Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken

Originally from a small town in Tennessee, this national chain with outposts in Mid-City and Burbank has served its signature hot, spicy fried chicken for over 70 years. The fried chicken’s homey quality and top-secret spice blend, however, still has me hooked, especially once you throw in a slice or two of the homemade pies—sweet potato, chocolate chess and good old-fashioned pecan. Other notable menu items include the corn nuggets, which contain a creamy sweet corn filling, fried green tomatoes (a regional classic that’s hard to find in L.A.) and the tangy, deep-fried pickle wedges. Don’t forget to order the sweet tea for a truly stick-to-your-ribs Southern-style meal.