Whether you are traveling north or south on Route 121 in North Salem, it would be a great idea to stop at 121 Restaurant and Bar. Located on the rural portion of this state road, a few miles south of its intersection with I-84, the restaurant is recognizable from its farmer’s porch and singular sign. Inside, you’ll find a mix of bar and table seating, and in good weather, enjoy a table on its wrap-around porch. 121 offers some really good food in a relaxed environment.

On a quiet Sunday afternoon, we chose an outside table with out of state friends. I decided to order the Fried Chicken Sandwich, described on the menu as crispy fried chicken thighs, Jalapeno cabbage slaw, shallot aioli, pickles, on a toasted brioche bun, served with Old Bay shoestring fries. Sounds like a winner, but I wasn’t sure how spicy the slaw would be with the addition of the jalapeño, so I asked that this be served on the side.

I am a big fan of fried chicken (who isn’t) and using the thighs makes it better, juicier, more flavorful and much less likely to be served dry as a result of overcooking badly prepared than the breast.

When it arrived, it looked great, the chicken was golden brown, with a few slices of pickles beneath, with the shallot aioli hidden under the top half of the brioche, a side of slaw sat next to the sandwich. The fries were served in the now-standard silver chalice. I first tasted the slaw to determine its spiciness, barely any hint, it was creamy and could definitely join the other ingredients between the bun.

The first bite was delicious, the chicken was moist, flavorful, crunchy, and the bread-coating had just a touch of seasoning. The pickles were fantastic, probably house-made with just a little sourer than a half & half, and the slaw added a delightful creaminess. I would be remiss if I did not mention a special callout for the brioche bun, it was one of the best I have enjoyed in a long time, it was buttery, light and sweet. I would give this sandwich a 10.

I wish I were as enamored with the fries. They were good but took a backseat to the sandwich. We also ordered a side of sweet potato fries. While the exterior was very crispy, the interior would have benefited from a little more time in the fryer.

Overall, 121 Restaurant and Bar was a delightful choice to meet our friends and exactly what I was hoping for. The fried chicken sandwich was outstanding, and on our next visit I would order one for the table to share. This is definitely on the A-list as an off-the-beaten-path stop for a relaxed meal.

Overall, 121 Restaurant and Bar was the perfect spot to meet friends and delivered exactly what I was hoping for. The fried chicken sandwich was the clear standout, the next time I’d order one just for the table to share. With its off-the-beaten-path vibe and cuisine, 121 earns a solid place on the A-list for a relaxed and memorable meal.

2 Dingle Ridge Rd, North Salem, NY 10560

 (914) 669-0121

121restaurant.com