Birdies

Birdies Restaurant Review:

Serving up artisanal donuts, fried chicken and Intelligentsia coffee, Birdies downtown has you covered for sweet, savory and caffeine cravings. The yeast-raised donuts are standouts, especially the candied maple bacon and sweet-yet-subtle horchata twist with dulce de leche drizzle. If you're looking for serious indulgence, the s'mores (a cake donut) or Oreo varieties may be up your alley --- they're not only frosted but also split to sandwich in filling. If you're really in the mood for something out of the ordinary (and have the funds to do it), try the $100 vanilla glazed donut covered with edible 24-karat gold leaves and topped with Champagne. Chef-owner Jason Harley's free-range fried chicken can be enjoyed on its own or in sandwiches like the Birdies Original, with cole slaw, buttermilk ranch mayo, Tillamook cheddar and cured pickles.