Apparently, you don't need California sun to get you in the mood for chicken and waffles. Chicago customers line up to get into this Bronzeville establishment (it was originally called Chicago's Rosscoe's, but the owners of Roscoe's House of Chicken 'n' Waffles in Los Angeles weren't too keen on that), perching inside the main entrance and even standing outside the door, whether the weather cooperates or not. Even when a general manager toting a list of names warns of an hour-long wait, few people leave. Patience is indeed a virtue, especially when waiting to eat the $14.10 Marks's Big Boy platter of chicken and waffles.
Loud jazz plays over the radio, drowning out the noise of the crowd down below in the lone dining room. It's a mish-mash of couples laughing or families whittling away at their $10.95 Big D platters, featuring a half-chicken smothered in gravy, onions, grits and biscuits. Everything, from the rich earthy walls decorated with paintings of vivacious musicians to the quickness of the servers, is indicative of the new way of doing business in Bronzeville.
Chicago's Home of Chicken and Waffles puts a new face on an old concept. A la carte options, such as livers, giblets, thighs and wings, are Southern oldies that never go out of style. And if crowds keep lining up outside for a taste of the classics, the restaurant won't, either.
Centerstage Reviewer: Nola Akiwowo
