Nashville, Tennessee is famous for its hot chicken, a spicy Southern dish that originated in the city over 80 years ago. Two of the most popular hot chicken joints in Nashville are Hattie B’s and Prince’s. Both restaurants have a loyal following of customers who swear by each establishment’s unique flavor and spice. However, the question on every hot chicken lover’s mind is, “Is Hattie B’s or Princes better?”
In this article, we’ll compare and contrast the hot chicken served by Hattie B’s and Prince’s, taking into account factors such as spice level, flavor, texture, and sides. Whether you’re a Nashville native looking for the ultimate hot chicken experience or a tourist planning a foodie trip to Music City, this article will help you decide which hot chicken establishment to try next.
History and Cultural Significance of Hattie B’s and Prince’s Hot Chicken
When it comes to Nashville’s hot chicken, Hattie B’s and Prince’s are the two biggest names in town. Both restaurants have a rich history and cultural significance that have contributed to their enduring popularity among locals and visitors alike.
Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack, which opened in the 1940s, is widely regarded as the originator of Nashville’s signature dish. Legend has it that Thornton Prince’s girlfriend, angry about his late-night drinking and womanizing, decided to exact revenge by serving him incredibly spicy fried chicken for breakfast. To everyone’s surprise, Thornton loved the fiery flavor, and thus, hot chicken was born. Hattie B’s, on the other hand, is a relatively new addition to the hot chicken scene, having opened in 2012. Despite its youth, the restaurant has quickly become a local staple and a go-to spot for tourists seeking to sample Nashville’s famous dish.
Analysis of Flavor and Spiciness in Hattie B’s and Prince’s Hot Chicken
When it comes to hot chicken, both Hattie B’s and Prince’s are iconic in Nashville’s culinary scene. Both restaurants offer a variety of spice levels, ranging from mild to “shut the cluck up” hot. They also use a similar preparation method, double-dipping the chicken in a spiced buttermilk mixture before deep-frying.
Upon comparing the two, Hattie B’s chicken tends to be spicier overall, with even their mild option packing a decent punch. On the other hand, Prince’s chicken tends to have a more complex flavor profile, with a unique smokiness that sets it apart. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preference. If you’re looking for an intense spicy kick, Hattie B’s might be your go-to. But if you want a nuanced balance of flavor and heat, Prince’s might be the winner.
Comparison of Menu Offerings and Prices at Hattie B’s and Prince’s Hot Chicken
When it comes to hot chicken, both Hattie B’s and Prince’s have gained a reputation for their mouth-watering offerings. In terms of menu offerings, both restaurants offer a variety of dishes ranging from hot chicken sandwiches to family-sized meals. However, Hattie B’s expands beyond hot chicken and offers sides such as pimento mac and cheese and southern greens that have become a crowd favorite.
When comparing their prices, Hattie B’s is slightly more expensive than Prince’s. However, the difference in price reflects the quality of the food and service you receive. Hattie B’s uses all-natural, antibiotic-free chicken and cooks everything fresh to order. On the other hand, Prince’s offers a more affordable option while still serving up delicious chicken. Ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference and budget, but both restaurants have something unique to offer and are worth trying at least once.
Customer Experience and Service at Hattie B’s and Prince’s Hot Chicken
When it comes to customer experience and service, both Hattie B’s and Prince’s Hot Chicken take their responsibilities seriously. Customers can expect to be greeted with a friendly smile and a hot plate of Nashville-style hot chicken, no matter which location they choose to visit. Additionally, both restaurants prioritize the satisfaction of their guests, with attentive servers who are happy to answer any questions and make recommendations based on personal preferences.
That being said, Hattie B’s may have an edge when it comes to overall customer experience. With multiple locations across the country, including ones in Las Vegas and Atlanta, Hattie B’s is a more well-known brand with a larger fan base. This larger scale operation allows for a more streamlined and efficient customer experience, with a larger staff able to accommodate higher volumes of diners. However, Prince’s Hot Chicken’s smaller, more intimate setting is perfect for those seeking a more personalized dining experience. Ultimately, both establishments excel in providing friendly and attentive service to customers, making them both popular choices for Nashville’s famous hot chicken.
Recognition and Awards Received by Hattie B’s and Prince’s Hot Chicken
Hattie B’s and Prince’s Hot Chicken have both become highly acclaimed restaurants, not just for their delicious chicken but also for their contribution to the culinary scene in Nashville. Hattie B’s has been featured on various TV shows such as Diners, Drive-ins and Dives and Extreme Eats, while Prince’s Hot Chicken has been featured on Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown and Andrew Zimmer’s Bizarre Foods America. These appearances have helped in garnering national recognition and increasing their patronage.
Moreover, Hattie B’s has achieved numerous awards such as being voted the best fried chicken in Nashville by Nashville Scene and The Tennessean. Whereas, Prince’s Hot Chicken has also been recognized by the James Beard Foundation, which is considered the highest honor in the culinary industry, as a Regional Classic for their Hot Chicken. Though both restaurants have received recognition and awards, it ultimately all comes down to personal preference and taste when choosing where to dine.
Influence and Impact on Nashville’s Food Scene: Hattie B’s vs. Prince’s Hot Chicken
Both Hattie B’s and Prince’s Hot Chicken have been influential in shaping Nashville’s food scene. Prince’s Hot Chicken is credited for creating the hot chicken dish, which has become a staple in Nashville and beyond. The restaurant has been in business for over 70 years and has been a cornerstone of Nashville’s food culture for generations.
On the other hand, Hattie B’s has gained a lot of popularity since its opening in 2012. The restaurant’s modern take on hot chicken and their expansion to multiple locations have helped bring Nashville’s food scene into the national spotlight. Both Hattie B’s and Prince’s have made a significant impact on Nashville’s food scene, and it’s hard to say which one is better. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what type of hot chicken one prefers. Nevertheless, the two restaurants have undoubtedly shaped Nashville’s culinary history and will continue to do so for years to come.
Final Verdict: Which Nashville Hot Chicken Joint Reigns Supreme?
After much research and plenty of taste-testing, it’s time to determine which hot chicken joint reigns supreme in Nashville: Hattie B’s or Prince’s? And the winner is…Hattie B’s!
While both restaurants serve up delicious hot chicken, Hattie B’s edges out Prince’s in terms of overall experience. Hattie B’s offers a wider variety of menu options (including vegetarian and gluten-free options), more modern and comfortable seating, and quicker service. Additionally, their unique spice blends – including a fiery “Shut the Cluck Up” option – make Hattie B’s hot chicken a standout.
That being said, Prince’s is still a must-visit for any hot chicken lover. Their original location has a nostalgic, dive-like atmosphere and their chicken packs a serious punch. It ultimately comes down to personal preference, but for those looking for a well-rounded hot chicken experience, Hattie B’s takes the crown.
Conclusion
After conducting a thorough comparison between Hattie B’s and Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack, it is evident that both establishments have their unique selling points. Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack is the original creator of hot chicken, serving up fiery, crispy chicken pieces while Hattie B’s offers a variety of heat levels and side dishes to complement their delicious chicken.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference. For those who prefer spicier chicken, Prince’s may be the go-to option. However, for those who want to customize their spice level and enjoy a wider range of side dishes, Hattie B’s may be the better choice. Regardless of the option chosen, it is certain that both Hattie B’s and Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack will not disappoint in terms of flavor and quality.