In Texas, This Fried Chicken Sandwich Leaves Burgers, Tacos, And Everything Else Behind
When you think of Texas food, your mind probably jumps to brisket, breakfast tacos, or maybe a juicy burger. But there’s a new champion in town that’s making waves across Austin and beyond.
Tumble 22, a Nashville-style hot chicken joint on Burnet Road, is serving up fried chicken sandwiches so good they’re stealing the spotlight from all your Lone Star State favorites. Warning: this chicken might cause spontaneous menu amnesia for everything else you thought you loved.
The Nashville Hot Chicken Revolution Hits Austin
Austin has always been a city that embraces bold flavors, but Tumble 22 brought something entirely different to the table when it opened its doors. Nashville-style hot chicken, with its fiery spice blend and crispy coating, was relatively unknown in Texas before this spot made it famous locally.
The restaurant’s commitment to authentic preparation methods means every piece gets the same careful attention that made this style legendary in Tennessee. Located at 7211 Burnet Road, Tumble 22 quickly became a destination for adventurous eaters.
The heat levels range from mild to scorching, giving everyone a chance to test their limits. Whether you’re a spice novice or a seasoned pro, there’s a perfect level waiting for you at this chicken joint.
What Makes Their Signature Sandwich Stand Out
Forget everything you know about ordinary chicken sandwiches because Tumble 22 takes this classic to stratospheric heights. The chicken breast gets brined for hours, ensuring juiciness that rivals any burger you’ve ever tasted.
After brining, it receives a double coating of seasoned flour before hitting the fryer for that signature crunch. Once fried to golden perfection, the chicken gets brushed with their secret spice oil blend. This isn’t just hot sauce slapped on top.
The oil penetrates the crispy coating, creating layers of flavor that build with every bite. Nestled on a soft bun with pickles and their house-made sauce, this sandwich delivers a flavor bomb that leaves tacos and burgers in the dust.
Southern Sides That Complete The Experience
Great chicken deserves equally impressive sidekicks, and Tumble 22 delivers with authentic southern accompaniments. Mac and cheese arrives creamy and rich, providing a cooling counterpoint to the spicy chicken.
Coleslaw offers a crisp, tangy crunch that refreshes your palate between bites of heat. I remember my first visit when I ordered the loaded fries as a side. They came piled high with cheese, bacon, and ranch dressing, creating a meal within a meal.
The portion sizes here don’t mess around, so come hungry or plan to share. Every side dish gets made fresh daily, using recipes that honor traditional southern cooking while adding a Texas-sized twist to portions and presentation.
The Story Behind Tumble 22’s Success
Building a successful restaurant takes more than just good food, and Tumble 22 proves this with their thoughtful approach to every detail. The owners studied Nashville hot chicken culture extensively before opening, ensuring authenticity in every recipe.
They didn’t just copy what others were doing but adapted traditional methods to fit Austin’s unique food
The name Tumble 22 itself reflects the playful, approachable vibe they wanted to create. Rather than presenting hot chicken as intimidating or exclusive, they made it welcoming for everyone, from families to food adventurers seeking their next great meal in the Texas capital.
Navigating The Heat Levels Like A Pro
Choosing your heat level at Tumble 22 requires strategy and a realistic assessment of your spice tolerance. The menu offers multiple options, starting with mild for those who want flavor without fire.
Medium brings noticeable warmth that most people can handle comfortably, while hot starts challenging even experienced spice eaters. Then comes extra hot and their infamous hottest level, reserved for true warriors.
Staff members will actually warn you before ordering the top tier because it’s no joke. My advice is to start one level lower than you think you can handle, then work your way up on future visits.
Practical Details For Your Visit
Planning your Tumble 22 adventure requires knowing a few key details to ensure the best experience. The restaurant opens at 11 AM most days and stays open until 10 PM, with Friday hours extending to 10:30 PM.
Thursdays are the only day they’re closed, so plan accordingly if you’re craving chicken mid-week. Prices range from $10 to $20 per person, making it affordable for a quality meal that fills you up completely.
Located at 7211 Burnet Road in Austin, parking is available nearby, though it can get busy during peak lunch and dinner times. You can call ahead or check their website at tumble22.com for current menu options and any special offerings they might be running.