Medicine Park Chicken-Fried Steak: A Homestyle Classic
No visit to Riverside Cafe is complete without trying their famous Medicine Park Chicken-Fried Steak. This dish is a true Southern classic, offering everything you could want in comfort food crispy, tender, and smothered in rich, creamy gravy.
The secret to a great chicken-fried steak lies in its preparation. Riverside Cafe starts with a high-quality cut of beef, which is carefully tenderized to ensure a soft and juicy bite. The steak is then coated in a special blend of seasoned flour, dipped in buttermilk, and breaded again for an extra crispy coating. Once prepared, it is fried to golden-brown perfection, resulting in a steak that has a satisfying crunch while remaining tender on the inside.
Of course, no chicken-fried steak is complete without a generous helping of homemade country gravy. At Riverside Cafe, the gravy is made from scratch using pan drippings, fresh cream, and a blend of black pepper and spices. The result is a rich, velvety sauce that perfectly complements the crispy steak.
This hearty dish is served with classic Southern sides, such as mashed potatoes, green beans, or buttery cornbread. The mashed potatoes are whipped to creamy perfection and topped with an extra ladle of gravy, while the green beans are slow-cooked with just the right amount of seasoning. If you’re looking for a more traditional pairing, the cornbread provides a slightly sweet, crumbly texture that balances the richness of the meal.
What makes the Medicine Park Chicken-Fried Steak truly special is its nostalgic, homestyle feel. Each bite transports you back to a time when meals were made with care, patience, and a passion for flavor. Whether you’re a longtime fan of chicken-fried steak or trying it for the first time, this dish at Riverside Cafe is guaranteed to leave you satisfied.