Nashville hot chicken has become a staple of American cuisine, with its rich history and mouth-watering flavors captivating the hearts of foodies across the country. At the forefront of this culinary phenomenon are two iconic establishments: Hattie B’s and Prince’s. Both have been serving up their signature hot chicken for decades, but the question remains: which one is better? In this article, we’ll delve into the history of both restaurants, their unique approaches to hot chicken, and ultimately, help you decide which one reigns supreme.
A Brief History of Nashville Hot Chicken
Before we dive into the specifics of Hattie B’s and Prince’s, it’s essential to understand the origins of Nashville hot chicken. This beloved dish has its roots in the city’s African American community, dating back to the 1930s. The story goes that Thornton Prince, the founder of Prince’s, created the recipe as a way to punish his girlfriend for staying out too late. He made the chicken extra spicy, thinking it would teach her a lesson, but instead, she loved it, and the dish was born.
Hattie B’s: The New Kid on the Block
Hattie B’s, founded in 2012 by Nick Bishop Sr. and Nick Bishop Jr., is a relatively new player in the Nashville hot chicken scene. Despite its youth, the restaurant has quickly gained a loyal following and critical acclaim. Hattie B’s has been featured on numerous food shows and publications, including the Food Network’s “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives” and The New York Times.
Hattie B’s Approach to Hot Chicken
So, what sets Hattie B’s apart from the competition? For starters, their hot chicken is made with a proprietary blend of spices that add a depth of flavor unmatched by many other restaurants. Their chicken is also cooked to perfection, with a crispy exterior giving way to juicy, tender meat. But what really puts Hattie B’s over the top is their attention to detail. From the moment you walk in the door, you’re treated to a welcoming atmosphere and exceptional service.
The Hattie B’s Experience
When you visit Hattie B’s, you can expect a lively atmosphere, complete with a bustling dining room and a patio area perfect for enjoying your meal on a warm day. The menu is simple, with a focus on hot chicken, Southern sides, and creative desserts. Be sure to try their famous “Comeback Sauce,” a tangy, slightly sweet condiment that pairs perfectly with their hot chicken.
Prince’s: The Original Hot Chicken Joint
Prince’s, founded in 1939 by Thornton Prince, is the OG hot chicken joint. This family-owned restaurant has been serving up their signature dish for over 80 years, and it’s easy to see why they’re still going strong. Prince’s has been featured on numerous food shows, including the Food Network’s “Man v. Food” and the Travel Channel’s “Food Paradise.”
Prince’s Approach to Hot Chicken
Prince’s hot chicken is a masterclass in simplicity. Their recipe, which has remained largely unchanged since the 1930s, features a blend of spices that add a deep, smoky flavor to the chicken. The chicken itself is cooked to perfection, with a crispy exterior giving way to juicy, tender meat. But what really sets Prince’s apart is their commitment to tradition. This is a restaurant that’s been doing things the same way for decades, and it shows in the quality of their food.
The Prince’s Experience
When you visit Prince’s, you can expect a no-frills dining experience. The restaurant itself is simple, with a focus on functionality over atmosphere. But don’t let that fool you – the food is top-notch, and the service is always friendly. Be sure to try their famous “Spicy” hot chicken, which features a blend of spices that will leave you breathless.
Head-to-Head Comparison
So, how do Hattie B’s and Prince’s stack up against each other? Here’s a head-to-head comparison of the two restaurants:
| Category | Hattie B’s | Prince’s |
|---|---|---|
| Atmosphere | Lively, welcoming atmosphere with a focus on customer service | No-frills dining experience with a focus on functionality |
| Hot Chicken | Proprietary blend of spices, crispy exterior, juicy interior | Traditional recipe, smoky flavor, crispy exterior, juicy interior |
| Sides | Creative options like “Comeback Sauce” and “Southern Greens” | Classic options like coleslaw and baked beans |
| Price | $15-$25 per entree | $10-$20 per entree |
Conclusion
So, which is better: Hattie B’s or Prince’s? Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference. If you’re looking for a lively atmosphere and creative twists on traditional hot chicken, Hattie B’s is the way to go. But if you’re a purist who appreciates tradition and simplicity, Prince’s is the better choice.
Final Verdict
Both Hattie B’s and Prince’s are exceptional restaurants that serve up delicious hot chicken. While Hattie B’s may have a more welcoming atmosphere and creative menu options, Prince’s commitment to tradition and simplicity is admirable. In the end, you can’t go wrong with either choice.
Recommendation
If you’re new to Nashville hot chicken, start with Prince’s. Their traditional recipe is a great introduction to the dish, and their commitment to simplicity is refreshing. But if you’re looking for a more modern take on hot chicken, Hattie B’s is the way to go. Their creative menu options and lively atmosphere make for a fun and memorable dining experience.
Visiting Hattie B’s and Prince’s
If you’re planning a trip to Nashville, be sure to visit both Hattie B’s and Prince’s. Here are the details you need to know:
Hattie B’s
- Address: 112 19th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203
- Phone: (615) 678-4794
- Hours: Monday-Thursday 11am-10pm, Friday-Saturday 11am-11pm, Sunday 10am-10pm
Prince’s
- Address: 123 Ewing Dr, Nashville, TN 37207
- Phone: (615) 226-9445
- Hours: Monday-Thursday 11am-9pm, Friday-Saturday 11am-10pm, Sunday 12pm-9pm
Final Thoughts
The debate between Hattie B’s and Prince’s is a contentious one, with each side having its loyal followers. But at the end of the day, it’s not about which restaurant is better – it’s about the food, the atmosphere, and the experience. Both Hattie B’s and Prince’s offer exceptional hot chicken and a unique dining experience that’s sure to leave you wanting more. So why choose? Visit both restaurants and decide for yourself which one is the best.
What is Nashville Hot Chicken, and how does it differ from regular fried chicken?
Nashville Hot Chicken is a type of fried chicken that originated in Nashville, Tennessee. It is known for its distinctive flavor profile, which is achieved through a combination of spices, herbs, and a tangy, slightly sweet sauce. The chicken is typically breaded and deep-fried, then served on top of a slice of white bread with a few pickle slices. The key difference between Nashville Hot Chicken and regular fried chicken is the use of a specific blend of spices, including cayenne pepper, paprika, and garlic powder, which gives the chicken its signature heat and flavor.
In addition to the spice blend, Nashville Hot Chicken is often served with a side of local specialties, such as baked beans, coleslaw, or mac and cheese. The dish has become a staple of Nashville’s culinary scene, with many restaurants throughout the city serving their own versions of hot chicken. Despite its popularity, however, there is ongoing debate about which restaurant serves the best Nashville Hot Chicken, with Hattie B’s and Prince’s being two of the most popular contenders.
What is the history behind Hattie B’s Hot Chicken, and how did it become so popular?
Hattie B’s Hot Chicken was founded in 2012 by Nick Bishop Sr. and his son, Nick Bishop Jr. The restaurant is named after the Bishop family’s great-grandmother, Hattie B. Bishop, who was known for her cooking skills. The Bishops developed their own secret recipe for hot chicken, which quickly gained popularity among locals and visitors to Nashville. The restaurant’s success can be attributed to its commitment to using only the freshest ingredients, as well as its unique atmosphere, which combines elements of a casual diner with a trendy, upscale vibe.
Today, Hattie B’s has become a must-visit destination for foodies and fans of Nashville Hot Chicken. The restaurant has been featured on numerous food and travel shows, including “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” and “Man v. Food.” Despite the long lines and wait times, visitors rave about the restaurant’s friendly service and, of course, its delicious hot chicken. Hattie B’s has also expanded to several locations throughout the United States, making it easier for fans to get their hot chicken fix.
What is Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack, and how does it compare to Hattie B’s?
Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack is a Nashville institution that has been serving hot chicken since the 1930s. The restaurant was founded by Thornton Prince, who developed his own secret recipe for hot chicken. Prince’s is often credited with inventing Nashville Hot Chicken, and its recipe has remained largely unchanged over the years. The restaurant has a more casual, no-frills atmosphere than Hattie B’s, with a focus on serving high-quality hot chicken at affordable prices.
Prince’s has a loyal following among locals and visitors to Nashville, who praise the restaurant’s authentic, old-school hot chicken. While Hattie B’s has gained more national attention in recent years, Prince’s remains a beloved staple of the Nashville food scene. Some fans prefer Prince’s hot chicken for its more subtle, nuanced flavor profile, while others prefer Hattie B’s for its bolder, spicier taste. Ultimately, the choice between Hattie B’s and Prince’s comes down to personal preference.
What are the main differences between Hattie B’s and Prince’s hot chicken recipes?
While both Hattie B’s and Prince’s serve delicious Nashville Hot Chicken, there are some key differences between their recipes. Hattie B’s hot chicken is known for its bolder, spicier flavor profile, which is achieved through the use of a proprietary spice blend. The chicken is also breaded and fried to a crispy golden brown, then served with a side of the restaurant’s signature sauce. Prince’s hot chicken, on the other hand, has a more subtle, nuanced flavor profile, with a focus on the natural taste of the chicken.
Another key difference between the two recipes is the level of heat. Hattie B’s offers a range of heat levels, from “Southern” (no heat) to “Shut the Cluck Up” (extremely hot). Prince’s, on the other hand, serves its hot chicken at a single, medium-hot temperature. While some fans prefer the customizable heat levels at Hattie B’s, others prefer the more traditional, straightforward approach at Prince’s.
Which restaurant has the better atmosphere, Hattie B’s or Prince’s?
Hattie B’s and Prince’s have distinctly different atmospheres, each with its own unique charm. Hattie B’s has a trendy, upscale vibe, with a modern decor and a lively, bustling atmosphere. The restaurant is often crowded, especially during peak hours, but the friendly service and energetic vibe make it a fun and welcoming place to dine. Prince’s, on the other hand, has a more casual, no-frills atmosphere, with a focus on serving high-quality hot chicken in a relaxed, laid-back environment.
While some fans prefer the trendy atmosphere at Hattie B’s, others prefer the more low-key, authentic vibe at Prince’s. Ultimately, the choice between the two restaurants comes down to personal preference. If you’re looking for a fun, lively atmosphere and a more modern take on hot chicken, Hattie B’s may be the better choice. If you prefer a more casual, old-school dining experience, Prince’s is the way to go.
Can I get Nashville Hot Chicken at Hattie B’s or Prince’s if I have dietary restrictions?
Both Hattie B’s and Prince’s offer options for diners with dietary restrictions. Hattie B’s has a gluten-free breading option, as well as a vegetarian “chick’n” sandwich made with a plant-based protein. The restaurant also offers a variety of sides, including baked beans, coleslaw, and mac and cheese, which can be adapted to suit different dietary needs. Prince’s also offers a gluten-free breading option, as well as a variety of sides, including baked beans and coleslaw.
It’s worth noting that both restaurants are happy to accommodate special requests and dietary restrictions, so don’t be afraid to ask your server for options. Additionally, both restaurants offer take-out and delivery options, making it easy to enjoy Nashville Hot Chicken from the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re gluten-free, vegetarian, or just looking for a healthier option, there’s a way to enjoy hot chicken at both Hattie B’s and Prince’s.
Are there other restaurants in Nashville that serve great hot chicken?
While Hattie B’s and Prince’s are two of the most well-known hot chicken restaurants in Nashville, there are many other great options to choose from. Some popular alternatives include Bolton’s Hot Chicken, which has been serving hot chicken since the 1990s, and Party Fowl, which offers a more modern take on the classic dish. Other restaurants, such as Acme Feed & Seed and The Catbird Seat, also offer hot chicken as part of their menus.
Nashville’s food scene is constantly evolving, with new restaurants and chefs putting their own spin on traditional dishes like hot chicken. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s always something new to try. So don’t be afraid to venture out and explore the many great hot chicken options that Nashville has to offer.