RT's Family Recipe Secret to Bold Chicken Eats

Developing the vinegar barbeque recipe passed down through the family was the first reason RT's Chicken Grill Owner Richard "Todd" Gardner listed for starting up the business in 2003.

It's a good reason too, because though you can get a chicken wrap or sandwich at a lot of restaurants in Harrisonburg, but not with the distinct taste offered at RT's. Todd's grandfather developed the recipe and all the chicken served at RT's is marinated in it.

The chicken is offered on the menu in wraps, on a bun, in a salad or just as grilled tenders. I ordered the chicken Caesar wrap. Once you pick your main sandwich at RT's the choices have only just begun. First you can pick your flavor of tortilla, then toppings and condiments out of a list of around 20, and finally a side item.

My wrap was good, not amazing, but the chicken bursted with flavor and was still warm from the grill. The main problem with wraps in general is that the lettuce and tomato always seem to be a little questionable but at RT's the lettuce and tomato were obviously fresh.

For a side I ordered the french fries but I got to try some tortilla strips. While the french fries were good, just needed some salt, the tortilla strips where crunchy and excellent. These two options aren't the only choices for sides with a side salad and macaroni and cheese some of the other options.

Of course chicken isn't the only thing on the menu. Burgers, steak sandwiches, paninis and even vegetarian wraps are also options. The prices are affordable ranging from around four dollars for a sandwich to six or seven for a combo that includes a side and a drink.

The owner Todd told me that when he opened the restaurant he was trying to create a middle step between, "a McDonald's and one of those sit down restaurants." The atmosphere at RT's reflects that desire. It's not quite as utilitarian as a fast food chain but it's not a place to take a date, unless of course you're a poor college student.

The service was fast and friendly. When I told the person behind the counter it was my first time at RT's they offered to explain the menu and all the choices. My date and I waited about five minutes before they brought out our food.

RT's is the perfect place to go to with a group of friends. The food is priced similary to a fast food chain but not only is a lot fresher it just tastes better too.