Specialties
Southern Classic was born. They started simple, and that's been the recipe since. Marinated and hand-battered, chicken made as much with the heart as with the hands. And that's how Southern Classic was born, under a shade tree with a little luck and just the right touch and taste of home. They wanted a simple business with a simple product that served and pleased. Or that when served, pleased. A simple drive-thru and walk-up model. A business that sent people on a midday break looking for a shade tree to eat under. Or one that sent people home to their kitchen with supper already prepared, supper like mama used to make. The sides were simple and still are. Classic Southern. French Fries, Cole Slaw, and Mashed Potatoes with Gravy, because, well, try to get good gravy on the streets and good luck with that. But ours, you could drink. We've added a few things, like Cajun Rice, Red Beans and Rice, Sweet Corn Grits, and to top things off, Hot Apple Pie. Oh, and don't forget the Pepper! Today, Southern Classic Chicken is a second-generation family-run franchise business with Leon's sons, Brandon and Alex, and Howard's son, Alan, at the helm.
History
Established in 1989.
The origins of Southern Classic Chicken started with Leon Fanning, who entered the industry with his first fried chicken restaurant in 1976. Leon then connected with his brother Howard Fanning, as well as his son Brandon Fanning, to continue that family legacy, and transitioned their business to what became Southern Classic Chicken. When starting Southern Classic Chicken, the Fannings wanted the foundation to be based on four things: quality, the absolute best fried chicken, classic southern sides and cajun seasoned french fries. And they wanted to do it through a simple drive-thru and walk-up model. Quickly, the concept proved to be a hit. Over the years, the company has expanded in the Southern U.S. and now includes 17 corporate locations. Today, Southern Classic Chicken is a second-generation family-run franchise business, with Alan (Howard's son), as well as Brandon and Alex (Leon's sons), at the helm. The Fannings remain actively involved in running the company's day-to-day.