THE ONLY THING BETTER THAN THE CHICKEN, IS THE ATMOSPHERE CHICKEN SHACK by Laura Spriggs

C H I C K E N S H A C K The only thing better than the chicken, is the atmosphere

B Y L A U R A S P R I G G S

Many years ago, dining out with the family was reserved only for special occasions. Fast forward to today where it’s common to eat meals outside the home any day of the week.

Several things set apart different restaurants from one another, predominantly menu, decor, service, and ambiance. The Chicken Shack on old Route 66 in Luther has all of those things making it an especially unique place.

When you think of the term “shack” the location definitely lives up to its lighthearted moniker. By definition, a shack is a roughly built building, for the sake of this article I prefer to describe it more as simple, rustic, and uncomplicated. Once your order is placed at the little outside window, you’re given a number in order for the staff to be able to bring you your order.

As you pull open the screen door to walk in, you will immediately notice the ground is gravel. Don’t wear your best footwear here because you’re bound to leave a little dusty. This place is popular so keep in mind it is typically more crowded on weekends than if your travel out on a weeknight.

The layout of the dining room is one gigantic “L” shape. As you proceed further inside from the entrance there are tables and booths on both sides is the aisle. Keep walking and you’ll come across the inside stage where live music is performed for guests. Immediately turn to your left is additional tables and at the very back is the full-service bar.

That’s not where the fun ends. The “backyard” as it is affectionately called is full of picnic tables, and lawn games such as cornhole and there are fire pits for sitting around after the sun goes down. This is one of the favorite spots for kids to run around and enjoy meeting new friends.

The Chicken Shack currently sits right on the banks of the Deep Fork River which can make the outdoor space a little sloppy when the good ol’ Oklahoma rain seems like it will never cease. The outside area has a larger music stage and a I appreciate well behaved dogs are welcome to dine with their owners.

The real reason people return time and time again is of course for the chicken! Their broasting technique is phenomenal keeping the chicken moist all the way through with the outside remaining nicely crisped. I personally think it’s better because it’s not greasy like other fried chicken methods I’ ve experienced.

Families tend to order the whole chicken to share among their group, whereas I as a solo diner once I discovered their Chicken Sammich it has been my fail-safe go-to meal. They have several sides to choose from such as okra and Mac N Cheese, but my favorite to pair with it is the onion rings. So delicious!

I have tried the pork chops which are amazing, and, on another occasion, I picked brisket on a loaded baked potato. When you first arrive check their menu board out front where they list daily specials. The Chicken Shack frequently has limited-time-only items like prime rib and crawfish boils. Wingfest has become one of their much-anticipated events so follow their Facebook page to keep up to date on all their special happenings.

The Shack seems to be busting at the seams. It is in the works to soon move into a bigger location across from the Arcadia Round Barn. Staying true to their original roots concept by remaining on historic Route 66, there are plans for the same extraordinary food, more stages to continue to showcase local musical talent, and a better children’s playground. The new location has the promise to be a larger venue with better indoor seating space with room to keep growing in the future.

Until the Arcadia location opens patrons can continue to visit the Luther location or go check out the recent addition to the Shack Family, the Lumber Shack in Harrah. Built inside the former lumber yard, the Lumber Shack menu is similar to the Chicken Shack as you can still order the same great broasted chicken, but in Harrah, you are able to order a juicy hamburger. Unfortunately, at this time the onion rings did not make the list of side options at the Lumber Shack. The potato wedges suffice nicely to compliment the burger.

The Lumber Shack is part of the original Sweeney Switch District. Before the town was named Harrah, it was known as Sweeney from 1896 to 1899 after E.W. Sweeney who settled in the area and operated a ferry across the nearby North Canadian River. The Lumber Shack has a comfortable, rustic charm that makes you want to hang out a little bit longer with your friends. There is live music on the patio area, space for the kids to roam safely nearby and the inside bar is absolutely beautiful.

The owners have done a wonderful job at both locations creating welcoming environments for locals and traveling visitors alike. There are people of all ages and backgrounds enjoying both spaces. The restaurants continue to serve their communities well by making available yummy food and drinks, free live entertainment and an awesome dining experience that surpasses the typical night out.

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