Texas-style chicken fried steak has made its way to the bustling streets of New York City. This iconic Lone Star State dish brings a taste of Southern comfort to the Big Apple, offering a unique culinary experience for locals and visitors alike. New Yorkers can now savor the crispy, breaded cutlet smothered in creamy gravy without leaving the city.
The fusion of Texas flavors with New York’s diverse food scene creates an exciting blend of culinary traditions. As chicken fried steak finds its place on menus across the city, it introduces diners to a beloved Texas staple while adapting to local tastes and ingredients. This cultural exchange through food highlights the evolving nature of American cuisine and the growing appreciation for regional specialties in urban centers.
1) Hill Country Chicken
Hill Country Chicken brings a taste of Texas to New York City. This eatery, located at 1123 Broadway, offers authentic Southern-style fried chicken and other comfort food favorites.
The restaurant’s menu features crispy, golden-brown chicken with a perfectly seasoned crust. Diners can choose from various cuts, including breast, thigh, and drumstick options.
Hill Country Chicken’s sides complement the main dishes well. Classic offerings like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and biscuits round out the meal.
For those craving a true Texas experience, the chicken fried steak is a standout. This dish showcases the restaurant’s commitment to bringing genuine Lone Star State flavors to the Big Apple.
The atmosphere at Hill Country Chicken is casual and welcoming. Its decor reflects a modern take on traditional Southern charm, creating a comfortable dining environment for patrons.
Visitors to New York seeking a taste of Texas-style cuisine will find Hill Country Chicken a satisfying option. The restaurant successfully brings the flavors of the South to the heart of Manhattan.
2) Jacob’s Pickles
Jacob’s Pickles has become a beloved New York staple since its launch in 2011. Located on the Upper West Side, this restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that draws in locals and visitors alike.
The menu features Southern comfort food with generous portions. Their signature dish is the fried chicken sandwich, which comes loaded with house-made pickles. The crispy chicken is perfectly complemented by the tangy pickles.
While not strictly Texas-style, Jacob’s Pickles’ take on Southern cuisine brings hearty flavors to the Big Apple. Their fried chicken has earned a reputation for its crispy exterior and juicy interior.
Beyond chicken, the restaurant offers other Southern classics like biscuits and fried pickles. They also serve unique treats like pickle-flavored soft serve ice cream for dessert.
Jacob’s Pickles prides itself on making pickles in-house, adding an extra layer of authenticity to their dishes. The restaurant’s popularity has led to an expansion, with a location now open in Moynihan Train Hall.
3) Cheeky Sandwiches
Cheeky Sandwiches brings a unique twist to New York’s culinary scene. This Lower East Side eatery specializes in Southern-inspired sandwiches, including their take on fried chicken.
Their spicy chicken sandwich features a chicken thigh marinated overnight and hand-breaded to order. Served on a toasted brioche bun with jalapeños and a secret spicy sauce, it offers a bold flavor profile.
Cheeky Sandwiches also serves a five-piece fried chicken meal. The recipe, passed down through generations, boasts a light, crisp texture with a hint of citrus for a distinctive taste.
While not strictly Texas-style chicken fried steak, Cheeky Sandwiches’ offerings showcase the versatility of Southern-inspired cuisine in New York. The restaurant’s commitment to fresh ingredients and made-to-order preparation ensures quality.
Located at 35 Orchard Street, Cheeky Sandwiches has garnered positive reviews for its food and service. Patrons praise the friendly staff and the balance of flavors in the dishes.
4) Pies ‘n’ Thighs
Pies ‘n’ Thighs, a beloved Southern-style restaurant in New York, opened its doors in 2006 near the Williamsburg Bridge. The establishment quickly gained popularity for its hearty comfort food and welcoming atmosphere.
The menu features a range of Southern classics, with fried chicken taking center stage. Their crispy, flavorful chicken has become a local favorite, drawing praise from food critics and locals alike.
Alongside the signature chicken, Pies ‘n’ Thighs offers a variety of tempting dishes. The chicken biscuit, coated in hot sauce and sweetened with honey butter, has earned a reputation as a go-to hangover cure.
Other notable menu items include burnt end baked beans, hush puppies, and a selection of homemade pies. The banana cream pie and apple pie are particularly popular choices for dessert.
The restaurant’s success led to expansion, with a second location opening on Canal Street. Both venues continue to serve up generous portions of Southern-inspired cuisine to hungry New Yorkers.
5) The Smith
The Smith, a casual American brasserie in New York City, offers a unique take on chicken fried steak. While not strictly Texas-style, their interpretation brings a taste of comfort food to the Big Apple.
The restaurant’s menu features a chicken fried mushroom dish, showcasing their creative approach to classic recipes. This vegetarian twist uses hen of the woods mushrooms, coated and fried to crispy perfection.
The Smith’s commitment to local ingredients ensures fresh, high-quality dishes. They work closely with trusted farmers and purveyors to source the best products available.
For those craving a more traditional steak experience, The Smith offers several options. Their New York Strip, Bone-in Rib Eye, and Filet Mignon provide classic steakhouse fare in a casual setting.
The restaurant’s lively atmosphere and comfortable booths create an inviting dining environment. Patrons can enjoy their meals alongside craft cocktails from the bar.
With multiple locations throughout New York City, The Smith brings accessible, satisfying cuisine to different neighborhoods. Their menu balances familiar favorites with innovative dishes, catering to a variety of tastes.
6) Blue Smoke
Blue Smoke, a renowned barbecue restaurant in New York City, offers a taste of Southern-inspired cuisine in the heart of the Big Apple. Established in 2002, this eatery has become a pioneer in bringing authentic barbecue flavors to urban diners.
Located at 255 Vesey St, Blue Smoke serves up a variety of mouthwatering dishes. Their menu features classics like cherry-smoked Backyard Barbecue Chicken, glazed with Kansas City-style BBQ sauce, and hickory-smoked Texas Beef Brisket with a pepper rub.
The restaurant’s commitment to quality extends beyond just meat. Blue Smoke also offers delectable sides and homestyle baked goods, complementing their main dishes perfectly.
To enhance the dining experience, Blue Smoke provides a selection of cocktails, local and Southern beers, and an extensive range of American whiskies. This combination of food and drink creates a well-rounded Southern-inspired meal.
Blue Smoke’s operating hours cater to both lunch and dinner crowds. The restaurant is open from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm on most days, with extended hours until 10:00 pm on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
7) Momofuku Noodle Bar
Momofuku Noodle Bar, founded by renowned chef David Chang, brings innovative Asian-inspired cuisine to New York City. While not known for chicken fried steak, the restaurant offers a unique take on fried chicken.
Their signature dish is the Fried Chicken & Caviar, available for parties of 2 to 4 people. This indulgent meal features two whole fried chickens prepared in different styles.
One chicken is fried Southern-style with buttermilk and spices. The other is triple-fried Korean-style and finished with a light spicy glaze.
The dish comes with accompaniments like chive crepes, potato chips, and various sauces. It’s served alongside scallion pancakes, vegetables, and an herb basket.
Momofuku Noodle Bar has two locations in New York City. The East Village restaurant is open daily for dinner, with extended hours on weekends. The Columbus Circle location offers both lunch and dinner service.
Reservations are recommended, especially for the Fried Chicken & Caviar, which is available at specific times. The restaurant’s innovative approach to Asian cuisine has earned it recognition in the Michelin Guide.
8) Bubby’s Tribeca
Bubby’s Tribeca, located at 120 Hudson Street in New York City, offers a taste of American comfort food with a focus on quality ingredients. The restaurant has been serving locals and visitors since 1990, making it a well-established fixture in the neighborhood.
Known for its scratch-made dishes, Bubby’s prides itself on using seasonal and local ingredients. The menu features a variety of options for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, catering to different tastes throughout the day.
While Bubby’s is not primarily known for Texas-style chicken fried steak, its commitment to American comfort food suggests that hearty, satisfying dishes are a staple. The restaurant’s approach to classic recipes may appeal to those seeking familiar flavors in the heart of New York City.
Bubby’s also gained recognition for its pies, which have become a signature item. These desserts complement the savory offerings and contribute to the restaurant’s reputation for homestyle cooking.
The restaurant’s atmosphere aims to provide a welcoming neighborhood feel, making it a popular spot for both casual meals and special occasions. Its longevity in the competitive New York dining scene speaks to its consistent quality and appeal to locals and tourists alike.
9) Best Bagel & Coffee
Best Bagel & Coffee offers a unique twist on the chicken fried steak experience in New York City. While primarily known for their hand-rolled bagels, this eatery also serves up hearty breakfast and lunch options.
Their menu features a variety of sandwiches, including a chicken cheese steak that pays homage to the classic Texas dish. The sandwich combines grilled chicken with melted American cheese, bell peppers, and onions.
For those seeking a more traditional chicken fried steak, Best Bagel & Coffee’s egg platters provide a suitable alternative. Customers can pair their choice of protein with eggs cooked to order.
The restaurant prides itself on using fresh, high-quality ingredients in all its dishes. Their focus on thoughtful preparation and attention to detail ensures a satisfying meal for diners.
Located in the heart of New York City, Best Bagel & Coffee brings a taste of Southern comfort food to the bustling metropolis. The eatery’s commitment to freshness extends to their bagels, which are baked daily on the premises.
10) Root & Bone
Root & Bone brings a taste of Southern comfort to New York City’s East Village. This restaurant offers elevated Southern cuisine with a focus on farm-fresh ingredients and conscientious sourcing.
Their menu features a standout dish that captures the essence of Texas-style chicken fried steak in the Big Apple. The crispy fried chicken, brined in sweet tea and dusted with pickled lemon, exemplifies their approach to classic Southern fare.
Root & Bone’s take on fried chicken demonstrates a balance between tradition and innovation. The addition of spiked Tabasco honey adds a unique twist to the familiar flavors.
The restaurant’s ambiance reflects its culinary philosophy, described as whimsical and wonderful. It provides a welcoming setting for diners to enjoy soul-nurturing dishes.
Root & Bone has garnered attention as a must-visit spot for fried chicken in NYC. Their commitment to quality ingredients and skillful preparation has made it a destination for food enthusiasts.
History of Texas-Style Chicken Fried Steak
Texas-style chicken fried steak has deep roots in the Lone Star State’s culinary heritage. Its journey from rural kitchens to iconic status reflects the state’s cultural influences and culinary traditions.
Origins and Cultural Significance
Chicken fried steak emerged in Texas during the 19th century. German and Austrian immigrants brought schnitzel recipes to the state, adapting them to local ingredients and tastes. The dish’s name comes from its preparation method, similar to fried chicken.
Early Texan cooks used tough cuts of beef, tenderizing them through pounding and frying. This resourcefulness reflected the state’s cattle-ranching culture and frontier spirit.
The dish gained popularity in rural areas and small towns. It became a staple in home kitchens, diners, and cafes across Texas. Chicken fried steak symbolized hearty, satisfying meals that fueled hard-working Texans.
Evolution Over Time
As chicken fried steak spread across Texas, regional variations emerged. Central Texas favored a thinner, crispier crust. East Texas developed a thicker, richer breading. West Texas embraced a rustic, cowboy-style preparation.
The dish evolved beyond its humble origins. Upscale restaurants began offering gourmet versions with premium cuts of beef and sophisticated gravies. Food festivals and competitions celebrated chicken fried steak, cementing its status as a cultural icon.
Today, chicken fried steak remains a beloved comfort food in Texas. It has also gained recognition beyond state borders, appearing on menus across the United States. The dish continues to adapt, with chefs experimenting with new ingredients and techniques while honoring its traditional roots.
New York’s Take on Texas-Style Chicken Fried Steak
New York chefs have embraced the beloved Texas dish, adding their own unique spin. They blend traditional techniques with local ingredients and flavors to create innovative versions of chicken fried steak.
Fusion of Flavors and Ingredients
New York’s culinary scene infuses Texas-style chicken fried steak with diverse influences. Chefs use high-quality local beef, often sourced from upstate farms. The breading may incorporate unexpected elements like panko crumbs or crushed pretzels for extra crunch.
Some restaurants offer gluten-free options using alternative flours. The gravy receives creative twists, with additions like truffle oil or local mushrooms. Sides might include roasted Brussels sprouts or sweet potato mash instead of traditional mashed potatoes.
Local Chefs and Their Innovative Recipes
Manhattan’s top chefs have reimagined chicken fried steak for discerning New York palates. Some notable creations include:
- Wagyu beef chicken fried steak with black garlic gravy
- Grass-fed beef version with a crispy quinoa crust
- Vegetarian “chicken fried cauliflower steak” for plant-based diners
Brunch menus feature chicken fried steak benedict variations. Late-night diners can find upscale versions served with craft cocktails. Food trucks offer handheld chicken fried steak sandwiches for busy New Yorkers on the go.
Pairing Suggestions for a Culinary Experience
The right pairings can elevate a Texas-style chicken fried steak in New York from a simple meal to a memorable culinary experience. Thoughtful side dishes and beverages complement the rich flavors and textures of this Southern classic.
Complementary Side Dishes
Mashed potatoes are a quintessential accompaniment to chicken fried steak. Their creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the crispy exterior of the steak. For a New York twist, try adding roasted garlic or herbs like chives to the mash.
Green beans almondine offer a light, crunchy counterpoint. The nutty flavor and crisp texture balance the richness of the dish.
Coleslaw provides a refreshing element. A vinegar-based version cuts through the heaviness of the fried steak and gravy.
Buttermilk biscuits are perfect for soaking up any leftover gravy. Their flaky layers add another textural dimension to the meal.
For a unique Big Apple touch, consider a small side salad with crisp apple slices and a tangy vinaigrette.
Recommended Beverages
A cold beer is a classic choice. Opt for a crisp lager or a light ale to cleanse the palate between bites.
For wine lovers, a full-bodied red like Zinfandel or Syrah stands up well to the bold flavors of the dish.
Unsweetened iced tea offers a refreshing non-alcoholic option. Add a slice of lemon for a touch of acidity.
Bourbon cocktails, such as an Old Fashioned or Manhattan, complement the Southern roots of chicken fried steak while nodding to New York’s cocktail culture.
For a true New York experience, consider pairing with a locally brewed craft beer or a cocktail featuring New York State spirits.