Memphis, Tennessee’s Best Fried Chicken Spots That Locals Swear By
Memphis knows barbecue, but ask any local about fried chicken and they’ll point you straight to Uncle Lou’s. This legendary spot has been serving up crispy, saucy perfection for years, earning a reputation that extends far beyond Tennessee.
Whether you’re craving mild or hot, the chicken here hits different, and once you taste it, you’ll understand why people keep coming back. I still remember my first bite-it was the kind of crunchy, tangy shock that makes you stop mid-chew just to appreciate what’s happening.
The Legendary Signature Sauce That Makes Everything Better
Uncle Lou’s signature sauce deserves its own fan club. This sweet and spicy creation strikes a balance that keeps your taste buds dancing without overwhelming the perfectly fried chicken underneath. Guy Fieri featured it on his show, and for good reason.
The sauce comes on the side if you prefer, letting you control the heat level. Some folks drench every piece, while others use it sparingly to savor the crispy coating. Either way works beautifully.
You can even buy bottles to take home, which I did after my first visit. Now my fridge always has a backup supply for when the craving hits between trips to Memphis.
Honey Butter Biscuits Worth The Drive Alone
Forget everything you think you know about biscuits until you try Uncle Lou’s version. These golden beauties arrive warm, flaky, and slathered with honey butter that melts into every layer. One customer ordered two and received four as a pleasant surprise.
The texture hits that perfect spot between crumbly and soft. They’re substantial enough to satisfy but light enough that you’ll want seconds. Pairing them with the spicy chicken creates a sweet-heat combination that feels like a Southern hug.
Multiple people call these biscuits the star of the show, which says something considering the chicken’s reputation.
Hot Chicken Sandwich On Texas Toast Done Right
Texas toast provides the perfect foundation for Uncle Lou’s hot chicken sandwich. The thick, buttery bread gets toasted just right, creating a sturdy base that holds up against the juicy, crispy chicken. The breading maintains its crunch without drying out, which takes serious skill.
One reviewer called the flavor out of this world, though it wasn’t quite as spicy as expected. That actually works in its favor since you can taste the seasoning blend rather than just burning your mouth off.
The sandwich comes together beautifully, with every component pulling its weight.
Four-Piece Wings That Pack Serious Flavor
Ordering the four-piece whole wing gives you a proper serving of Uncle Lou’s magic. The wings come out hot and fresh since everything’s cooked to order. Choose between mild and hot, though several customers note the hot isn’t overwhelmingly spicy.
The coating achieves that ideal crispy texture while the meat stays juicy inside. Some reviewers mention the wings run small, so adjust your order accordingly if you’re really hungry. The flavor profile includes an interesting spice that one person compared to nutmeg or Indian cuisine seasonings.
Mac and cheese makes a popular side pairing with the wings.
Meeting Uncle Lou Himself Adds Something Special
Sometimes Uncle Lou stops by tables to chat with customers, turning a good meal into a memorable experience. One recent reviewer gushed about how nice and friendly he was, noting his genuine happiness in talking with guests. That personal touch separates this place from corporate chains.
His down-home approach matches the restaurant’s vibe perfectly. You’re not just another order number here. The staff follows his lead, working hard and treating customers with respect.
When the owner cares enough to connect with people eating his food, it shows in every aspect of the business.
Kiosk Ordering System For Modern Convenience
Uncle Lou’s uses two touch screen kiosks for ordering instead of a traditional register. First-time visitors sometimes find this confusing, especially without staff guidance on the menu options. However, the system keeps lines moving quickly once you figure it out.
Staff members remain available and willing to help if you get stuck. The friendly team balances technology with personal service, though some reviews mention the customer service could be more proactive. You place your order, grab a seat, and wait for your number.
The setup works well during busy periods when multiple people need to order simultaneously without waiting.
Jumbo Burgers That Surprise First-Timers
Not everyone realizes Uncle Lou’s serves jumbo burgers alongside the famous chicken. The toppings arrive fresh, which one customer appreciated. However, the meat uses pre-shaped frozen patties rather than handmade fresh ones, which disappointed someone expecting the latter based on online photos.
The burger represents a solid option if you want something different from chicken. It won’t blow your mind, but it fills you up at a reasonable price. The fries accompanying it could use improvement according to multiple reviews.
Still, having burger options expands the menu for groups with different preferences.
Down-Home Memphis Atmosphere That Feels Authentic
Walking into Uncle Lou’s feels like stepping into a genuine Memphis eatery rather than some sanitized tourist trap. The atmosphere stays true to its down-home roots, with plenty of seating inside and ketchup plus paper towels at every table. One reviewer noted it needs a deep cleaning, but most folks overlook that for the food quality.
Despite appearing on television, the place maintains its authentic character. You won’t find fancy decorations or pretentious vibes here. The focus stays on good food and friendly service.
Merch and bottled sauce sit available for purchase near the counter.
Reasonable Prices For Quality You Actually Get
Spending between ten and twenty dollars gets you a solid meal at Uncle Lou’s. Multiple reviewers comment on the reasonable pricing, especially considering the quality and portion sizes. The value proposition works well for both locals and tourists exploring Memphis food scene.
Combo meals with chicken and sides fall into that price range comfortably. Even adding extra biscuits or sauce won’t break your budget. Some sides like the okra feel less worth the cost according to certain reviews.
Overall, you’re paying fair prices for authentic Memphis fried chicken that delivers on flavor and freshness every visit.