FRIED AND TRUE: HOT BOX VS. CANE’S
BY TESS ALTIER PHOTO BY WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
When it comes to late-night bites in a college town like Athens, Ohio, fried chicken is a strong contender. With two spots competing for the top on Court Street, Hot Box Chicken Fingers and Tots, a local favorite, and the famous Raising Cane’s, how do you choose where to go? Both serve the delicacy of fried, juicy chicken tenders served with signature sauces and sides, but each brings a different flavor and vibe to the late-night food scene.
Hot Box, born in the heart of Athens, is a local favorite — offering good vibes, late hours, and unique, bold flavors. Raising Cane’s, a national chain, brought its trusty combos and classic menu to Athens in October of this year. With both catering to students and locals, they make Court Street the go-to spot for fried chicken. Vaughn Pongonis, a junior at Ohio University, comments on these popular spots.
"After a night out in Athens, there are always two places I see people go, Hot Box and Cane’s,” Pongonis said.
Both Hot Box and Cane’s offer crispy chicken tenders, but each with their own twist. Hot Box serves its tenders with various sauces and spices, paired with tots, fries, or garlic toast. Their menu features four different combo options and five unique sandwiches that spice things up. Cane’s also offers crispy fries, coleslaw, and Texas toast with their tenders through five different combo meal options. Belle Lewis, a junior at OU has her own personal preference,
“I choose Cane’s because I know that I'm getting my money's worth, and their menu is simple so it makes it easy to order,” Lewis said.
When it comes to value, Hot Box and Cane’s offer satisfying combos for a similar price range. However, Hot Box tends to offer slightly larger portions, and with their variety of sides, students may find this to be a better bang for their buck.
“Sometimes they give you extra tenders, and it's always a good amount of fries,” Pongonis said.
Cane’s consistent combos, prices, and flavors may appeal to those searching for a quick, reliable meal. While both spots offer similar prices and portions, Hot Box occasionally offers deals, which is a huge plus for college students.
There’s no doubt that students and locals love their fried chicken. In the end, both Hot Box and Cane’s bring something special to Court Street. Cane’s takes the cake with consistency and comfort, while Hot Box stands out for its bold flavors and local charm. Either way, Athens proves that there is no shortage of satisfying chicken on Court Street.
