Maine’s Palace Diner: Home of the Legendary Fried Chicken Sandwich That Sells Out Fast
Staff Editor Maine’s Iconic Palace Diner Serves Up Sought-After Fried Chicken Sandwich
Biddeford, Maine – The Palace Diner, Maine’s oldest diner and a culinary landmark, continues to draw food enthusiasts from far and wide with its famous fried chicken sandwich. Recently, a traveler on a road trip from Connecticut to Portland, Maine, made two attempts to sample this coveted menu item, highlighting the sandwich’s popularity and the diner’s reputation for lengthy wait times.
Built in 1927 in Lowell, Massachusetts, and later relocated to Biddeford, the Palace Diner is one of only two surviving Pollard railway dining cars in the country. Its historical significance is matched by its culinary prowess, evidenced by multiple accolades including a James Beard Award nomination in 2020.
The diner, which has been featured on Netflix’s “Somebody Feed Phil” and praised by travel website OnlyInYourState, offers a range of classic American fare including burgers, breakfast plates, and sandwiches. However, it’s the fried chicken sandwich that has become the star attraction.
On the traveler’s first visit, despite waiting over an hour for a seat at the 15-seat counter, the fried chicken had sold out. Undeterred, they returned two days later, arriving early to secure a spot on the waitlist.
The persistence paid off. After a half-hour wait, the traveler was finally able to order the much-anticipated sandwich. Described as a large, crispy chicken breast on a sesame-seed bun with coleslaw and sliced jalapeños, topped with a pepperoncini pepper, the sandwich lived up to its reputation.
“It’s the best chicken sandwich I’ve ever had,” the traveler reported. “Super crispy on the outside with moist chicken breast inside. The tangy slaw complemented the slight heat of the jalapeños perfectly.”
At $20, including a side iceberg wedge salad, the sandwich isn’t cheap. However, the quality and taste justify the price, according to the satisfied customer.
The Palace Diner’s fried chicken sandwich has cemented its place as a must-try for food enthusiasts visiting Maine. However, visitors are advised to arrive early to avoid disappointment, as this popular item frequently sells out.
As this traveler’s experience shows, the Palace Diner continues to uphold its reputation as a culinary destination, blending historical charm with contemporary culinary excellence.
