Harold’s Chicken!
When I read this article in a recent issue of the Reader, I was thrilled to hear that Harold’s Chicken was set to open an outpost on the North side- specifically, in Bucktown/Wicker Park. Harold’s is so popular I even found a Harold’s blog. Harold’s is classic Chicago fare- from the no-frills presentation to the demented logo, seen above (this shot is from another location; the Bucktown shop doesn’t feature axe-wielding royalty, in what must be a concession to “yuppie” tastes).
The Reader was aghast that the new Harold’s would cater to “yuppie” tastes by replacing their standard white bread with wheat bread. I can report that this is false- my chicken boat was served with the traditional spongy white bread at the bottom, poised to soak up the fried chicken grease as well as Harold’s BBQ sauce.
I stopped in on Saturday and got a half dark dinner- 2 drumsticks and two thighs, fried up to perfection, nestled on a bed of French fires, all atop two slices of Rainbo bread, with some slaw on the side. BBQ sauce on top AND on the side for me, thank you. Since all chicken is prepared to order, be prepared to wait 10 minutes or so for your meal.
Believe me, the wait is worth it!
I avoided Harolds for forever, simply because my clients love it. My clients also chose McDonalds and Old Country Buffet for their “fancy dates.” However, my coworkers told me to try it recently…
There are a ton of great restaurants on the south side, and each one I’ve asked to write up for Met Blog have declined to participate. Its a damn dirty shame, really.
I didn’t ask, I just ate the chicken and then wrote about it! Go check out Harold’s, it’s good greasy food, but be advised not all Harold’s are equal. See the Reader article for more info on the tangled web of franchises and operators.
Please do not – EVER – post about delicious Bar-B-Q when I am hungry! That is all. But seriously, thanks for the tip, I will look them up when I am in the neighborhood.