Georgia Roadside Cafés Known For Great Fried Chicken

When you’re driving through Georgia, there’s nothing quite like stopping at a local roadside café for some authentic fried chicken. These hidden gems serve up crispy, golden perfection that’ll make your taste buds dance.

I’ve gathered some of the best spots where you can pull over and enjoy this Southern classic.

1. Busy Bee Cafe

Since 1947, this Atlanta landmark has been serving up some seriously amazing chicken. Each piece gets a 12-hour brine bath before being hand-breaded and fried fresh.

You’ll find it on Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, where locals have been lining up for generations. The crispy coating and tender meat inside make every bite worth the wait.

2. Paula’s Fried Chicken

Dublin’s best-kept secret sits right on Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, and people travel from all over to taste it. Fresh chicken gets seasoned every single morning using a special recipe.

What makes this place special is the perfect balance between that signature crispy coating and juicy interior. It’s unpretentious, delicious, and exactly what roadside dining should be.

3. Bulloch House

Warm Springs hosts this buffet-style treasure where fried chicken takes center stage among dozens of Southern favorites. You can pile your plate high with all the classics you’re craving.

The all-you-can-eat setup means you can try multiple pieces until you find your perfect bite. Families love this spot because everyone finds something they enjoy alongside that golden fried chicken.

4. The Whistle Stop Cafe

Remember the movie ‘Fried Green Tomatoes’? That’s where this café earned its fame, and the food lives up to the Hollywood hype. Located in tiny Juliette, it’s become a destination for both movie fans and food lovers.

Their fried chicken pairs perfectly with their famous fried green tomatoes for a complete Southern experience.

5. Brochu’s Family Tradition

Opening in December 2022 didn’t stop this Savannah newcomer from quickly becoming a local favorite. Their fried chicken recipe blends traditional techniques with fresh, creative touches.

You’ll find it on Bull Street, where the combination of fried chicken and fresh seafood creates an unforgettable menu. Despite being new, they’ve already earned serious respect from Georgia’s food scene.

6. Sweet Georgia’s Juke Joint

Airport food doesn’t have to be disappointing, and this spot proves it beautifully. Located inside Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, travelers get authentic Georgia fried chicken before their flights.

The juke joint atmosphere brings Southern culture to life with music-inspired décor. It’s perfect for visitors wanting a real taste of Georgia without leaving the terminal.

7. Mary Mac’s Tea Room

Operating since 1945, this Atlanta institution has been frying chicken longer than most restaurants have existed. Generations of families consider it their go-to spot for authentic Southern comfort food.

Their chicken comes perfectly seasoned with a crackling crust that shatters at first bite. The tea room setting adds old-world charm to your dining experience, making it memorable beyond just the food.

8. The Chicken Shack

Tucked away on a quiet country road, this family-owned spot has been serving golden-brown perfection since the 1960s. Locals swear by the secret seasoning blend that’s been passed down through three generations.

Every piece is hand-breaded and cooked to order in cast-iron skillets. The crunchy exterior gives way to tender, flavorful meat that practically falls off the bone. Pair it with their famous mac and cheese or green beans for a complete Southern feast.

The friendly staff treats everyone like family, making this more than just a meal stop.

9. Mama Lou’s Kitchen

Walking into this cheerful café feels like stepping into your grandmother’s kitchen. The walls are covered with vintage photos and old recipe cards that tell stories of generations past.

What makes their fried chicken stand out is the buttermilk marinade that keeps every bite incredibly moist. They fry it fresh throughout the day, so you’re guaranteed a piping-hot plate. The homemade biscuits and honey butter on the side are practically legendary in these parts.

On weekends, expect a line out the door as word has spread about their unbeatable Sunday chicken special.

10. Red Barn Café

This converted barn along Highway 441 catches your eye with its bright red paint and country charm. Inside, wooden beams and farm tools create an authentic rural atmosphere that enhances the dining experience.

Their fried chicken recipe uses a unique blend of spices including a hint of cayenne pepper for subtle heat. Each order comes with your choice of two sides from their impressive selection of Southern classics. The peach cobbler dessert is the perfect sweet ending.

Travelers often discover this gem by accident and end up making it a regular stop on their Georgia road trips.