For chicken lovers and those alike, many have eaten at Abners, a resturant in Starkville. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the restaurant!
Abner's first opened in Oxford in 1993 with a little dream and a hope. Founder, Abner White, had worries that his business would not take off, but found success within the second week of business. After lines were forming outside of this tiny restaurant, White decided to expand. Which took Abner's to Starkville, Tupelo, and a bigger restaurant in Oxford.
Customers come to Abner's not only for their great chicken, but to see some of the sports memorabilia that decorates the walls. White said that it all started as a way to keep the walls from being blank, and slowly spread from there. He was approached by Chuck Rounsaville, editor of Ole Miss Spirit, who helped him gain more photos from the spirits archives. Also, with help from White's mother, the photos now grace the walls as the "Wall of Fame".
One of Abner's specialties is the Abner Secret Sauce. Though White will not share the recipe, he gives credit to his mother for helping him make it! He said that they collaborated in his mothers kitchen and tried a mixture of things until they got the perfect sauce.
In celebration for this year, Abner's is giving back to their loyal customers. Part of this celebration is that a lucky individual can become part of the "Wall of Fame" by entering into a contest. Each contestant needs to send in their own sports shots, and the winning entry can share space with some of their most favorite idols!
Make sure to stop by and try the famous sauce at 518 South Montgomery Street!