In Search of Lakeland’s Finest Gizzards
PHOTOS BY MADI ELIZABETH
Patrick Walley has worked in a wide range of culinary venues over the past 30-plus years including: high-end restaurants, full service off-premise catering, fully accredited culinary schools, luxury guest ranches and lodges, recreational cooking school, recipe research and development.
The chicken gizzard holds a special place in my culinary journey. You see, there was a pecking order for chicken innards in my childhood household. I had an older brother so that put me last in line for the “good” parts. I recall shaking the innards out of the chicken in the kitchen sink. Back in the day the tasty prizes did not come in a sealed paper bag, they were just stuffed into the cavity of the bird. Sometimes you may be missing an organ or two. This is how the parts shook out and the pecking order of those parts: The chicken neck went to Pops, Mom enjoyed the chicken heart and my brother would eat the chicken liver—meaning the chicken gizzard was all mine!
Occasionally if one of the elders was not available, I would be graced with one of the other parts as well. As much as I like the other three parts the gizzard still rules in my book.
When it comes to understanding the anatomy of a chicken, one of the lesser-known parts is the gizzard. This small but mighty organ plays a crucial role in the chicken’s digestive system.
The gizzard is a muscular part of a chicken’s digestive system, located between the stomach and the small intestine.
In some cultures, the gizzard is considered a delicacy and is used in various culinary dishes. It is often marinated and grilled, giving it a unique texture and flavor. In many Asian countries, gizzards are commonly used in stir-fries and soups, adding a rich, savory element to the dish.
Gizzards are not only prized for their taste and texture but also for their nutritional value. They are a good source of protein, iron, and B vitamins, making them a healthy addition to a balanced diet.
Since I have quite the affinity for gizzards, I went all out to find out where I could find the best chicken gizzards in Lakeland. I visited a dozen establishments, ranging from local dives to gas stations to bar and grills and fast, casual spots. Not every gizzard was a delicacy worth tracking down, but here are five of the best places to enjoy an order of chicken gizzards if you’re looking for a tasty treat.
1. Nick & Moes
IT’S PLACE IN THE PECKING ORDER:
Not as crispy as I would like, but well-seasoned, nice and tender. The gizzards seem to be softened in a precook which makes for a nice creamy mouth feel. The breading/coating could be enhanced to create a finished product with a great crisp but nonetheless a very consistent offering.
FIND IT AT:
4410 Kathleen Road & 2750 US Hwy 98 N.
863-858-0928
GIBLET GRAVY, ANYONE?
Along with other giblets (heart and liver), gizzards can be used to make a flavorful gravy, often served with Thanksgiving turkey.
2. Mama’s Soul Food
IT’S PLACE IN THE PECKING ORDER:
Crispy, well-seasoned nuggets of near perfection! The seasoned breading used on these gizzards is the best in town. The gizzards have a nice tender chew. The only issue that I have is the price point seems high compared to the portion size.
FIND IT AT:
518 E Memorial Blvd.
813-769-9552
3. Baba’s Food & Fuel
IT’S PLACE IN THE PECKING ORDER:
Another good value offering. Crispy, well-seasoned and evenly breaded. Slightly chewy texture on the small to medium size gizzards. The larger sizes were a bit too chewy.
FIND IT AT:
2905 Reynolds Rd.
SHOW SOME RESPECT, GET YOUR MAN A GIZZARD.
In communities across Nigeria, Cameroon, Uganda and Kenya, serving the gizzard to the man of the house is an affirmation of his role as the head of the family. For the Luhya people of Kenya, the gizzard, or imondo, is considered sacred and can even be the cause of disputes if served incorrectly.
4. Winners Circle
IT’S PLACE IN THE PECKING ORDER:
Crispy, well-seasoned and evenly breaded. Slightly chewy texture on the larger gizzards, but the small – medium size were tender. These gizzards did not appear to be par cooked in any way. The fry oil was nearing the end of its life cycle and could be tasted in the overall flavor of the gizzards. This is the best bang for the buck value in town.
FIND IT AT:
4215 South Florida Ave.
863-644-9464
5. Chevron
IT’S PLACE IN THE PECKING ORDER:
Crispy, well-seasoned and evenly breaded. Slightly chewy texture on the gizzard itself, but all the gizzard pieces were on the small – medium size. I feel this helps when the gizzard is not par cooked in any way. Worth the drive and, by far, one of the best values in town.
FIND IT AT:
4301 New Tampa Highway
863-687-8132
WHAT DOES A GIZZARD TASTE LIKE?
As simplyrecipes.com explains, gizzards have the flavor of a chicken’s dark meat—the meat found on the wings, thighs, and legs, rather than the breast—but with a little more intensity.
Other Lakeland Spots to Grab Some Gizzards:
Marathon Fuel Station, 3071 US Highway 98 South
Decisions Bar & Grill, 1621 E Edgewood Ave.
Circle K, Krispy Krunchy Chicken, 933 Pipkin Rd. W.
Country Chicken ‘N Fish, 1263 Kathleen Rd.
Salem’s Fresh Eats, 6108 US Hwy 98 N.
Chevron Food Mart, 2340 W. Memorial Blvd.
Combee Food Mart, 107 S. Combee Rd.