The Fried Chicken at This North Carolina Restaurant Is So Good It Sells Out Almost Every Day

When you're craving some juicy fried chicken, scrumptious mac and cheese, and other delicious Southern sides, there are plenty of restaurants with food worth the wait in North Carolina. Sure, the lines might be long or you'll need reservations to get in because they're so popular, but most Southern comfort restaurants in the Tar Heel State will make you forget all about the effort it took to get to that cozy dinner table.

Fried chicken isn't just a plain old drive-through meal—it's a culinary experience in North Carolina. The best place to do so is Julia's Talley House in the town of Troutman. It's a beloved Southern restaurant that's been around since 1979, and its cooks have truly perfected the art of frying chicken. The only problem? It sells out really quickly, which staff tries "really, really hard not to." Here's why locals and tourists get there early for its comfort food, scratch-made meals, and homemade desserts.

Why Locals Arrive Early for This North Carolina Favorite

Julia's Talley House may open its doors at 11 a.m., but folks tend to arrive earlier and wait outside so they don't miss the amazing buffet, and of course, the perfectly fried chicken coming from the old house's kitchen. The family-owned and operated restaurant has been a local North Carolina dining spot for generations.

As you walk inside, you'll be greeted by cozy home decor, family-style kitchen tables, rocking chairs, and the smell of an incredible buffet. In fact, many visitors come just for the all-you-can-eat lunch buffet open Monday through Friday.

Between the welcoming atmosphere, friendly wait staff, and plenty of menu items at affordable prices, you'll be so happy you ventured out early to eat at this Troutman staple.

The Signature Menu Items Everyone Orders

Of course, we highly recommend ordering a large helping of crispy, buttermilk Southern fried chicken while you're here. It's so heartwarmingly juicy and savory, and pairs well with mashed potatoes and gravy. If you're hitting up the buffet or sharing entrees with family and friends, make sure you try other popular menu items.

Regular stars of the buffet include the meatloaf, tangy knockwurst and kraut (sauerkraut with slices of bratwurst mixed in), and fried chicken livers. But if you don't want to stand in line, enjoy the all-you-can-eat family style available for dinner.

Family dinners include the luscious fried chicken, a choice of country ham or country-style steak, eight veggies, peach cobbler or banana pudding, and homemade biscuits. We can't get enough of the black-eyed peas, potato salad, and sweet buttered corn. It's plenty to feed a family of four or more.

We can't talk about the food without mentioning the bread, which is made in-house with loving care. The biscuits, corn bread slices, and dinner rolls are so fresh and warm, you'll want to take extras home with you.

Save room for dessert because Julia's Talley House has the most incredible peach cobbler and a display case of coconut cream pie, pineapple upside-down cake, and other cake slices. Each has the perfect ratio of buttery crust, fresh cream or fruit, and yummy filling. Folks with a sweet tooth will be in heaven! We consider it among the best bakeries in North Carolina.

What Makes This Small-Town Spot So Popular

Locals say Julia's Talley House is one of the few restaurants in the central-eastern North Carolina region that still serves family-style meals. Large groups can enjoy a home-cooked meal without the hassle of making it themselves. All you have to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy some outstanding food.

Another reason Julia's is so popular is the fact that the menu items at the buffet are consistently rotating. That way, you could try something new each time you go, or wait until your favorites are back on the menu. The restaurant's Facebook page posts regular updates about weekly specials, menu lineups, and more.

Insider Tips Before You Visit

First things first, make sure you know the restaurant's hours and plan accordingly. If you're hoping for the buffet lunch, it's open daily from Sunday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. But if you want a family-style dinner, come later in the day—the restaurant opens back up from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Be sure to check the restaurant's Facebook page to know what they're serving at the buffet. While you can get fried chicken practically any time, other sides might change. No matter what you're craving, add Julia's Talley House to your list of worth-the-stop eateries in the Tar Heel State.

Have you been to Julia's Talley House yet? If not, start making lunch or dinner plans today. Whether you're local and want to swing by for lunch or you're stopping through Troutman on a North Carolina road trip, you won't regret a meal here.

Check out other hidden gem restaurants in North Carolina while you're at it, like Carolina Smoke Barbecue Grill & Copper Still in Morganton.