They say if you haven’t eaten at Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken, you haven’t eaten fried chicken. This is no truer than in Memphis, just 45 minutes from where the legendary fried chicken first hit the plate.
This is more than just a restaurant; it's a culinary institution known for its perfectly crisp, golden-brown fried chicken and rich Southern traditions. With locations now across the country, the secret recipe for this fried chicken now delights tastebuds nationwide.
Gus’s downtown location, the first after moving to Memphis in 2001, is conveniently located in the heart of the city’s cultural hub. Just a short walking distance from Beale Street, it is perfect for lunch or dinner.
From humble beginnings to its current national reach, Gus’s fried chicken has raked in accolades for years. Moreover, it has been featured in numerous publications and shows, and considered by GQ Magazine as one of the top 10 restaurants in the world worth flying to for a meal.
The roots of this delectable fried chicken, along with its flavorful Southern sides, trace back to 1953 in Mason, TN. That’s where Napoleon “Na” Vanderbilt and his wife Maggie worked for years to master the perfect crispy bite. Initially, they started selling their chicken from the back of a tavern, sandwiched simply between two slices of bread. In response to demand, Na and Maggie built and opened Maggie’s Short Orders on Highway 70 in Mason, which opened in 1973.
Na’s only son Vernon “Gus” Bonner inherited the priceless chicken recipe and in 1984 he and his wife reopened the restaurant as “Gus’s World Famous Hot and Spicy Fried Chicken.” By 2001, the Bonners, together with fried chicken fan and Memphis native Wendy McCrory, opened Gus’s in the heart of the bustling city.
Vibe
The exterior of Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken remains effortlessly unpretentious. The classic brick façade pops next to a bright yellow awning and retro signage. It’s a welcoming stage for the main event inside.
After stepping into Gus’s in downtown Memphis, you'll sense the laid-back, homey atmosphere. Checkered tablecloths lend a further air of comfort. The white subway tiles on the walls are home to bright signs and posters, heightening a sense of nostalgia and home cooking.
The ambiance at Gus's is buzzing as conversations combine with the occasional sound of live music nearby. This creates a warm and friendly setting for friends, family, and new acquaintances alike. Or, grab an order to go and plan a picnic in nearby Tom Lee Park. Plus, you can follow up your meal with libations at Old Dominick Distillery right across the street.
Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken: Menu & Drinks
Naturally, Gus's is best known for its signature hot and spicy chicken fried in peanut oil. Not to be confused with Nashville hot chicken, Gus’s prides itself on a southern spicy fried chicken. Additionally, most of their delicious sides can be on the sweeter side, pairing perfectly with the chicken.
Don’t let the menu’s simplicity distract you from the complex flavors. Furthermore, you’d be remiss if you didn’t dig into the amazing southern sides made in-house daily.
Of particular note are the fried green tomatoes and fried pickle spears as starters. Yes, there’s all that fried goodness before you even sink your teeth into the outstanding chicken. Every plate comes with a slice of white bread, in a nod to the early days.
Enjoy Southern sweet tea, or a cold beer with your meal, and don’t forget about dessert. Indulge in their simple southern pecan, sweet potato, or chocolate chess pies, baked fresh daily.
Visiting Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken isn’t just about satisfying hunger—it's about savoring in the hospitality and soul of Tennessee.
Each plate ensures diners get a genuine taste of the South. This will definitely be an unforgettable highlight for any Memphis getaway.
