The VB Local's Guide to the Best Fried Chicken

Is there anything more satisfying than a big plate of delicious food dished up by the locals? Read on to find where to get some of the best fried chicken in Hampton Roads.

Here in VB, we like to walk the line between southern charm and city-hip, but at the end of the day, we take our southern comfort food pretty seriously. If you're not looking for seafood, though, we've got a roundup of where to find the best fried chicken in the Virginia Beach and Hampton Roads area.

While chain staples like Popeyes, KFC, Chick-fil-A, and Bojangles are always a hit, it's also great to support local haunts. These mom-and-pop restaurants put their heart and soul into the food they cook, and you can really taste it. Before jumping in another nationwide chain's drive-thru line, check out these Virginia Beach fried chicken joints where you can get takeout.

Not only do they have delicious chicken dipped in "BoBoQ sauce," their sides are worth mentioning too. Sides include fresh greens, Granny Wilson's scratch-made biscuits, Norfolk potato salad, macaroni and cheese, butterbeans, cucumber and tomato salad, and plenty of other seasonal sides! Also, try their homemade creamy, custard ice cream for dessert! Although their new to the scene, their dedication to family tradition and excellence makes them one of Hampton Road's most well-loved gems.

I think they know my father's name and order at this establishment. Pollards is a locally-owned dive serving up chicken and barbecue for over 50 years. We highly recommend their catering, the chicken tenders are always a hit for any occasion.

Although roast beef is their claim to fame, it turns out their chicken recipe is also a hit! Since March of 1986, Rick Waskey and Chris Merrill have been serving up sliced, smoked, roast beef sandwiches at the Virginia Beach oceanfront to happy customers. With their roast beef reputation unmatched, their fried chicken is definitely something you'll also want to try.

This family-owned and operated small business has perfected the art of fried chicken wings. While wings are delicious, what really makes them stand out is their wide variety of tasty sauces. From sweet and spicy to tangy and savory, they've got over 15 regular sauces and 5 limited-time sauces. So you know everyone in the family will find something they like. Not a fan of wings? They've also got plenty of yummy fried seafood options.

One day, my friend and I were looking for something new. We stumbled across this gem and I'll never get my fried chicken and waffles from anywhere else. This playful American haunt has plenty of breakfast-centric comfort foods, ample craft beers, plus patio seating. Head over to the Hair of the Dog for an indulgent brunch with an eclectic twist on southern comfort food. You won't be disappointed.

This is a quiet, modern, restaurant with a comfortable feel. Not only do they have a wide selection of beers, but they're also reasonably priced with generous portions of food. We highly recommend the southern fried chicken sandwich tossed in their signature wing sauce.

This family-owned diner gives you all the small-town feels along with unbeatable comfort food flavor. They serve a great breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu all day long. From ribs, wings, and pulled pork (all smoked in-house), to shrimp, catfish, and flounder that are hand-breaded with Louisiana-style seasonings. Of course, we have to mention their chicken-fried chicken that will satisfy your craving for the crispy, crunchy, southern classic.  

A sleek, modern venue serving up locally-sourced American cuisine. This is perfect for that romantic date night you keep hoping for! Every Wednesday their special includes a glass of pinot noir and fried chicken entree for $22. You can't beat it!

This Southern-style restaurant and bar in Ghent serves up southern comfort food. Enjoy their Nashville Hot Chicken dinner or deviled eggs with a signature cocktail in hand on their rooftop patio. Comfort food just warms the soul, right?

It may seem like a pretty daunting task, but frying chicken at home isn't so hard after all! Check out this super simple recipe! Serve it up with some baked beans, biscuits, corn pudding, coleslaw, black-eyed peas, or mac-n-cheese.