This ‘hole-in-the-wall’ spot serves up the best fried chicken in KS, ranking says
A spot in Independence was named the best “hole-in-the-wall” restaurant for fried chicken in Kansas, according to one affordability blog.
Down Home Family Restaurant, about a two hour drive from Wichita, gained the title from the blog Cheapism, which focuses on finances, budgeting and saving money.
“Great food can come from almost any kitchen, whether the restaurant is fancy or not. It’s the unassuming spots that often prepare some of the best fried chicken, maybe because fried chicken is an unassuming dish itself,” the March 27 piece reads.
The blog looked at online reviews, as well expert recommendations, to come up with the best “hole-in-the-wall” fried chicken spot in every U.S. state.
Writing about Down Home Family Restaurant, staff writer Lacey Muszynski said the fried chicken was “top notch,” as well as the whole atmosphere.
“Munch on [the fried chicken] at the wooden slat booths after making a run to the enormous salad and dessert bar that includes deviled eggs, pickled beets and sweet dessert salads,” the blog post reads.
According to travel and review site TripAdvisor, the fried chicken menu item runs you $8.99. Other menu items include chicken fried steak, pork chops and hamburgers, as well as breakfast options.
There are also take-home family meals that come with fried chicken, mashed potatoes, hot rolls and a choice of vegetables or slaw. The prices are $25.99 for an eight-piece, $29.99 for a 12-piece and $43.99 for a 24-piece meal.
Review site Yelp shows 13 five-star reviews for the Independence eatery, as well as five four-star reviews and no one-star reviews.
“We love eating here. The menu has a large selection and there’s also a buffet which my fiancé loves. They are ALWAYS VERY FRIENDLY & make sure everything is to our satisfaction,” one Yelp review from March 2024 reads.
“Best of the Best!!! I love this restaurant so much. It is a treat to eat there,” another one from November 2021 read.
The restaurant is located at 1515 N. Pennsylvania Ave. in Independence and is open Wednesday through Sunday from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Wichita Eagle reached out to the restaurant via Facebook messenger about the ranking and has not heard back.
