Tumble 22

When Tumble 22 started as a tiny trailer in 2017, it gave Austin a taste of what the Nashville-style fried chicken trend was all about. These days, lots of similar spots have opened (including Nashville’s own Hattie B’s), and Tumble 22 is practically a household name in Texas, with more than half a dozen locations across the state. It’s reliable and consistent—every sandwich or tender that’s hit our table has arrived well seasoned and crispy. None of it is going to change your outlook on life, love, and poultry, but it all does a satisfying job of getting you through lunch or dinner with a little sweat (and heartburn, if you order the “Stupid Hot” made with ghost peppers). Try the O.G. for Tumble’s take on a pretty classic fried chicken sandwich , or make a meal out of a few tenders, mac and cheese with pulled pork, and pecan pie.

Food Rundown

photo credit: Nicolai McCrary

Lil O.G.

The original chicken sandwich comes in a regular or mini form (pictured here). We like the Lil O.G. since it leaves room to add a few tenders on the side, but they’re pretty similar sandwiches made up of a grilled or fried breast, coleslaw, sweet pickles, and Duke’s mayo. The chicken is well seasoned and crispy, if a little dry around some of the thinner parts.

photo credit: Nicolai McCrary

Tenders

We like the tenders because they’re easier to dunk into a side of ranch. They’re not the most moist and tender we’ve had in town, but they certainly come close.