The seating capacity at Mama Dip's Kitchen more than quadrupled between 1976 and 1999 - and for good reason! The eatery grew from a petite 18-seat establishment to nearly 100 seats when the restaurant moved to a new location in February 1999. In fact, the demand continued to grow so much that Mama Dip’s Kitchen expanded yet again to accommodate patrons in a brand new building, growing her seating capacity to 169 inside and 40 outside. The reason for the rapid growth? For one, the fried chicken is so good here, the recipe hasn't changed since at least 1970. Today, Mama Dip's Kitchen in Chapel Hill is an institution, much like its founder, Mildred Cotton Council "Mama Dip." There's nothing quite like fried chicken to bring people together, in our opinion, so let's take a look at why this legendary southern restaurant in North Carolina is still sought out by so many.

No matter your background or cuisine preferences, people will always be drawn in by traditional home cooking and recipes they can count on.

With $40 for food and $24 for change, the late, great Mildred Council (Mama Dip) opened her restaurant over half a century ago, determined to succeed.

Since then she created two cookbooks, had several television appearances, such as Good Morning America and on The Food Network, and she was featured in many local and national publications. She also created her own food line.

Mama Dip's fried chicken recipe is one of the main reasons people return time and time again. Perfectly crispy, elegantly seasoned, delightfully juicy...

It tastes excellent on a waffle too.

But don't discount the loving care that goes into the barbecued chicken, which is basted with the sweet and tangy Mama Dip's Original Barbecue Sauce.

And maybe the most exciting part of this meal is the stewed okra and tomatoes.

Some nights fried peach pies make it on the special list. You don't want to miss these flaky, buttery pastries.

Whatever you choose to indulge in, Mama Dip's recipes are time-honored and awarded for good reason!

Find a cozy table inside this charming eatery.

Or settle in outside for some good conversation and hearty eats.

Whatever you choose to indulge in, Mama Dip's recipes are time-honored and awarded for good reason.

This is downhome Southern country cooking at its most delicious!

For more information and to catch the latest specials (including handmade desserts!), visit Mama Dip's website today and stop by to enjoy her delicious fried chicken recipe. Also, the company's Facebook page offers excellent photos and memories of this time-honored establishment.

While you're visiting or exploring Chapel Hill, be sure to visit the beautiful Hartleyhenge, North Carolina's own Stonehenge.