From the gentle hum of exhaust vents, to the snap and sizzle
of chicken bathing in its oil, setting foot into Lothson’s Fried Chicken isn’t
stepping into a restaurant from a bygone era, rather, it is crossing that
threshold (for the first time in decades) to grandmas old house. The faux
leather couch and fake wood paneling are welcoming reminders of the soothing
charms that once existed at the 2 flat near 47th and Damen. Despite
being a carryout only diner, Lothson’s comfort is so palpable, guests could
close their eyes and each of the (remaining) senses would be touched, thus
rekindling that yearning for Grandma’s house.
There is a reason why Lothson’s has been cooking fried
chicken since 1949; generously portioned flavorful, crunchy and moist, every
ideal of what fried chicken should be.
It is the kind of fried chicken that beckons in the middle
of the night - which shouldn’t be confused with waking and eating a snack
because one is hungry in the middle of the night, but waking up solely to eat
that one leftover piece (the one tucked behind the gallon of milk, hidden from
family). Then upon licking fingers clean from a thoroughly satisfying, and
bellying filling morsel, return to the marshmallow pillow cloud of a bed and
doze off smiling, thankful for the foresight to save a piece of fried chicken just
for that feeling.
When families traveled along a highway, sixty years ago, to
have a good time instead of trying to make time, Lothson’s was there on the Lincoln
Highway. Though removed from its seat on the major thoroughfare, it’s still
there on Rt. 38 with its constant hum of patrons: young, old and older.
With only two cooks since 1949, Lothson’s methodic and
attuned delivery of fried chicken is a constant for those who “know” and for
those who seek fried chicken perfection. While perch is listed on the menu, the
large, red, neon sign announces “CHICKEN” to Dekalb, Sycamore, Cortland, and
Malta – there is no need to deviate from what it declares. Chicken, slaw, fries
and rolls. Lothsons’s history is vast and rich, just like the fried
chicken dinner.
Lothson’s Karry Out
644 E. Lincoln Hwy
Dekalb, Il. 60115
(815) 756-4303
CARRY OUT ONLY
