Keaton's

17365 Cool Springs Rd, Cleveland, NC - (704) 278-1619

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Posted By Keith Smith on 7/27/2005 10:54:00 PM

Thirty years ago, I lived and worked in close proximity to Keaton's, and ate there regularly. After moving to New England, I found I really missed that unique BBQ burn. We made sure that we ate at Keaton's on every return trip to the Carolinas. The elder Mr. Keaton was a wonderful gentleman with a great sense of humor. He cooked for his customers and was aware of their preferences. We are so pleased that his heirs are continuing this fine Southern tradition. My wife and I had our first serious date at Keaton's and we still consider it a treat to eat there.

This, without question, is the finest BBQ chicken that the good Lord has ever allowed me to taste! The taste is hot (I call it two-beer-hot), but not too much so. The elder Mr. Keaton used to say, "It's too hot for the children today". It gives your mouth an afterglow. The chicken is always tender. I prefer mine a little crispy on the outside (if it's not a little crispy, just ask and they will crisp it up for you).

At one time you were served on a sheet of paper, with mini-beer bottles for salt and pepper shakers. The rest rooms were in the rear of the building. Today, you are still served on disposable paper and plastic products, but service now includes a paper plate, and there are store bought salt and pepper shakers. Nonetheless, the taste and country charm is still there. This chicken is always "5 stars", in my opinion.

Scorecard

Overall: Legendary - Worth driving from anyplace

Rate this place

"Keaton's chicken is unlike any other: slightly crisp, slightly caramelized, and shot through with the flavor of the house barbecue sauce. It is so good it made our tipster weep with joy."
Michael Stern

"Keaton's excellent macaroni & cheese comes in smallish squares, with a slightly burnt top crust."
Cliff Strutz

"Keaten's was selling red velvet cake long before it enjoyed its current vogue."
Michael Stern

"Meals arrive under wax paper. When the paper is removed, the aroma of the chicken envelops the table and will make you dizzy with hunger."
Michael Stern

"Mmmmmmmmmmmmmm good."
Peter Roaman

"This is where you order your food. Then sit down where you are told and it will be brought to you."
Michael Stern

"From the outside, Keaton's doesn't look like one of America's best restaurants ... but in our book, it is!"
Michael Stern

"You'll need plenty of napkins when you eat Keaton's chicken. Every table is well-equipped."
Michael Stern

"Down to the last finger lick."
Peter Roaman

"The main room."
Peter Roaman

"Love a good sign."
Peter Roaman

"Road sign."
Peter Roaman

"We don't know what 'taste test' this sign refers to, but it must be a good one. The results are impeccable."
Michael Stern