Big Game / Nashville · Vol. I · Issue 01 Field Notebook · Food February 8, 2030 · Music City

Departments · Food & Drink

Nashville Hot Chicken

History, Heat Levels & Where to Go

Reporting from Music City · By the Big Game Nashville desk

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Field Notes

History

In the 1930s, Thornton Prince III's scorned girlfriend doused his fried chicken in cayenne to punish him. He loved it. Prince's Hot Chicken Shack has been serving the original ever since — nearly 90 years.

Field Notes

Heat Levels

Mild

Gentle warmth. Safe for everyone.

Medium

Real heat. Cayenne-forward. The sweet spot.

Hot

Serious. Have milk ready.

Extra Hot

Pain. Some places require a waiver.

Field Notes

Where to Go

Prince's (the original, 30-60 min wait). Hattie B's (most visitor-friendly). Bolton's (locals' favorite). 400 Degrees (great sandwich). Party Fowl (sit-down, creative variations).