The Bawk Bawk Man
One of my best friends growing up had the nickname “Bawk Bawk Man.” When you asked him why, he’d answer very matter-of-fact: “Because I look like a chicken.” And yeah, he did kinda look like a chicken. Somewhere, somehow, that devolved into “Mr. Chicken” among a few people.
Long story short, we all grew up, and he doesn’t look so much like a chicken anymore. But I’ll now be constantly reminded of him through the latest culinary offerings from Georgia Avenue’s very own Mr. Chicken. (No – he is in no way related to the business.)
I heard they were open and went by today for a sample. I was on the late side for lunch, and I think things had been sitting around for a while, but everyone was friendly and a few of the tables were full. Everything was good, but it was no El Pollo Rico. Any of this look familiar? It’s *exactly* what my plate at El Pollo Rico looks like.
I’m a fan of the tortillas in these kind of joints, as they’re great carriers for the chicken, both sauces, and a bit of cole slaw if I’m in the mood. (And if I’m feeling really festive, I’ll splurge for an Inca Cola.) But when I see this setup, all I can think of Wheaton’s Holy Shrine of Chicken. But that, Mr. Chicken is not.
Don’t get me wrong – it’s plenty tasty, but there’s one reason I will visit this joint: convenience in the midst of a chicken hankerin’. I can walk here in under 5 minutes, but if I’m in the car, I’ll head to El Pollo Rico in Wheaton. (BTW, “Chicken Hankerin’” would make a great band name.) I don’t frequent chicken joints – I’ve been to the Crisp & Juicy on East-West Highway near Giant exactly once – but for the many who do, I think these guys will build a solid business. And maybe feed more into Velatis next door for an after-dinner snack.
Thank you, Easter Bunny.
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Love the band name. Reminds me of hankering for a hunk of cheese:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ZA2A2zoz-A&feature=youtube_gdata
Mmmm… cheese. I’m really looking forward to Nando’s Peri Peri opening. I have the feeling I could get addicted to that.
Right you are, Thayer! That peri peri sauce is like crack.
Please bring back Tijuana Mexican Cafe. A pitcher of sangria and a quesadilla, a Spanish clown and a Latino DJ. Remember the senorita pic over the buffet? Think she’s in good hands??
Pablo, Tijuana is alive and well in Takoma Park (University Blvd & Carroll Ave). I stopped by a few months ago and found out that the owner sold his Tijuana’s in downtown SS because of slow sales.
PS. I tried Mr. Chicken today for lunch and I was not impressed. I’d rather go to El Pollo Rico or Sabroso Grill for my peruvian chicken fix. Something seemed off on their spices, that and their chicken smelled a tad gamey. Why are their prices so high? My coworker ordered a signature salad for $7.50 which consisted of pre-packaged romaine lettuce, a tiny bit of carrots, a tiny bit of chicken and a lot of peanut butter. Yes, peanut butter (dressing). Needless to say it didn’t go well with the salad.
7 bucks for 1/2 a tasty chicken and two sides. Can’t beat that price. Want a salad? go to chop’t or sweetgreens, not a rotisserie chicken place.