Massachusetts: There’s Only One Fuddruckers Left In The State
According to HiddenBoston.com, 34 restaurants closed in the greater Boston area in January. Unfortunately, one of them is this classic hamburger chain. Now, there is only one Fuddruckers restaurant left in Massachusetts. At 50 Walkers Book Drive in Reading, you will find one of the last-standing Fuddruckers.
I recall being in middle school and feeling like I was in for such a treat when we’d go to Fuddruckers. It was an experience. You had to have your order ready quickly right there at the entrance. Then, you’d be handed one of those red plastic Coca-Cola cups and head over the fountain soda station. Their root beer over crushed ice always hit differently. I’d glance at the people loading up their burger at the lettuce and tomato toppings bar while eagerly awaiting my name to be called. Finally, someone from behind the counter in the secret window would grab the microphone and call your name alongside, “your order is ready.”
Worth the wait, there was nothing like the taste of that first cheeseburger bite. Though, our choices in Massachusetts are now limited to one Fuddruckers experience, we are still fortunate. ScrapeHero reports, there are 32 states that don’t have a Fuddruckers at all. In fact, Massachusetts is the only state in New England that does.
Saugus Closed In December
Boston 25 News detailed back in November of 2023 that the Saugus location would close in late December. This second-to-last Fuddruckers in Massachusetts had been in business for 35 years. They claimed to be unable to negotiate a new lease as the reason the decision was made to close the doors.
Well, all is not lost. The Fuddruckers in Reading is open seven days per week starting at 11 am. They have their own Instagram account, and even offer catering. Their classic menu still offers guests the opportunity to build their perfect burger. This includes, adding bacon, egg, and endless pickles. In addition, those shakes, and waffle fries can’t be passed up.
Massachusetts: 4 Great Places To Get A Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich
Throughout New England, I’ve recently noticed the tag of “Nashville” has been applied to many chicken sandwiches. No matter if I am in a local pub or tavern, barbeque establishment, or really a restaurant of any kind, this menu item is everywhere. Here, I’ve highlighted four great places to get a tasty Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich in Massachusetts today.
First, what exactly does this term refer to? “Nashville chicken’s signature heat comes from a spice blend that usually includes cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and other secret ingredients,” Main Bird Hot Chicken explains.
So, in short, we are talking about a piece of buttermilk fried chicken sandwiched between a bun (typically, brioche). However, it needs to have the aforementioned spice rub. Then, add in some slaw or pickles to take the sandwich to the next level.
The History Of Nashville Hot Chicken
Although it appears to be more on-trend and ubiquitous now in Massachusetts, Mashed explained this style has a history going back over 75 years. In their 2021 story that specifically profiled the Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich, they say, “This fiery brand of fowl, which originated at a Tennessee institution with a royal name, marries a southern classic with a hit of tongue-tingling heat.”
Mashed explains that a historical Nashville establishment named Prince’s Hot Chicken can be pointed to for serving up one of the first memorable of these spicy fried chicken sandwiches.
The Massachusetts establishments that have mastered the craft of this sandwich have a few things in common. First, they don’t overdo it with the toppings. That can take away from the mixed spice flavor. Next, they pair the sandwich with a side, but not one that takes the attention of the main act. Lastly, they include an option to make it unique. That can be a spicy mayo, ketchup aioli, or fried pickles.
Here are four great places in Massachusetts you need to know about, to get a great Nashville Hot Chicken sandwich.
Jeff Gorra is a Boston-based writer who has been with Beasley Media Group since the beginning of 2023. He writes about restaurants and food, as well as sports and rock music. His experience also includes show hosting and in-depth creative writing in rock and reggae dub music. Jeff’s an avid surfer, New York Giants, and Pearl Jam fan, however, if you make unforgettable pizza, he is sure to find you.
