Discover the Best Fried Chicken in Boston

Boston opened the country's first restaurant in 1793. Since, the historic New England city has carried on its noteworthy culinary traditions, cooking up world-renowned cannoli, clam chowder (or chowdah as the locals call it) and succulent lobster rolls. Boston even earned the nickname "Beantown" for its local baked beans slow-cooked in molasses. Boston kitchens sure know how to cook a mean fried chicken, too. But what about where to find the best fried chicken in Boston? Welcome to the Tastemaker 20. We've gathered testimonials from OpenTable’s seasoned foodies to pinpoint the best eateries around the globe. Book one of these tables today before they fill up!

The OpenTable Team

10 Restaurants

Updated January 15, 2020

Restaurants:	Hojoko, Alden and Harlow, The Banks Fish House…
Price Range:	$$ - $$$
Cuisines:	Japanese, American, Seafood…
Neighborhoods:	Kenmore Square / Fenway, Harvard Square, Back Bay…

Hojoko

$$$$

Japanese

Kenmore Square / Fenway

4.5

750 reviews

The focal point of Hojoko's open kitchen is an authentic Robata Grill brought all the way from Japan. The Asian lanterns, anime-like mural, shoji backdrop and décor from the Far East help maintain the realistic feeling that guests have been transported directly across the Pacific Ocean. Their Karaage fried chicken has a ginger-soy marinade, so while it’s not the Southern variety many may be seeking, it’s still some of the best fried chicken in Boston. Guests can also enjoy Lazy Bones handrolls, mushroom yakisoba, spicy miso ramen and a variety of other traditional dishes.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

Alden and Harlow

$$$$

American

Harvard Square

4.6

4183 reviews

Located in Harvard Square and below ground level is Alden and Harlow – an eatery focused on crafting the best in American cuisine. Guests shouldn’t be fooled by the subterranean space; this underground restaurant is one of the most pristine and popular in the area. Vintage lighting, exposed brick, rustic décor and a unique wooden accent wall create an ambiance that’s both visually appealing and hip. Patrons should note that their offering of the best fried chicken in Boston isn’t chicken – it’s rabbit. The rabbit is chicken-fried, though, so it’s certainly worth mentioning.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

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The Banks Fish House

$$$$

Seafood

Back Bay

4.5

710 reviews

The marquee-like sign outside of Post 390 is hard to miss, and regulars know it means they’ll be choosing between two dining experiences in a moment. Entering the first floor thrusts patrons into the tavern. It's simultaneously sophisticated and casual, and the iron staircase and four-sided fireplace give off a rustic vibe. Those who venture to the second-floor dining room will enjoy a more refined experience – complete with wine displays, fireside dining and gorgeous views of the city's landmarks. Their offering of the best fried chicken in Boston comes on the Sweet & Spicy Korean fried chicken tavern plate. The gochujang hot sauce and pickled daikon make this a truly unique dish.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

Article 24

$$$$

American

Brighton

4.3

582 reviews

Brighton is just a short drive from Boston, and it's here that Article 24 is nestled within a vibrant cultural area packed with inspiring art. The large sign announcing the eatery – and the arrow making sure guests know which way to turn – is easy to spot within the neighborhood. It's also likely that guests will hear the happenings before seeing the restaurant. Exciting events like lip sync battles, Trivia Tuesday and open mic night are constantly going on. Their crispy chicken sandwich isn't the traditional poultry with two sides and a biscuit, but it's panko fried and features roasted red peppers, bacon and ranch. This makes it undeniably some of the best fried chicken in Boston.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

MIDA - South End

$$$$

Italian

South End

4.7

2121 reviews

Located in the neighborhood of South End is an eatery that strives to bring the taste of numerous Italian regions right into Boston. MIDA opened in 2016 to plenty of fanfare. In fact, Boston Magazine ran a feature article announcing the grand opening. Since that time, they’ve provided delectable offerings like roasted chicken, seared diver scallops and Cioppino. When they began serving brunch, though, this brought a great addition to the best fried chicken in Boston. Sporting green tomato jam and spicy mayo on a potato bun, the fried chicken sandwich has become very popular. All of this is enjoyed in a fine dining atmosphere complete with high-end lighting, plush booths and contemporary décor.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

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Boston Chops - South End

$$$$

Steakhouse

South End

4.6

2958 reviews

For a restaurant that was named Best Steakhouse in 2015, Boston Chops in South End certainly has an impressive variety of the best fried chicken in Boston. Their brunch fried chicken comes with biscuits and sawmill gravy, and the Giannone fried chicken has sides of braised greens and mashed potatoes. Looking for an appetizer? Try the chicken fried sweetbreads. Of course, guests should eventually try a steak as well since that’s what the eatery is known for. The dark modern chandelier overhead, neon lighting on the patio and overall industrial aesthetic makes for a fun environment to enjoy a meal.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

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The Hourly Oyster House

$$$$

Seafood

Cambridge

4.7

1064 reviews

There are plenty of things that make The Hourly Oyster House stand out among its competitors. It certainly excels for having some of the best fried chicken in Boston – even though its main focus is seafood – but it’s also fun that they send guests home with taffy from Cabot’s Candy. The meal starts out with salt and vinegar chips rather than bread, and poultry lovers will likely go for the crispy chicken thighs at dinner or chicken sandwich for lunch. The facade of the entryway is magnificent, and the vintage décor, industrial lighting and rustic vibe on the inside are just as impressive.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

Buttermilk & Bourbon

$$$$

Southern

Back Bay

4.6

2726 reviews

For those who think of Southern charm when they envision the best fried chicken in Boston, Buttermilk and Bourbon is the place to be. Chef Jason Santos brings his nationally recognized skills to the city with a focus on Southern influenced American cuisine. The décor is heavily influenced by the New Orleans bayou, and this means weathered brick, vintage architectural elements, Antebellum features and voodoo artwork are the norm. House-fried chicken comes with a choice of several sauces, and anyone who hasn’t tried white BBQ sauce is certainly missing out.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

Five Horses Tavern - South End

$$$$

Contemporary American

South End

4.4

817 reviews

Chandeliers made from draft beer handles, whimsical chalk art behind the bar and wall art packed with beer bottle tops are just a few of the unique decorative features in Five Horses Tavern. The storefront looks far more basic, but it's seen thousands of times daily thanks to the Davis Square location. The weekend brunch, 120 bottled beers, 37 drafts and impressive selection of wine and cocktails do wonders at attracting patrons. Those looking for the best fried chicken in Boston, though, simply keep coming back for the chicken tenders, fried chicken salad, Fried Chicken Sammy and the Foghorn Leghorn.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

Cambridge Brewing Company

$$$$

Contemporary American

Kendall Square

4.2

591 reviews

It's not a stretch to say that, before Cambridge Brewing Company, Boston wasn't even a blip on the brewing radar. Since its opening in 1989, this popular spot has been offering some of the best beer and food in the city. This typically includes award winning brews, porters, ambers and some of Boston’s homegrown popular beers. The outdoor dining area is relaxing and filled with foliage, but guests who dine inside are treated to historical murals, stained glass art, modern lighting and more. The fried chicken sandwich and pickle brined fried hot chicken are both miracles of modern cuisine, but the beer towers honestly might be the most impressive part of the experience. Buy one.

At the moment, there's no online availability within 2.5 hours of your request. Do you have another time in mind?

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