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Heavenly Fried Chicken

Southern Living, Jul 2006

Arthur Davis dreams of hot chicks, and he has his grandma to thank for it.

"She taught me how to get the recipe for my fried chicken just right," he says. Ever since, motorists speeding down U.S. 61 through Lorman, Mississippi (about an hour from Vicksburg), set their compasses on The Old Country Store to sample Arthur's family recipe.

The first bite makes you a believer in The Old Country Store's cooking magic. Arthur serves his birds hot, well-seasoned, and crunchy on the outside with moist, white, tender meat on the inside. His wizardry in the kitchen elevates a simple dish to an exquisite treat. Chase it all with a glass of sweet tea, and you have memories that'll last longer than the length of your trip.

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Birds of a Feather

The 130-year-old wooden structure was once a popular stop for purchasing everything from cotton to work boots. Creaky floors and rusty signs speak of days gone by, lending an air of authenticity. Guests flock to the back, where Arthur offers a lunch buffet ($5.95) with country favorites such as macaroni and cheese, mustard greens, field peas, and dirty rice. For another buck, blackberry or peach cobbler makes a sweet finish. But nothing upstages the fried chicken.

Why It's Good

A few key facts keep his best-selling bird a soaring success. For one, Arthur never uses frozen meat. "Our birds go straight from the market to frying pan," he says. Special vats for cooking the favored fowl are a must. Lastly, changing the vegetable oil often keeps the chicken fresh.

"Fried chicken," he says, "is a great item to sell."

The Old Country Store: 18801 U.S. 61, Lorman, MS 39096; (601) 437-3661. Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. daily.

Heavenly Fried Chicken

Southern Living, Jul 2006

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