I'm not sure what I can say about Gus's that hasn't already been said at this point? It's a simple but beloved place, and while it's now a national chain, the original location was in Mason, Tenn. about an hour from downtown Memphis. The second location is on Second Street downtown, and you'll usually

The theme of the restaurant is Fried Things. Gus's has a handful of appetizers aka crispy-fried vegetables, slaw, baked beans, fries, white bread, desserts, more sides, and the main event: fried chicken.

Gus's fried chicken is practically perfect. Under the crispy, greasy skin is tender, juicy meat that's got more than a hint of spice. Expect to use a huge stack of napkins. The chicken definitely worth the wait: the downtown location is almost always packed with hungry Memphians with greasy fingers.

David Meany / Contiki Purchase/ Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau

You can order Gus's chicken in all sorts of combinations. If you're alone, I recommend the two-piece white meat meal. If you're with someone else or a few someones, you can't go wrong with ordering an Eight-Piece Family Meal and washing it down with some of their ridiculously sweet tea or a 40-ounce beer. I recommend the Champagne of Beers, a Miller High Life, as perfect pairing to the kick-y chicken.

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Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken