When in need of a quick holiday break…
Jen December 14th, 2008
Fried pickles just may be that pick-me-up you’ve been hoping for this holiday. Lucky for us, they can be conveniently found in local favorite watering hole, the People’s Pub, on Ballard Ave.
I was first introduced to this tasty treat about a month ago. A friend had opted to meet up at People’s and when she said “fried pickles”, I was sold. Normally, I’m not one to be lured in by fried bar foods, but this was not to be missed…I couldn’t begin to imagine what a fried pickle would even taste like.
Since, the People’s Pub has definitely won a special place in my heart. I even hear they have a delicious fried tomato sandwich. Thinking about these two dishes, makes my mouth water and I wonder, “maybe fried foods aren’t so bad after all…” But yes, of course they are- it’s all in moderation, friends.
After first trying the pickles and being blown away, I started asking others about it. I couldn’t help but think, “Am I the last to know about this phenomenon?” When it comes to food, I hate feeling left out-especially when it’s practically in my backyard. From asking around I learned that fried pickles can actually be found at various German pubs and restaurants in town. It seemed that everyone had a different take on which or whose pickles were best; hit and miss sauces; and the difference between spears and rounds. I couldn’t believe my ears.
Still curious, I took to Wikipedia, in hopes of finding out some fried pickle history. Knowing they’re served at German establishments, I thought well, obviously, they’re German. But having been to Germany, I never remembered seeing them anywhere, or at least wherever we had been. Wikipedia cleared this up for me by relaying that in fact they originated here in the South, and were popularized by Bernell “Fatman” Austin, of Atkins, Arkansas in 1963. It also seems, after more google searches, that there is quite the petty argument going on with exactly which Southern restaurant they originated in.
Regardless, I am happy to have found them and recommend all pickle lovers give them a try. Especially for all the fried green tomato fans out there as well. Though they can be found around town, I think I’ll stick with the People’s Pub where I know besides the pickles I can get a great German beer and a mouth-watering schnitzel, with good service to boot.
People’s Pub, 5429 Ballard Ave. NW, 206.783.6521
Don’t forget the AMAZING garlic aioli that they are served with. Also, their happy hour $4 grilled cheese and tomato soup is heavenly!