If The Seven80 needs a new idea for a truly Edmonton shirt, it should enter into a licensing deal with Ralph’s Fried Chicken. Because, what’s more nudge-nudge wink-wink when it comes to Edmonton dining than to advertise that you’ve been to Ralph’s?
For years, the chicken that came out of the fryer at Ralph’s Handi Mart was one of the great open food secrets in Edmonton. Speak of Ralph’s, and it was a “I am a true Edmontonian” calling card. But, when the Strathearn strip mall that was home to Ralph’s had to make way for development, the search was on for a new location.
And, now, we have one. Goodbye, Strathearn strip mall, hello Castle Downs strip mall.
I headed there with our editorial intern, and there was a significant lineup. More people at tables waiting for their orders to be filled. There are heating tables by the counter, which could theoretically hold pieces of fried chicken. But they sit empty — as soon as the chicken exits the fryer in the kitchen, it’s boxed and served to waiting customers. It’s like eating Ralph’s fried chicken is the most Edmonton thing you can do.
What flavours are on offer? Is that really what you just asked? There’s fried chicken flavour, and then there’s fried chicken flavour. Ralph’s doesn’t need any of your shakes or sauces. What are the side dishes? Spuds. That’s it. Dipping sauces? You can take your bourgeois tastes and GTFO. There is one sauce on offer — and that’s gravy. You can get it in a small, medium or large bowl. The small bowl is more than enough for two diners.
And how was the chicken? The batter was light and crispy. The chicken inside was tender and still moist. It was perfectly done, just enough crunch on the outside, satisfying inside. It’s amazing what happens when someone does something so simple, so specific, so well.
Welcome back, Ralph’s. We’ve missed you.
Ralph’s Fried Chicken
Lorelei | 10807 Castle Downs Rd | 877.807.1148 | Ralph’s on Facebook
