When seeking out the best culinary experiences, sometimes the most reliable advice comes from unexpected sources. In my quest for exceptional fried chicken, I had the privilege of speaking with Abit Massey, a figure so revered in Georgia’s poultry industry that he’s affectionately known as “the Minister of Chicken.” So, when I had his ear, my question was direct: “Where do you go for fried chicken?”
His answer was immediate and unwavering: “Buckner’s.” He wasn’t referring to just any place; he meant Buckner’s Family Restaurant in Jackson, a meat-and-three establishment that has been family-owned for three generations. He added a crucial detail that piqued any fried chicken lover’s interest: “They serve pulley bones.”
For those in the know, the mention of “pulley bones,” or wishbones, is a significant endorsement. This small, tender segment of breast meat is a prized part of the chicken, often overlooked or removed in modern preparations. Mr. Massey’s recommendation, tucked away in my voice memos for years, resurfaced recently, and it felt like the perfect time to finally experience Buckner’s.
And what an experience it was! Buckner’s Family Restaurant is more than just a place to eat; it’s a journey into the heart of old Georgia hospitality. It’s an immersive experience that goes far beyond the delicious food served. Here’s what makes Buckner’s a unique destination:
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The Giant Rooster Greeting: Before you even step inside, you’re greeted by a larger-than-life rooster statue – an iconic photo opportunity. (Though, a sign playfully warns against touching it!)
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A Wall of Fame with Southern Icons: The dining area is adorned with signed photos from a diverse array of personalities, from political figures like Saxby Chambliss and Lester Maddox to celebrities like Crystal Gayle, Erik Estrada, and even Donna Douglas (Ellie May Clampett herself!).
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Inspirational Décor: Religious artwork and signs are prominently displayed, including a depiction of the miracle of the loaves and fishes behind the cash register, adding to the restaurant’s homespun charm.
Buckner’s operates with an efficiency honed over years of serving crowds. You begin by paying at the counter, then join the queue – which is often considerable, especially around lunchtime. The line moves swiftly, guiding you through a dining area that is remarkably clean and brightly lit, almost clinical in its spotless presentation, yet warm and welcoming.
Giant rooster statue at Buckner's Family Restaurant, a popular photo opportunity for visitors.
You’ll be seated at a large table with other diners, a communal aspect that adds to the family-style atmosphere. Soon, the Lazy Susans in the center of each table become laden with platters of classic Southern dishes: of course, there’s the legendary fried chicken, alongside green beans, creamy mashed potatoes, tangy coleslaw, fluffy cornbread, soft rolls, hearty chicken-fried steak, stewed tomatoes, comforting pinto beans, and tender cabbage.
Adding to the customizable experience, each table is equipped with squeeze bottles of hot sauce, pepper vinegar, and tumblers filled with fresh, crisp green onions, like a bouquet of flavor enhancers. The attentive staff circulates constantly, replenishing dishes and ensuring everything is fresh and piping hot from the kitchen. You’ll often hear calls for “More cabbage here, hon!” from regulars who know exactly what they want and how things work at Buckner’s Family Restaurant. If you prefer unsweetened tea, you’ll need to request a special pitcher – sweetened tea is the standard, and the beloved choice.
While some dishes might be considered just “OK,” everything is solid and satisfying. The chicken-fried steak, for example, boasted a delightful texture, though it could have used a bit more seasoning. The peach cobbler, even during peak peach season, was a simple, sweet finish to the meal. The mashed potatoes and green beans were classic and well-prepared. The pinto beans were, as they should be, creamy and simply seasoned, allowing their natural flavor to shine. The coleslaw, finely diced and juicy, was a standout, especially with a dash of hot sauce. The cornbread was perfectly crisp and hot. And the cabbage – the dish everyone was requesting more of – was incredibly tender and flavorful, likely pressure-cooked to perfection, retaining all its natural sweetness. The stewed tomatoes were another highlight, a rare and welcome sight at meat-and-threes these days. (Note that the side dish selection may vary slightly daily, but the fried chicken is a constant.)
But let’s get back to that chicken. Oh, the chicken! It’s truly the star of the show at Buckner’s Family Restaurant. It may have been chance, but our table seemed to be exclusively served perfectly cooked breast pieces. Each piece of hand-cut chicken, including the promised pulley bones, was uniformly sized and fried to a beautiful light golden brown. The smaller size of the pieces is key – it maximizes the ratio of crispy, salty, flavorful skin to the incredibly moist, white meat within, avoiding any dry or stringy textures. They are essentially the ultimate, bone-in chicken nuggets that fast-food chains can only dream of replicating. As the platter of chicken arrived at our table, a hush fell over the diners as everyone selected their pieces, almost reverently – it felt like a shared, sacred experience.
The side dishes at Buckner’s Family Restaurant play a supporting role, like the understated tuxedo-clad escort to the prom queen – intentionally not overpowering, allowing the magnificent fried chicken to take center stage. And the next time we find ourselves traveling on I-75 between Macon and Atlanta, a short detour to Buckner’s is definitely on the itinerary. It’s a truly worthwhile stop for anyone seeking authentic Southern food and an unforgettable dining experience.
Buckner’s Family Restaurant
1168 Bucksnort Road, Jackson
770.775.6150
www.bucknersfamilyrestaurant.com
Hours: Lunch and early dinner, Thursdays-Sundays. (Closed Mondays-Wednesdays.)
Parking: Free and plentiful.
Dress Code: Casual.
