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The Jail

Looking for a place to enjoy a unique dining experience? Let me introduce you to The Jail, a quirky spot in Eugene, Oregon. Situated at 490 E Broadway, The Jail offers an experience that's not just about the food but the atmosphere too. Whether you're a local or just visiting, this restaurant promises a memorable meal with a side of fun.

The moment you step into The Jail, you’re greeted by a lively, divey vibe. It’s not your typical upscale eatery, but that’s what makes it stand out. The place is filled with moderate noise, creating a bustling, yet comfortable environment. It’s perfect for families, as it’s good for kids, making it an ideal choice for a casual night out with the little ones. The walls are lined with unique decor, giving off an almost quirky, retro feel that makes the space feel lived-in and fun.

But let’s talk about the food. The Jail isn’t just about the atmosphere; they serve up some seriously good dishes. You can expect hearty meals that hit the spot without breaking the bank. Whether you're craving comfort food or something a bit more adventurous, there’s something for everyone. Their menu features a mix of classic favorites and exciting twists, ensuring there's always something new to try on each visit.

One of the highlights of The Jail is its family-friendly nature. The restaurant’s moderate noise level makes it a perfect place to bring kids along without worrying about them disturbing the peace. It’s laid-back, welcoming, and great for anyone looking to enjoy a meal in a fun, casual setting.

So, if you’re in the area and looking for a spot with great food and an inviting atmosphere, head over to The Jail. It's the kind of place where you’ll feel right at home from the moment you walk in!

Reviews

Dena M.
Restaurantji Rating

This quaint little place is hidden on Broadway. Once I drove by it a few times I can see why it's called "The Jail" Walking inside there is a line of hungry college students and I can see why. These people do not skimp on the portions. One entree can literally serve three people or one big Oregon Duck football player. I was surprised at how generous they were with the portion. There isn't a lot of seating which is fine because the customer service and portions make up for it. Definitely not a five star fusion restaurant but if your hungry or hungover this is the place. Definitely the only Jail I would want to be back to.

Michael S.
Restaurantji Rating

Huge portions? Check Good price? Check Open all day? Check Does it actually taste good? Yup The Jail is really the only place in Eugene that I can go to day or night that will really fill me up for me than $10 and I don't have to sacrifice taste. So far, I've tried Dang Hot Chicken (not really hot which is disappointing), teriyaki beef, pineapple chicken and my fiancé who is a vegetarian had their tofu. I can't speak for her but all the meats I've tried have good flavor, huge amounts and comes with a big portion of rice for all your carb needs. And once again, all of these plates are for less than $10. Just a reminder, this is a fast food place so when I'm saying it's tasty, I am going in terms of fast food standards. As for the place itself, the staff are very friendly, no nonsense and the service is very efficient. This will be my #1 go to place when I'm craving some Asian fast food.

Robyn L.
Restaurantji Rating

I recently moved here from Hawaii, and was craving some good chicken katsu. However, seeing as my favorite katsu places were over 2,528 miles away, I settled for food at The Jail, which I noticed is rated only half a star more than an actual jail, Lane County Jail, on Yelp. My boyfriend had been telling me about this place for a while now, so I stayed optimistic about the food, despite the somewhat shoddy state of the place and slightly unusual decor. The cost of the plates were higher than expected, and I was disappointed to see that they dropped Kalua pig & cabbage from the menu. My boyfriend had a somewhat difficult time communicating with the cashier, who barely seemed to speak English. This, however, is fairly common in Hawaii, and not really a problem. Service was fast enough, no complaints there. I was not impressed by the amount of katsu that was given, normally I'd have enough to save for later, but we easily finished off the protein portion. The meat was a bit thin and chewy, but still tasty. The chinese-style rice, however, was given in heaping amounts, so I left full and satisfied. Will be back to try the chicken yakisoba!

Jeremy W.
Restaurantji Rating

Lets be clear "Yelpers" and "yelp readers" nobody comes to the Jail to get "great service" or eat at the "cleanness" restaurant in Lane County. What we all come here and keep coming back here for is the best dam deal on a gigantic to go container of the tastiest Hot Dang Chicken you will ever sink your teeth into. It is no coincidence that the meal comes literally in a to go container. The amount of food you get for the price is unheard of anywhere you go and the flavors are simply amazing. There is not a reason to go on about who serves me, or how the parking is etc. The Jail simple slogan is "thou shall not go home hungry" and all the other stuff aside you never have and never will. So when you show up to the jail put your money on the counter step to the side and drain your food with some of that amazing jail sauce that is "so hard to get some of" And go home full and happy knowing you got 3 times as much food as you would of got at the other restaurants in the area serving up this style of food. -- When naming this place I think they should of went with. The Teriyaki Nazi

Ashley C.
Restaurantji Rating

Don't go in expecting good service, don't go in if you are in a hurry, don't go in if you are expecting choice cuts of meat out of the 6$ you will spend, don't go in if you want a bubbly 16 year old working the cash register. With those notes, the Jail is one of the most tasty + cheap meals you will find in Eugene. With places like this you usually want to stick with what moves (ie: what is sold a lot). I always get the chicken yakisoba and it is very consistant and very good. I'd probably stay away from beef when paying 5-6 bucks but I have never gotten it here. Also, oddly, the tofu there is just out of the world, I really would have never expected it until I ordered it once. The portions are huge, I mean-- gladly share with someone else because you won't be able to finish it huge. They also have two sauces available (not including ketchup and soy) teriyaki and chili. They don't put them on for you, so the folks complaining about dryness now know why. I like the self-serve teriyaki sauce because I like to drown mine in it where my friend only likes a dribble of chili. Also, folks calling this chinese, it isn't really-- it's sort of what you would get on the islands and reminded me of Hawaii where I lived for a while. Just simple dishes, three ingredients at the most. Good cheap food and you can get a Jarrito (mexican fruit soda) to wash it down. I would avoid the soda here on tap. Say hello to the Jonas Brother's poster on the wall near the cash register-- I think by seeing that, you know what the place is. It doesn't try to be anything it isn't and it is completely welcomed.

Location & Contact

490 E Broadway Eugene, OR 97401 United States
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