:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/63237269/gus_s.0.0.jpg)
The second Chicago location of Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken is open in River North. Gus’s is the popular chain out of Memphis, known for crunchy fried chicken with a hint of spice. Ownership opened the first Chicago location in 2015 in Fulton Market. That location was the first to serve alcohol, and the new River North spot, 401 N. State Street, also has a liquor license.
The location actually opened on Monday. Ownership traditionally dislikes pre-opening hype, preferring to have customers just walk on by to discover the restaurant. The first Gus’s opened in 1953 in Memphis and the chain has grown to 25 locations in 11 states and started franchising.
Like the Fulton Market location, Gus’s River North is owned by Michigan restaurateur Zack Sklar. Sklar’s company, Peas and Carrots Hospitality, owns Bernie’s, also in River North. Up in Michigan, his company’s prepping to reopen Como’s Restaurant, an iconic spot in Ferndale, Michigan.
Gus’s menu is reliable, offering individual pieces, plates, sides, starters, and desserts. In Fulton Market, near the United Center, it’s a fast place to grab a meal before or after an arena event. Now that same popular fried chicken has made its way toward downtown.
Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken, 401 N. State Street, hours not posted yet.
