Mason Dixie Drive-Thru Aims to Deliver on Fried Chicken

Jason Gehring, the flour-dusted force behind Mason Dixie Biscuit Co., is looking forward to launching a drive-thru project later this month — and not just because it’s sure to cement his vision in brick-and-mortar.

“An opportunity presented itself to do a fast, fresh concept,” is how he described the fortuitous circumstances that led to his transforming the former Dolphins Fish & Chicken (2301 Bladensburg Road NE) into the next iteration of the pop-up dinners he’s done all over town over the years, as well as the grab-and-go meals he continues to produce at a stall in Union Market.

One major development is the addition of fried chicken platters, served with or without Southern-style sides (collard greens, mac and cheese, dirty rice).

“That’s something that people have been asking about for a long time,” Gehring said of the frequent request. His desire to please is projected to manifest itself as buttermilk-brined bird carved up into individual portions (¼ white or dark; half chickens) or doled out in shareable buckets.

The “more robust menu,” as Gehring put it, also features house-made hand pies (filled with either berry jam or apple filling) as well as frosty send-offs from fellow food startup, Milk Cult. The frozen treat maker is expected to contribute ice cream by the scoop, ice cream sandwiches, and signature milkshakes (strawberry, vanilla, or chocolate). Gehring said phasing in ice cream sundaes could happen later this year.

Status: expected to open in April. 2301 Bladensburg Road NE; website.