Chef Lee’s II
Since I moved to Boston about 9 years ago, I still had not eaten Fried Chicken. (I can’t count KFC’S Popcorn Chicken.) So, when it was Ch’s birthday, PK and I were excited that he wanted to go to Chef Lee’s. When you walk in, the first thing that you notice is that this is cafeteria style, complete with four people behind the counter, steam trays, and brown plastic trays. When it came to ordering, I was tempted to stray from the chicken and try their ribs or fish. However, since this place is known for the Fried Chicken, when it was my turn to order, I felt like there was no other option. Ch commented that it would be nice to have some type of appetizer/side version of the other dishes. I agree. Our table showed little variety since everyone ordered the Fried Chicken ($8). (I was the only one who asked for spoonfuls of gravy on top.) One person should have tried something else on the menu so that we could have all had a taste. At least we all had a different variety of sides. The chicken was delicious and moist even though the pieces had been kept warm on the steam table. I found their Mac & Cheese a bit bland, but others at the table disagreed with me. I liked the Candied Yams much more. Ch said that the Black Eyed Peas were just right, but the Mashed Potatoes had little flavor. And, the dense chocolate cake could be a meal on its own. Unfortunately, Chef Lee’s does not serve alcohol, but since they have Sweet Tea, that more than made up for it.
Verdict: While I really enjoyed my meal, I don’t know if I would go out of my way to eat here (unless I have an unusual craving for Fried Chicken), but if I am in the area (and have plenty of room in my stomach), I will definitely stop in. I just wish that the Fried Chicken was made fresh when ordered since it would be worth waiting for…
oh wow and i was just craving fried chicken today. will have to check this place out … and soon
Sounds delish!
How is parking? Is it close to a T stop?
Parking is pretty easy in the area as long as nothing is going on at the Strand Theater across the street. I am not sure how to get their by public transit. It is just off Dudley St so I am pretty sure one of the buses from the Dudley Square Bus Station would take you right by there…
This is a place that I have been dying to get to. Thanks for the info on it.
BTW, I like your site more and more. The photos really help; it’s nice to see actual pictures of food served at restaurants (as opposed to photos on menus, which I never trust!).
Do waiters/waitresses or owners ever ask you why you are taking pictures? I had a slightly embarrassing moment at a restaurant the other night, as I was taking photos of the place for an upcoming review, and the waiter came over and asked if I wanted him to take a picture of me and my GF! He thought it was a birthday or special occasion or something…
Sorry that it took me almost a week to respond. Only once in awhile do I feel odd taking pictures of food. However, I might be a bit more used to it than most people since while growing up, my Dad used to take photos of our meals when ever we went on a vacation.
So far, I have only had one person say something. It was when I picked up some food from Alex Chimis and brought it the Behan. PK was in the bathroom while I was taking the photo and someguy at the bar came over and was completely humored that I was taking a picture of the food.