Royale Kitchen
199 W Commercial St, Portland, ME
Crema's Take
“Royale Kitchen is a neighborhood gem that takes the humble chicken sandwich seriously, crafting versions like Nashville Hot and Korean that locals rave about with genuine enthusiasm. Beyond the headline-worthy poultry, their sides deserve equal billing—crispy shoestring fries and creamy mac and cheese that elevate what could be ordinary into genuinely crave-worthy comfort food. With a welcoming vibe and thoughtful touches like quality milkshakes and vegetarian options, it's the kind of place that earns its stellar reputation through consistent execution and care.”
What to expect
Google Reviews
Excellent chicken sandwiches, but don't sleep on the sides either. The fries are shoestring style, and have the perfect amount of crispness and salt. The mac and cheese is super creamy, and also highly recommended. Definitely check this place out.
The Nashville Hot Chicken is just the right level of heat and the fries have that crisp outside yet stay tender inside. Definitely worth a visit!
I've eaten at Royale Lunch Bar a few times. Every time has been great. There are a few things I'd recommend you try: The Chicken Sandwich. It's crunchy, it's tender. It's sweet, spicy and tangy all at the same time. It's a perfect combo - napkins required. Hand cut fries: They're thin (think McDonald's size). Have a great crunch to them and maybe a slight spice. So good you don't need ketchup. The Lord Goatboy (shake): What a name. I believe this is Vietnamese coffee. I've had it in it's shake form. Not too sweet, not too bitter but a great way to deliver that mid day caffeine. All of their other food is great. Stop in and give it a go.
This place was soooooo delicious!! The Nashville hot chicken is the best I've ever had (even from Nashville). We also had the Korean by reccomendation and it was also amazing! My husband LOVED the espresso milkshake but it had ground up espresso beans in it and I didn't like the gritty pieces. To each their own. Mike and Joe (I think I got those names right?) were super nice and personable. My only complaint is that they are closed on Sundays because we wanted to go back and try the chicken and gravy before we left Portland. Definitely check this place out, you won't be disappointed.
A welcome addition to the neighborhood! Royale is a great place for lunch with quality smoked meat sandwiches and a few other vegetarian and gluten free options. Milkshakes are great, too!
Crema Reviews
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