Try a family-style chicken dinner in turn-of-the-century Kansas restaurant

In Central Kansas, the Brookville Hotel’s name has been synonymous with “family style chicken dinners” since 1915. Owner Helen Martin became famous serving the home-style dinners to World War II soldiers visiting Brookville from nearby bases. [[endteaser]]

Today, fourth-generation Martins continue the Brookville Hotel’s tradition in Abilene. They preserve the turn-of-the-century look in their restaurant décor. And they serve family-sized bowls of coleslaw, mashed potatoes, gravy and creamed corn. Plus platters of skillet-fried chicken along with baking-powder biscuits.

Come to the Brookville for your next special dinner with family or friends. Until then, try out Brookville’s tasty coleslaw recipe.

Brookville Hotel’s Old-Fashioned, Sweet-Sour Cole Slaw

1 pound shredded green cabbage1 teaspoon salt3/4 cup sugar1/3 cup cider vinegar1 cup whipping creamPlace shredded cabbage in a covered dish for several hours. Mix ingredients in order. Allow 30 minutes chilling time before serving.Learn more about the Brookville.


Cecilia Harris is a professional freelance writer from Abilene who enjoys discovering fascinating attractions, events and people that reflect the arts, culture and heritage found in Kansas. She has been a longtime regular contributor to KANSAS! magazine and also has written for such publications as Midwest Living, Sunflower Living, Kansas Heritage and The Greyhound Review to inspire others to explore and appreciate her home state. She also has authored two books, “Historic Homes of Abilene” and “Abilene’s Carousel.”