The best summary of this place I saw, before heading in was, “it’s the kind of dinner mom used to take us out to, when I was a kid.” And if you’re an adult, of a certain age, who ate out in America j the 70s, you know why it was said. Think back to 1976 – the Bicentennial. I was 12. It was a glorious time and where did you go (occasionally) on Sunday, after church? Kentucky Fried Chicken (not the newer, hipper KFC), but Kentucky Fried Chicken, the way the Colonel intended it.

The wall board says it all “Damn Good Fried Chicken”. And, unlike the shop in Elf that had “the world’s best coffee”, this is no hyperbole. It’s a cold (not really – the chicken was too hot to eat), hard fact.

After waiting in the queue, which often stretches out the door, but moves quickly, you’re at the order counter. Order, find a spot to sit (if you can) and await the deliciousness. We were fortunate that, right after ordering, two seats opened at the counter (replete with a Nintendo console and controllers) and we waited, semi-patiently.

We ordered an eight piece, knowing we’d take some home. I mean, seriously, isn’t cold fried chicken the perfect midnight snack? Some would argue for cold pizza, but that’s more of a breakfast food. But I digress….

On to the food. The chicken was hot, crispy skinned and juicy. The chicken is brined and sauced, then rested in buttermilk and hot sauce, before being fried. To quote a wall, again, right over my head, it’s “damn good fried chicken”. And the sides did not disappoint. The whipped potatoes were velvety, as promised and that brown gravy was refinement of anything I’ve ever had with fast food fried chicken. We also ordered the Louisiana style red beans and spice rice. These were a solid choice as well.

Do yourself a favor, the next time you’re tasked with bringing home dinner and you’re near Decatur. Stop by Mother’s Best and take home some chicken to your loved ones and show your love with acts of tasty goodness.