Hill Country Fried Chicken

One of my guiltiest summer pleasures is a box of three "Texas tenders" (huge battered chicken fingers with a choice of dipping sauces - I get the buttermilk ranch) at Hill Country Chicken. (I don't know what it is about summer that makes me want to subsist on fried foods and barbecue, but Hill Country fulfills all these inexplicable cravings.) And now, with the free lemonade refills, it's even harder to stay away than ever. (I don't know how many refills you get, as I stopped at one, but it was perfect for the hot weather we had today.) The fresh lemonade is bracingly tart, and provides a refreshing complement to all of the rich food.

I've also enjoyed the chicken sandwich with smoked Applewood bacon and avocado, and the relatively new macaroni and cheese (the latest side is an ancho chili applesauce). But it's those Texas tenders that has me coming back for more...

Hill Country Chicken: 1123 Broadway, (212) 257-6446.