Known primarily for its Chesapeake Bay blue crabs, Baltimore harbours an unassuming yet mouthwatering secret – it’s one of the top spots in America for fried chicken. Though big on seafood, the city’s diverse range of fried chicken spots, from award-winning Asian fusion restaurants to dedicated fried chicken diners, gives Baltimore its special flavored edge.

The story of America's fried chicken has roots deep in Maryland and Baltimore stands central to this comfort food’s history. One of the earliest known fried chicken recipes originates from Martha Ogle Forman, a Maryland woman, who in 1832 reported taking fried chicken to a church gathering. Forman often cooked alongside her enslaved servants, who likely shared their method of frying meat in oil.

Despite its early beginnings, fried chicken did not transform into a regular dining feature until the 20th century. As Joyce White, a Maryland food historian explains, "Chicken was seen as a renewable resource, especially for egg production, and so was typically not used for meals, except maybe in the wealthy households on special occasions." Popular poultry provider, Perdue, with its headquarters in Maryland, began its journey with egg production.

It was during The Great Migration that the popularity of fried chicken soared, becoming a must-have food item that traveled well and tasted good cold. Its rise in popularity was also coupled with Baltimore being on the preferred route of the great migration, ensuring fried chicken became part of the city's culinary culture.

"Maryland's strong folk traditions ensured its recipes were handed down generations and found their way to other regions," says White. "Even the origin of Kentucky Fried Chicken can be traced back to Maryland-based recipes."

Today, Baltimore's love for fried chicken continues through the numerous chicken spots and corner stores sprinkled across the city. You can find everything from fried wings to chicken gizzards, confirming this culinary tradition's strength and appeal.

A shining example is Ekiben, originally a hot dog cart launched in Fells Point Farmers Market in 2014, which has now grown into one of Baltimore's most fashionable diners. Steve Chu and Ephrem Abebe, former college companions and the current owners, use their Asian and Ethiopian roots to craft an intriguing menu that includes curried fried chicken and seafood.

Baltimore's Royal Farms, a convenience chain that originated in the city, has also gathered cult-like followership. Started in the 1980s to serve hot food on the go, Royal Farms’ chicken continues to attract Marylanders, with numerous outlets across the state.

Another city gem is Bunny's, which opened its doors in Baltimore's Fells Point neighborhood in 2023. Top Chef alum Jesse Sandlin's creatively crafted diner features the delicious combo of fried chicken and Champagne. The Southern-inspired comfort food dominates the menu, with hand-dredged, fried bird served by the bucket, in sandwiches, or over waffles.

There’s also a mention for the long-standing establishment, Park’s Fried Chicken. Since 1978, this family-owned business has served highly seasoned deep-fried chicken from Lexington Market, one of America's oldest food markets. The seasoned flour-dredged, fried poultry is a gastronomic delight that lines up locals as early as 6 a.m. to grab their favorites.