The old saying of "don’t judge a book by its cover" can be applied to this restaurant. I had heard about the fried chicken in this place. This was a surprise because fried chicken just does not seem to fit with the name Fiorella’s, nor did the decor of the establishment. I thought I had walked into the wrong place and actually walked back outside to look at the sign and the take out menu at the front door. It reminded me of an old, run down fish and chip place, complete with portholes, wooden tables and chairs, and sea rope in a dimly lit room.

But once you get beyond the lack of ambience, order the fried chicken with mashed potatoes. To accompany the deal was a side of greens. The first bite was a surprise. It had an unexpected spiciness to it. The staff, while not typical looking for a sit down restaurant, was very friendly and attentive. I am not sure what else was on the menu, but for good old fried chicken, the only better chicken I have had was my own. Remember, don’t judge this restaurant by its furnishings.

Ask the locals where they go for fried chicken, and they’ll probably tell you, "Popeye’s." Not that there’s anything wrong with this New Orleans legend. But for those of us are looking all things fried at a higher level, look no further than the French Quarter at a small, dark watering hole and two-sided eatery called Fiorella’s. Ironically, it’s mostly frequented by locals (who probably want to keep the fried chicken a secret), who have two entrances to choose from (accessible from Chartres Street, as well as the French Market). Wonderful people-watching here.

And what’s so great about THIS fried chicken? Subtly spicy, juicy interior, a faint hint of the fresh grease, and dark golden, crackling, crisp skin. Oh, and it’s cheap! Four pieces with sides (love the red beans!) totals less than $10.00! I admit it: I had lunch and dinner again there in one day! The chicken is cooked to order, so it’s definitely NOT fast food (takes about 20 minutes).

If the poultry is not your thing, there are many other Creole specialties that will excite your palate and pocketbook. The po’boys are enormous and duplicate the fried chicken experience when you order the shrimp or oyster.

So maybe you’re exhausted from all the walking you’ve done in the French Quarter. Well, hold onto your buckets, because Fiorella’s delivers anywhere in the Quarter, even during a raging thunderstorm! How do I know? I saw the intrepid delivery boy hop on his bike in the pouring rain and actually envied the patron who placed that order--oh, to enjoy a heap of fried chicken in the privacy of your hotel room! Talk about your comfort(-able) food! Fried chicken hotline is 504/528-9566. Delivery hours are 11am-2am.

Hours are Monday-Friday 10:30am-2am (no fried chicken unil 11:30am); Saturday and Sunday 7am-2am.