June 1, 2001
MemphisCow clan asks, "Got Chicken?"

Photograph by Pa Cow "Gus" and associate cooking chicken in one of the three deep friers.

The trek to Gus's Fried Chicken took the MemphisCows down a winding two-lane highway through the heart of West Tennessee. The car window views of farmland, roadside vegetable stands and aging mobile homes were expected. What was not expected was the wonderfully delicious chicken served at the final destination in Mason, TN.

The MemphisCows discovered Gus's because of some recent media attention given to the little eatery. After reading about the unusual nature of Gus's the MemphisCows were somewhat educated about what to expect and so were not shocked by the unique nature of the establishment.

The restaurant is basically a shack. It leans downhill and is cooled by two window unit air conditioners. The cooking chickens fill the small room with so much smoke that after leaving Gus's one continues to "smell" of fried chickens for hours.

Photograph by Pa Cow Ma, Baby and D.C. Cow waiting to enter Gus's for lunch.

In spite of the decor and ambiance (or lack of it) of Gus's the chicken was superb. The entire MemphisCow family devoured the savory poultry. The texture was crisp but not heavily breaded. A thin layer of crispy goodness surrounded each piece of juicy and slightly spicy chicken.

Also, tasty were the beans and slaw. Ma Cow especially liked the chess pie. She enjoyed her piece so much that she demanded a whole pie to take home.

There is a single jukebox in Gus's that is packed with Motown favorites. While there the MemphisCows grooved to James Brown and Al Green while waiting for their order.

If you are interested in visiting Gus's it is best to arrive before or after the meal time crowds. There is no specific seating arrangement (seat yourself, first come first served) and the service itself is almost nonexistent unless you speak up and get noticed. The people are friendly but busy so expect to assert yourself to get what you want.

Photograph by Ma Cow D.C., Baby and Pa Cow outside Gus's.

On the trip home Baby Cow napped while Ma Cow sampled some of her chess pie. The whole experience was delightful. The MemphisCows enjoy discovering new eateries that are often far removed from the beaten path. Anything to avoid dinner at a Chili's.

Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken is at 520 U.S. 70, just past the sign that says "Welcome to Mason." Hours are 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday; 11 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. Sunday. No credit cards, but checks accepted. Call (901) 294-2028.