Columbian Chicken in Queens: Frisby

At first glance Frisby looks like you're average fast food chicken chain: There are brightly-lit signs out front, posters advertising product everywhere, and even a mascot. However, the experience is somewhat different.

I always stand out when I wander into a fast food establishment for the first time. I stand there, neck strained upward, glancing at the menuboard for several minutes. This tradition was interrupted today as the manager handed me a printed out menu.

Frisby's menu consists of fried chicken items and sides. I ordered a combo of chicken wings and fries. However, Frisby's definition of "chicken wings" is not in tune with the common U.S. fast food definition: They are literally big fried wings of chicken.

After placing my order (and paying the $7.99 plus tax) the experience became truly unique. I was given beverage cup and a metal pole with a number attached to it and asked to sit down. I filled up my cup with Diet Pepsi, not even bothering with a lid or straw. I also grabbed some napkins and then sat down at a table.

Almost immediately a member of the staff came over and placed down a placemat, which was essentially a tray liner. I also received three packets of honey, two packets of ketchup, more napkins, a lid, a straw, and, the best part, two plastic gloves! About a minute later the same staff member brought me my food on a tray, which she unloaded onto my placemat.

I was a bit bewildered by the gloves. I obviously recognized their purpose, but the idea of eating with them on seemed very strange to me. I compromised with my inner-anxiety and put one on, leaving my other hand in the more accustomed uncovered state.

The chicken with honey tasted quite great, while the fries were average. I got through the meal rather quickly and cleanly (the glove served its role well). I was not responsible for clearing off my table, something I'm quite used to from my days in  Germany and Austria.

Ultimately, a dinner at Frisby is worth experiencing. I plan on returning again in the near future to try something else off the menu, especially the extensive side dish list.