Fried chicken. Just the words conjure up images of crispy, golden-brown skin, juicy meat, and a satisfying crunch. Los Angeles, a city known for its diverse culinary scene, boasts a phenomenal fried chicken landscape. This guide dives into the top 28 fried chicken restaurants in Los Angeles, covering everything from classic Southern fare to innovative twists on this beloved dish. Whether you're craving a traditional buttermilk-brined bird or something more adventurous, you'll find your perfect fried chicken fix here.
Classic Southern Fried Chicken
These spots offer the quintessential Southern fried chicken experience, focusing on traditional techniques and recipes passed down through generations.
1. Harold & Belle's: A LA Staple
Harold & Belle's is a Los Angeles institution, famous for its perfectly seasoned and expertly fried chicken. Their commitment to quality ingredients and traditional methods shines through in every bite. Their secret? A precise blend of spices and a perfectly timed frying process.
2. Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken: A Southern Legend
This Memphis-born chain has expanded to LA, bringing its legendary fried chicken with it. Gus's is known for its incredibly crispy skin and juicy, flavorful meat. They use a unique blend of spices that is both simple and incredibly effective.
3. Howlin' Ray's: The Hype is Real
Howlin' Ray's is a testament to the power of great fried chicken. Long lines are common, but the wait is undeniably worth it. Their Nashville-style hot chicken is intensely flavorful and offers various spice levels to suit any palate.
Korean Fried Chicken: A Flavor Explosion
Korean fried chicken takes the classic dish to a whole new level with its double-frying technique and a vast array of delicious sauces.
4. Bonchon Chicken: The OG Korean Fried Chicken
Bonchon is a globally recognized name in Korean fried chicken, and their LA locations are no exception. Their signature twice-fried chicken is incredibly crispy and light, and their array of sauces (soy garlic and spicy are must-tries) adds another layer of flavor.
5. Kyochon: Another Korean Fried Chicken Powerhouse
Kyochon offers a similar twice-fried experience as Bonchon, but with its own unique spin on flavors. They're known for their honey-glazed options, which offer a sweet and savory counterpoint to the crispy texture.
6. BB.Q Chicken: Sweet and Savory Perfection
BB.Q Chicken offers a wide variety of flavors and styles, from classic to spicy and even sweet. Their commitment to quality ingredients and innovative flavors keeps customers coming back for more.
Beyond the Basics: Innovative Fried Chicken
These restaurants push the boundaries of what fried chicken can be, incorporating unique flavors and techniques.
7. Dave's Hot Chicken: Nashville Heat
Dave's Hot Chicken is another LA institution that's known for its ridiculously spicy Nashville hot chicken. They offer a range of spice levels, from "Little" to "Reaper," so even the most seasoned spice-lover will find something challenging.
8. Pizzana: Fried Chicken Pizza, Anyone?
Pizzana isn't solely a fried chicken restaurant, but their fried chicken is exceptionally well-executed. It's often featured on their pizzas, offering a savory and surprisingly well-balanced addition to their already delicious pies.
9. Crack Shack: Elevated Fried Chicken Sandwiches
Crack Shack takes the fried chicken sandwich to new heights. Their expertly fried chicken is paired with flavorful sauces and toppings, creating sandwiches that are both delicious and visually stunning.
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