Harold's Chicken Shack West Loop

Cool casual spot with excellent barbecue. Pro tip: there's a quiet seating area off of the main…read moredining room. Not that it's particularly loud, but if you need a slightly chill area to sit just ask the host. Anyways I got the sliced brisket. I didn't need to use my knife...could cut through with a fork. It was tender and delicious. Next time I really want to try to Cesar melt. I'm hungry typing this

The food and service were not good. One bite into our dinner and we were stunned that people go…read morehere. It's that bad. Service was also not good. As others have touched on in their reviews, servers are inattentive and forget to bring ordered drinks. There are so many better restaurants in this beautiful neighborhood. I can't believe people give this place business. It is truly that bad.

Mac Daddy Mac 'n Cheese

Poncho Wings

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Classic Cheeseburger

Crisp

4.3(3.7k reviews)

3.9 mi•Lakeview

My friends and I love coming to Crisp whenever we're in the mood for Korean style wings…read more What's great about crisp is that they offer the whole wings, which to me in the best deal if you have a large group. They offer take out as well, making a large order so easy to do. We ordered the 10 whole wings with the two most popular sauces. We also got the Seoul steak bowl and fried mushrooms. Portion sizes are huge and everything was tasty! Service was also super quick. Stop going to the Korean chicken chains and visit this awesome small business!

Fire. The Seoul sassy drumsticks were large and tasted better than other soy garlic wings I've had…read more They gave extra drums for the 5-piece order and it sounds like a thing they do judging from other reviews. I solo dined and had a casual food experience which was exactly what I wanted after playing tennis.

0.8 mi•Ukrainian Village, West Town

Seating

Onion O-Rings

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Marty's Magic Mushrooms

Output Lounge & Sports Bar

3.4(533 reviews)

Two well-poured Guinness, paired with a stack of hearty onion rings that beats any competition,…read moremade for a perfect pre-game to a Hawks victory at the UC. Was it in the rings? Output made it so.

Great wings!!! If you're looking for a no- frills sports bar with good wings - this spot is it!…read moreSuper casual inside with lots of TVs. For my group of 4, we shared the Crow Platter which includes 50 wings with 5 sauces and 1/2 garlic parm wedges and 1/2 output onion rings. This was plenty of food and we left with lots of leftovers. The sauces we got were the Jim bean bbq, lemon pepper, garlic parm, sweet n spicy, and hot chipotle ranch. All the sauces were soo good! Definitely very sauuucyyy. Bone-in is def the way to go here. The wings are a decent size too! The wedges and onion rings were pretty average. Kinda wish the platter automatically came with ranch/bleu cheese (its extra cost).

2.5 mi•Old Town, Near North Side

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Woodie's Flat

3.9(431 reviews)

In town from Colorado and we were looking for a place along our walk from the subway to the Second…read moreCity Theater. I always like to try a new wing place and I was sold after reading Teddy B's review. This restaurant is set in a really nice, cozy feeling neighborhood. We chose an outdoor table which was perfectly shaded and comfortable. I'm hot or cold when it comes to smoked wings, as I prefer fried, but these were smoked perfectly for my picky tastes. The buffalo sauce was thick, flavorful and a spot on medium. My fries were extra crispy and didn't need salt. The bf had the nacho platter which he devoured. It was a beautiful afternoon after the previous day of clouds and rain, so the streets and restaurant were hopping. I feel we experienced good service for how busy the place was and we didn't have to wait very long for our food. There was never an empty table the entire time we were there and everyone from the bartenders, waitstaff and runners seemed to keep up and communicated well with diners. Thanks for an enjoyable part of our night.

Used to be my favorite spot for wings in the city. Past 3 times I have ordered delivery they forget…read morethe wing sauce and the ranch! And this has happened multiple times. Such a bummer! ** the sauce in the picture is sour cream and salsa- we ordered nachos, they did get everything right for the nachos.

Interior upstairs

Smoked then grilled sweet bourbon wings

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Jalapeño margarita

House of Wings

3.6(190 reviews)

3.4 mi•Lincoln Park

Love coming here I live 40 min away and still don't mind the drive amazing little wingsread more

Boss man knows what he's doing. Just ordered a jumbo teriyaki and it was pretty good, and he hit me…read morewith a free drink that I never asked for. Small little area to eat and I feel very comfortable in there. I didn't order fries but they looked amazing.

Small Single Order Buffalo Chicken Wings

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Menu from 6-1-25

Wilma's Famous BBQ & Tavern

3.3(271 reviews)

2.0 mi•The Loop

Ever since discovering I have a chicken allergy, your girl has been on a turkey tour, and Wilma's…read moreFamous BBQ & Tavern definitely made the list! While visiting my little brother in Chicago, I had to find somewhere good to eat because the foodie in me does not take days off. I stopped by Wilma's and ordered the Happy Hour Turkey Tips & Fries along with a Lemon Drop. The turkey tips were AMAZING. They were flavorful, tender, juicy, and cooked perfectly. I'm still dreaming about those turkey tips! The fries were also perfectly seasoned and paired so well with the meal. No notes. I also tried the wings, which were delicious. I still occasionally eat a small amount of chicken, and these definitely did not disappoint. I really loved the vibe of the restaurant too. The artwork throughout the space gives it so much personality and makes the experience feel fun and unique. The staff was also great, friendly, and welcoming. Between the flavorful food, great service, fun atmosphere, and those turkey tips, Wilma's definitely left an impression. If you're in Chicago and looking for some good BBQ, I'd definitely recommend stopping by. Just make sure you come hungry!

I really wanted to enjoy my visit to Wilma's BBQ in downtown Chicago, but unfortunately, it fell…read morewell short of my expectations. My party of four visited for Sunday brunch, and the restaurant was basically empty when we arrived. The escalator also wasn't working, which wasn't the best first impression. We ordered fried wings, rib tips, and drinks, but our food didn't come out together. For a table of four, it's disappointing when everyone isn't served at the same time. The biggest disappointment was the lemon drop martinis. After one sip, they were far too tart and overly citrusy for our taste. The glasses were still nearly full, so we politely asked if they could be remade or exchanged for a different cocktail. We were told that all alcohol sales are final. While I understand restaurants have policies, I was surprised there wasn't any willingness to accommodate us, especially since we had barely touched the drinks and simply wanted a different cocktail. As for the food, the fried wings lacked seasoning, and the rib tips were rubbery and didn't have much flavor. Being from Texas, I enjoy BBQ where the meat stands on its own, so I asked for the BBQ sauce on the side. Unfortunately, even with the sauce, the rib tips didn't have the quality or flavor I was expecting. The staff was polite, but the food quality, drink experience, and overall execution didn't live up to the reputation I was hoping for. I hope management takes this feedback as an opportunity to improve because the restaurant has potential.

3.2 mi•DePaul, Lincoln Park

Wilma's Famous BBQ Tavern.(keepsmilingphoto.com)

Sweet Potatoes! (keepsmilingphoto.com)

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Wilma's Turkey Tips

Bird's Nest

3.7(553 reviews)

Maddie our server was so amazing! She was attentive and had a smile on her face every time she…read morechecked on us. THE WINGS - I have never been a big traditional wings girl, however these wings changed my opinion on this. We got the House Sauce, the Hot Teriyaki, and the Hot BBQ and we couldn't decide which was our favorite. 10/10 will be back! Football - Football on every TV on a Monday, place was busy but still got a table right away!

(Kari's Rating 8/10)…read more Came in on a Friday night about 8 o'clock, and I didn't realize there was a basketball game tonight, so the bar was really packed with IU fans. I heard off this place from an Instagram video from a food blogger. There wasn't initially seating when we first got in, but the bartender/hostess helped us make a makeshift table. We also didn't have a chair so she had to go find a chair and she found one so really appreciate her hustle. The wings came out pretty quickly, the honey barbecue wings were really sweet, and came with a substantial amount of sauce. The ranch was impeccable. It was not too thin and came with celery. The birds nest hot sauce was relatively hot for a medium. I was definitely feeling the spice after two or three. I think there was a little too much sauce on the wings for me, personally, but overall very good. The volume is really loud because everyone was there for the game, so we kinda had to yell over each other to have a conversation. We got our check pretty quickly and the servers were really attentive. I would definitely come back if I was in the area, but I probably wouldn't come all the way from River North for this again.

Bird 's Nest . 2500 N Southport Ave, Chicago, IL Pub Sport Bar Wings Burgers Pizza Salads Chili etc. Pool Darts JukeBox . Cool!

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Bloody Mary

Harold's Chicken Shack

3.4(597 reviews)

2.0 mi•South Loop

I don't know if i went to the right location or if i even ordered it the right way, but what i will…read moresay is... the chicken is good! I definitely should've asked for them to fry it a bit harder than that cuz i like mine a lot crisper, but that was my fault. The wings themselves were seasoned well, juicy and hot. The fries were okay too. The lemonade was too damn sweet lol. But that's to be expected really lol. I wanted something sweet to end the meal so i got a lemon cake. It wasn't the best cake but it wasn't bad. I'd skip that to be honest. I also didn't need the 5 wings combo cuz that's a lot of wings lol. You can do the 3 wing combo and still be okay. The staff here were nice. They didn't rush you and were helpful when asked. The ambiance was cool. In the downtown neighborhood so it wasn't bad. All in all I'd want to try it again. They had other sides as well and chicken tenders. They also had sandwiches and other juices. Check them out if you're there. Pics below

So, Harold's Chicken Shack was highly recommended as a place to visit by essentially everyone I…read moreasked, however, I wasn't that impressed. Now, don't get me wrong, the chicken was fried and seasoned very well, but I think it's a particular order that regulars are familiar with that I heard mentions of after I placed my order that pertained to the sauce. The fries and the waffle wouldn't necessarily be something that I would order again. Either way, it was an experience I enjoyed having.

2.8 mi•Sheffield Neighbors, DePaul, Lincoln Park

Seating area

3 Piece Wings

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Inside

Red Light Chicken

4.8(238 reviews)

That big red neon chicken sign was our guide to find Red Light Chicken and honestly, it fits the…read moreplace perfectly. The restaurant is small, almost like a tiny barn, with a walk-through kitchen where I can see the food being made while the smell of fried chicken fills the air. It has that casual, no-frills feel where the food does all the talking. The staff were super nice and welcoming, too. I ordered the Hot Honey Fried Chicken Sandwich, and oh my god... this thing was a sweet and spicy mess in the best way possible. The chicken was tender and juicy inside, with a crispy fried coating giving it a satisfying crunch. The hot honey was what really brought everything together. It had a sweet, sticky flavor up front, followed by a gentle heat that kicked in a moment later. It wasn't overwhelmingly spicy, but it definitely had enough of a kick to keep things interesting. There was also a creamy sauce that balanced the heat and adding another layer of flavor. Every bite had something going on, the flavors played off each other so well and nothing felt out of place. It was messy, sticky, and absolutely worth it.

I mean meh. It's just a chicken sandwich how they used to be 5 years ago with QUALITY meat, that's…read moreall it is. Like the Popeye's chicken sandwich was just as good when it first came out. When they first come out with things they're how things should be, quality. Quality is has disappeared almost everywhere so the sammich is good, but everything else is just okay like fries typical soda drinks. It's really just a small stand with places to stand up and eat. So I'd really never come back in any case if there's another good restaurant to drive to, which there are plenty

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French Fries!(keepsmilingphoto.com)

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Outside

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Mario B.

8 years ago

Chicken was great!!!!!!!! fried hard like i like it. for those who don't know how to order fried Chicken from Harold's try it with hot & mild sauce salt & pepper in a couple of jalapeno peppers lol!! if you don't like the wait you should call your order 10 or 15 mins ahead in trust me its worth the wait if you want your chicken & fries fresh hot in crispy i been to a lot of Harold's Chicken Shacks threw out Chicago in the suburbs in some locations be a hit or miss with old chicken or old cooking oil!! but not this location i never had a bad experience at this West loop location!!! its one of my favorite location don't forget to try their catfish fillet fried hard but not burnt with just a little hot sauce & salt & pepper trust me it's the bomb!!!!!! read more

Nailah L.

8 years ago

ordered from here today and this was the worst customer service i've ever experienced. when i called to speak with a manager the rude ass broad at the register stated she was the manager and the way she spoke (unprofessionally) whoever promoted her needs to seriously rethink that...when my order had to be fixed she had an attitude she spent the time at the counter being annoyed by whatever...i will never spend money at this establishment again unless she is not there she is very argumentative and does not listen to customers at all bad business ethics...i do not want to rate because this is not even worth stars so since i have to i'll give it a half star read more

Cathedral S.

9 years ago

This is a great establishment. There is great hospitality. The workers are nice. The food is great. There isn't really anything bad to say about the establishment. The location is conveniently place close to my school so I eat there almost everyday. There is a sense of joy that I get every time I walk through the front door. I just love it. read more

Nycol C.

8 years ago

This Harold's location has been by far my most favorite! It took little to no time for my order to be ready, the food was hot and fresh, and it was very clean inside. I brought my friend from out of town to this location and she wants to come back whenever she is in town! I would recommend this location to anyone looking for a good meal! read more

Jade D.

9 years ago

Every time I come to this Harold's they have really good customer service, the food is always fresh and the wait is never too long. When you go into a business and spend your money you expect to get what you pay for and the always deliver. That's love. I definitely recommend them for your on the way, on your lunch break food spot. read more

Shardae P.

9 years ago

From the time you walked in, this place is so clean. You can't find too many Harold's in the city that are clean. The atmosphere and the design was very cool. Their chicken was amazing, freshly cooked, it was seasoned so perfectly and was incredibly juicy, the best chicken I have ever had. Hands down, THE BEST!! read more

DaKari T.

9 years ago

This is my favorite place to go when hungry. The food is fresh and my order is never messed up. I suggest coming here when in the area and getting mild sauce. The customer service is exceptional and they make you feel good. The workers are nice and they are one of the best places in the area, highly suggest. read more

Jazmyne J.

206

9 years ago

I come here all the time for lunch. The good is fresh and delicious. I really like that I don't have to wait all day for my food seeing as its lunch time. Most Harold's move slow but not this one. I would recommend this place to anyone passing through the west loop. It has become one of my favorite places! read more

Chris B.

9 years ago

Harolds Chicken West loop is one of my favorite eateries in the area. There is great food. The employees are very hospitable and nice. I come here almost everyday because I love the environment. It's so nice and peaceful. I would totally recommend coming here if you are in the area read more

Aeriel W.

8 years ago

I've been coming here for 6 years and it's always a great experience. West loop Harolds knows their by name and they always make me feel welcome. They always have good specials and stay open late! Great customer service and overall great experience with family vibes. read more

Heyward T.

Elite 23

195

203

5 years ago

4-stars for the food The wings are magnificent. It was perfectly cooked and tender. 4-star for the ambiance The setting for a simple and clean meal 4.5-star rating for its price Affordably priced. The portions were adequate for the price, so it was well worth it. read more

Destend L.

1 year ago

if youre you dont want to go here i stood there for five minutes before someone came up to the counter and then served the people behind me because they happened to be the same skin color as the woman working. racist against white people!!!! Didnt even look my way. read more

Z C.

9 years ago

Hands down this is the best harolds chicken in the city. They have great customer service. This harolds is the best looking harolds I've ever seen. It's very nice and clean. It's a little bit of a wait but it's definitely well worth it the food it's delicious! read more

George W.

129

9 years ago

The great service made my night that much more enjoyable for my friend and I. Superb place with a great vibe, give it a shot and you won't be disappointed. Like the great Wayne Gretzky once put it... "You miss percent of the shots you don't take". Thanks! read more

Howard B.

8 years ago

Great addition to the the neighborhood, prompt service, good food and easy nearby FREE parking around the corner near Whitney Young High school if you do mind a 2 block walk.... Wide ranging menu from daily $5 special to full on catering..... read more

Rashawn M.

8 years ago

Love the food. Parking was easy. Come to Chicago just to come here! Herolds has the best fish. I have to bring my friend each time I come or bring food back home for her. Worth the drive every time. Clean establishment as well. read more

Emma B.

9 years ago

Absolutely amazing service! The food was fresh and well prepared. They have a great variety of items you wouldn't see at Harold's. Shrimp is amazing, amongst other things. So are the gizzards, chicken, and fried green tomatoes. read more

TyVena S.

123

9 years ago

Every time i come to Chicago, i stop here. Their restaurant has the best member service and is so clean. I appreciate how the employees take their time with our food to make sure everything is properly done. I love this place. read more

Will D.

9 years ago

If you are a fan of Harold's Fried Chicken from all over the city, the West Loop location will not disappoint you! Fresh, great food is what you should seek when you looking in the direction of authentic Chicago food. read more

Brian K.

8 years ago

This place is great to grab a quick bite to eat with the guys for fast friendly service that can not be beat. I would recommend the 1/2 mixed dinner it will be a sure fire fill up. The place is always clean and tidy. read more

Harold's Chicken Shack West Loop - chickenshop - Updated October 2026

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I really wanted to like it...but it wasn't good. So Boom it…read more5:30 on a sunny perfect Chicago Saturday...im about to head home but decided to stop at Lems im like nice the line is short...I got excited....FIRST MISTAKE...line didn't move for 20 min. Positive I got to see an amazing car show and the old man in front of me was nice. Ordered a large rib tip with links...mixed sauce. Tried the rib tips it was SALTY! My husband was like oh it's pork..pork is salty...so he tried it... We could eat two or three at a time and then thr salt became over bearing So disappointed! The links was ok...not impressive..just ok!

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Tenders are great!!!!!! But they definitely need new fries!!! If they had better fries I would go…read moremore often

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Fresh chicken, speedy service. We visit this restaurant…read moreoften- customer service is great, the dining room is clean.

The wings were really good. Not overcooked like some chicken places do where the meat becomes…read moreopaque . The mild sauce was on point and the workers were moving them in and out as the lobby was extremely busy. There's really not a lot of places to sit in this location so you're either standing and waiting inside or outside in your car. All in all good spot to grab some good tasty wings.

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Pearl's Place is definitely worth a visit if you're looking for comforting Southern soul food. The…read moremac and cheese, yams, greens, and fried green tomatoes were all excellent and full of flavor. The only disappointment was the fried chicken. It wasn't bad, but it was just okay and didn't live up to the rest of the meal. If the chicken had been as good as the sides, this easily would have been a 5-star experience. The service was good overall. Our waitress was very friendly and attentive, but she never asked if we wanted anything to drink besides water or if we'd like dessert. Those small details would have made the experience even better. Overall, I'd definitely come back for the amazing sides, and hopefully the fried chicken is better next time.

Wow wow wow. My first time here and the full experience was great. We walked in and the host asked…read moreus what we wanted to eat. I asked for a menu and she asked again what do you want. I said fried chicken, mac n cheese and greens. She said ok we have that. My spouse said she wanted meat loaf, mac n cheese and string beans. While sitting I realized I wanted potato salad and bread pudding so I added it. I realized I enjoyed ordering not from what I saw on a menu but what I had a taste for and that was a great experience. Thank you Pearls. My food was amazing everything was seasoned well except my greens. Would I go back yes indeed. The bread pudding was the busy. Yummy for my tummy Sorry I finished all my food before writing this review believe me the seasoning and portion size was OUTSTANDING!!!!!

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(3 reviews)

So I went back to try the "Chicken Philly" again, giving them specific instructions on what to put…read moreon my sandwich. FYI: It's not a "Philly" sandwich without the green peppers! This time I was even more disappointed and dissatisfied because EVERY bite of my "chicken" was tough, chewy, and tasted like it had gristle mixed in. Yuck! KKs Wings are good for just that..... the wings! The service is still good and it's a great late night spot. Because I only eat chicken, some fish, and turkey, I'm limited. I'm done trying anything else on the menu outside of the wings.

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