★★★★★ Food quality ★★★★★ Service ★★★★☆ Ambiance ★★★★★ Value ★★★★★ Menu selection ★★★★☆ Location/Accessibility ★★★★★ Overall experience Date visited: 11/24/2023 On a crisp November day, the post-Thanksgiving air carried a sense of holiday calm as I ventured into the world of Hook Fish & Chicken, a casual dining spot that had been warmly endorsed by a former colleague and an Arab, AA, with exquisite taste. Black Friday unfolded, and amidst the aftermath of Thanksgiving closures, Hook Fish & Chicken stood as a sanctuary ready to cater to hungry souls. Around noon, I found myself at the intersection where the restaurant, snugly occupying a corner, beckoned patrons to savor its offerings. The holiday lull had subdued the usual hustle, providing a seamless parking experience in the diminutive lot that could cradle a dozen vehicles. Opting for a quiet spot, I strolled through the main entrance and was promptly greeted by two affable young ladies behind the counter, their accents hinting at Middle Eastern or South Asian roots. My predetermined order swiftly left my lips, met with the assurance that my food would be ready in a mere 10 minutes. As I awaited the unveiling of my feast, the ambiance within Hook Fish & Chicken unfolded before me. An olfactory symphony of fried goodness permeated the air. While a more robust air regulation system might be a welcome addition, the coziness of the intimate dining space compensated for any culinary-scented haze. The interior, though modest in size, exuded a certain charm. Tables were thoughtfully arranged, allowing just enough room to accommodate the hungry patrons. The kitchen, visible beyond the counter, hinted at the magic in progress. Old yet well-maintained, the ceiling and floor whispered stories of many meals shared and enjoyed. Glass panels and windows adorned the walls, inviting sunlight to grace the interior and expanding the spatial perception. Childhood nostalgia beckoned from a corner where capsule vending machines stood, a tempting journey into memories that, for this occasion, I resisted. Predictably, a few more patrons joined the fold, placing their orders as I eagerly awaited the fruition of my culinary desires. True to their word, the efficient staff presented my meal just as the aromatic crescendo reached its peak. In a paper bag, the warmth and alluring aroma of my chosen feast begged to be explored. Taking my treasures to a nearby park, I indulged in a natural setting for this gastronomic adventure. The combo, a symphony of one-piece deep-fried tilapia, five succulent shrimp, crispy deep-fried okra, and ample fries, all crowned with a complimentary Coke, unfolded before me. The unhealthy indulgence of an all-fried affair was a conscious deviation from the norm, and yet, the flavors justified the culinary transgression. The tilapia, tender and enveloped in a crispy skin, hinted at a well-seasoned preparation, inviting each bite to be savored. The shrimp, in a smaller yet equally delightful portion, left me yearning for more. The okra, encased in a delicate fried batter, offered a textural dance that complemented the earthy flavor, evoking a sense of satisfaction and warmth. The fries, though slightly underwhelming, bore witness to my delayed attention. Nonetheless, they played their part, especially when paired with the refreshing companion in the form of a Coke. Overall, the meal at Hook Fish & Chicken was nothing short of extraordinary. An ensemble of flavors, each dish a note in a symphony, left an indelible impression. A hearty recommendation extends to all seeking an indulgent experience, with a minor wish for a healthier alternative to cater to varied palates.

Happy to have tried my favorite fried OKRA! Big servings and a budget friendly meals that you can have anytime of the day. 😋😊