Motoring on the Pennsylvania Turnpike. Fourth day of HG/BSK’s cross country voyage. The promising local, funky eateries demanded a long, circuitous detour from the highway. So, HG/BSK stopped at the giant West Somerset service area. Dining choices: Popeye’s; Pizza Hut; Burger King; Starbucks and a pretzel counter. HG/BSK opted for Popeye’s. HG recalled that Virgil Thompson, the late, great composer, lyricist and music critic who lived in New York’s Chelsea Hotel on W. 23rd Street loved Popeye’s. His guests (and they were a very distinguished, very international group) were often treated to a dinner of Popeye’s fried chicken, red beans and rice, mashed potatoes and gravy, cole slaw and biscuits with honey. Gracious Virgil also provided his guests with abundant icy Martinis and plentiful white wine.(Virgil got his Popeye’s spread at the chain’s W. 23rd branch where he was a beloved figure). HG/BSK emulated Virgil and ate spicy fried chicken, cole slaw, biscuits, red beans and rice. No alcohol, unfortunately, but good watermelon juice. Pleasant food (Far, far better than despicable KFC). However, HG/BSK agreed that when it comes to chicken, HG/BSK far prefer BSK’s sauteed boneless-skinless chicken thighs or BSK’s chicken breast paillards (Flattened chicken breasts, dipped in beaten egg and dusted with fine Japanese Panko crumbs. They’re quickly fried and get a sauce of melted butter, capers and lemon juice). The service area at West Somerset was jammed. Popeye’s had the longest lines (with the most efficient and cheery counter personnel). While waiting in line, HG made a quick social analysis. Popeye’s clientele was 80% African-American, 20% Caucasian. Burger King was favored by and equal mix of white old folks, Latinos, Asian-Americans, African-Americans. Pizza Hut was favored by a racially and ethnically mixed crowd buying pizza for hungry kids. Starbucks seemed to attract an elite crowd of young white people. The pretzel stand dispensed salty and sugar horrors to Trump fans.
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