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Top picks in West Town

Fried chicken spots

Made for those who have a discerning palate for fried chicken and refuse to settle for anything that lacks the proper crunch.

Based on 592 Opinions
+589
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Updated April 2026
01
Sun Rey Cafe image 1
Sun Rey Cafe image 2
Sun Rey Cafe image 3
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Breakfast restaurant

Small, cozy cafe with warm, bright decor and a family-run, welcoming atmosphere. Space feels crowded but inviting, with great music and some outdoor seating. Offers a hidden gem vibe away from busy streets, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Food comes with great flavor and is prepared with care and love. The menu offers consistently tasty dishes in a cozy, family-run setting.

Juicy and crunchy textures define the fried chicken here, with crispy breading and tender meat inside. The fried chicken and waffles pair features a hearty waffle alongside some of the juiciest fried chicken around.

People are saying

"The breakfast here is incredible, especially the garlic fried rice."

"The food here is incredible and clearly made to order."

"The fried chicken here is outrageously good, juicy and crispy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for the monthly Kamayan Filipino dinners.

2

Sun Rey Cafe is BYOB on Sundays, making it family-friendly.

3

Expect a wait of about 30 minutes before placing your order.

02
Izakaya Shinya image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Izakaya-style restaurant offers authentic Japanese decor with traditional seating and moody lighting. The atmosphere stays cozy and lively, featuring karaoke that energizes the space late into the night. Guests enjoy grilling at the table and a varied sake and cocktail selection.

Quality Japanese food shines with every dish served. The menu offers great flavors paired with incredible service that enhances the dining experience.

Juicy fried chicken cutlet and karaage stand out with solid flavor and texture. The fried chicken pairs well with sides like eggplant and leeks.

People are saying

"The food here felt like being back in Japan."

"The food and drinks were great during Karaoke."

"The fried chicken here is juicy and delicious."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Friday and Saturday night, starting at 9pm.

2

Happy hour offers $7 drinks, but only for the first drink.

3

The restaurant is open until 2 AM, perfect for late-night dining.

03
Lucy's Fried Chicken & Smashburgers image 1

Rustic, low-lit space with 60s-themed decor and boozy shakes creates a cozy, casual vibe. Outdoor patio and communal picnic tables invite relaxed dining. Known for spicy fried chicken sandwiches and smashburgers with a neighborhood feel.

Food arrives warm and ready to eat, even with late delivery or cold weather. Staff shows patience and care with picky orders, and the overall quality stays consistently on point.

Fried chicken here is crispy and tender with a special sauce and honey butter that stands out. The Bacon Jam Fried Chicken Sandwich is a highlight, offering a big, flavorful cut that melts in your mouth.

People are saying

"The chicken sandwich here is outstanding and amazing."

"The food here is amazing and really good."

"I experienced some of the best fried chicken I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Delivery took nearly 2 hours, so plan accordingly.

2

The wait for to-go meals is typically 30-45 minutes.

3

Dipping sauces cost extra, so factor that into your order.

04
Taqueria El Jardin image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with an attached market store offers authentic tacos and affordable prices in a low-key neighborhood setting. The atmosphere is casual with visible food preparation and a clean kitchen, attracting those seeking fresh, flavorful Mexican food on weekends.

Mexican food here is authentic and fresh, with flavors that capture classic neighborhood style. The kitchen stays clean and food preparation is visible, ensuring high quality and affordability.

Tacos and burritos feature fried chicken alongside chorizo and asada. The fried chicken appears as a whole piece, which looks unappetizing.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is so authentic and flavorful."

"The food here is amazing and authentic."

"I loved the fried chicken tacos and burritos."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait at the register during peak hours.

2

Prices are affordable, making it a budget-friendly option.

3

The menu features a variety of Mexican selections and products.

05
Soule To Soule image 1
Soul food restaurant

Small space with green velvet decor and 1990s Harlem vibe feels more like a bar or lounge than a traditional restaurant. Cozy, intimate atmosphere pairs with top-tier R&B music and lively energy. Tables are low and tiny, emphasizing a focus on cocktails and socializing over formal dining.

Soul food here stands out with outstanding flavor and quality that rivals well-known spots. Service is attentive, complementing the great food and lively atmosphere.

Well seasoned and juicy describes the fried chicken here. It comes with a honey glaze and cooks perfectly, often paired with collard greens and grits.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and amazing."

"You have to try the banana pudding; it's very good."

"I thought the fried chicken was possibly the best I had."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation is recommended due to limited seating.

2

It's BYOB with a $10 fee for bringing your own bottle.

3

Expect small portion sizes relative to the price.

06
Lilac Tiger image 1
Cocktail bar

Small, dark cocktail bar offers creative drinks and an intimate, cozy atmosphere. Inside space feels cramped and loud, with music volume requiring raised voices. Patio seating provides a quieter, less crowded option.

Food features incredible flavors and consistent quality. Staff contribute to a welcoming atmosphere alongside delicious dishes.

Signature Tandoori Fried Chicken stands out with its bold flavor. The fried chicken overall offers a satisfying, well-seasoned bite.

People are saying

"The food here was cooked with heart and had profoundly good flavor."

"The cocktails here are unique and delicious."

"I found the fried chicken to be great and worth it."

Good to know

1

The restaurant might not accept reservations, so plan accordingly.

2

Many menu items may be unavailable during peak hours.

3

Happy hour deals are available, but specific times are not mentioned.

07
Harold's Chicken Shack #36 (Wicker Park) image 1

Small take-out spot with limited dine-in space and standing room only inside. Food waits can be long, but fried chicken is crispy and juicy with a famous mild sauce that stands out. Atmosphere feels basic and busy, best suited for ordering ahead and eating elsewhere.

Food comes out fresh and hot, made to order in under 30 minutes. Wings stand out with their delicious sauce and crispy breading, and ordering ahead for pickup keeps everything warm and ready.

Crispy, meaty, and well-seasoned fried chicken comes fresh and hot every time. Prices stay right, and the made-to-order wings and fish keep the menu solid.

People are saying

"The American food here, especially the fried chicken, is absurdly good."

"I found the fried chicken to be crispy, meaty, and well-seasoned."

"The food was hot and freshly cooked when ordered."

Good to know

1

There is no dining in available; it's strictly a take-out place.

2

Ordering ahead is recommended as it takes about 30 minutes for orders to be ready.

3

Expect at least a 20-minute wait for your food during busy times.

08
Roost Chicken & Biscuits image 1
Chicken restaurant

Small, updated chicken restaurant with bench seating and outdoor options offers a chill vibe with upbeat music at a comfortable noise level. The atmosphere feels homey and welcoming, suited mainly for takeout rather than sit-down dining.

Food comes out fresh and piping hot with a mouthwatering taste. Service complements the comfort food vibe well.

Fried chicken comes in Carolina Style with a sweet and savory flavor and excellent breading. Pieces are a decent size and can be prepared in many ways, often served with a buttery biscuit.

People are saying

"I thought the chicken sandwich here was the best in the city."

"I found the food here to be great."

"I thought the fried chicken was delicious and cooked perfectly."

Good to know

1

This place is only for take away orders.

2

There is no parking available at the new location.

3

Seating is limited, so plan accordingly.

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West Town, Chicago

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