Massachusetts Having Only 2 Arby’s Is Unfortunate
The brown sugar bacon glistens on the TV screen like Cinderella all dressed up to go to the ball. Those two items alone get mouths watering everywhere, but when you put them together it escalates to a “I need that” category. However, where are all the Arby’s in Massachusetts these days?
In other words, where can we go to immediately get our hands on one of these brown sugar bacon sandwiches on a King’s Hawaiian roll?
The commercials for this comfort food delight are on every major network in my area. Especially in the mornings. If you’re planning your day while watching an ESPN morning show, there’s a good chance that recently, this commercial has you thinking about trying to hit Arby’s for lunch.
Furthermore, scroll through relevant news sites or social media platforms, and you’ll see that many of the targeted ads have this brown sugar bacon jumping off your screen. There’s just one problem.
There Are Only Two Arby’s Locations In All Of Massachusetts
That’s right. Two. The state of Ohio has 277 Arby’s locations, and the Bay State, receiving all of this great promotion about an amazing sandwich, only has two.
So, if you are an enthusiast or were completely hooked by the commercials, you will have to drive at least an hour from the eastern part of the state (or Boston).
One of the Arby’s in Massachusetts is in Auburn, a close distance to Worcester. To be specific, it is located at 406 Southbridge St. Then, you have to head further west to hit the next Bay State Arby’s. This one is located at 1483 Granby Rd in Chicopee.
As for the rest of New England, it appears the entire region is Arby’s deprived. New Hampshire has two restaurants, Maine has four and Connecticut has five. Vermont and Rhode Island have a grand total of zero.
As an alternative, perhaps a road trip is in your near future. If that’s the case, you can plan a bacon pit spot at the red and white cowboy hat.
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.
