Kirspy Krunchy Chicken - Catlettsburg Marathon at 12:19 PM

The Daily Independent - Friday April 16, 2010

"TIM PRESTON: A $13 bargain, spicy fried chicken

Like everyone else, I was scrambling around last week trying to figure out what to do about getting my taxes done. When the thought, “What did I do last year?” entered my head, I remembered the place I had personally labeled “the best kept secret in town” — the Kentucky Department of Revenue office at the corner of 16th Street and Greenup Avenue in Ashland.

I took my documents inside, filled out a simple form and within seconds a friendly fellow from Rush was tapping our data into his computer. He asked many questions to determine if we qualified for any breaks or deductions and had my state and federal tax returns in a matter of minutes.

And, this was all done free of charge.

When it was over, it turned out I had to pay the state a whopping $13 and it occurred to me I’m getting a pretty good deal for that state tax money. Depending on how you look at it, especially if I had gone to a private tax-preparation service, I actually made a profit on the deal.

Spicy chicken

I made it back to the Krispy Krunchy Chicken Cajun Recipe restaurant inside the Clark’s Pump ‘n Shop at Winchester Avenue and 55th Street last week and will say it is the best “bang for the buck” meal I’ve had in a while.

Despite the massive catfish filets that were calling my name, I went to try the chicken, which I ordered with a honey-butter topped biscuit and a piece of their fried corn on the cob. With a drink, the whole meal came to just a little more than $5. Even though I walked in ready to eat, I will say they almost gave me more than I could eat — almost.

Served on a real plate and with real silverware, it was a great lunch. Watching the ladies behind the counter, I accused them of “working like the boss was watching,” but they just giggled and indicated they weren’t even particularly busy at that time.

I’ll take my wife (who knows good catfish when she tastes it) the next time I pop in, and personally plan to try the Boudin Bites — fried balls of Cajun-style sausage with rice. And, I’ll probably get some more of that fried corn on the cob and sample the Jambalaya as well.

The manager mentioned they’re also planning daily specials in the days ahead, and mentioned several entrees that definitely got my attention. The place is open 24-hours a day, and is a convenient stop for those traveling along U.S. 23. They do ask customers with large orders to call (606) 739-6181 in advance and otherwise take care of their customers one at a time as they enter."