Ezell's Famous Chicken

Ezell's Famous Chicken is a family-owned restaurant chain renowned for its Southern-style fried chicken and comfort food offerings. Established on February 3, 1984, in Seattle's Central District, the first location was strategically situated near Garfield High School. It catered to both students and the local community.

The founders, Ezell Stephens and Lewis Rudd, both from Scottsville, Texas, began their culinary journey after military service. Their vision was to bring authentic Southern flavors to the Pacific Northwest. This quickly gained traction, making the restaurant a local sensation.

A pivotal moment came when talk show host Oprah Winfrey declared it her favorite fried chicken, further elevating the restaurant's profile.

Locations

Ezell's has expanded its footprint over the years and now has multiple locations across the Puget Sound region. Notable locations include:

• Seattle (original location)
• Bellevue, WA, USA
• Federal Way
• Renton
• Tacoma
• Gresham, OR, USA

The Bellevue location at 1645 140th Avenue NE, Suite A3, Bellevue, WA 98005, operates Monday through Thursday from 10:30 AM to 9:00 PM, extending to 10:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, and from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM on Sundays.

Menu Highlights

Ezell's menu reflects its Southern roots, offering a variety of fried chicken options including original and spicy tenders, chicken livers, and gizzards. It also features homemade side dishes such as mashed potatoes with gravy, coleslaw, and slow-baked BBQ beans.

For dessert lovers, options include peach cobbler and sweet potato pie.

Community Engagement

Ezell's is committed to supporting the community through initiatives like the R.U.B.B. (Raising Up Black Businesses) Initiative, launched in 2021. It provides grants to Black-owned businesses and organizations in Washington state.

This initiative expanded in 2022 to include a leadership conference, reinforcing Ezell's dedication to fostering community growth and support.

Online Ordering

Customers unable to visit in person can use Ezell's online ordering system. This service allows for delivery or pickup, making the beloved flavors accessible to a broader audience while maintaining quality and convenience.

In summary, Ezell's Famous Chicken is a cornerstone of Southern comfort cuisine in the Pacific Northwest, blending rich culinary traditions with a strong commitment to community and customer satisfaction.