friend as mentioned above), I ordered the chicken and dumplings. O my gosh, the chicken and dumplings were incredibly rich and delicious, but it was the complimentary biscuits that really wowed me. I can confidently say that these biscuits were the best biscuits I've ever had. I mean, the "free" aspect may have contributed to my affinity for them, but even still, they were perfectly dense and buttery. I love a good biscuit. Aside from the food, the ambiance here was very comfortable and lounge-y. I really dug it, and my friend I were able to linger here for a few hours without any trouble. All in all, Mother's is a good experience. The food is a bit pricey and non-adventurous, but it's reliably tasty and the in a great setting.
(5)
Frith P.

Made reservations for 4 for my moms 77th birthday. My parents came from out of town specifically for her b-day so I wanted to do something special-I let Mothers know when making the reservation what it was for. The staff were friendly at the front check in, waitress was nice but seemed almost too busy. I almost felt "rushed" the entire time, thought that maybe some acknowledgement of my moms b-day: nope, the food was ok but nothing spectacular. I had heard such raves about this place so it was a disappointment. I could have gone elsewhere, been more relaxed AND not had to pay for parking. Not quite sure what all the hype was about. Disappointing on what I had thought would be a special time out for my mom.
(3)
Jessica K.

Mother's is a Portland institution. Deliciousness at any hour. My favorite time to come is for breakfast. They are also one of the few places in town that take reservations for breakfast which I find amazing and makes me love them all the more. Start your morning off there right with some Stumptown coffee. Or...Go for the house bloody Mary. It's ahmazing! The house-infused jalapeno vodka adds a nice heat, but is not overwhelming. The breakfast nachos are a solid choice. On special we have had some incredible hash and once some lemon poppyseed pancakes. Of the regular offerings, I've always been a fan of their meatloaf. For the love of God, don't leave without trying their Devil's food cake-it's crazy good. The prices are actually really affordable. I really like bringing visitors here because the service is always outstanding. When I drafted this review forever ago we had been waited on by a wonderful guy named Jason. We all wanted to bring him with us on our adventures that day. No seriously, we wanted to keep him. Oh and while checking the menu to see if they still had the things we had on special forever go? I discovered they do happy hour. Happy hour! WITH DEVILED EGGS. Oh yes, I will be there soon for HH!
(5)
Lee M.

As if this place needs another this place is amazing review ... but OMG, D-E-L-I-C-I-O-U-S!!!!! Believe the hype and deal with the wait. It is worth it! We only had a 30 minute wait as a walk in pair so it was not bad. The tables are intimate (close seating) and the decor very unique. The service here is top notch, five star, just WONDERFUL and so is the food. I had the famous French toast but more importantly the dessert. The chocolate cake was DELICIOUS!! It is large enough for 2-3 people. I had it all though - but over a course of two days. Yes I savored it and it kept well in the fridge. After my first bite I practically floated to the ceiling each time. I wanted to pick up the plate and kiss the cake but I refrained. I think I may have dreamed about the cake. I'm still thinking about it days later. Jordan was the best and the others who helped with service (refill water, remove/drop off plates) were just as nice. I loved that Jordan asked if it was our first visit (it was) and have us a little education/recommendations on the favorites and her opinion. She was very, very sweet and personable. I plan on dining here during each trip to Portland. I am a fan. Did I mention they have chocolate cake? LOL I highly recommend it.
(5)
Ad G.

Arrived for dinner about an hour before closing. Staff did not rush and I noticed people arriving closure to closing and it's was not an issue. My waiter was excellent actually the entire staff was courtesy and very helpful. I had the Chicken and Dumplings OMG!!!!! a must :). They had great flavor and very warm straight out the kitchen. I highly recommend Mother Bistro if you like good food and customer service this is your place. Parking is self pay in a lot across $5.
(5)
Jessica M.

I am a big breakfast fan and cam confidently say this is one of the best places I've ever visited. The service is warm, genuine, and hysterical. The venue is charming and unique, location is pedestrian friendly and the food is unforgettable. Try the French Toast, sprinkle it with some lemon, and get a side of bacon to go with it. ... you're welcome! I Ordered the eggs Benedict and they were good, but I didn't fall in love like I hoped I would. If you have a favorite eggs Benny place where you've already fallen in love, you may be just a little disappointed. They are good, no doubt, but came with a side dish of hype from our hotel concierge and our waiter.
(5)
Sara C.

You might be surprised to know I fully endorse this, what with its average reviews but you know what - sometimes average is awesome. I knew my mother would love it and she did. A casual cafÃ© set-up with a wide ranging menu boasting a host of classic breakfast goodies. Served in good time and with a genuine smile.
(4)
Debbie L.

It's been a long time since I was at Mother's and since then, the whole brunch explosion has been under way. I need to go back but as I recall, the food was nice but it was lunch and I'm dying to go back for brunch! I hear nothing but good things about Mothers and it's a great place for larger parties and groups going in for a meal. Great location and nice that downtown has this space!
(3)
Christine S.

Great food. Service was quick and great. Everything was delicious. Definitely recommended. My cheddar macaroni and cheese was the best macaroni and cheese I have ever had. They also have a little menu that was where you could try half orders of food, which is convenient if you want to try different things.
(5)
Sean S.

Mother's is a great place for breakfast in PDX. The biscuits and gravy are the best I have ever ever had in my life and I never ordered anything else when I came in for some food. Having said that, the wait is terrible. I would recommend making a reservation before coming a day or two before. This cuts your wait time down a lot. Avoid weekends as well because it is really just insane to get in to eat. The service is off and on here as well. A couple of times we had great service, other times it took forever to get our drinks. The service men and women also sometimes act rude and snotty. Maybe it was just the way they communicated with us, but that was how I took it.
(4)
Massimo O.

Sorry, I hate to write bad reviews ! But was a disaster! Long line, awful service, the waitress spilled a whole hot chocolate drink ( on my IPhone 6) and table while picking up the menus . Accidentally I understand but not after a water bath from the previous server . Very very sloppy!!! I honestly don't even remember the food, so certainly I was not impressed. Sorry Mother but was bad, a suggestion " Take care of the clientele that help you built your reputation ".
(2)
Ryan E.

Still overly crowded, and their crowd control/waiting lacks severely, but the service and food is spot on. There are craptons of brunch spots in Portland, but the reputation for quality here holds up. I'd give it 5 stars - and come monthly - if they 86'd a few tables to make more room, but they clearly are enjoying the spoils and profits of being a tourist spot and head of class,thus they cram you in like sardines.. I get it. Even still, the servers give 'A' effort, despite dodging slick floors, too many tables, and kids running about in the midst of taking orders and delivering food. Yay for good servers in Portland!
(4)
Amie L.

My recommendation: Strawberry French Toast This was a must-visit spot for me on my second trip to Portland! The first time my taste buds met Mother's Strawberry French Toast, it was magic! I came home raving about this breakfast dish for years, and no one understood! So in my next trip to Portland, we made brunch reservations a week in advance and had a wonderful brunch with friends! This time the French toast was delicious, but a little bit on the super sweet side for me since it comes with four giant slices. This is a good plate to share to balance out the sweetness!
(4)
John H.

One of the two or three best breakfasts I've ever had. High ceilings and music at the right volume let you carry on a conversation but still hear the waitress singing as she hurries back and forth. Servers tag team you so your Bloody Mary is refilled stat. Salmon hash is worth a sixth star. Even the jam on the table is top notch. Run don't walk to brunch here.
(5)
John T.

Great food, amazing service. Has a look and feel of a small diner but it's freaking huge! I recommend the biscuits and gravy. The staff are super friendly. Be prepared to wait but they seat people quickly.
(4)
Mark M.

After arriving to Mother's a bit before 10am on a Saturday and finding a line out the door and down the block, I was not enthused. How could breakfast food be THIS good? Nearly two hours later, as we were being seated, I was convinced that the reputation was at least partially based on the idea that ANY food would taste incredible when you're this hungry. Nevertheless, Mother's impressed. Our waiter worked with our desire to try a few dishes, and we combined a Belgian waffle with blueberry pancakes and a roasted pepper and goat cheese omelet. The waffle was perhaps the best I've eaten. Crispy on the outside and airy and light on the inside. The pancakes were quite good, and the omelet didn't disappoint. Overall, this is a great breakfast option, but only if you make a reservation or are willing to check in and wait at least an hour (they will text you a few minutes before your table is ready, so use the time to go around the corner to Stumptown Coffee Roasters to grab a great coffee while you wait). Would definitely return to Mother's but will come prepared for a long wait.
(4)
David L.

Our visit to Mother's had some highlights and a slight disappointment as well. When we were seated, we were both given menus and I ordered the Salmon Hash and my wife ordered the Portabella Mushroom Scramble. It wasn't until after we had ordered, that we noticed that some of the patrons being seated near us were also receiving a small piece of paper that had the daily specials listed on them (I dock them one-star for not giving us a specials menu). The freshly squeezed orange juice we ordered was quite refreshing, and we were both pleased with the dishes we ordered. The food portions were quite generous, and looking back...we probably should have just ordered one entree and split it between the two of us. I liked the Salmon Hash better than the Portabella Mushroom Scramble -- the salmon was really fresh and I liked the way the ingredients came together. I felt the Portbella Mushroom Scramble seemed more "forced" as far as the ingredients were concerned and the potatoes were a little dry.
(3)
Dominique R.

So, this review is for the dinner service. Mother' Bistro is adorable, I loved the decor and the staff was very friendly and helpful. I ordered the fried chicken with a side of the mac du jour. I gotta say, the chicken did not impress me. It was big though which was nice. However, the breading didn't 'stick' to the chicken and while it was tender and moist inside, it didn't really do it for me. Mac was good though and my dining mates' food looked great.
(4)
Magen M.

I actually had dinner here the night of my high school prom. The hostess and waitress were both very accommodating and friendly. I absolutely love the decor! It was a mix between vintage, classy and casual. I was actually surprised at how casual it was, which is neither good nor bad. I've heard amazing things about their breakfast/brunch and am very interested in trying it. However, the dinner menu that I experienced was a bit disjointed. Everything our table ordered was decent flavor & preparation wise, it's just a little strange to have a salmon & wild rice entree with a milkshake. Plus, the salmon was served on a lunch tray which was also kind of a turn off. I would definitely try their breakfast but the dinner menu is pretty ordinary & there are much better options.
(3)
Jocelyn L.

My bf and I chose this place semi-last minute since another one of our breakfast choice places was closed on Thursday morning. This one was open, and the menu looked great too. So it was a winner! I ate the Salmon Hash (with leeks, potatoes & a touch of cream, served with two eggs any style). It was wonderful - lots of chunks of salmon that went really well with the potatoes. I also liked it because you never really hear of a salmon hash as a menu option. It's always corned beef or veggie hash - salmon was a nice, and delicious, twist on things. Not only that, it was super filling. I was stuffed! I thought it was worth it for $12.95. My bf enjoyed his Mike's Special Scramble as well (prosciutto ham, roasted garlic, fresh tomatoes, basil & provolone cheese, $9.95). I loved it too - good saltiness from the proscuitto and just yummy with all the veggies. Service was a little slow, but it was fine. Great place to snuggle up with a book and cup of tea on a rainy day, and be lazy.
(4)
Ryan S.

Went here the other day with my parent's who were visiting from the midwest and was impressed overall. They usually aren't into adventurous stuff, having simple midwestern sensibilities and humble palates, so I chose this place because it seemed like something they might like that wasn't Denny's. I got Mike's Scramble, which had prosciutto, basil, tomatoes, garlic, and provolone cheese. It was really good, the texture was creamy but it wasn't super heavy. My dad got the french toast which had some sort of cornflake crust and was made with challah bread. It was super dense, kind of like a Faulkner novel but more enjoyable. My mom got the biscuits and gravy which were outstanding. The biscuits were fluffy and unique, I've never had anything similar but they were definitely delicious and my favorite item on the menu that I tried. They also had a wide selection of different coffees which I appreciated. Service was good, very prompt and efficient. The place was pretty noisy and bustling, so not a great choice if you are looking for a relaxed, quiet atmosphere. Overall a great offering for brunch if you are fucking around downtown.
(4)
Kaitlin M.

Man, if I could get brunch here every day I would! I have absolutely loved every omelette I have had here. My favorite is the mushroom one with cheese. It's the perfect balance of earthy and salty! And the roasted potatoes on the side are not drenched in butter. They are browned well, in olive and seasoning! Love it! We sit at the bar because it's way to long of a wait for a table and the bartenders are pretty attentive despite the amount of drinks they have to crank out. Which takes me to my love of their spicy Bloody Mary's and amazingly rich, not bitter coffee. If you can't tell... I Love Mother's. Go... and satisfy your tastebuds and stomach!
(5)
Ashley E.

So the wait was a little long but I understand why since the food is so good. I was torn between the mac & cheese and the crab cake sandwich, the waiter made it easy for me when he said he could do a small portion of the mac & cheese with the sandwich instead of the other side that came with the sandwich. He recommended a great coffee for our group and really made our dining experience great, even though some of us were a little grumpy for having to wait so long to eat, which made up for the wait. I would come back just because of the service, but the food is definitely delicious as well!
(4)
Mar E.

The best scramble eggs I've ever had!!!! I felt like home! It was like grandmas was cooking breakfast for me!! Great atmosphere, very attentive service (with jokes included) and fabulous vintage decoration. A great place to feel like home!
(5)
Gennie H.

Mother's Eggs Benedict is my breakfast soulmate. When it is time to reconnect, a group of friends and live out our fancy lady brunch lives. Their menu, which is a decent balance between sweet and savory options. The wait for brunch is usually a tad long, but they'll call when a table is ready, then you simply frolic back in that direction. Service is always spot on (meaning my coffee cup never empties.) Food is always delicious and worthy of the wait and hype.
(5)
Nathan T.

Ooooooh. The best mother I've ever had is Mother's. Hahahahahahaha. No. Seriously. Super nice and friendly staff who are always helpful. Really good press coffee and delicious brunch options. Interesting decor and cool location right at the edge of downtown, so parking hunting isn't that troubling!
(5)
Kauri V.

Super delicious, however a tad expensive for me to be a regular- but definitely good for a special occasion!
(4)
Chris L.

Came for the MANmosa... came out asking for a bottle of champagne because the MANmosa was JUST orange juice. HUGE disappointment. If we ever return we are ordering 4 orange juices and two $20 bottles of Champagne. It's a better deal. Brunch food? So so so so so so so basic and not worth the wait.
(3)
Naomi Y.

Meh. The food was good, but nothing special. The decor was cute and inviting. The bench seats added a nice "at home" casual feel. There were five us in my dinner party. I took a poll to get a feel for the group's overall opinion and 3 stars about covers it. Service - good, but not great. And we had to ask for coffee a second time (I think the server forgot about it). Bread basket - both the yeast roll and the buttermilk biscuit were hits at the table. Salads - two different salads were ordered: 1) Grilled Portabella mushroom and 2) House salad. Both received rave reviews and thumbs up all around. Salmon bento box - two people ordered this and both said it was less than impressive. It looked like bland, spa food (picture simple steamed veggies, rice, and salmon). Vegan stirfry - two ordered it thai green curry style and one ginger soy. All three agreed it was good, but not great. The curry sauce was delicious, but the raw carrots shredded on top seemed out of place in an otherwise cooked dish. The ginger soy sauced dish included undercooked broccoli. At the end of the day, I'm not sure if any of us would ever go back. We enjoyed the bread basket and salads but not so much the entrees.
(3)
Danielle L.

We walked in, as tourists. We had reservations somewhere else, but after reading the Mother of the Month menu and the regular menu, as we passed by, we cancelled the reservation at the other restaurant. Milkshakes! Delicious. Buttermilk biscuits on the table where other restaurants have bland bread. Delicious. Chicken fried chicken with gravy and smashed potatoes. Delicious. Pulled pork with gravy and smashed potatoes. Delicious. The kids had peanut butter and jelly sandwich - and the chef cut the crusts off for them - and chicken tenders. Delicious. The decor was homey and attractive. Mirrors everywhere, polished hardwoods and rugs, curtains separating different seating areas. Service was friendly and quick, too - but not rushed. If we are back in Portland at some point, we know where to go for a good meal! I've already been telling my friends and family about this place, knowing they're going to be in town shortly.
(4)
Mason S.

Super service, high quality food and great decor. I love the play area as well or should I say my boy did.
(4)
Stefan K.

No idea what the hype is. Food was okay--not bad, not great--just okay. Atmosphere and service werent particularly exciting, either.
(3)
Chris J.

DAMN! Easily some of the best homemade food I've had in a long time. They keyword here is HOMEMADE! These guys make everything in house, even their chocolate cake (which is to die for by the way). The atmosphere is awesome and very kids friendly which we found refreshing since most restaurants aren't very kid friendly. Our waiter was incredibly friendly and attentive. There was 10 of us and not one single person at the entire table had anything bad to say about the food. It was all excellent and very fresh! This is our new favorite spot for sure!
(5)
Kiku R.

The tastiest egg scramble I've ever had. Especially yummy because the eggs were soft and fluffy - cooked to perfection. So for starters the wait was a bit of a wait. We got there right at the lunch rush so no big surprise. Awesome that they take your name and number and then you can wander downtown and they will text or call when they are getting your table ready. We had kids in tow so we took a walk (we had a 40-min wait at noon on a Friday) and headed back when they called. Both kids' and adult portions were great, enough that my husband and I could probably split an entrÃ©e. I got Mike's Scramble. I usually smother my eggs with ketchup but no need here. They were so flavorful and spot on with the cook (soft and tender). Side was huge roasted red potatoes and a piece of toast (gluten free available for $1 extra) and whipped butter. The table caddy has the yummiest strawberry jam in it btw. I forgot to mention that our waiter was excellent. Possibly the best waiting I've had in years at any restaurant. Wished we had room for dessert but we were stuffed. Great food, even better service, great portion sizes, decent prices, great dining space.
(5)
Christine H.

I might be biased since this was my first meal in Portland but I highly recommend Mothers for breakfast. The menu had a good variety instead of the standard egg dishes. We got the salmon hash and balsamic mushroom & spinach omelette with a biscuit. The biscuit was like a dense cake...luckily I was in the mood for something heavy and hearty. As for drinks I enjoyed the Blood Mary; it was spicy, just the way I like it! They also have a full bar And other creative drinks..never too early to drink in Portland
(4)
Bethany K.

TIME&PLACE: Tuesday dinner I've heard about Mother's from both locals and visitors and Yelp alike... and finally had the right chance this past trip to PDX. Went with a group of old friends, a toddler, and a baby, and it was great. FOOD As a vegetarian, limited options considering how extensive their menu is, but our waitress Margo(t?) made excellent suggestions that were deeeelicious! *Grilled portabella appetizer - I'm not a HUGE portabella fan, but this was SO GOOD. I think the entire table loved my mushroom -- it has a meat-like texture (not why I liked it necessarily) with an amazing EVOO/balsamic/seasonings(?) flavor to it. Highly recommended. *Side of mac & cheese, which was REALLY good. I was wary of it being too heavy/thick/creamy but it was actually a really light(ish) cheese flavor -- the ratio of pasta to cheese was perfect for me. *Side of sauteed spinach, which was just okay. Not bad, just nothing special, especially compared to the other two. *Random mention, but the bread they provided on the table is also super yummy, and there are a few different kinds, which is always a nice touch. *Oh! And our waitress gave us a few cookies even though we didn't order dessert, and they were yummy. Probably a good thing that I didn't order more dessert, but I bet it would have been delicious. LOGISTICS *Parking downtown's always challenging, but definitely walkable if you're staying downtown or even in the Pearl. *Service was EXCELLENT. Margo(t?) was super friendly, attentive, answered all our questions, made great recommendations, and just seemed like a nice person. Oh, and she didn't bat an eye about splitting the check for us -- thank you, thank you. *Even though we were hanging out late and I could tell they were starting to wrap up for the evening, no pressure at ALL to get out. Especially since it was a little chilly outside, appreciated that they didn't give us pointed stares or try to kick us out... *The ambiance is also great -- it's a little dimmer but doesn't feel quiet or too serious at all. There were couples, small families, and even a big group in another part of the restaurant celebrating a birthday. I love that. Highly, highly recommended. Looking forward to another excuse to visit and would recommend if you're looking for a homey, friendly environment and classic dishes.
(5)
C B.

The service was definitely top-notch, but our food was just so-so, and overpriced for what it was. I had the pot roast and my wife had the crab cakes, neither of which were spectacular. Were it not for the service and excellent cocktails, I would have given this place two stars.
(3)
Anthony L.

Was here twice for breakfast and had a great time. My girlfriend and I sat at the bar on a Sunday and did not have to wait the first time. The second time was a Wednesday and we got a table right away. Staff were friendly both times and very helpful in picking what to order. Each time I got the French press coffee, which was great. My girlfriend and I also had some drinks from the bar which were really good. She had a bloody mary and I got a irish pick me up. I had scrambles both days. The prosciutto was incredible and I didn't have a bite left. My girlfriend got a waffle and French toast, which were also great. The location is also pretty good and was really easy to get to.
(5)
Christopher G.

Delicious. We got here and didnt have to wait. Which was amaazzzzing!!! The decor was pretty beautiful. I felt like I was in London ready to have some fancy tea. Haha For the food, I got the biscuits and gravey with 2 poached eggs.. it was really good. I must say it was probably the best biscuits and gravey ive ever had. I think it went well with the poached eggs. Usually people poached eggs are under cooked but this place made mine with perfection. Kudos to the cooks. We also got the migs omelette and 3 sausages. The sausage was really good. It want fatty like I usually expect. It tasted great and healthy!!! I didnt pay much attention to the migs omelette. I let my boy eat it. Haha but I gave him one of my biscuits with gravey. The service was great!! Our server was acctually pretty friendly. The seats were a little too close for my taste but it was okay because our neighbors were really nice. The hostess were really welcoming and very professional.. I cant wait to come back here again.
(5)
Kayla N.

After reading so many great reviews I was really expecting to be wowed but the food was alright, nothing amazing. I had a scramble with potatoes which were lacking in flavor and overcooked and hard. My husband had a southwest style omelette that he liked and finished. Everything was large portions, hard to finish. The tea and coffee was good and some other plates I saw looked much better than what I had. Next time I'll have to try another dish. Service was great too! Friendly and nice, helpful with the menu and chatted with us.
(4)
Jonathan A.

Came here on a whim from San Francisco was immediately invited by the warm staff into my my mothers living room. The decor and service were amazing and a menu that was expansive and covered all breakfast options! We had the mikes special scramble which was delectable, and the crunchy French toast had a corn flake crust. There aren't enough stars to give mothers, it truly feels like home
(5)
Lorelei Y.

Amazing brunch! I went with a friend who was in town, and happened to be staying just a few blocks away. We arrived just after opening on Saturday morning, and were able to snag bar seating within 10 minutes of arrival. We started with a mimosa (me) and Bloody Mary (him), and had our drinks coming throughout the morning. He ordered the smoked salmon omelette, which he enjoyed tremendously, and I got a frittata (also excellent, absolutely huge). Our order was up within around 15 minutes. Service by our bartender was friendly, helpful and very, very efficient. I would definitely come back here for both the drinks and the food!
(5)
Nikhil B.

One of the best brunch places in Portland. It's a long wait over the weekend. I went to mother's when we had people visiting and what a fun time it was. I dared to try the salmon hash and was pleasantly surprised. This place is in downtown close to the waterfront. Interior is nice with glass windows all around. Staff is friendly and go out of the way to explain each item on the menu. Overall a great place for breakfast and lunch. Will definitely go back
(5)
Tochka R.

Yum! Great food and service. This extremely popular place (get there early, or make a reservation) in an older building with style is a favorite.
(5)
Stephanie B.

From the moment we walked in, we loved this place. If we lived here, you bet we would be regulars. The decor, the waiter, the food, and pretty much everything was spot on. We came at a time between breakfast and lunch so we were seated within 10 minutes, not long at all considering other yelp reviewers have had to wait. Although we did go during the week. Food Ordered: Pumpkin pancakes 5/5 Apple Sausage 2/5 (not Sausage fans overall) Frittata 5/5 Fruit 3/5 (I've have better fruit all over Portland.) OJ 5/5 I would love to come back again. What topped off everything, for me, was the thank you notes in the restrooms. I'm a fan of expressing gratitude and thanks and it really made me feel warmed to the heart. How many times can a restaurant feed both the belly and the heart? Not often! I loved it.
(5)
Morgan R.

Even better when reviewing it 4-years later. They've improved their efficiency with a great process for contacting you when your table is ready -- allowing you to wander around, rather than be stuck waiting. The portabello mushroom scramble was really good. Fresh squeezed OJ, friendly and efficient staff, great building and interior decoration ... but above all the food. ---- my earlier review still stands. What a fabulous breakfast place! In a historic building with 20-foot ceilings, I tried that crab-cake eggs Benedict -- fabulous. My Earl Grey came loose-leaf in a pot of boiling water, with a strainer -- done just right. We loved the atmosphere, the food was excellent, and the people watching was good too.
(5)
MC R.

Great ambiance, quick service, good portion size and solid brekkie food. If you are hungry get the frittata.
(4)
Clay B.

We were trolling up and down the street for a place to eat cause we were Starving Marvin. The restaurant was oddly decorated with wierd pictures and chandalears. We ordered the biscuits and gravy, the breakfast nachos, and the open face omelet. To start the biscuits and gravy was out of this world and the sausage gravy was liquid gold! And it came with two eggs. I ordered soft poached and they were perfect. The nachos were kinda like Irish nachos with potatoes cheese and eggs if you want. The open face omelet was pretty tasty too. The breakfast was supreme, I was pretty full most of the day. It was definitely worth it!!
(5)
Derek C.

Good breakfast food and great service. I had the Pork Apple Sausage and Cheese Scrambled. Food came out quickly and waitress made sure that my coffee never got below half empty (coffee was awesome too.) Love the mugs - had to take a pic and send to my mom. It's a good place to eat that's not crazy expensive.
(5)
Cherisa V.

This place was extremely busy granted it was the holidays. For 2 we had a 45 minute wait but we opted to sit at the bar where was sat almost right away. We were served by Jordan, who we observed to have perfected her ability to take orders and serve coffee. Our food came within a reasonable time and had a salmon scramble with a bacon/carmelized onion omelette. We had coffee, a draft beer, grimosa and a Bloody Mary which topped off our breakfast. Call your mother. Would definitely recommend. Thanks Jordan!
(5)
D F.

we had breakfast at Mother's this past sunday and we loved it! Sunday at 9am in Portland is NOT a good time to expect quick seating (see Portlandia episode called "Brunch Village") and when we got there we were told to expect a 30-minute wait. However the host told us to enjoy a cup of coffee on the bench in the foyer and relax for a few. We were pleasantly surprised to be called for our table (a nice, window table) in 12-14 minutes. There are two sides to the restaurant, one looking rustic and handsome, and the other looking a little more feminine in dÃ©cor and furniture. All of the staff are very friendly and quick to help. My wife ordered the Grilled Portobella Scramble and a glass of Cava (very reasonably priced Cava) and I ordered the Spanish Frittata and an English muffin. Everything is very clearly made from scratch and full of flavor. The potatoes served with the entrees were a nice side. I am a big guy, with a big appetite, and I was barely able to finish the breakfast, so you don't need to fear skimpy portions. I liked everything about this place and we will certainly return, but we will try to plan to visit on a less-busy time of the day/week.
(5)
Heidi C.

Love everything about this place. Except how packed it always is. But then again, that means the food is the bomb right? The hubs and I went for breakfast at 12noon on a Sunday. I had the "Big Pink" to drink (it was Sunday after all) and marion berry waffles, he had coffee and eggs benedict. Both were lip smacking good. Bonus: they can text you when your table is almost ready. That way you can wander down to the waterfront while you wait...it's a short walk.
(4)
Brian W.

We stopped in and ate dinner here last night on a road trip from San Francisco to Seattle. My wife and I dined with our 3 children (all under 4 years old). The menu has "comfort foods." I would highly recommend this restaurant. The food was exceptional, the environment was fine for kids, though there weren't many others present, and service was great! I had cioppino and my wife had pot roast. Five stars from us!
(5)
Kay M.

Excellent food. Great team, friendly and funny too. Very comfortable environment. We had the veggie stir fry with tofu, it was amazing. The Mac n cheese and the chicken dumpling was very filling. The dinner rolls and biscuits were fresh and delicious; the best I have ever had in a restaurant. We got a huge piece of chocolate cake to go :)
(5)
Taralee L.

Strawberry mimosas are an absolute must. I had the egg plant panini with pasta salad. Everything is organic, local, and fresh. Very impressed with this place. Our waitress also served us complimentary cookies with the check. Such a sweet gesture. Definitely will be returning!!!
(5)
Patel V.

Awesome! Nice interior! Cooking up a storm in the kitchen! Loved the Greek Frittata! Nice cold drink, grapefruit and lemonade!
(4)
Lucy D.

Our Family loved our dinner. Food was amazing and the service was just fantastic. Thank you!
(5)
Susie Y.

I love Mother's!!! This was our first stop on our trip in Portland. Came in with low expectations but ended up really enjoying our brunch. Portlandians def are blessed with great brunch places!! :) Pricing was like it would be in LA but it was sooo worth it! We had the some kind of Mushroom, garlic scramble with the crunchy french toast!! The whole meal made my day!
(4)
Karen S.

I am a proud Mother's-lover. Heck, I am a Portland-lover. Can I write a review for the city of Portland? I heard on the radio that drivers in Portland were ranked friendliest in the nation...while Houston (my hometown) drivers won the title of "worst road rage." This is true. Portlandians are one of a kind. First thing that happens after hopping off the plane- a stranger offers my friend a monthly pass for the TriMet that she no longer needed, valued at $100. We paid it forward when we left the city. We're navigating the streets and looking a bit lost- a passerby chimes in to point us in the right direction. At Pittock Mansion, the couple in front of us has a BOGO admission coupon, and sneaks it to us after they buy their tickets. I've never experienced such authentic kindness. This was evident in the service we received at Mother's. Our waitress was so friendly and fun. She split the check for us, even the dessert 4 ways, with a SMILE. What does it say about the people of Houston if I was half-expecting an eye roll? The food? Scrumptious, and not only because I'd been famished for hours on a plane. My crunchy French toast was good, but I couldn't stop eating off of my friend's plate. The prosciutto and roasted garlic in his Mike's Special Scramble were sooooo bomb. Breakfast potatoes were perfect, not dry like at other restaurants. Even as a diehard carnivore, I really enjoyed the Portabella mushroom scramble and wild salmon hash. We shared the dessert special - dark chocolate bread pudding. Nothing to write home about, but satisfied the sweet tooth. We were also treated to a surprise magic show at no extra cost! As I was asking our server for straws, a man swoops in and plops them on the table. When I asked for a napkin, the same guy appears within seconds with a stack. This was like some Criss Angel illusion. He was everywhere at the same time. The first meal really sets the tone for a trip, and I'm glad it was at Mother's. We left with high spirits and full tummies.
(4)
Abby V.

Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day and Mother's Bistro gets a full 5 stars for having awesome service and delicious, homemade food. My bf and I came in around 9AM and beat the morning crowd. We were immediately seated and then greeted with a warm smile from our server. There were so many items on the menu I wanted to try, but I settled for their signature crunchy french toast and a side of bacon. I've never had crunchy french toast before and it was absolutely delicious; crunchy on the outside, soft and warm on the inside, not too sweet. Pair it with some bacon, REAL maple syrup (Pls tell me the maple syrup is real!!), a cup of coffee with cream and sugar, and voila, breakfast of champions! As a side note, they offer fresh squeezed orange juice. My bf is a sucker for fresh squeezed OJ.
(5)
Miki S.

waited for seats at the bar & cut the wait time in half. pancakes were satisfying, service was quick and sweet.
(3)
Carolina S.

The restaurant has wonderful decor and plenty of staff to take care of the long line that forms outside. They have ample room in both of their seating areas and their food is delicious. I had the wild salmon hash and my husband had the tofu hash with swiss cheese. Everything was cooked just right and the portions were large. I would come back again on another road trip to Portland and next time try them for their dinner menu.
(5)
Andrew D.

I would give it 4.5 if it was possible to do so. Mother's interior decoration is very charming. They have a bunch of exposed brick in the restaurant and chandeliers galore give it a wonderful vibe. We didn't get to use the Mother's coffee cups because we ordered cappuccinos, which we were delicious but we were bummed we didn't get to use the mugs! The food was super yummy and delicious. I highly recommend the apple pork sausage, it is so good. The crunchy French toast is delicious,my girlfriend ordered it, and she gave me some. It had the perfect crunch. The Mike's Special Scramble was also really good. It is very garlicky! We also ordered the banana chocolate fudge cake to go, and it was a great road trip snack! Overall, we enjoyed our meals and would go back again!!!
(4)
Lynn C.

LOVE THIS PLACE!!! Even my boyfriend who's not a fan of breakfast loved it and still talks about it. Probably one of the best breakfast/brunch places I've been, and I lived in New York for 7 years! That says a lot. I had a half portion of french toast and a half portion of biscuit and gravy. I love how you can have half orders in order to have both savory and sweet! That's usually my dilemma when I go get breakfast/brunch. I just wish I told the server to serve the french toast last because it was cold by the time I got it to. It was still yummy though. Meanwhile my boyfriend had the wild salmon hash, which was really delicious. This place makes me want to live in Portland.
(5)
Darcy N.

Never a quiet moment at Mother's. It's a cute place and the food is pretty decent. Even though this is probably my sixth or so time eating breakfast/brunch here, oddly, I've only been with a large group reservation. Many restaurants in PDX can't handle a large group or if they can it's one bill, 18% on top and no exceptions. Mother's will do separate checks and don't add the gratuity. Our server (Jason? He said he'd been there 13yrs) handled our 16 top in stride and didn't miss a beat. He was friendly the whole way and more than accommodating for dietary restrictions and even a baby. He had multiple large and small tables at the same time. I'm impressed with the service at Mother's and have been here enough to know that it's consistent. If you want breakfast with a group, this is the best place in town. Also, the salmon hash is bomb. #yum
(5)
Rachel S.

Came here for another birthday with a group of about 10-12 people. They couldn't take a reservation for me so I decided to go early to get our name in. It still took about and hour and half to get in. My birthday unfortunately falls on prom time. When we did get a table the only table they offered us two booths that were next to each other. We took it because we didn't want to wait any longer. The food was great. It was like comfort food but probably not worth the long wait.
(4)
Casey K.

I love this place though I have only been here for brunch. The wait list system is great. You put down your number and they call you when it's 10 minutes until your table is ready. I was able to get a cup of coffee nearby and then enjoy a most delicious goat cheese and smoke salmon omelette. Oh and don't neglect to try their Bloody Mary!!
(5)
TOM A.

I too am super glad we were recommended to this place- AWESOME FOOD and good prices, and generous portions! Waittress was a gas too!
(5)
Caroline C.

It's no joke that Portland loves their brunch! As a New Yorker, I was surprised to find out that at 9:45am, there was a super long wait already!! Brunch doesn't even start this early in New York. When we got there, they quoted us 40 minutes. Bar seating is first come first serve but someone just snagged the seats right before us, since we had no idea. Since we were visiting Portland for the first time, we decided to walk around rather than sitting just to wait. Although, I must say, I was impressed that they had a waiting room with seats! In terms of food, brunch was honestly just OK. Nothing wow'd me and it was average at most. I had the pancakes while the hubby had the biscuits and gravy along with eggs. I honestly don't understand the hype or wait at this place, but maybe my expectations and brunch tastes are different.
(3)
Gail L.

We came here for dinner and we had no wait on a Friday night and the service was impeccable. My party ordered the steak frites, crab cakes, salmon and I ordered the fried chicken. The fried chicken was good, the gravy, excellent, and greens were good. My mom ordered the salmon and it came overcooked, which is why I docked it a star. The other lost star came from the steak. There was nothing memorable about the steak, it was cooked correctly, but it was ok. The crab cakes were the win of the evening and again the service was excellent. I hear breakfast is great so I'll come back and try it for breakfast.
(3)
Jordan T.

They have a killer brunch, with some of the best frittatas in town; and you will always feel full after leaving this place. Everything is flavorful, and they have good drinks as well. The only downside is the place is always really cramped, and never like feeling like I'm sitting on top of my dining neighbors. Having said that, its a small complaint in an otherwise very tasty establishment.
(4)
Caitie S.

Well what can I say... Nothing bad, I will tell you. One, my dad and I first walk in and it is the cutest little place. Gold, but not gaudy, chandeliers hang and lots of trendy mirrors hang on the wall. I realized quickly that the place is packed yet the noise in the room is not crazy at all. Next, we walk up to the front desk to see two smiling faces and the main employee explaining his recommendations to another customer. The employee quickly turns to us, apologizes that we ha to wait (Dude, we waited like a minute) and we get our name on the list. HOW AWESOME is it that we got text messages letting us know how much time we had to wait/until we are seated. So cool dude. Fast forward to getting our orders taken, the waiter was this quirky, funny, professional guy who-although seemed like a walking mess-had his sh*t together. He quickly took our orders with enough time to crack a few jokes. Later on, we even heard him helping another guy (He is a chef) make a "complicated order" which turned out to be half a blueberry waffle and half a mulberry (?) pancake stack. You could tell that customer satisfaction if TOP priority. Now finally, THE FOOD. The food was spectacular. I got the Wild Salmon Hash with poached eggs and I was flabbergasted that something could taste so good. Yes, it was a bit of a splurge for me with a brunch item ringing in at $13 but it was well worth it. The whole wheat toast was so delicious as well. Normally I skip the bread but here, I just had to lick my plate clean, the food was so good. If you are looking for a brunch place, definitely try here. The aura, food, and service is completely on point. Kudos to you, Mother.
(5)
Lizzy G.

Wow! Words can not describe the feelings that were going on in my mouth with the mushroom Parmesan, spinage scramble with the best crispy potato wedges in the WORLD! oh my! HEAVENLY!! I'm so glad it was freezing rain outside and every other restaurant we went to was closing - not mother's- they were open and had brunch til 2:30... AND THE BEST BRUNCH! We also tried the breakfast nachos! - amazing and the biggest serving ever! I only ate 1/3 of my plate which is crazy! Thick bacon, tons of cheese and delicious potatoes & grilled onions. Even thought dishes are 9-12$ that's still a great price for fabulous service, delicious food and a wonderfully satisfied stomach- did I mention a cozy and classic atmosphere?
(5)
Suzy N.

This place is so good! It was very crowded Memorial Day for brunch but definitely worth the one hour wait. I had the eggs benedict and I can't remember what my boyfriends had but he inhaled his food. Our potatoes were absolutely perfect. The food is really good and sitting outside here isn't so bad because there aren't random people coming up to you for change or anything. They have interesting coffees from different regions; very exotic to me and though i was not too big of a fan, they did smell very nice. There is a little play area for the kids so it is good for families. They service was alright, I watched two servers bicker over something and our server handed us the check before we could even order dessert. Overall, the food is good and the service is alright.
(4)
Katherine C.

mother's bistro was highly recommended to me by many of my friends who have visited portland before me so i came with high expectations. the wild salmon hash was very good but the biscuit breakfast was disappointing - and that was what i was looking forward to the most. the bisquits seemed a bit stale and i felt like there was not enough gravy for the dish. ive also tried a bit of the greek fritatta that was whatevers to me and the chicken noodle soup tasted like it was from out of a can... service was wonderful here and i loved the ambiance and decoration. however, in my opinion, mother's bistro is just a place that you "must try" if you never have since it is highly rated but i do not see myself coming back if i visit portland again.
(3)
Rajesh K.

I love this place. The food is so good and I am not just talking about the brunch. The dinner options are awesome too. I love their French toast, the coffee, salmon fritters and the omelette. I make it a routine to hit this place especially on my Birthdays. The wait staff is very attentive and eager to please. The portions are huge and delicious. This place is also good to visit on a date night
(5)
Kris R.

Been here for breakfast. The portions are large, and the atmosphere is busy which i like. For dinner, i've tried the chicken and dumplings and it was amazing!! But wihs the portion was a bit more....Will be back for sure! The lines can be long mostly during the morning time. so be prepared to wait and don't forget to bring an umbrella just in case.
(4)
Ashley J.

Seriously... SO DELICIOUS!!! My boyfriend and I were in town for a basketball game and had heard about this place. We were hesitant at first by the quoted 40 min wait time but we decided to stay. We were seated within 15 minutes. The service was amazing. I couldn't decide between the eggs Benedict and the biscuits n gravy. The waiter told me I could order a half portion of each (which they do for all splittable items- no omelette, waffle, frittata etc) but everything else was a go.) my boyfriend asked the server to order him whatever. So he sent over the salmon hash... Literally SO AMAZING. And a crab Benedict. Equally as amazing. I got a cinnamon roll to-go and some cookies for my parents which were also delicious. The server was so friendly and this was just an all around wonderful experience. We will DEFINITELY be returning!!
(5)
Andy S.

I loved this place and the experience. Very nice atmosphere and incredible food. Friendly staff and an added bonus that the owner is from Philly. Nice they added info about their story and how they got here. Highly recommend the pancakes although the salmon hash looked awesome as well.
(5)
Michael C.

"Call your mother." Duly noted. No doubt advice from a mother. I love taking advice from my own mother, BUT thankfully I was given some great advice from fellow Yelpers: Breakfast at Mother's Bistro! NOTE: I would recommend visiting mothersbistro.com for info regarding location, business hours, and menu. I took the recommendation on the website and made a reservation for 10am on a Tuesday morning. Though I didn't anticipate a lengthy wait on a weekday, I figured I would make one just in case. PARKING: Street or in nearby garages. We parked in a garage (4th and Yamhill) near Pioneer Place since we were planning on exploring that shopping center and nearby stores afterwards. ATMOSPHERE: We were seated in the lounge area which was decorated in ornate wallpaper, and furnished with plush seats and glittering chandeliers. FOOD: 1. Wild salmon hash: my friend's choice. Served with 2 eggs any style and potatoes. Unfortunately I didn't have a chance to try this dish as it disappeared quickly. My friend enjoyed it very much. 2. Mike's scramble: the combination of the prosciutto ham, tomatoes, and provolone cheese is a winner! I loved this dish! Served with potatoes and toast. This was definitely a comfort-food type of breakfast for me. DRINK: Coffee, of course. Served in cups proclaiming "call your mother." I almost chose a mimosa, but I'm can't start my day properly without a cup of coffee. Refills complimentary and generous. My cup never seemed to go empty. SERVICE: Outstanding. Every staff we encountered during our visit/meal exhibited exemplary customer service. As I've already stated, I chose to make a reservation for breakfast, which turned out to be a smart decision as there were people waiting for a table when we arrived half hour early. The hostess was quite friendly and welcoming as she checked her reservation book and showed us to our seats. The server was a bright, social, and friendly young woman. And very patient. She allowed us as much time as we needed to look over the menus and asked if we had any questions. She returned constantly to check up on us and to provide coffee refills. BOTTOM LINE: Delicious breakfast. Wonderful service. Hope to return on any future trips to Portland.
(5)
Peter P.

Never thought two pancakes would fill me up....it was so rich and flavorful and FULL of marion berries. Shame I couldn't come here for dinner to enjoy the country fixin's but next time!!! Fresh food, friendly environment, a winner!
(4)
sara r.

Was staying downtown for 4 days and was walking around looking for a place to eat breakfast and stumbled upon Mothers. Of course, we didn't have a reservation and it was packed so we decided to get something quicker and make a reservation for the next day. The ambiance is really nice. It's like staying in someone's chic (but not stuffy) house. The menu is big by my standards (I get distracted easily) so I focused on breakfast only. I ordered the Biscuit Breakfast but I was not ready for the ginormous portion. If I had known, I wouldn't have eaten the day before because these are some of the best biscuits and gravy I have ever had. All that delicious food for less than $11. I forgot what my cousin ordered, but he also liked his dish which was equally large.
(4)
ILove Foo D.

This is a lovely and constantly busy place. I wouldn't go if a quiet and intimate setting is what you are wanting. It is a bit loud, the tables are a bit close and the wait may be long. Despite its busy-ness the employees blew me away with their efficiency and attentiveness. Their tea is looseleaf and of good quality. The biscuits and gravy are amazing. The biscuit itself had a tangy buttermilk flavor and has a perfectly soft texture. The gravy isn't a regular white gravy which at first worried me. It has a brown tinge to it and is runny and not gloppy. I couldn't quite place a flavor I detected in it. My guess is it's a slight mushroom flavor. But overall it was delicious. In tthe top 5 best biscuits and gravy I have ever had. It is definitely a place you would want to bring your mother, and especially if you can sit in the large dining room with crystal chandeliers.
(4)
Tim M.

This place has an old fashioned look that brings on a homey feeling and its probably there to match with it's good home style cooking. They sat us right away on a busy Friday morning. The waitress was really nice to us and joked around a lot which brightened up the morning. I started off with some fresh squeezed orange juice and not a coffee. It tasted like they added something else into it or added too much water or something but overall wasn't too bad. I've had better OJ though. I ordered the omelet special though which had cheese, bacon, avocado, sour cream and green onions. It came with toast and potatoes which were really good. I think I've had a better omelet but this one came recommended by a lot of people. I prefer my omelets not to be so fluffy but with some ketchup and hot sauce it helped a little. I should've added more items inside. The hash; salmon and corned beef?, were really good. They came with two of any style eggs which is always nice. Get some good poached eggs or something. Overall, recommended highly and the portions are big. Three eggs for the egg dishes.
(5)
Mondi L.

Came here on a rainy Saturday, and the wait was about an hour. You can freely grab a Bloody Mary or Mimosa at the bar while you wait, and time will run faster than you think! The mood is vibrant and a true "brunchin'" experience in Portland. A great spot for a first-time visit, because I am not sure if I can wait any longer on busier days. The food was delicious, and had a home-cooked warmth. I loved their omelette special, and salmon dish!
(5)
Natasha N.

With a name like Mother's, you know that it's good.
(5)
A L.

I'm visiting Portland for the weekend and had the morning to myself. Was really craving a good breakfast/brunch and so decided to check out Yelp to see what was good in the neighborhood. The reviews could not have been more spot on. This place is incredible!! The restaurant has a classy and upscale vibe, without being pretentious. The menu is extensive and it looked like pretty much everything on there would have been delicious. The service was also impeccable and what struck me was that I was waited on my at least 3 or 4 people during my visit. (Checking in with me to make sure all was good, filling my water glass practically after every sip, etc.) I opted for the Migas and it was one of the most delicious things I've ever tasted. Eggs scrambled with corn tortillas, scallions, fresh tomatoes, and a chipotle sour cream. The depth of flavor was much more complex than you typically get at a breakfast joint. I normally drench my eggs in hot sauce but this was so flavorful on its own I didn't even want to take away from the flavors! The other thing that caught me by surprise was the homemade jam. I'm not normally one who loves jelly or jam on toast, I tend to prefer the more savory items, but this was unlike any jam i've had before. It was gooey and spreadable in a way that perfectly coated each bite of toast. I was literally in shock eating it, wondering what on earth they do to make it taste so good. I'm really sad that my stay in Portland is almost over, as the food has made it an experience I will never forget and I know going home to my suburb of Boston will remind me how hard it is to come by outstanding food.
(5)
Amber S.

Food is always great! And Micheal with the fresh tatts was our server and we was so genuine and friendly always checking on us and making sure we had everything we needed. And the bartendress Kari was freaking amazing !!!
(4)
Alyssa J.

Holy predatory brunch! People in Portland take their brunch very seriously (within 2 hours of being there I had 6 recommendations for brunch!). We were told Mothers is the best so we made our way there Saturday morning. After putting our name in at the front and being told it would be an hour wait for two, we were advised to relax in the crammed waiting area, or stalk a counter seat. We chose the latter, and tried to find the best place to wait, but kept getting snapped at by workers that we were in the way. After 40 minutes we FINALLY snagged a counter seat (21+ btw) and I was grateful. I had the goat cheese scramble and the hubby had the Caribbean fritatta. Both were good but I liked mine better. We also shared a french press of coffee and it was really good. Our bartender/ server was really nice, checking back in on us. In truth, this could have been 5 stars but the wait turned me off. As we were leaving the couple who had put their name in before us was just getting seated- an hour and a half later. It's at no fault of the restaurant, they were running at capacity, but sometimes I can't wait that long for breakfast.
(4)
Paige M.

Had the best birthday breakfast at Mother's! Food was delicious and our server treated us so nicely! They even brought me a lit candle in my french toast! Can't wait to go back!
(5)
Sophie L.

To be honest, I was expecting more. It did remind me of New York Brunch; crowded, waiting line, and the dÃ©cor is similar. Because of places like tasty n sons, bumblekiss, and tin shed, I was not impress with Mother's Bistro menu. However, lucky for me, I went alone on my first time, so I was seated by the bar right away. The coffee was not bad, and I waited...probably a good 20 minutes or so. The person who got here after me already got his plate. I had to asked the waitress when my food will be ready. Turns out, she never put in my order. So waited another 20 minutes for my food to finally come. I don't think she would even pay attention to me if I hadn't asked. The Portobello scramble eggs was okay, but not impressive. I probably won't be coming back.
(3)
Katie L.

Had to come here during my visit as it was recommended by our friends. Had their crab cake sandwich and Belle's chicken noodle soup. Both were delish. They have a great kid's menu. This place is packed.
(4)
Samantha G.

Mother's was amazing and the perfect Portland experience. Our waitress was corky and funny, making the Portland experience bloom to it's fullest. The cinnamon roll is to die for, you MUST order one for yourself then one for the table. Our food order got messed up so the food took a while to come out but they provided free snacks while we waited and apologized for the inconvenience. Will definitely come back when I'm up in Portland!
(4)
Jacqueline D.

I wouldn't be lying if I said I'm flying back to Portland to get brunch at Mother's! It's all about the sauces; the magnificent gravy on the biscuits to the hollandaise on the crab cake Benedict. I've have since been on a quest for better b&g/eggs benney to no avail - nothing compares. Well worth the wait! They text you when your table is ready so hop on over to the (gimmicky) voodoo donuts or grab a stump town coffee just a few blocks away
(5)
Camille G.

I took my fam here on a recent Portland vacation. Knowing how popular it is for Sunday brunch, I called a little over a week in advance to reserve an outside table. The woman who answered the phone was curt and sounded annoyed. When I asked if there was any availability for an outside table for Sunday brunch, she said without a skip, 8am. Being on vacation, I was hoping for something a little later, just an hour later, but when I joked about 8am being harsh, she didn't miss a beat again and answered curtly, "8am."0 Ok, so 8am it is! I was expecting this food to be exceptional, for all the hype it receives, but honestly, it was average. The French toast was really good, but everything else you can find elsewhere for less money and less of a wait. I had a special, which was a bacon, spinach, Gorgonzola omelet and it just tasted so off. The flavors didn't meld well, at all. Not impressed. At least the Stumptown iced latte I had was delicious. And the waiter was awesome, too. I can't remember his name, but he normally works the night shift and was covering the outside tables this particular morning for someone else. He was great, very attentive and had a great personality. Unlike the girl who took my reservation. By the way, not for nothing, but when we finished brunch at 9am, not one single table was occupied besides ours. We could have easily been given a 9am reservation, that girl was just being a biyatch.
(3)
Christine S.

Knowing breakfast/brunch is huge in Portland, my best friend and I went to Mother's Bistro and Bar early (around 8am on a Friday). Half an hour later, the place was completely filled. The restaurant has a homey feel so it'd be cute for a date. The decor of this place is out of this world. I love all the chandeliers! - Wild Salmon Hash ($13): comes with eggs and potatoes. The fish was flavorful and creamy! - Omelet Special ($10): they definitely don't skimp on ingredients here! My omelet was full of onions, green/red peppers, ham, and cheese. The real winner on my plate was the potatoes though. The food was good, but nothing mind blowing. I was more impressed with the service and the ambiance of the place. And I called my mother after brunch cause that's what their coffee mugs told me to do!
(4)
Seth F.

Really liked my breakfast. The pancakes were from scratch and served with real maple syrup. Let me bring in my own coffee from Stella which was excellent
(4)
Rachelle L.

Get here early if you're starving. Wake up late? No problem! Have a drink from the bar or shop around the downtown area until your table is available! I loved that they were able to text me when our table was almost ready. This place is definitely a must when visiting Portland! Wild salmon hash is everything. Biscuits and gravy were on point, too! They keep topping off your coffee so you never have to request a refill. Great decor and even better service! Can't wait until our next trip to Portland!
(5)
Sheila B.

I brought my mother here when she visited me in Oregon, how fitting. Went on a weekend and the wait was 45min! I recommend going on a weekday. Ordered a salmon dish with potatoes and eggs. Flavor was good but a tad too mayonnaise-y for me (I recommend avoiding this dish if you're lactose). Also ordered a side of french toast. So good!!! I'll be trying this place again and will definitely get the french toast again.
(4)
Dave S.

Absolutely! worth the 10 to 15 minute wait. We were very well taken care of. Breakfast was a delight with some old and dear friends, enjoying the company and conversation. Very comfortable from start to finish. The breakfasts we had ordered were all beautifully plated and tasted great as well. The beef hash was a treat and the biscuits and gravy was delicious along with the Bloody Mary. Service is fast, friendly and professional. So refreshing to the service of some joints. Last words... need a nap!
(4)
Charlotte F.

Mother's can be summed up with one word, PHENOMENAL! Absolutely everything is delicious and I'm pretty sure they have the best staff of any place I've ever eaten at. Lisa Schroeder is an amazingly talented, kind hearted person. I will be buying her cookbook in the very near future and am already looking forward to my next visit to Mother's. Food-----A+++ Atmosphere-----A+++ Service-----A+++ On a scale of 1-10 (10 being the best)---110!
(5)
Sandra T.

I didn't really get what the big deal was. I came here for brunch when I was down in Portland for a long weekend and relied on trusty Yelp to get me through the foodie adventures. This place has a lot of hype and that was just about it for me. Met up with two other friends that were in Portland the same time and waited well over an hour for a table for the four of us. The was super busy but also prime time brunch time. We all ordered something different but it was all breakfasty type food with eggs, toast, bacon or sausage. Service was pretty non-existent because it was so busy and food was just ok. I think we're pretty spoiled back home (Vancouver, BC) with great breakfast/brunch places all over the city that this place was pretty regular and not worth it for me for the wait.
(3)
Stephanie A.

I had brunch here on a Sunday and it was packed! I was impressed by how the employees ran everything so smoothly. We had no wait ... Maybe a couple seconds sitting down by the waiting area by that's it. This spot is definitely popular and can be a great family place to dine at(too loud for my liking). I ordered the classic eggs Benedict. It was tasty but rather heavy tasty. I couldn't finish all of it. Also I felt a little sick later on... My boyfriend enjoyed his meal though! He got the burger, I got a taste. It was yummy! Our server was very accommodating. Anyways, I love the decorations of this place and maybe I just ordered the wrong thing! Still would recommend though.
(3)
Jessica K.

Super cute place, came here for a sister date and we had a lovely time. My son really enjoyed the little corner they have for kids. The food was great and the service was wonderful! Will definitely be coming back with hubs!
(5)
Karen O.

I ordered the lox plate with house-cured salmon, capers, onions, and cream cheese on a toasted everything bagel. I have never eaten better lox!!! I was hungry so I ordered a side of potatoes, which were perfectly cooked, crisp, and herby! Our service was slow because our waitress was training but everyone was super nice. We also had to wait for about 30 minutes to get in...definitely a downside. Not sure if I will be back because of how crowded, close and frantic the energy is. The food was outstanding though.
(4)
Shweta D.

Yummylicious drinks and food ! Do try the mothers bloody Mary drink and spicy mango - their best ! They have some good vegetarian options including ones without eggs. I had taken a yummy veggie sandwich that came with pasta salad and pickle on the side . Great taste and presentation. A very busy place indeed. Right in downtown, so we made reservations and had to wait for an hour. In the meantime, we walked till voodoo donuts to get some donuts for home ! The waiters were cute. Very nice and funny. We loved there waffles so much that we reordered them thrice ! visiting from Seattle, we thought this was one of the best brunch places around northwest!
(5)
Monira A.

Food was so tasty loved the hash salmon and crispy french toast , pancakes was soooooo yummy totally recommended for breakfast
(5)
Judy H.

This is how you spell comfort food. Yeah. Spelling was my best subject in school so I would know. Mother's Bistro is constantly rated the top breakfast place in Portland and I completely agree. This restaurant is quintessential Portland. It oozes vintage vibes and eclectic quirks. You feel like you're having a meal in a royal castle with over-the-top antique decorations. Large windows provide ample natural lighting. It's a spectacle but also very cute and cozy. My boyfriend and I were gearing up for a big hike so we wanted to load up on plenty of carbs and protein. My favorite aspect about breakfast is that you can enjoy the best of both worlds: sweet and savory dishes. Wild Salmon Hash - with leeks, potatoes, and a touch of cream; served with two eggs any style (we opted for sunny-side up). This hash contained juicy and tender pieces of fresh salmon with wholesome potato wedges, lightly roasted. The potatoes were chunks of starchy goodness. The sauce was seasoned with a rich creamy flavor. The eggs were good and the yolks were the perfect consistency. Crunchy French Toast - thick slices of challah bread, dipped in cornflakes and grilled golden brown. How friggin' genius is this dish?! Three breakfast items in one? Bread, eggs, and cereal. Who woulda thunk it? Such a creative yet, simple concoction. The challah bread was sensational. It was doughy, soft, and fluffy. The cornflakes embedded in the honey-sweet bread were crunchy and fun to eat. Although after a while, the cornflakes hardened and turned dry and chewy. Eat this fast! The food is really homey and satisfying. You will experience a case of the feels with memories of dear childhood innocence flooding back accompanying each bite of this hearty breakfast. Oh, the nostalgia. Arrive early to avoid long looping lines in the morning (before 9). Mother's Bistro is vast but it fills up quick. Service is acceptable but you're essentially splurging on the delightful and quaint atmosphere. A definite must in PDX!
(4)
Linda T.

I really like Mothers Bistro. It is one of my go-to places for a nice breakfast/brunch on the weekends in Portland. They are a beautiful and cozy restaurant downtown Portland. The dÃ©cor is beautiful consisting of chandeliers on the ceilings and mirrors/curtains on the wall which gives it a luxurious homey feel. There can sometimes be a wait for a seat on weekends, but if you find your own seat at the bar you don't have to wait, and can order off the full menu. They have a little bakery glass display you can peek at and order from while you are waiting. Their menu is tasty. I've had breakfast and lunch there. If you are in the mood for something savory than I recommend the salmon hash. If you are in the mood for sweet I like their French toast. Sometimes seasonally they will have some kind of fruit special French toast like blackberry French toast. If you are a coffee fan, order the French press coffee and they bring the cute little French press right to your table so you can have it fresh. Service is always prompt and pleasant. I always a great experience at this Portland brunch staple.
(4)
Sarah C.

Mike's Special Scramble paired with Mother's Famous Bloody Mary. Wowee-wow-wow-wow. SO GOOD. The special scramble had prosciutto ham, roasted garlic, fresh tomatoes, basil and provolone cheese. (Of course with me, I asked for the tiniest amount of cheese, but the end result was still wonderful.) And the Bloody Mary? House-infused pepper and jalapeÃ±o vodka with their secret bloody concoction. Let me tell you, this drink really opened up the sinuses. I went here with a couple of friends for lunch and we were so pleased with the decision. Our wait wasn't horrible - maybe a half hour. And not only was the food absolutely delightful, but the decor was outstanding. The wallpaper in the main eating area was a striking black and white pattern and the chandeliers were anything but boring. The music? A nice mix of hipster lovin' tunes. Loved this place.
(5)
Pauline P.

Happily beat the rush at Mother's and enjoyed a very tasty brunch! // WAIT // No wait for a party of 2 on a Thursday morning at 9 am. The wait was approximately 1 hour when we left at 10:30 AM on a weekday! // FOOD // + Mushroom scramble: Super flavorful with marinated mushrooms. Egg whites available upon request + Eggs and protein combo: Eggs anyway with a protein of your choice and potatoes. An adorable and home-y restaurant with a southern or old fashion feel!
(4)
Kelsi S.

You can't visit Portland without getting breakfast at Mother's! Such a cute restaurant, interior is decorated with chandeliers and the coffee mugs say "call your mother" on them. It gets crowded on weekend mornings. If you have a large group try to make a reservation. Without a reservation the most I've had to wait is 45min and it's definitely worth the wait! The menu has your typical egg dishes, pancakes, waffles, French toast. The bacon is really good! Extra thick There is a gluten free toast option and large portion sizes! I also love their grimosa(mimosa made with grapefruit juice) My friend raved about her French toast, they coat it with corn flakes for some extra crunch.
(4)
Packy X.

This place is lovely! Reminds me of Commenwealth in DTLV- food and service was great, the atmosphere was a 20s style modern twist. We had the nut trout special, Mac and Cheese side, Meat Loaf, Pork medallions, and Chicken Dumplings- all delicious!
(5)
Karen L.

Cute brunch spot, but my girlfriend and I were not super impressed. We shared the pork apple sausage scramble and the waffle with fresh strawberries. The scramble was good, but it wasn't particularly delicious or anything. Just alright. The waffle was rather plain. The strawberries on it were good, but the waffle itself was bland. Maybe we ordered the wrong things, but it was just an ok brunch.
(3)
Sophie G.

What a great experience! We came just a little bit before closing, so we actually didn't have to wait. We just sat at the bar. The servers/bartenders were amazing. Everyone was in such a good mood and so friendly. They went above and beyond and even heard us talking about sharing our food and just had it split on two plates with no hassle no fuss. The food was yummy the coffee was great. I highly recommend it.
(5)
amanda o.

The food and service was incredible! We were greeted by a super friendly hostess and guided to a table in the back by the window at a large table for ten but the hostess asked us if we don't mind if we were kind of close to neighboring customers. My hubby and I said no! And a good thing we did because the two neighboring customers were delightful and engaged in conversation about Portland and where to go! We split the notorious Belgium waffles with raspberries and homemade whipped cream. AND the chicken club sandwich with spicy mayo and tortilla strips with a side salad instead of the pasta salad. The chicken sandwich was perfectly seasoned with a hint of Cajun seasonings and the waffles were classically light and crispy!!! We also had the French press coffee and the waitress came by a couple times to filler up even though we could have poured ourselves! Cannot wait to try again next time we're in Portland!
(5)
Julie T.

Get here early- there will be a line, but the place is huge and they do a good job of moving it fast. Friendly and courteous service and excellent food. Believe the reviews! You will be happy. Migas and Eggs Benn. "Good" coffee too- get the French press.
(5)
Janet H.

Make reservations!! We were a party of 4 with reservations at 11 am on a Saturday. And man, upon arrival, that place was packed like sardines! Luckily I was catching up with friends so I did not mind the wait. Service was on the slower side and food took awhile to come out as well. It felt so cluttered and cramped in there and a couple of us got bumped by servers/customers walking by.... Anyway, this is a great place for everyone. The restaurant also had some great vegan choices for my friend. Phew! Onto the food.... I LOVED my bf's fritata... I got the special pancakes with the Oregon berries which were just average. It really had a big berries:pancake ratio that it was overwhelming and a bit too tart & sweet for me. I really wanted to trade dishes with him, but he refused. Luckily he's such a good boyfriend he shared a good portion of his fritata. That's love, right? Overall good experience... just be prepared for a wait and lots of people. I also feel you can't go wrong on any of the menu items... all 4 of us liked our dishes!
(4)
Tori H.

Best service we have ever had. We went here for dinner, and all the staff was extremely welcoming and kind. The fresh bread is a great start, and the Caesar salad is very fresh. The chicken and dumplings were great! Would definitely recommend to anyone in the area.
(5)
Chels J.

Consistently great brunch. The mushroom omelette was on point! So many mushrooms and the breakfast potatoes were good too - be careful though because those babies are steaming hot and will burn your mouth if you don't cut them in half before taking a bite! My friends got the classic eggs Benedict, and while it looked like nothing out of the ordinary to me they kept talking about how incredible it was. My server snatched me the last pecan cinnamon roll for an appetizer - so glad she did because that was really good and overflowing with pecans. Bloody Mary was a little strong. Manmosa was delicious. You can substitute eggs for tofu making this place pretty vegan friendly too! As many popular brunch places expect a wait. On Saturday at 12:50 they quoted an hour (not too bad) and take your number and text you when your table is almost ready, which worked out very nicely.
(4)
Vi B.

Surprisingly enough, I'm still ambivalent about Mother's. I've still yet had a fantastic meal there. For all the hype surrounding the restaurant, I continually go there expecting 5-star everything. What I will say: the wait was not bad. Their hostesses have their waitlist down to a science; you put your name/number down, and they text you when your table is ready. The decor is wonderful; that's never changed. This time I sat in the front room, under the beautiful chandeliers. Our waiter was on point, and quick! This time we came for breakfast. I had an omelet, which was mediocre. The portion itself was HUGE, so I had enough to take home, but it was flavorless and textureless. The guests we had (and brought to Mother's) LOVED it, though--they felt it really embodied what they liked about Portland, and they thoroughly enjoyed their dishes (pancakes, Salmon & lox). So even if it's still a Portland institution, I'm still on the fence.
(3)

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Address : 212 SW Stark St
Portland, OR, 97204
Phone (503) 464-1122
Website https://www.mothersbistro.com
Click To Get Directions

Opening Hours

Specialities

Takes Reservations : Yes
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Breakfast
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Good For Dancing : No
Alcohol : Full Bar
Happy Hour : Yes
Best Nights : Sun
Coat Check : No
Smoking : No
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : Yes

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Mother’s Bistro & Bar

212 SW Stark St, Portland, OR, 97204

Mother’s Bistro & Bar Menu

Eggs

From The Griddle

Other Yummy Delights

Sides

Healthy Meal suggestions for Mother’s Bistro & Bar

Eggs

From The Griddle

Other Yummy Delights

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