Chicken and waffles is now trending on mainstream menus, upgraded from its Southern roots with a few tweaks and twists—and offered at much higher price point than the humble original. From bold spicing, to nontraditional proteins to ethnic variations, chicken-and-waffle combos have become a blank canvas for chefs. Here are some unique takes on this classic Southern duo:
Brennan’s of Houston
Houston
Hill Country Quail & Waffle, made with Bandera quail breast, goat-cheese grits, mustard greens and chicory coffee red eye gravy; (brunch package, $35)
B Too
Washington, D.C.
Maiswafel Met Varken, cornbread waffle with pulled pork, avocado, sunny side up egg and sour cream; $17
Kachina Southwestern Grill
Westminster, Colo.
Fried Quail & Jalapeno Waffles, jalapeño-blue corn waffle topped with whipped butter and chipotle honey agave syrup; $17
Willie Jane
Venice, CA
Mary’s Fried Chicken and Waffle, served with spicy slaw and chile maple syrup; $16
Yardbird Southern Table & Kitchen
Miami Beach, Fla.
Chicken ‘N’ Watermelon ‘N’ Waffles, with hot-sauce honey, chilled spiced watermelon, cheddar cheese-chow chow waffle and bourbon maple syrup; $36
ZED451
Chicago
Chicken ‘n Waffles, made with Buffalo fried chicken; (brunch package, $34)
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