Popeyes

Walking into Popeyes, the American chain of fast-food, fried-chicken restaurants founded in 1972 in New Orleans, takes me back to my college days in Austin when a fried-chicken combo meant gourmet food. The first spicy fried chicken I ever tried, Popeyes continues to serve up reliable Louisiana-style fast food at inexpensive prices. Topped with a spicy seasoning, the crispy outside, paired with the moist and tender meat has kept Popeyes on the radar of fried-chicken enthusiasts for decades. The sides vary in quality, but the red beans and rice are among the better choices. The batter fries tend to be only fair, but the biscuits possess a nice buttery top and flaky center. Mild or spicy chicken is offered, but I go to Popeyes for the spicy.