Top 10 Must-Try Restaurants for the Best Fried Chicken in Cleveland

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Discover the best fried chicken in Cleveland! Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside. Find your new favorite spot for finger-licking goodness.


If you're looking for the best fried chicken in Cleveland, look no further! This city has a variety of restaurants that serve up crispy, juicy, and flavorful fried chicken that will leave you wanting more. Whether you prefer your chicken served with traditional Southern sides or with a modern twist, Cleveland has something for everyone. In this article, we'll explore the top spots to get your fried chicken fix in Cleveland.

First on our list is Hot Sauce Williams. This iconic restaurant has been serving up mouth-watering fried chicken for over 60 years. Their chicken is known for its crispy exterior and juicy interior, and it's seasoned to perfection. Pair it with some mac and cheese or collard greens for an authentic Southern experience.

If you're looking for something a little more upscale, head over to The Plum. This trendy restaurant puts a modern spin on classic Southern dishes, including their famous fried chicken. The chicken is brined in buttermilk and spices, then fried to perfection. It's served with a side of honey butter and hot sauce for a sweet and spicy kick.

For a true taste of the South, check out Angie's Soul Cafe. This family-owned restaurant serves up soul food classics, including their signature fried chicken. The chicken is seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, then fried to crispy perfection. It's served with your choice of sides, including mac and cheese, collard greens, and candied yams.

If you're in the mood for Korean-style fried chicken, head over to Bonchon. This popular chain has locations all over the world, but their Cleveland outpost is not to be missed. Their chicken is double-fried for extra crispiness and coated in a variety of sauces, including soy garlic and spicy. Pair it with some kimchi or fried rice for a truly delicious meal.

Another great spot for Korean-style fried chicken is Wonton Gourmet & BBQ. This restaurant is known for its crispy, flavorful chicken wings that are coated in a variety of sauces. They also serve up other Chinese dishes, including dumplings and noodles, so you can make it a full meal.

If you're looking for a more laid-back atmosphere, head over to Southern Cafe. This cozy restaurant serves up classic Southern dishes, including their famous fried chicken. The chicken is fried to crispy perfection and served with your choice of sides, including mac and cheese, collard greens, and cornbread. It's the perfect spot for a casual meal with friends or family.

For a taste of Nashville-style hot chicken, check out Saucy Brew Works. This brewery and restaurant serves up spicy fried chicken that will leave you sweating (in a good way). The chicken is coated in a blend of spices and served with pickles and white bread to help cool down your mouth. Pair it with one of Saucy Brew Works' delicious beers for the ultimate meal.

If you're in the mood for some fast food-style fried chicken, head over to Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen. This chain restaurant is known for its crispy, juicy chicken that comes in a variety of flavors. Whether you prefer classic or spicy, bone-in or tenders, Popeyes has something for everyone.

Another great spot for fast food-style fried chicken is Raising Cane's. This chain restaurant specializes in chicken fingers that are made fresh to order. They only have a few items on their menu, but what they lack in variety they make up for in quality. Their chicken is always juicy and tender, and their secret sauce is the perfect accompaniment.

Last but not least, check out Chef Eric Williams' Momocho for some Mexican-inspired fried chicken. This popular restaurant serves up a dish called Pollo Frito, which is fried chicken that's coated in a blend of spices and served with a side of jalapeno cornbread. It's the perfect fusion of Southern and Mexican flavors.

Whether you're in the mood for classic Southern-style fried chicken or something with a modern twist, Cleveland has something for everyone. These top spots are just a few of the many restaurants in this city that serve up crispy, juicy, and delicious fried chicken. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start eating!


Introduction

Cleveland, also known as the Forest City, is a city located in Ohio that is famous for its culinary delights. One of the most popular dishes in Cleveland is fried chicken. Fried chicken is a dish that has been enjoyed by people all over the world for many years. It is a dish that is made by coating chicken in a seasoned flour mixture and then frying it until it is crispy and golden brown. In this article, we will be discussing the best fried chicken restaurants in Cleveland.

Mabel's BBQ

Mabel's BBQ is a restaurant located in downtown Cleveland that serves some of the best fried chicken in the city. The restaurant is known for its mouth-watering barbecue dishes, but their fried chicken is equally as delicious. The chicken is coated in a spicy breading mixture and then fried until it is crispy and golden brown. The chicken is served with a side of house-made hot sauce that adds an extra kick to the dish.

Butcher and the Brewer

Butcher and the Brewer is a restaurant located in the historic Gateway District of Cleveland that serves up some of the best fried chicken in the city. The chicken is brined in buttermilk and spices before being coated in a seasoned flour mixture and then fried until it is crispy and golden brown. The dish is served with a side of mashed potatoes and gravy, which makes for the perfect comfort food meal.

Bar Cento

Bar Cento is a restaurant located in Ohio City that serves up some of the best Italian-inspired dishes in Cleveland. The restaurant is known for its wood-fired pizzas and pasta dishes, but their fried chicken is not to be missed. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of herbs and spices before being coated in a seasoned flour mixture and then fried until it is crispy and golden brown. The dish is served with a side of spicy honey that adds the perfect amount of sweetness and heat to the dish.

Hot Sauce Williams

Hot Sauce Williams is a restaurant located in the heart of Cleveland that has been serving up some of the best fried chicken in the city for over 50 years. The chicken is coated in a secret blend of spices and then fried until it is crispy and golden brown. The dish is served with a side of hot sauce that is made fresh daily and adds an extra kick to the dish.

Market Garden Brewery

Market Garden Brewery is a brewery and restaurant located in Ohio City that serves up some of the best craft beer and comfort food in Cleveland. Their fried chicken is no exception. The chicken is coated in a seasoned flour mixture and then fried until it is crispy and golden brown. The dish is served with a side of mashed potatoes and gravy, which makes for the perfect comfort food meal.

Ohio City Galley

Ohio City Galley is a food hall located in Ohio City that features four different restaurants under one roof. One of the restaurants, Poca, serves up some of the best fried chicken in the city. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of herbs and spices before being coated in a seasoned flour mixture and then fried until it is crispy and golden brown. The dish is served with a side of pickles and hot honey that adds the perfect amount of sweetness and heat to the dish.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Cleveland is a city that is famous for its culinary delights, and fried chicken is no exception. There are many restaurants in the city that serve up some of the best fried chicken dishes that you will ever taste. Whether you are in the mood for spicy or sweet, there is a fried chicken dish in Cleveland that will satisfy your cravings. So the next time you are in Cleveland, be sure to check out one of these restaurants and try their delicious fried chicken.
Introduction to Cleveland's Fried Chicken SceneWhen it comes to comfort food, few dishes are as beloved as fried chicken. And in Cleveland, the fried chicken scene is nothing short of legendary. From traditional Southern-style fried chicken to innovative twists on the classic dish, there's no shortage of delicious options to choose from. In this article, we'll take a look at the origins of Cleveland's fried chicken craze, what makes the city's fried chicken unique, and the top restaurants for fried chicken in Cleveland.The Origins of Cleveland's Fried Chicken CrazeLike many culinary trends, the origins of Cleveland's fried chicken craze can be traced back to the African American community. In the early 20th century, many African Americans migrated to Cleveland from the South in search of better job opportunities. Along with them, they brought their culinary traditions, including the art of frying chicken.As the African American population grew in Cleveland, so too did the popularity of fried chicken. By the mid-20th century, fried chicken had become a staple of soul food restaurants in the city. Today, you can find fried chicken on the menu at countless restaurants throughout Cleveland, from hole-in-the-wall diners to upscale eateries.What Makes Fried Chicken in Cleveland Unique?While fried chicken may be a ubiquitous dish across the United States, the version you'll find in Cleveland has a few unique characteristics. For one, Cleveland's fried chicken tends to be crispier than other varieties, thanks to a technique known as double frying. This involves frying the chicken twice - once at a lower temperature to cook the meat through, and again at a higher temperature to crisp up the skin.Another factor that sets Cleveland's fried chicken apart is the seasoning. Many local restaurants use a blend of spices that includes paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and other flavorful ingredients. This gives the chicken a distinctive tangy, spicy flavor that's sure to please the taste buds.Top Restaurants for Fried Chicken in ClevelandWith so many great options to choose from, it can be difficult to narrow down the best restaurants for fried chicken in Cleveland. However, there are a few standout spots that are definitely worth a visit.One of the most popular destinations for fried chicken in Cleveland is Hot Sauce Williams. This iconic soul food joint has been serving up delicious chicken since the 1960s, and has become a go-to spot for locals and tourists alike. The chicken here is double-fried to perfection, with a crispy, golden-brown exterior and juicy, flavorful meat.For a more upscale take on fried chicken, head to Crust in Tremont. This Italian-inspired eatery may seem like an unlikely place to find great fried chicken, but their version is out of this world. The chicken is marinated in buttermilk and spices before being double-fried, resulting in a tender, moist interior and perfectly crispy skin.If you're in the mood for some classic Southern-style fried chicken, look no further than Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken. This Memphis-based chain has locations all over the country, including one in downtown Cleveland. Their chicken is coated in a spicy batter and fried to perfection, resulting in a flavor that's both sweet and savory.The Best Traditional Southern-Style Fried Chicken in ClevelandIf you're looking for a taste of the South in Cleveland, there are several restaurants that specialize in traditional Southern-style fried chicken. One of the best is Zanzibar Soul Fusion, located in the city's Shaker Square neighborhood. Here, you'll find chicken that's been brined in a mixture of buttermilk, hot sauce, and spices before being coated in a seasoned flour mixture and fried to perfection.Another great option for Southern-style fried chicken is Angie's Soul Cafe, located in the city's Hough neighborhood. This cozy spot serves up some of the best comfort food in Cleveland, including fried chicken that's been marinated in a blend of spices and buttermilk before being coated in a seasoned flour mixture and cooked to crispy perfection.Cleveland's Best Spicy Fried Chicken OptionsFor those who like their fried chicken with a little kick, there are plenty of spicy options to choose from in Cleveland. One of the best can be found at Sauce the City, a food truck that serves up Nashville-style hot chicken. This chicken is coated in a fiery blend of cayenne pepper, chili powder, and other spices, resulting in a flavor that's not for the faint of heart.Another great spot for spicy fried chicken is Southern Cafe, located in the city's Lee-Harvard neighborhood. Here, you'll find chicken that's been marinated in a spicy blend of hot sauce and seasonings before being coated in a seasoned flour mixture and fried to crispy perfection.The Best Gluten-Free Fried Chicken in ClevelandFor those who follow a gluten-free diet, finding great fried chicken can be a challenge. However, there are a few restaurants in Cleveland that offer gluten-free options. One of the best is TownHall, a popular eatery located in the city's Ohio City neighborhood. Their gluten-free fried chicken is made with a blend of rice flour and cornmeal, resulting in a crispy, flavorful coating that's sure to satisfy.Another great option for gluten-free fried chicken is The Plum Cafe and Kitchen in Lakewood. This charming cafe offers a variety of gluten-free options, including fried chicken that's been coated in a mixture of cornmeal and gluten-free flour before being cooked to crispy perfection.The Best Vegetarian and Vegan Fried Chicken in ClevelandEven if you don't eat meat, you can still enjoy the deliciousness of fried chicken in Cleveland. Several local restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan versions of this classic dish that are sure to please even the most discerning palate.One of the best vegan fried chicken options can be found at Cleveland Vegan, a plant-based cafe located in Lakewood. Their version is made with seitan (a wheat-based meat substitute) that's been seasoned with a blend of spices and coated in a gluten-free batter before being fried to crispy perfection.If you're looking for vegetarian fried chicken, head to TownHall in Ohio City. Their version is made with cauliflower that's been marinated in a blend of spices and coated in a gluten-free batter before being fried to crispy perfection.The Best Fried Chicken Sandwiches in ClevelandSometimes, you just want your fried chicken in sandwich form. Luckily, there are plenty of great options for fried chicken sandwiches in Cleveland. One of the best can be found at Ohio City Provisions, a butcher shop and restaurant located in the city's Ohio City neighborhood. Their fried chicken sandwich features a juicy, boneless chicken thigh that's been coated in a spicy blend of seasonings before being fried to crispy perfection.Another great spot for fried chicken sandwiches is Banter in Detroit Shoreway. Their version features a buttermilk-brined chicken breast that's been coated in a blend of spices and fried to crispy perfection. It's then served on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and a tangy house-made sauce.The Future of Fried Chicken in ClevelandAs the city's dining scene continues to evolve, it's clear that fried chicken will remain a beloved staple of comfort food in Cleveland. Whether you prefer traditional Southern-style chicken, spicy Nashville-style hot chicken, or innovative twists on the classic dish, there's no shortage of delicious options to choose from. As Cleveland's culinary scene continues to grow and change, we can't wait to see what new and exciting fried chicken creations will emerge.

The Best Fried Chicken in Cleveland: A Perspective

Introduction

Fried chicken is a beloved dish across America, and Cleveland is no exception. There are plenty of restaurants in the city that serve up their version of this classic meal. However, as with any food, some places do it better than others. In this article, we will explore the best fried chicken in Cleveland from a personal perspective, as well as provide a pros and cons list for each restaurant.

Pros and Cons of the Best Fried Chicken Restaurants in Cleveland

1. Hot Sauce Williams

Hot Sauce Williams is a popular spot in Cleveland that is known for its barbecue and fried chicken. Here are the pros and cons:

  • Pros:
    • The chicken is juicy and flavorful.
    • The breading is crispy and delicious.
    • The portions are generous.
  • Cons:
    • The restaurant can get crowded and busy.
    • Some people find the chicken too greasy.

2. Southern Cafe

Southern Cafe is a family-owned restaurant that serves Southern-style comfort food. Here are the pros and cons:

  • Pros:
    • The chicken is cooked to perfection.
    • The seasoning is just right.
    • The sides are tasty, especially the mac and cheese.
  • Cons:
    • The restaurant can be small and cramped.
    • Some people find the chicken to be a little dry.

3. Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen

Popeyes is a fast-food chain that is known for its spicy chicken. Here are the pros and cons:

  • Pros:
    • The chicken is always hot and fresh.
    • The seasoning is flavorful, especially the spicy option.
    • The sides are varied and delicious.
  • Cons:
    • It's a fast-food chain, so the atmosphere isn't as cozy as other places.
    • Some people find the chicken to be too greasy.

Comparison Table

Restaurant Pros Cons
Hot Sauce Williams -Juicy and flavorful chicken
-Crispy breading
-Generous portions		 -Can get crowded
-Chicken may be too greasy for some
Southern Cafe -Perfectly cooked chicken
-Great seasoning
-Tasty sides		 -Small restaurant
-Chicken may be a little dry for some
Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen -Always fresh and hot chicken
-Flavorful seasoning
-Varied and tasty sides		 -Fast-food atmosphere
-Chicken may be too greasy for some

Conclusion

In conclusion, the best fried chicken in Cleveland is a matter of personal preference. Each restaurant has its pros and cons, and it ultimately depends on what you're looking for in your meal. Whether you're in the mood for Southern comfort food or fast-food chain chicken, Cleveland has plenty of options to choose from.

The Best Fried Chicken in Cleveland: A Finger-Licking Good Experience

Thank you for reading our comprehensive guide to the best fried chicken in Cleveland. We hope that you found this article informative and helpful in your quest to find the perfect piece of fried chicken. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Cleveland has a lot to offer in terms of fantastic fried chicken options.

We've covered ten different restaurants that serve up some of the best fried chicken in the city, each with their own unique twist and flavor profile. From classic southern-style fried chicken to Korean-style fried chicken, there's something for everyone on this list.

If you're looking for a classic southern-style fried chicken experience, we highly recommend checking out Southern Cafe. Their fried chicken is crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor. The sides are equally delicious, and the atmosphere is cozy and welcoming.

If you're in the mood for something a little different, head over to Saucy Brew Works. They serve up Korean-style fried chicken that is crispy, sticky, and packed with flavor. The craft beer selection is also top-notch, making this the perfect spot for a night out with friends.

For those who want a little bit of everything, check out The Plum. Their fried chicken is a combination of southern-style and Korean-style, resulting in a unique and unforgettable flavor. Be sure to try their hot honey sauce, it's a game-changer!

If you're on a budget, fear not! There are plenty of affordable options on this list, such as Happy's Pizza and Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen. Both serve up delicious fried chicken that won't break the bank.

Of course, we couldn't forget about the vegetarian and vegan options. For those who don't eat meat, we highly recommend trying the vegan fried chicken at Cleveland Vegan. It's surprisingly realistic and just as delicious as the real thing.

Overall, Cleveland has no shortage of fantastic fried chicken options. Whether you're in the mood for classic southern-style or something a little different, there's a restaurant on this list that will satisfy your cravings.

We hope that this guide has been helpful in your search for the best fried chicken in Cleveland. Be sure to try out a few of the restaurants on this list and let us know which one is your favorite!

Thank you for reading and happy eating!


People Also Ask About Best Fried Chicken Cleveland

What are the best places to get fried chicken in Cleveland?

If you're in Cleveland and looking for the best fried chicken, here are some places to check out:

  1. Hot Sauce Williams - This spot is known for its deliciously seasoned fried chicken.
  2. Bubba's-Q World Famous Chicken & Ribs - Bubba's-Q has been featured on Food Network and serves up crispy, juicy fried chicken.
  3. Barabicu Smokehouse - While they're known for their barbecue, Barabicu also serves up some seriously tasty fried chicken.
  4. Caribbean Flavor - This Caribbean restaurant serves up some of the best jerk chicken in Cleveland, but don't overlook their fried chicken either!

What makes a good fried chicken?

There are a few key things that make for a good fried chicken:

  • Crispiness - The skin should be crispy and crunchy, while the meat inside stays juicy.
  • Seasoning - A good fried chicken will have a flavorful seasoning blend that enhances the taste of the chicken.
  • Cooking technique - The chicken should be cooked at the right temperature and for the right amount of time to ensure it's cooked through and not greasy.

What sides go well with fried chicken?

There are plenty of sides that pair well with fried chicken:

  • Mashed potatoes and gravy - The creaminess of mashed potatoes complements the crispy texture of fried chicken.
  • Corn on the cob - Sweet corn on the cob provides a nice contrast to the savory flavor of fried chicken.
  • Mac and cheese - Who doesn't love mac and cheese? It's a classic side dish that goes well with just about anything, including fried chicken.
  • Biscuits - Fluffy biscuits are the perfect vessel for soaking up all that delicious gravy that comes with fried chicken.

Can you make healthy fried chicken?

Fried chicken isn't exactly known for being healthy, but there are ways to lighten it up:

  • Use skinless chicken breasts - Removing the skin cuts down on fat and calories.
  • Bake instead of fry - While it won't be quite as crispy, baking chicken instead of frying it can significantly reduce the amount of oil used.
  • Use whole wheat flour - Whole wheat flour is a healthier alternative to white flour and can still create a crispy coating.
  • Try an air fryer - Air fryers use hot air to cook food, which can result in a crispy exterior without all the added oil.