Hattie Dunlap helped make fried chicken popular at Port Huron’s Chicken in the Rough

For years, thousands have enjoyed Chicken in the Rough in Port Huron, affectionately known as Palms Krystal Bar & Grill. 

But what has often gone unnoticed is the history of the establishment and the cook that made many of the chicken recipes popular. Hattie Dunlap, the restaurant’s first cook, brought professionalism and creativity that is still known today.

Many of her recipes, including her famous chicken batter, have remained. That’s a credit to Dunlap, who worked at Chicken in the Rough from 1941 to 1976 when she retired as the kitchen manager.
Hattie Dunlap's recipes are still a staple at Port Huron's Chicken in the Rough.
“The breading for the chicken that we use is still a recipe from her,” says current Kitchen and Night Manager Sandy Karbowski. “She meant a lot to this restaurant. I have never heard anyone say anything bad about her.”

Dunlap, the eldest of 12 children, was born in Eutaw, Alabama, in 1909. She was married to Oscar Dunlap when the couple moved to Port Huron in 1941. She was 92 years old when she died in 2002.

“She was the first cook at the restaurant and of course, we want to honor her,” says Jim Jovanovski, who has owned Chicken in the Rough for the past decade. “Many of the recipes we have had have come from her. We introduced some new things, but the things that she made popular are still on the menu.” 

Chicken in the Rough is known for its retro look, similar to a classic 1950s diner. But what has always set it apart has been its famous fried chicken. The menu also features BBQ, burgers, and seafood among other popular comfort foods.

The restaurant is open from 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Monday through Thursday, 10:30 am to 9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and noon to 8 p.m. on Sundays.