A Taste of the Panhandle: Southern Fried Chicken Joints in Pensacola When it comes to Southern comfort food, few dishes are as beloved as Southern fried chicken.

A Taste of the Panhandle: Southern Fried Chicken Joints in Pensacola

When it comes to Southern comfort food, few dishes are as beloved as Southern fried chicken. Pensacola, with its rich history and coastal charm, is home to a plethora of joints serving up finger-lickin' good fried chicken. As a traveler and outdoor enthusiast, you'll find that these restaurants are perfect for fueling up after a day of exploring the Gulf Coast. In this article, we'll take you on a tour of the top 10 must-try Southern fried chicken joints in Pensacola.

1. The Donut Hole

This local institution has been serving up Southern favorites, including fried chicken, since 1980. Their secret recipe has been perfected over the years, and it's a must-try when visiting Pensacola. Don't be put off by the name – they also have a great selection of donuts, but the fried chicken is the real star of the show.

2. Liza's Kitchen

This cozy eatery is a hidden gem in the heart of Pensacola. Their fried chicken is hand-breaded and cooked to perfection, and it's served with a side of creamy coleslaw and crispy hush puppies. Liza's also offers a variety of other Southern classics, including fried green tomatoes and shrimp and grits.

3. The Oar House

Located on the waterfront, The Oar House offers stunning views of the marina while you enjoy your meal. Their fried chicken is a popular choice, and it's served with a side of garlic mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli. Don't forget to try their famous "oar house" sauce – it's a game-changer.

4. Doc's Seafood Shack

This casual seafood spot may not be the first place you think of for fried chicken, but trust us, it's a must-try. Their chicken is hand-breaded and cooked to perfection, and it's served with a side of crispy fries and coleslaw. Don't miss their famous seafood baskets, either – they're a Pensacola staple.

5. Jackson's Steakhouse

For a more upscale take on Southern fried chicken, head to Jackson's Steakhouse. Their fried chicken is served with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and steamed asparagus, and it's a perfect choice for a special occasion or romantic dinner.

6. Another Broken Egg Cafe

This popular breakfast spot is also a great place to try Southern fried chicken. Their chicken is hand-breaded and cooked to perfection, and it's served with a side of crispy hash browns and toast. Don't miss their famous breakfast specials, either – they're a Pensacola favorite.

7. The Fish House

Located on the waterfront, The Fish House offers stunning views of the marina while you enjoy your meal. Their fried chicken is a popular choice, and it's served with a side of garlic mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli. Don't forget to try their famous "fish house" sauce – it's a game-changer.

8. Big Bad Breakfast

This popular breakfast spot is also a great place to try Southern fried chicken. Their chicken is hand-breaded and cooked to perfection, and it's served with a side of crispy hash browns and toast. Don't miss their famous breakfast specials, either – they're a Pensacola favorite.

9. The Hangout

Located on the beach, The Hangout is a perfect spot to try Southern fried chicken after a day of surfing or beach activities. Their chicken is hand-breaded and cooked to perfection, and it's served with a side of crispy fries and coleslaw. Don't miss their famous beachside views, either – they're a Pensacola treasure.

10. Blue Dot Cafe

This cozy cafe is a hidden gem in the heart of Pensacola. Their fried chicken is hand-breaded and cooked to perfection, and it's served with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli. Don't forget to try their famous "blue dot" sauce – it's a game-changer.

Practical Info:

• Hours: Vary by restaurant, but most are open for lunch and dinner, 7 days a week
• Fees: Prices vary by restaurant, but most offer a range of options to suit any budget
• Location Hints: Most restaurants are located in the downtown area or near the waterfront