Charles Pan-Fried Chicken — Restaurant in New York

I am a frequent customer of Charles Fried Chicken and absolutely love the owner. I was a constant customer at their 133rd location and was glad to see they opened one near by.

Unfortunately, just right now, after waiting forty five minutes at the restaurant to get some sides. The cashiers and servers decided to serve a white couple who was behind me in line. I'm confused and am watching this happen as the cashier asked them what their sides were while I'm literally standing in front of them in line and am being ignored. After they finished serving the couple, I ask the cashier is there a reason why they decided to serve the customers behind me when I came before them and have been waiting for 45 minutes and am in front of them. The white couple apologized to me and said sorry. The cashier initially didn't have a reason and when I asked again a minute later because I'm trying to figure out why that happened. The cashier asked me if I told my order to the server. And I said yes, I said I wanted a veggie plate and specified the sides I wanted. The cashier then apologized and blamed the busyness of the store.

Anyone who's been in this location, knows it's hella small and there's a clear line and mistakes like that just don't happen. So I mull on it and attempt to accept it, and ask if I can receive one of the free sample tiny cakes they keep in the fridge to make up for what happened. Not the full size slices, but literally the samples that they give to customers for free. The reason I thought to ask is because last time I went to this establishment, the same server who ignored my order today, I saw him offer a woman a free sample cake right in front of my face who was also behind me. We were the only two women at the store. I thought that was odd because if you're going to offer a free sample to a customer, you might want to offer it to both the women who's at the restaurant. So that previous experience rubbed me the wrong way. And the cashier at the register today, then lied and said they don't give out the free samples or he'll lose his job. I'm thinking, that's literally not true. But I accepted it, and just paid and left.

After I was outside, I felt very off about the entire experience and the continued unprofessionalism of this restaurant and the server. That I waited 45 minutes, had a white couple standing behind me be served before me, and the restaurant couldn't even offer a small cake sample that they give for free. I went back to the store, gave them back my food, and got a refund. This is not how you treat loyal black customers who have been regulars at your restaurant for years. Likely will not be going back.

This experience happened on Sunday, may 26...

I decided to try this restaurant a second time. The reviews have raved about how great it is, something I differed on the last time I tried it (sometime last year). I thought maybe I would try something different, other than the flavorless chicken from last time). This time was no better. I originally came here for some mac and cheese I was craving and ended with the Classic special of 1 turkey wing with macaroni and cheese and corn bread. I bought collard green's just in case I was disappointed. Thankfully so. It was the only thing I finished and was worth eating.

I don't like to be harsh, but when you serve soul food you expect good ol' southern food. Not Southern-style. Which is what that macaroni and "cheese", turkey and cornbread was. To begin with, the macaroni and "cheese" was suspect given the elbows alone looked colored and yhe "cheese" looked granular. When tasting it, I can't even tell you if there was actually cheese on it or some sort of substitute or a mix, but it was definitely colored and had NO flavor.

To help you understand clearly, I am a person who consumes little sugar and salt. Thing's like a caramel flavored drink from Starbucks would be outrageously too sweet for me and my children tend to add salt to their food after I cook.

Anyway, following with the turkey wing; It looked very well seasoned, though found it wasn't. I realize it is usually served smothered, but I didn't want the gravy. Suffice it to say, the seasoning did not permeate to the meat and may have tasted better the next day. Who know's, but again it was bland.

As for the cornbread, I personally prefer and make my own cornbread from scratch that has a texture and is heartier than Charles' Pan Fried Chicken. It felt like mush in my mouth compared to my own. I did, however, eat the crusted top because of the texture. It was the best part.

It burned me thinking about the food yesterday and today. Which is why I am here posting. There is no way this would be served in the south. The food I was served is not Southern, but a Northern version of it. Have people forgotten what true southern food tastes like? What black people cooked on holiday's like Thanksgiving? .... I tried the 145th location and this one. I won't be trying anymore location's. The...

From the moment I stepped into Charles Pan Fried Chicken, I was greeted with the tantalizing aroma of perfectly seasoned fried chicken. The cozy ambiance and friendly staff created a welcoming atmosphere, making me feel right at home.

I ordered the 3-piece chicken meal, and it exceeded my expectations in every way. The chicken was cooked to perfection, boasting a crispy golden-brown exterior that encased juicy and tender meat. Each bite was bursting with flavor, a delightful combination of herbs and spices that left me wanting more.

The sides were equally impressive. The collard greens were expertly cooked, offering a pleasant balance of earthy greens and smoky notes. The macaroni and cheese was a creamy delight, with perfectly al dente pasta coated in a rich and velvety cheese sauce. And let's not forget the cornbread, a true masterpiece. It was moist, slightly sweet, and had a delightful crumbly texture that added an extra layer of indulgence to the meal.

The portion sizes were generous, ensuring that I left the restaurant feeling fully satisfied. The food was served piping hot, and the presentation was visually appealing, reflecting the care and attention to detail put into each dish.

The staff at Charles Pan Fried Chicken were friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable. Really felt like i was at the family reunion greeted by long lost cousins.

They were more than happy to answer any questions I had about the menu and made sure I had everything I needed to enjoy my meal to the fullest.

Overall, my experience at Charles Pan Fried Chicken was nothing short of exceptional. The delicious fried chicken, delectable sides, and warm atmosphere combined to create a memorable dining experience. I highly recommend this establishment to anyone craving a soulful and satisfying meal. I can't wait to return and explore more of their mouthwatering...