Midtown Lunch

Ol’ Boys Soul Food Restaurant opened in the summer of 2013 in an area that looks a little neglected- I say this because we parked next to an abandoned house whose first floor was covered in garbage. I can’t say I have done too much dining around the 60th and Locust area. But that might change now. Obviously from the name, I knew to expect soul food and to probably not expect a salad.  I also couldn’t not think about the beloved, and very violent Korean movie that Spike Lee remade last year (see the original, please).

Inside, you order from a counter and there is limited seating. The menu is also limited. But that makes your choice easier. There is no pork on the menu, perhaps catering to a local Halal population.

Pondering either the fried fish or chicken platters, I ultimately chose the fried chicken breast ($10-bbq, wings, and legs were also options). Platters come with 2 sides and corn bread. It took about 10 minutes for our food to be ready. I noticed a beer store is directly next door, and though I didn’t take advantage of it (and you might want to check to make sure it’s ok), beer along with the fried chicken  would have only been more perfect.

The fried chicken was exactly what I hoped for: crispy and juicy. Nothing remarkable, just  a simply fried breast with sturdy breading. I added a little hot sauce they had available for an extra sprinkle of heat.

The innocent looking corn bread was bonkers good- sweet and moist. Made me hate everyone who makes dry corn bread.

The mac and cheese side came as a big hunk. It wasn’t the gooey kind, the noodles were slightly overcooked,  and it needed some salt and  pepper, but I couldn’t stop eating it.

The other side I picked came off of the specials menu, lima beans. They were pretty much the best ever, super creamy and flavored with a smoked turkey hock. If this is an option, don’t miss it.

Ol’ Boy’s has made a fan. I plan to brave the litter again to try the fried fish, turkey wings, and candied yams.

THE + (What somebody who likes this place would say)

• Perfect soul food platters
• That cornbread….. those limas!

THE – (What somebody who doesn’t like this place would say)

• Closed Mondays and cash only
• It’s located where??

Ol’ Boy’s Soul Food Restaurant, 243 South 60th St,  215 471-3333