In a year of major fried chicken openings, Root & Bone (helmed by two previous Top Chef contestants) took best in show with an unusual brine of sweet tea and a dusting of cayenne and lemon powder that both sweetens and brightens the already succulent meat. Tabasco honey and bourbon maple syrup are provided on the side for drizzling.
And you can also drizzle those sweet and spicy toppings on the side of buckwheat waffles that are eggy and sweet with an added richness from melted cheddar cheese. A true game changer in the world of chicken and waffles. Price: $18 (half chicken), $35 (full bird)/with waffle ($25/$42)
| ROOT & BONE |
| 200 East 3rd Street (between Avenue A and Avenue B), East Village (646) 682-7080 |
| rootnbone.com |
