We’ve experienced or heard tales of family style fried chicken served at a number of great places over the years. The Monte Ne Inn, in Arkansas. Chicken Annie’s in Kansas. Zehnders in Michigan. Slogar in Colorado. And Hollyhock Hill in Indiana.
What they all have in common is a lot of tradition. Hollyhock Hill, for example, opened in 1928 and lays claim to helping define the style and flavor of Indiana friend chicken. At most of these restaurants you’ll find a fixed menu, usually fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and green beans or corn. Some offer extras, like Monte Ne Inn’s bean soup, or coleslaw, applesauce, etc. All of them are good, and offer a fun experience for a group that is willing to pass the food.
At Hollyhock Hill, you get green beans AND corn, mashed potatoes, rolls with apple butter, beets, and plenty of chicken–and they even let you box up leftovers…which you’ll likely need to do, since the chicken pieces are huge. Even better, they are incredibly family friendly, catering not only to family-sized groups but also the children that come with them. The kid-sized meals offer small portions and drinks, and the kids are still entitled to the pass-arounds.
If you are looking for a fun family experience, look for a family-style fried chicken restaurant near you or near your vacation destination. They may…or may not…have a chicken out front!
Photo by Paul K. Logsdon
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