Portland is no stranger to good food. It’s a city that prides itself on innovation, sustainability, and, above all, flavor. But every once in a while, you stumble upon a place that transcends the ordinary, offering not just a meal but an experience. Lilia Comedor is one of those places.
The Ambiance: A Warm Embrace
Tucked away on a quiet street, Lilia Comedor feels like a well-kept secret. As I approached the entrance, the warm glow of the lights and the sound of soft laughter spilling out from within created an inviting atmosphere. The interior is an eclectic mix of rustic charm and modern design—think wooden beams, exposed brick, and carefully curated art pieces that reflect the vibrant culture of Latin America. The open kitchen adds a touch of excitement, allowing diners to catch a glimpse of the culinary magic in progress.
Service: A Personal Touch
From the moment I walked in, the service was impeccable. The staff at Lilia Comedor strikes a perfect balance between professionalism and warmth. My server, who was knowledgeable about the menu and passionate about the food, guided me through the evening with grace. There was no rush, no pretension—just a genuine desire to ensure that every guest had a memorable experience.
The Food: A Symphony of Flavors
Lilia Comedor’s menu is a celebration of Latin American cuisine, with a particular focus on Mexican flavors. The dishes are familiar yet elevated, with each bite revealing layers of complexity.
I started with the Ceviche de Camarón, a dish that set the tone for the entire meal. The shrimp was impeccably fresh, marinated in a tangy citrus blend that was brightened with just the right amount of heat from the chiles. The addition of avocado and crunchy tostadas made it a perfect start.
Next came the Tacos de Birria, which were a revelation. The birria was rich and flavorful, slow-cooked to perfection and served with a side of consommé for dipping. The tortillas, handmade and slightly charred, added a smoky depth that complemented the succulent meat. Each bite was a harmonious blend of spice, texture, and flavor—a testament to the skill and dedication of the kitchen.
But the highlight of the evening was the Mole Negro con Pollo. Mole is often referred to as the heart and soul of Mexican cooking, and Lilia Comedor’s version did not disappoint. The mole was dark and velvety, with a complex balance of sweet, savory, and spicy notes. The chicken, tender and juicy, absorbed the sauce beautifully, creating a dish that was both comforting and sophisticated.
Cultural Significance
What sets Lilia Comedor apart is its deep respect for tradition. The dishes are rooted in the rich culinary heritage of Latin America, but they are presented with a modern twist that feels both innovative and authentic. It’s clear that the chefs here have a deep understanding of the ingredients they work with and a genuine love for the cuisine they create. This is food that tells a story, connecting diners to the vibrant cultures and traditions of Latin America.
Bringing Lilia Comedor’s Mole Negro con Pollo to Your Kitchen
After indulging in the rich and flavorful Mole Negro con Pollo at Lilia Comedor, I couldn’t help but wonder how to recreate this masterpiece at home. While nothing can quite match the experience of dining at Lilia, I’ve put together a recipe that captures the essence of this dish, allowing you to bring a taste of Portland’s hidden gem into your own kitchen.
Oaxacan Chicken Mole
Dive into the rich, smoky, and spicy flavors of Oaxacan cuisine with this Chicken Mole recipe! Featuring a luscious Black Mole Sauce, this dish combines tender chicken thighs with a hint of chocolate, dried chilies, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will transport your taste buds straight to Oaxaca. Serve it with Mexican rice, pickled onions, and fresh cilantro for an unforgettable meal.
4
servings30
minutes1
hour450
kcal1
hour30
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
- Chicken Thighs
2 1/2 to 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
2 1/2 tsp sea salt
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1/2 cup chicken broth or stock
- For Serving
One batch of Black Mole Sauce (Mole Negro)
One batch of pickled onions
Fresh cilantro leaves
Mexican rice
Sliced radishes or Mexican slaw
- Alternative Ingredients:
Chicken Thighs: Substitute with boneless skinless chicken breasts or tofu for a vegetarian option.
Olive Oil: Use avocado oil or coconut oil.
Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Cilantro: Parsley or green onions as a garnish.
Directions
- Pickled Onions Mole Sauce Preparation – Prepare the pickled onions and refrigerate them. Make the Black Mole Sauce ahead of time if possible.
- Preheat Season – Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, combine the salt, cumin, coriander, chili powder, and cinnamon. Rub this spice mix evenly over the chicken thighs.
- Searing the Chicken – Heat the olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs until they are golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Adding Broth Sauce – Pour in the chicken broth and add the prepared Black Mole Sauce to the skillet. Shake the pan gently to ensure the chicken is well-coated and nestled in the sauce.
- Baking – Cover the skillet and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is tender enough to pull apart easily with two forks, approximately 20 minutes.
- Serving – Serve the chicken whole or shredded for tacos. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and fresh cilantro. Pair with Mexican rice, pickled onions, radishes, or Mexican slaw.
Equipment
- Chef’s Knife
- Cutting Board
- Dutch Oven
- measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing Bowls
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Potassium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 35g
- Vitamin A: 800IU
- Vitamin C: 10mg
- Calcium: 60mg
- Iron: 3mg
A Must-Visit Destination
Lilia Comedor is more than just a restaurant—it’s a destination for anyone who appreciates the art of good food. Whether you’re a Portland local or just passing through, this is a place that should be on your list. The combination of exceptional service, a welcoming atmosphere, and unforgettable food makes Lilia Comedor a standout in Portland’s crowded culinary scene.
