Most of the time, Frenchy’s serves up some of the best fried chicken we’ve ever had. The franchise has multiple locations around Houston, but the original one by the University of Houston on Scott Street is the best of them all (there’s also one in the HEB down the street). Don’t be scared away by this shack of a restaurant that looks like it could crumble at any minute; just place your order at the window, and hope the ladies are in a good mood that day. They’re nice to you if you’re nice to them.

The waits are sometimes long, but they pay off. Also, words to the wise: credit cards are only accepted for purchases of over $5. After you’ve successfully ordered and gotten your food, get ready for the best part: the crispy, pleasantly spicy batter is the kind of thing that dreams are made of, with a nice, salty kick from Cajun seasoning. Sides range from buttery biscuits to just-average french fries, which hardly do justice to the joint’s name. Opt instead for collards with bacon or dirty rice.

The Medical Center branch is much tonier, with jazzy lighting and art. At that one you can even order (gross) frozen cocktails, but this chicken goes down best with a frosty beer.