This was the second time we tried Southland Whiskey Kitchen, and it was much better the second time. First time was ok, they had just opened, but we felt there was room for improvement, and they seemed to have thought so too. We sat at the bar, the bartender was personable and efficient, very nice. The ribs were good, a little over smoked to my taste but done well. Onion rings were crispy and tasty. The collard greens were the best I have had in Portland, and my husbands fried chicken was excellent - crispy, hot, juicy and full of flavor. Nice mixed crowd early on a Saturday night, good drink list, and lots of beers. Will definitely go back when craving good old comfort food done very well - nice job on decor, casual, but not too big to seem empty if you are there when its not crowded.

My son and I had delicious brisket and ribs here. The ribs had a dry rub that was different and really nice (although I'm not huge rib fan). Sides were excellent! We had the mac cheese and the collard greens.

The space is big and would be good for groups, a little loud for intimate dining.

I've been very anxious to go here, since I really enjoy BBQ and smoked foods and I do like their sister restaurant, Matador, which is in the same block. The menu looked very promising, and once I arrived, I immediately liked the decor.

The food, however, needs serious work. My wife's fried chicken Cobb salad was very good, and I think the chicken was quite tasty, but the BBQ items I ordered were pretty mediocre. Brisket was moist, but I'd bet every cent in my wallet that it was not smoked (as true BBQ is). Maybe it met a smoker for a few minutes somewhere down the line, but no way did it get the 14-15 hours of time in a smoker that brisket demands. It was probably braised. Pulled pork...same thing...no smoke ring, no smoke taste. That said, the food wasn't awful, but it wasn't BBQ. And the sauces....they need to start over. Not a good effort. I hope they improve...and if they actually have a smoker, I hope they learn to use it.

Went to lunch with co-workers and it was reasonably quick, very delicious, great service and a nice atmosphere. Several televisions, an asthetically pleasing seperate bar & dining areas and also good for kids. Fried green tomatos and chile were excellent, as was the mac & cheese. Burbon butter & corn bread were also very good. Would love to come back for Happy Hour!!