Popular California Eatery Serves The 'Best Fried Chicken' In The State
By Logan DeLoye
June 26, 2025
In a place where comfort food is a priority, one fried chicken joint rises above the rest with crispy, golden, and downright unforgettable chicken.
Located in both Los Angeles and Pasadena, this local favorite has earned a loyal following with a recipe that’s as much about heart as it is about seasoning. From the first crackle of the perfectly fried crust to the juicy, flavorful meat beneath, every bite feels like a celebration of tradition done right. The smell alone is enough to draw you in, but it’s the taste that keeps locals, travelers, and even food critics coming back for more.
Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch or settling in for a full plate with all the fixings, this place delivers the kind of meal that stays with you. In a state full of flavor, this fried chicken spot truly rules the roost!
According to a list compiled by LoveFood, the best fried chicken in California is served at Howlin' Rays.
Roscoe’s House of Chicken 'N Waffles also made the list!
Here's what LoveFood had to say about the best fried chicken joint in California:
"Husband-and-wife team Johnny Ray Zone and Amanda Chapman fell in love with Nashville hot chicken on a trip to Tennessee in 2014 – and the dish has changed the course of their lives. Howlin' Rays started as a popular food truck before setting up permanent locations first in Los Angeles and then Pasadena. These days, diners happily brave long lines for a bite of their famous Sando or jumbo chicken tenders, all served with your choice of heat level."
Check out LoveFood for a continued list of the best places to order fried chicken across America.