Hungry for the best ‘hole-in-the-wall’ fried chicken in PA? Here’s where to look
The best “hole-in-the-wall” spot to grab fried chicken in Pennsylvania is about a three-hour drive from State College, according to one affordability blog.
The blog Cheapism, which provides tips on budgeting, finances and saving money, named Carmi Soul Food in Pittsburgh the best hole-in-the-wall restaurant in Pennsylvania for the classic dish.
“For over 15 years, this husband-and-wife-run restaurant has earned a loyal following for its fried chicken and other soul food classics,” the March 27 blog reads. “Whether you’re ordering the fried chicken and waffles or the combo platter, which comes with six wings and two sides (don’t miss the mac and cheese), regulars say you won’t be disappointed.”
Cheapism selected the best spot in each state by looking at online reviews and expert recommendations. The restaurant has 192 five-star reviews on popular review site Yelp.
“The food is always fresh, flavorful and fantastic! Reasonable prices and great portion sizes,” one review from March reads.
“This is some of the best food in Pittsburgh,” one review from June 2023 reads.
Carmi Soul Food - Express Southern Kitchen is located at 1219 Federal St. in Pittsburgh and offers order-in and take-out options, as well as catering. It’s open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday and closed Monday.
The restaurant’s fried chicken combo meal, which comes with three tenderloins, a roll and the customer’s choice of side, is listed for $16. Side options include baked mac and cheese, potato salad, fries, cornbread stuffing and more.
Other menu items include a fried chicken sandwich combo ($15), fried wings combo ($15), fried catfish and grits ($18) and lobster and shrimp macaroni alfredo ($20), just to name a few.
The Centre Daily Times reached out to the restaurant for comment on the feature and did not receive an immediate response.
