Converting a former bike shop into a sandwich joint presented its fair share of delays and code challenges for Rocco DiPasquale and Jamie Gaffney. But Fire Nashville Hot Chicken was well worth the wait. Nearly double-fisted in size, the sandwiches start with brioche rolls and premium boneless chicken thighs marinated for 24 hours in a buttermilk brine. “The chicken is deep-fried in canola oil, then dry-rubbed with a mixture of spices to personalize each sandwich,” says Gaffney.
March dining alert: This fried chicken is too good to pass up.
Toppings include slaw, sauces and pickles. Also on the menu: Gouda mac-and-cheese bites, cornmeal-breaded fried pickles, loaded tater tots, customized wings, heavenly deviled eggs (with pickle and bacon) and an exceptional house-made carrot cake.
126 E Gay St, West Chester, (484) 947-5199
OTHER NIBBLES: June Bug Sweet Treats owner June Daley has been servicing Bridgeport’s sweet tooth for little more than a year now. This hidden gem is known for its banana pudding, apple-pie muffins, caramel-apple bread pudding and old-school strawberry shortcake. It’s also gluten-free and keto- and vegan-friendly.
516 Dekalb St, Bridgeport
Therapist by day, baker by night, Alexandra McGlond saw her COVID hobby take off like wildfire in the form of E’s Sweet Treats. She’s currently taking a study break but plans to be back again in May. Her custom cookie creations are a must.
Coatesville
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