The concept of chicken and waffles was born in jazz-era Harlem, when musicians coming out of a late night set couldn’t decide between breakfast or dinner, according to Chicago’s Home of Chicken & Waffles manager Darnell Johnson.
The combination of sweet waffles with maple syrup and salty, flaky fried chicken hit the spot and has become a traditional, if unusual, combination at several restaurants around the country.
“It’s a great combination,” says Johnson. “It’s a fun food in the evenings, in the mornings—all day.”
Johnson and his wife opened the Evanston location of Chicago’s Home of Chicken & Waffles at 2424 Dempster St. this January. It’s the third location for the couple, who also operate Chicken and Waffles restaurants in Bronzeville and Oak Park.
Diners can choose from dark or light meat, just wings or even fried catfish and waffles, and Johnson says his restaurants all have their own, secret recipes for the chicken, waffles and even the syrup.
Other offerings include turkey burgers, grilled salmon and sausage, with soul food sides like red beans and rice, cornbread and grits. There’s also a full bar in the back of the restaurant and live jazz on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
What should Foodie Finds try next? Tell us what restaurants and dishes you're loving in the comments.