Big, Bad Basilisk

Jumping right off 27th & NE Sandy in that eclectic mixture of the Lloyd Center / Laurelhurst hybrid neighborhood, located in “The Zipper” in Portland, lies a greasy culinary gem that has captured the hearts and taste buds of locals and visitors alike. Basilisk, renowned for its legendary Fried Chicken Sandwiches, offers am perfectly blended ambiance of good eats and good seats. 

As you park & walk over to Basilisk, the tantalizing aroma of sizzling chicken and spices fills the air (Yes, even from outside), beckoning you that you’ve in fact arrived at your location. Since it’s in “The Zipper”, which is basically a big collective food court with a couple bars, food options etc., the atmosphere is super casual and inviting to sit and stay. Mainly because It has communal tables / outside seating that sits right off Sandy, so you can catch some Sun & dig in. It’s like the place where as you’re walking up to the entrance you’ve already noticed 3 different peoples plates and said to yourself “Yea, I’m getting two of whatever that was”. 

But it's the menu at Basilisk that truly steals the show. At the heart of the tasty experience are the legendary fried chicken sandwiches—HUGE, crispy, golden-brown masterpieces that are as indulgent as they are irresistible. Each sandwich is a symphony of flavors and textures, with tender chicken nestled between buttery buns and topped with a mouthwatering array of sauces and fixings.

For those craving a bit of HEAT, the hot chicken sandwiches deliver a spicy kick that will leave your taste buds tingling with delight. And if you're in the mood for something lighter, the poached chicken breast salad offers a refreshing alternative, with crisp greens and flavorful dressings that are sure to satisfy.

But the culinary adventure doesn't stop there. Basilisk also offers a tantalizing selection of sides and treats to complement your meal. The Dandan fries, smothered in house-made Szechuan peanut sauce, are a flavor explosion that you won't soon forget. And for dessert, be sure to indulge in the Kool-Aid–flavored soft serve ice cream…YES you read that right, ice cream. Iced, cream. I didn’t know I needed Kool-Aid ice cream but we’re here now. 

Whether you're starving and want something to take back home or just somewhere to have something good sitting out off Sandy BLVD. Basilisk was pretty clutch. 

HOT TAKE: Debatably this is best Chicken Sandwich place in the city? 👀👀 We’ll check back in on that later.