8 Top Spots in Richmond for Fried Chicken
If you’ve got tailgating on the brain, we’ve got some suggestions for what you should bring along with your cold drink(s) of choice.
Wise Choice Convenience Store
Now look, we’re starting with a gas station, but according to the online fried chicken community, we’re starting strong here. You seemingly cannot research this topic *without* feeling like you have majorly overlooked a hidden gem in Wise Choice, so we’re bringing it to your attention, in case you — like us — need to get this on your must-try list ASAP. Among many compliments, the spot is called “a national treasure” and much of the hype is attributed to its fried chicken offerings: tenders, wings, and a helluva lot more.
Location: 1751 Ashland Rd (Rockville)
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Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken
IMO, this is a fried chicken paradise. My obsession began when I worked next door at the DMV, but it’s carried on for years, and I’m truly stunned folks seemed to be fixated on another big-name chain, when this indi franchisee is the clear answer to any cravings for deliciousness. I usually go with some strips; two or three do the trick, but if you’ve got room to spare, definitely don’t sleep on the sides and biscuits. No matter what you end up with, make sure to ask for a couple sides of the honey mustard, too.
Location: 2200 W Broad St (The Fan)
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Mama J’s
In its own words, “Mama J’s is Richmond’s premiere soul food dining experience,” and undoubtedly, that kind of experience has to include some delish classics. From generous servings with corn bread to the fried chicken sandwich, you’re enjoying homecooked goodness when you eat here.
Location: 415 N 1st St (Jackson Ward)
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Ukrop’s Market Hall
Speaking of classics, Ukrop’s has been a Richmond institution since the ‘30s, and you know that kind of tradition cooks right into the food. The spot’s noteworthy Hot Foods Menu dedicates its entire first section to “Ukrop’s Famous Fried Chicken & Homestyle Sides,” including bone-in and boneless options, along with seasoned green beans, potato salad, and plenty more.
Location: 7250 Patterson Ave (West End)
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Buttermilk & Honey Fried Chicken
The name here already gets our mouths watering, and the fact that this restaurant is part of the Lindsey Food Group’s impressive portfolio practically guarantees its crave-ability, too. Just some menu stand-outs include the What the Cluck!!! (two fried chicken breast, Nashville spice, slab bacon, shaved pickles, smokey honey mustard, cheddar jack cheese, ranch slaw) and the Chicken & French Toast (fried chicken tenders, bread pudding french toast, caramel maple syrup), but you’ve got many other drool-worthy choices where those came from.
Locations: 415 E Grace St (Downtown) and 12246 W Broad St (Short Pump)
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Cocky Rooster
This is a Paige take-out favorite, and it’s easy to see why. As they say here themselves, “It all started with a love of wings and an old house in Richmond,” and it’s clear that love has only grown. The spot offers tenders, sandwiches, and more than 20 scratch-made sauces and dry rubs.
Locations: 2523 W Main St (The Fan) and 12171 W Broad St, Ste D (Ridge)
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Fuzzy Cactus
This “rock ‘n roll bar in Richmond” also has a menu of often-recommended chicken opts. Get a chicken box or half bird with a housemade biscuit, house pickles, and brown sugar butter, or go with some brined and fried wings or tenders with your choice of flavors and dipping sauces.
Location: 221 W Brookland Park Blvd (Northside)
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Liberty Public House
Not only does this spot have stellar fried chicken items — personally, we’re partial to the RVA Hot Mac (gouda mac and cheese, RVA hot sauce, broccoli, country fried chicken) and Buffalo Chicken Wrap (fried chicken, fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, red onion, mixed greens, garlic buffalo sauce, ranch dressing) — but if you go on a Thursday, you can get the RVA Hot Chicken sandwich (country fried chicken, RVA hot sauce, garlic aioli, house garlic pickles, brioche bun) with fries and a beer for 10 bucks.
Location: 418a N 25th St (Church Hill)
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