Few would argue with the claim that Dari Delite serves up the best chicken tenders in Hartselle, Alabama. Others will say they’re the best chicken tenders anywhere.

Having grown up nearby, I have enjoyed more of these crispy, juicy, made-from-scratch marvels than I can count and will happily join their chorus of fans. The restaurant operated for years under other owners before the late Roy “Pop” Mims bought it in 1971 and set about perfecting his process for the poultry perfection we know today. Dari Delite remains in the Mims family, with younger generations carrying on the tender chicken tradition alongside many other menu favorites you’d expect at a classic roadside dairy bar and burger joint.

If you’re a first-timer at Dari Delite, we strongly urge you to try the chicken. If you’re only feeding yourself, a three-piece snack with fries and a soft roll will suffice. Satisfy a bigger appetite with a five-piece dinner that comes with slaw, fries, and two rolls. Definitely ask for extra house sauce for delightful dipping. If you’ve got a bigger crew than just you, opt for a box of 18, a tub of 36, or a big bucket of 54. If chicken just isn’t your thing, read on to learn more about other options. No matter what you choose, be sure to save room for soft-serve ice cream.

While entering the address into your trusty GPS will take you right to it, keep your eyes peeled for the vintage neon sign amid the many modern storefronts and signage of Hartselle's bustling business district along U.S. Route 31.
Lisa Battles
The marquee messaging usually gives a glimpse into the restaurant's longtime role in the community, whether it's a thank you for yet another "best of" accolade or an encouraging note to passersby.
If you're in a hurry you can expect quick drive-through service, or you can dine in at one of the simple snack bar-style booths. Dari Delite also offers several umbrella-shaded picnic tables for enjoying a meal or frosty treat outdoors.
Best chicken fingers in Hartselle Alabama at Dari Delite
Debbie Hodge/Google Reviews
While Dari Delite has built a reputation for the best chicken fingers in Hartselle and beyond, don't miss the opportunity to celebrate the restaurant's roots as a burger joint.
Coach_Atkinson/Tripadvisor
All burgers come with the typical fixings like mayo, mustard, ketchup, pickle, lettuce, and onion - unless ordered otherwise. Of course, you can add cheese or bacon, too. If you're extra hungry, go for a double, a quarter-pounder, or a whopping half-pounder.
Besides burgers, the restaurant offers specialty sandwiches like chuckwagon steak, fish, BLTs, clubs, toasted cheese, and its iconic chicken tenders served with lettuce, tomato, and mayo between fluffy buns.
Maxwell Walden/Google Reviews
Other choices include a shrimp dinner, wings, standard hot dogs, and foot-long hot dogs.
The retro Dee and DeeDee characters grace the building in several spots and are holdovers from the restaurant's earliest days as part of a national chain.
Lisa Battles
Dari Delite's simple atmosphere, classic roadside fare, and friendly staff have stood the test of time for over five decades.
Lisa Battles

Dari Delite is a must-stop when traveling through North Alabama on U.S. Route 31 or, better yet, taking our advice to explore Hartselle over a weekend. The restaurant is a short drive from Hartselle’s historic and thriving downtown district, where you can stay in a charming vacation rental guest house in the heart of it all. The town’s location on the major thoroughfare of U.S. Route 31 makes it a convenient home base for exploring the entire region. Be sure to take advantage of a Huntsville and North Alabama Multi-Attraction Pass for access to many of the region’s top destinations for one low, flat fee.

Have you had a chance to try Dari Delite? Does it get your vote for the best chicken fingers in Hartselle, Alabama (or anywhere)? Tell us about your experience and share any tips you may have about must-do destinations in the area.

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Featured Addresses
Dari Delite, 603 Hwy 31 SW, Hartselle, AL 35640, USA