In 1984, Ezell’s Famous Chicken opened its first location in the Seattle area. Over 36 years later, the locally-owned family business has grown, while members of the founding family are still active and involved every day. The story began when the family moved from Texas to Seattle. Shortly thereafter, they decided that they’d start a business making chicken like they used to back home in Texas. Lewis Rudd and Faye Stephens saw their mission as simple: Provide fresh, high-quality chicken and delicious homemade side dishes served with casual and courteous service. After waiting six years for funding, the family opened the first store on February 3, 1984 in Seattle’s Central District at 501 23rd Avenue, across from Garfield High School. Since then, they have built the family business into a Pacific Northwest icon.