Our experience at Chicken Scratch was a very pleasant one thanks to a combination of factors that features, most prominently, the weather. This chicken joint, located over near The Belmont Hotel, has a very Austin-y feel to it. Chicken Scratch shares a common space with The Foundry - which brings together a nice marriage of chicken and beer.
We started with the chick peas and crackers (we liked that they went with the chick-en theme vs. just calling it "hummus"). It was just okay. The texture wasn't creamy enough and it had some odd spices that didn't work for our palate. We loved that the Saltines were served in packets; it all fit in with the feel of the place.
For the main event. we ordered up the chicken finger and a slew of sides. The chicken batter or marinade had a very unique flavor to it. The chicken was perfect, though - juicy with the right amount of batter. You can choose from four amazing sounding dipping sauces for $0.50 each. We ordered the ranch dressing, but we think we ended up with the Dijon honey mustard - we didn't mind.
The mac and cheese was made from scratch. It was nothing gourmet - a little better than something you might find in a cafeteria. The cheese was solid, but the mac was a little limp. They do offer small or large sides and we found the small to be plenty.
The homemade mashed potatoes and gravy were also good - but reminded us, also, of cafeteria food.
The biscuits were flaky and warm - a little dry - but nothing butter couldn't fix.
All in all, we would say this about Chicken Scratch: the ambiance elevates the food. If not for the set up and the cool vibe they have going on with their outside dining, this place would be just a C instead of the B+ that we're giving it.
Oh, and a note: Don't leave your children or pets unattended - though feel free to bring both. This place is definitely family friendly.
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