When discussing Nashville's iconic culinary scene, one must begin with the fiery legend of Nashville hot chicken, a dish steeped in history and local lore. The birthplace of this Tennessee staple is none other than Prince's Hot Chicken Shack, a name synonymous with Nashville's rich food culture.

The spicy saga of Nashville hot chicken dates back to the 1930s and revolves around Thornton Prince III, a man known for his wandering eye. The story goes that after one of Prince's late-night escapades, his partner, fed up with his infidelities, decided to teach him a lesson through his favorite dish: fried chicken. In an act of culinary revenge, she loaded the chicken with an intense mix of spices and peppers. To her surprise, Prince didn't just tolerate the fiery meal; he adored it. This unexpected twist led Prince to spend years refining the hot chicken recipe, ultimately creating a dish that would become a cornerstone of Nashville's food heritage.


Today, Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack stands as a testament to this mouth-watering legacy. Whether you're visiting the original restaurant or grabbing a bite from their food truck, you're in for a treat with eight different heat levels ranging from the mild 'plain' to the daring 'XXX hot'. Complement your chicken with classic sides like baked beans and coleslaw for the full experience.



Despite the rise of national chains attempting their versions of hot chicken, nothing compares to the authentic flavors found at Prince's. Here, tradition and taste converge, offering a genuine slice of Nashville's culinary history.

Remember, planning is key when visiting Prince's – the restaurant is closed on Sundays, and the food truck takes a break on Mondays.

The story behind this spicy sensation adds to its allure. Thornton Prince, a man of the night even during the Great Depression, was known for his charm and charisma, much to the chagrin of his partner. After one particular night out, Prince's partner sought revenge, using his love for fried chicken as the catalyst. She served him a deceptively spicy version, hoping to catch him off guard. But Prince's reaction was not what she expected; he asked for seconds, and the legend of Nashville's hot chicken was born.

Nearly a century later, much has changed in Nashville, but Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack remains a constant, a beacon of culinary excellence. Thornton Prince's great-niece, Ms. Andre Prince Jeffries, continues to serve this legendary dish that has become a staple for locals and visitors alike. While the hot chicken trend has spread across the South, Prince’s remains the original, setting the standard for all others to follow.

For menu, hours, locations and more, visit https://www.princeshotchicken.com