13 Fried Chicken Restaurants In Missouri That Belong On Your Foodie Map
Missouri knows a thing or two about fried chicken. From Kansas City to the Ozarks, the Show-Me State delivers crispy, juicy goodness that’ll make your taste buds dance.
Whether you’re craving traditional Southern-style or something with a twist, these finger-lickin’ spots serve up some of the best fried chicken you’ll ever taste.
Gas up the car – it’s time for a delicious road trip across Missouri!
1. Stroud’s Oak Ridge Manor
Family-style feasting reaches legendary status at this Kansas City institution.
Since 1933, Stroud’s has perfected the art of pan-fried chicken—crispy outside, melt-in-your-mouth tender inside.
The secret? They cook it the old-fashioned way: seasoned flour, cast iron skillets, and plenty of patience.
Don’t skip their cinnamon rolls, which arrive warm and gooey as a sweet finale to your chicken feast.
2. Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken
Spice lovers, rejoice! Gus’s brings Tennessee-style heat to Missouri with chicken that packs a punch without overwhelming your taste buds.
The secret spice blend creates a thin, crispy crust that seals in all the juiciness. Memphis-born but Missouri-embraced, this spot often has lines out the door – and for good reason.
Pair your chicken with classic southern sides like mac and cheese or greens for the full experience.
3. Hodak’s Bar & Restaurant
St. Louis natives have flocked to Hodak’s since 1962 for their consistently delicious, no-frills fried chicken. Golden-brown perfection arrives by the half or whole bird, with prices that won’t break the bank.
What started as a small corner bar has grown into a chicken empire, serving over 2,000 pounds weekly! The casual, family-friendly atmosphere makes it perfect for everything from first dates to family gatherings.
4. Porter’s Fried Chicken
Sometimes the best food comes from the most unassuming places. Porter’s tiny takeout shop might look modest, but their chicken is anything but!
Locals swear by their extra-crispy, perfectly seasoned birds.
Operating since 1976, this family-owned gem focuses on doing one thing exceptionally well. The chicken comes piping hot, with sides like potato salad and baked beans that complement without stealing the spotlight.
5. Grace Meat + Three
Chef Rick Lewis elevates comfort food to artform status at this modern take on the Southern meat-and-three tradition. Their Nashville hot chicken delivers authentic Tennessee heat with Missouri hospitality.
The chicken gets brined before frying, ensuring juiciness throughout. Choose your spice level wisely – their “extra hot” isn’t for the faint of heart!
6. Lambert’s Café
Known as “Home of Throwed Rolls,” Lambert’s offers entertainment with your meal as servers toss fresh-baked rolls across the dining room.
Their fried chicken might not fly through the air, but it definitely soars in flavor! Enormous portions come standard here.
The chicken arrives with a beautifully seasoned crust and tender meat that falls off the bone. Between the passing carts of “pass arounds” and flying bread, you’ll leave with full bellies and fun memories.
7. Lee’s Famous Recipe Chicken
Fast food fried chicken that doesn’t taste like fast food? That’s Lee’s specialty. Founded by the nephew of Colonel Sanders himself, this chain maintains family pride in every crispy bite.
Their pressure-cooking method yields incredibly moist chicken with a distinctively crunchy exterior. The spicy version adds just enough kick without overwhelming the flavor.
8. Go Chicken Go
Kansas City’s beloved chicken joint has been serving no-nonsense, delicious fried chicken since 1969. Their signature gizzards and livers attract adventurous eaters from across state lines!
The chicken sports a thin, crispy coating that doesn’t overwhelm the juicy meat beneath. Their house-made G sauce – a spicy, tangy dip – elevates every bite.
Simple surroundings let the food take center stage at this authentic urban chicken shack.
9. Steve’s Family Style Restaurant
Country cooking shines at Steve’s, where fried chicken is the undisputed star of their generous family-style meals. Platters arrive piled high with golden pieces alongside bowls of homestyle sides.
Located just outside Jefferson City, this hidden gem attracts those seeking authentic rural Missouri cooking.
The chicken gets a special seasoning blend before frying, creating a distinctive flavor you won’t find elsewhere.
10. Claysville Store
History buffs and food lovers unite at this restored 1890s general store turned restaurant. Once a month, they host legendary all-you-can-eat fried chicken dinners that sell out weeks in advance.
The secret? A 100-year-old recipe and iron skillets that have seasoned with age. Located in tiny Hartsburg, the drive through Missouri’s countryside adds to the experience.
11. Cooky’s Cafe
Pie might be what initially made Cooky’s famous, but regulars know their fried chicken deserves equal billing. This small-town cafe serves classic American comfort food that tastes like grandma’s kitchen.
The chicken comes with a perfectly seasoned coating that crackles with each bite.
Founded in 1942, Cooky’s maintains its reputation through consistency and quality.
12. Jay’s Krispy Fried Chicken
This unassuming spot has perfected their technique over decades of serving hungry Missourians. The chicken emerges from the fryer with an audibly crunchy exterior that gives way to juicy meat.
Their seasoning blend remains a closely guarded secret. Reasonable prices and generous portions make this a favorite for families and travelers passing through southeast Missouri.
13. Heirloom Cafe
Farm-to-table meets comfort food at Columbia’s beloved Heirloom Cafe. Their buttermilk fried chicken uses locally sourced birds and ingredients, creating a sustainable spin on the classic dish.
Brined for 24 hours before frying, the chicken achieves that perfect balance of tenderness and flavor. Seasonal sides showcase Missouri’s agricultural bounty.
The cozy atmosphere and commitment to quality make this a standout for those who care about where their food comes from.
