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I think Howlin Rays is still one of the top places for hot chicken. The chicken is tender juicy and flavorful no matter what piece of the bird you order. The sandwich is still my favorite thing to order but chicken wings as you can see are pretty large as well and make for a filling meal. One order of fries is large enough to share and the Mac salad was creamy and dill forward. It definitely helps to cool down the mouth. If you like spicy but still want to be able to taste your food try ordering a "medium plus". For me medium doesn't give me the kick that I want and hot makes me feel like the chef in the back was mad at me. Medium plus is the perfect in between. Once you order a worker will keep an eye out for an open table and let you know where to sit. Yes this service is necessary so they can be sure that people without food aren't saving seats ahead of time. It isn't the coolest (temperature wise) inside so you'll see a lot of people sweating as they enjoy their food but just mind your business, they probably ordered the wrong heat level and are fighting a battle you don't want to know about. 9/10 times there will always be a line so be prepared to wait. I have yet to find out what the sweet spot is where there isn't a line but you've been warned. Rain or shine though they do provide umbrellas and they're usually at the front entrance or you can just ask a worker.
Howlin' Ray's is always a top spot for a solid Southern-style chicken sando. The chicken is perfectly crispy around the edges while staying juicy and tender inside, and the combination of pickles and coleslaw gives the sandwich an amazing balance of flavor and texture. I also got the shake fries, vinegar slaw, and their special sauce, and I'm glad I did--the sauce complemented the sando really well, while the sides rounded out the meal nicely. The staff was friendly, the food was great, and even though there's almost always a line, it's still a great experience. I also appreciate the little touches, like Aesop soap in the restroom and complimentary still and sparkling water on the side. Definitely worth the wait!
After seeing the line, I was tempted to walk away and try again later. But honestly, the line ended up being part of the amazing experience at Howlin Ray's. If you're willing to wait in line for some hot chicken, turns out you might have other things in common. We met so many great people in line and the restaurant provides umbrellas for the heat and came out with waters for people waiting in line. From then, we were already sold. But then came the food- omg the food!! I've had Nashville hot chicken before so I'm always a little skeptical of hot chicken places not in Nashville claiming to be the best... but the Sando (got it in mild) was perfection! Loved the tenders too. My 7-year old had to get no spice and still found it flavorful. Beware though if you don't like spice- the fries are spicy. Don't skip on the banana pudding. This southern girl fully approves! Service was literally top notch! There wasn't a single employee we met who we didn't instantly want to be best friends with! How does this place attract so much great service?! My 10-year old says this was a "10 out of 10 stars" and "worth the wait"! I agree! Bravo Howlin!
Small parking lot or street parking available! There is often a wait so the lot is always full, especially shared with Sidecar Doughnuts right next door. On a Sunday evening at about 6:30 PM, it was about a 20 min wait for us. We got two chicken sandwiches (mild) and an order of fries! Both hit the spot and the fries were nicely seasoned. Workers are all so friendly! We came with our pup and dined in their small outdoor patio. One of the workers got our pup a piece of chicken and ice water!
I'm back! Best part, no wait. The Tenders are so tasty! The spice, the crunch, and the chicken. My friend salivated thinking about it. It was a hot day and what better way then to have no lines when we went!!!!! Thank you for that Southern Customer Service!! Always a vibe at the Howlin' Rays and Juce holding down the Fort!!
From the first time I had The Sando at The Hundreds Family Style Food Festival VIP area back in 2019, I have loved their food. No matter how long the lines were in Chinatown and the rush to order online as we waited for a time slot to open just to be able to have their food delivered during the store closures of COVID, we have never been able to find a hot chicken that can match their quality and flavors. We happened to be at Stone Brewing Tap Room in Pasadena and were getting hungry as we were enjoying the brews there and didn't want to leave. Enter Postmates! We ordered and received our food in approximately 20 minutes. All the food arrived hot, fresh and delicious! If you want to skip the line as they can be long at times, consider Postmates as it's super convenient and you'll receive your order with the same quality you would expect from eating at the restaurant. Also, this was the first time we ordered their banana pudding and it was delicious! Don't forget to order a couple of sides of their Comeback Sauce. It's to die for! It's the perfect dipping sauce for their crispy fries!
I've passed by Howlin Rays numerous times. Often times I was short on time and unwilling to wait in the long lines they attract. Howlin in Pasadena is one of the few establishments that commands a long line aside for some bakeries like Slated Butter, Artsinal Goods by Carr. Parking is hard to find and I had to park one at shake shack on a Friday afternoon. The main parking lot is shared with sidecar donuts. I kind of scratch my head that Side Car donuts is not as popular as Howlin, when it's easily the best donut shop in town. I ended up waiting about 30 minutes in line, when I came at a somewhat off peak time. I had my eye on the Luis Style Sando so I ordered that. Think of it as part grilled cheese sandwhich and Nashville hot chicken. I ordered mild which had only a minimal kick to it. The sandwhich was delicious, the bread was perfectly toasted, nice melted cheese. What really stood out for Howlin than other fried chicken places was the slaw. There was something about that slaw that tasted better than any other hot chicken sandwhich I tasted. All together the sandwhich was delicious, got to order Luis style all the time now if I'm in the mood for a sandwich. Ambiance is very hip hop music and a hip setting. Seating can be limited when there are crowds. As much as I didn't want to believe they hype the acclaim is well deserved depending upon what you order.
I thoroughly enjoyed the lively atmosphere and friendly service. The sando was surprisingly good. Next time, I want to try their tenders because the chicken alone was delicious. For the spice level, we went with medium, which was not that spicy. Next time I'd definitely want to go up a level for a stronger kick. That said, the wings did not skimp on seasoning but for me personally, just a bit salty. The fries were fresh and tasty but more delightful with the sauce they provided. I appreciated the hard kombucha on tap. It was so perfect on a hot afternoon. I'd actually come back just for the kombucha and vibes ... and more pins and stickers!
Howlin' Ray's is always a vibe from the music to the friendly customer service. I visited on a Friday evening and while there was a line, it was totally worth it. I ordered a Sando with cheese and it was really good! You can taste the quality of the chicken and the fries were crispy and perfectly seasoned. If you are dining in, they will help you find a table. Parking can be a little tricky since the parking lot is small, but I was able to find street parking nearby. Definitely worth checking out!
Dare I say the best Nashville style hot chicken sandwich I've ever had?! The chicken rub had such flavorful spices that gave the spiciness depth. Medium was perfect for me (mostly cayenne and jalapeño spices). We also tried the secret medium+ level (adds a bit of habanero) and it felt like a pretty unexpected jump in spice that had us sweating, but it hurt sooo good. Their chicken is way bigger, not to mention juicier, crunchier, and a lot more flavorful than their popular chain counterparts/competitors. The slaw was tasty and the comeback sauce was tangy, slightly sweet, and cut through the spice well. Fries were well seasoned and crispy. Line was out the door, but for good reason! You order at the register and then an employee seats you as soon as a table is available. It's an organized suParking can be a bit difficult to find in the lot behind the restaurant. Incredibly friendly service too, from the kind employee at the register helping us decide between heat levels to the hospitable employees checking in on us once we got our food.
I've always wanted to try this place because of all these great reviews, and it did not disappoint. I ordered The Sando. When I unwrapped the sandwich, I was like "Damn!! That's a huge breast". It was really big and juicy and flavorful. It wasn't greasy and messy. I got it medium heat, and it was pretty hot. I was going to order hot, but they convinced me that since it's my first time I should go with medium. It was a good call because I want to enjoy my food and not be on the toilet all night. I also got the shake fries and those were really delicious. They were fresh and the spice that they use is so good. I took my order to go and when I was driving home, I ate all the fries. I got there a little bit after they opened, and the line wasn't too long. For parking there's a small lot in the back, shared with other businesses. The inside is very clean, and I like the vibe of the place. Their customer service is exceptional. I felt so welcomed and taken care of. When I was ordering they were so helpful in explaining the menu and recommending what I should try. When I was waiting for my food, the person getting the food out to people was very friendly and checking in on me as I waited for food. Took about like 15 minutes. They do take their time and I appreciate that. They were being very precise with the orders and how they pack it and get it ready for the customer. The kitchen is very quiet it's like the opposite of "The Bear". I will definitely come back again.
We stopped by after the lunch rush, but there was still a pretty long line outside. Thankfully the staff had umbrellas available for guests waiting in the heat, which was really thoughtful. We ended up waiting about 20-30 mins, and it was well worth it. Ordering was quick and easy, and the staff was incredibly friendly. They generously offered samples of the Hot, X-Hot, and Howlin' spice levels, which made it easy to decide what to order. The chicken sandwich was huge, juicy, and packed with flavor. The fried chicken was delicious as well, but the tenders ended up being our favorite item on their menu because the chicken felt less dry. They were perfectly crispy, tender, and full of flavor. Highly recommend the comeback sauce and ranch!! What really made this place stand out was the customer service. Everyone was genuinely kind, welcoming, and eager to help, making the entire experience even better. Between the incredible food and outstanding hospitality, this is definitely a place we'll be coming back to.
Food: - Tenders: good fry and flavor; if you can handle it I recommend getting the medium spice over the mild, you can taste more of the nashville spice Ambiance: - Limited parking, long lines - They need to work on optimizing their flow! We waited more than an hour in line and for our food. They only serve chicken, what is the holdup?
2 days ago
This place has a start cast of employees. Today we had the pleasure of being hosted by some elites. Both Miles & Rodrigo made this a great 14th birthday my son will remember. The best part about it was, everyone LOVED their food and we all left stuffed. The place was busy, but they were making things flow like clockwork. Busy environment, well lit, very clean, and great vibes! read more
Howling is always a craving for me! I used to go to the DTLA location all the time, but this location is so convenient since it's close to work. It's nice, clean, and has plenty of seating, plus they serve alcohol. There can be a line, but I was surprised to hear Thursdays are actually a slower day. I got my order in less than 5 minutes! The workers are just as friendly here, and they even have free buttons at the front desk, which is a cute little bonus. Overall, I was really pleased with my visit. read more
Our daughter categorically and unequivocally boasts that Howlin' Ray's (HR) serves THE BEST CHICKEN SANDWICH she's ever eaten. We were spending the day with her in the City of Angels to run some errands and help her out and as a treat for our hard work, she wanted to treat us and to see if we concur with her lofty assertion. HR lived up to her hype and I can't wait to eat the leftovers we brought home after dining at this chicken sando institution. For me, it's definitely THE BEST CHICKEN SANDWICH I'VE EVER EATEN. Besides the spectacular grub, what I truly was impressed with was the GREAT customer service from Rico and his coworkers. There are two Howlin' Ray's in Los Angeles. The one we visited was located in Pasadena and their first location can be found in Chinatown. Both locations are popular with diners, so I recommended you visiting when the doors open. The Pasadena HR is next to Sidecar Doughnuts & Coffee, it's across the street from Petco and Turner's Outdoorsman, and it's just down the road from WaBa Grill and a Starbucks. This was my wife and my first visit to HR and our daughter brought us here before 5pm. Please don't be discouraged by the long line of diners waiting to enter the restaurant. The staff do a great job getting the diners through the ordering counter and finding seats for customers wanting to dine in. You'll wait in line, order your food from the register, and then wait until a table opens up. The tables consists of booths inside and tables and chairs outside under a covered patio. The customer service from the young lady at the order counter, Rico and the team ensuring that diners are seated and taken care of, and the employees expediting the food was customer friendly and customer focused. The employees were so kind, hard working, and I was really impressed by their top notch customer service. Major props to the owners for making customer service a priority. Delicious food will make customers gravitate towards a restaurant, but when combined with impeccable customer service, I understand why customers like my daughter swear by Howlin' Ray's. Yo HR ownership group, San Diego needs one of your restaurants and I can assure you that customers will inundate your restaurant. I wanted to order as much as I could from their menu, so that I could verify if the hype was real. The hype is real folks!! I ordered The Sando, Shake Fries, Collard Greens, Potato Salad, and Sweet Peach Tea. We also ordered the following dipping sauces, which are must orders: Comeback Sauce, Tennessee Tang, and Sweet Money Mustard. Their Sando comes with a boneless breast, slaw, comeback sauce, and pickles encapsulated in a butter bun. I'm a fan of spicy chicken sandwiches, so for my spice level, I chose Medium. I wanted to enjoy my food, which is why I went with medium. Rico gave me a sample of a Medium Plus piece of chicken and I'm so glad I chose medium. Medium Plus was really hot, so imagine what the high spice levels taste. The Sando was huge, the chicken was tender and flavorful, and the components all ate really well together. Their collard greens were juicy and satisfying. Arguably some of the best I've eaten. The potato salad was creamy and dill infused. So yummy!! Loved their seasoned shake fries, which were cooked perfectly and tasted amazing after dipping them in the variety of sauces. I am definitely a Howlin' Ray's convert and wholeheartedly concur with my daughter's positive accolades of this chicken sandwich institution. Not only was their food memorable, but the customer service from their staff matched the greatness of the grub. If you're in Los Angeles, visit Howlin' Ray's. read more
I think Howlin Rays is still one of the top places for hot chicken. The chicken is tender juicy and flavorful no matter what piece of the bird you order. The sandwich is still my favorite thing to order but chicken wings as you can see are pretty large as well and make for a filling meal. One order of fries is large enough to share and the Mac salad was creamy and dill forward. It definitely helps to cool down the mouth. If you like spicy but still want to be able to taste your food try ordering a "medium plus". For me medium doesn't give me the kick that I want and hot makes me feel like the chef in the back was mad at me. Medium plus is the perfect in between. Once you order a worker will keep an eye out for an open table and let you know where to sit. Yes this service is necessary so they can be sure that people without food aren't saving seats ahead of time. It isn't the coolest (temperature wise) inside so you'll see a lot of people sweating as they enjoy their food but just mind your business, they probably ordered the wrong heat level and are fighting a battle you don't want to know about. 9/10 times there will always be a line so be prepared to wait. I have yet to find out what the sweet spot is where there isn't a line but you've been warned. Rain or shine though they do provide umbrellas and they're usually at the front entrance or you can just ask a worker. read more
Howlin' Ray's is always a top spot for a solid Southern-style chicken sando. The chicken is perfectly crispy around the edges while staying juicy and tender inside, and the combination of pickles and coleslaw gives the sandwich an amazing balance of flavor and texture. I also got the shake fries, vinegar slaw, and their special sauce, and I'm glad I did--the sauce complemented the sando really well, while the sides rounded out the meal nicely. The staff was friendly, the food was great, and even though there's almost always a line, it's still a great experience. I also appreciate the little touches, like Aesop soap in the restroom and complimentary still and sparkling water on the side. Definitely worth the wait! read more
After seeing the line, I was tempted to walk away and try again later. But honestly, the line ended up being part of the amazing experience at Howlin Ray's. If you're willing to wait in line for some hot chicken, turns out you might have other things in common. We met so many great people in line and the restaurant provides umbrellas for the heat and came out with waters for people waiting in line. From then, we were already sold. But then came the food- omg the food!! I've had Nashville hot chicken before so I'm always a little skeptical of hot chicken places not in Nashville claiming to be the best... but the Sando (got it in mild) was perfection! Loved the tenders too. My 7-year old had to get no spice and still found it flavorful. Beware though if you don't like spice- the fries are spicy. Don't skip on the banana pudding. This southern girl fully approves! Service was literally top notch! There wasn't a single employee we met who we didn't instantly want to be best friends with! How does this place attract so much great service?! My 10-year old says this was a "10 out of 10 stars" and "worth the wait"! I agree! Bravo Howlin! read more
Small parking lot or street parking available! There is often a wait so the lot is always full, especially shared with Sidecar Doughnuts right next door. On a Sunday evening at about 6:30 PM, it was about a 20 min wait for us. We got two chicken sandwiches (mild) and an order of fries! Both hit the spot and the fries were nicely seasoned. Workers are all so friendly! We came with our pup and dined in their small outdoor patio. One of the workers got our pup a piece of chicken and ice water! read more
I'm back! Best part, no wait. The Tenders are so tasty! The spice, the crunch, and the chicken. My friend salivated thinking about it. It was a hot day and what better way then to have no lines when we went!!!!! Thank you for that Southern Customer Service!! Always a vibe at the Howlin' Rays and Juce holding down the Fort!! read more
From the first time I had The Sando at The Hundreds Family Style Food Festival VIP area back in 2019, I have loved their food. No matter how long the lines were in Chinatown and the rush to order online as we waited for a time slot to open just to be able to have their food delivered during the store closures of COVID, we have never been able to find a hot chicken that can match their quality and flavors. We happened to be at Stone Brewing Tap Room in Pasadena and were getting hungry as we were enjoying the brews there and didn't want to leave. Enter Postmates! We ordered and received our food in approximately 20 minutes. All the food arrived hot, fresh and delicious! If you want to skip the line as they can be long at times, consider Postmates as it's super convenient and you'll receive your order with the same quality you would expect from eating at the restaurant. Also, this was the first time we ordered their banana pudding and it was delicious! Don't forget to order a couple of sides of their Comeback Sauce. It's to die for! It's the perfect dipping sauce for their crispy fries! read more
I've passed by Howlin Rays numerous times. Often times I was short on time and unwilling to wait in the long lines they attract. Howlin in Pasadena is one of the few establishments that commands a long line aside for some bakeries like Slated Butter, Artsinal Goods by Carr. Parking is hard to find and I had to park one at shake shack on a Friday afternoon. The main parking lot is shared with sidecar donuts. I kind of scratch my head that Side Car donuts is not as popular as Howlin, when it's easily the best donut shop in town. I ended up waiting about 30 minutes in line, when I came at a somewhat off peak time. I had my eye on the Luis Style Sando so I ordered that. Think of it as part grilled cheese sandwhich and Nashville hot chicken. I ordered mild which had only a minimal kick to it. The sandwhich was delicious, the bread was perfectly toasted, nice melted cheese. What really stood out for Howlin than other fried chicken places was the slaw. There was something about that slaw that tasted better than any other hot chicken sandwhich I tasted. All together the sandwhich was delicious, got to order Luis style all the time now if I'm in the mood for a sandwich. Ambiance is very hip hop music and a hip setting. Seating can be limited when there are crowds. As much as I didn't want to believe they hype the acclaim is well deserved depending upon what you order. read more
I thoroughly enjoyed the lively atmosphere and friendly service. The sando was surprisingly good. Next time, I want to try their tenders because the chicken alone was delicious. For the spice level, we went with medium, which was not that spicy. Next time I'd definitely want to go up a level for a stronger kick. That said, the wings did not skimp on seasoning but for me personally, just a bit salty. The fries were fresh and tasty but more delightful with the sauce they provided. I appreciated the hard kombucha on tap. It was so perfect on a hot afternoon. I'd actually come back just for the kombucha and vibes ... and more pins and stickers! read more
2 months ago
Howlin' Ray's is always a vibe from the music to the friendly customer service. I visited on a Friday evening and while there was a line, it was totally worth it. I ordered a Sando with cheese and it was really good! You can taste the quality of the chicken and the fries were crispy and perfectly seasoned. If you are dining in, they will help you find a table. Parking can be a little tricky since the parking lot is small, but I was able to find street parking nearby. Definitely worth checking out! read more
5 days ago
Dare I say the best Nashville style hot chicken sandwich I've ever had?! The chicken rub had such flavorful spices that gave the spiciness depth. Medium was perfect for me (mostly cayenne and jalapeño spices). We also tried the secret medium+ level (adds a bit of habanero) and it felt like a pretty unexpected jump in spice that had us sweating, but it hurt sooo good. Their chicken is way bigger, not to mention juicier, crunchier, and a lot more flavorful than their popular chain counterparts/competitors. The slaw was tasty and the comeback sauce was tangy, slightly sweet, and cut through the spice well. Fries were well seasoned and crispy. Line was out the door, but for good reason! You order at the register and then an employee seats you as soon as a table is available. It's an organized suParking can be a bit difficult to find in the lot behind the restaurant. Incredibly friendly service too, from the kind employee at the register helping us decide between heat levels to the hospitable employees checking in on us once we got our food. read more
2 months ago
I've always wanted to try this place because of all these great reviews, and it did not disappoint. I ordered The Sando. When I unwrapped the sandwich, I was like "Damn!! That's a huge breast". It was really big and juicy and flavorful. It wasn't greasy and messy. I got it medium heat, and it was pretty hot. I was going to order hot, but they convinced me that since it's my first time I should go with medium. It was a good call because I want to enjoy my food and not be on the toilet all night. I also got the shake fries and those were really delicious. They were fresh and the spice that they use is so good. I took my order to go and when I was driving home, I ate all the fries. I got there a little bit after they opened, and the line wasn't too long. For parking there's a small lot in the back, shared with other businesses. The inside is very clean, and I like the vibe of the place. Their customer service is exceptional. I felt so welcomed and taken care of. When I was ordering they were so helpful in explaining the menu and recommending what I should try. When I was waiting for my food, the person getting the food out to people was very friendly and checking in on me as I waited for food. Took about like 15 minutes. They do take their time and I appreciate that. They were being very precise with the orders and how they pack it and get it ready for the customer. The kitchen is very quiet it's like the opposite of "The Bear". I will definitely come back again. read more
2 months ago
We stopped by after the lunch rush, but there was still a pretty long line outside. Thankfully the staff had umbrellas available for guests waiting in the heat, which was really thoughtful. We ended up waiting about 20-30 mins, and it was well worth it. Ordering was quick and easy, and the staff was incredibly friendly. They generously offered samples of the Hot, X-Hot, and Howlin' spice levels, which made it easy to decide what to order. The chicken sandwich was huge, juicy, and packed with flavor. The fried chicken was delicious as well, but the tenders ended up being our favorite item on their menu because the chicken felt less dry. They were perfectly crispy, tender, and full of flavor. Highly recommend the comeback sauce and ranch!! What really made this place stand out was the customer service. Everyone was genuinely kind, welcoming, and eager to help, making the entire experience even better. Between the incredible food and outstanding hospitality, this is definitely a place we'll be coming back to. read more
Food: - Tenders: good fry and flavor; if you can handle it I recommend getting the medium spice over the mild, you can taste more of the nashville spice Ambiance: - Limited parking, long lines - They need to work on optimizing their flow! We waited more than an hour in line and for our food. They only serve chicken, what is the holdup? read more
The chicken tenders was really really delicious. As a non spicy person, I went for the mild level and dipped the chicken in honey. The tenders were juicy, moist, and seasoned well. I now understand why people wait in line for this. The Shake fries were also really good and addicting. I saw a lot of people get the Sando so planning to come back for it next time. Staff and service was excellent. There's a parking lot in the back shared with Sidecar Doughnuts. Side note, could smell the sweet flavor in the air while waiting for Howling. read more
This is one of the best fried chicken sandwiches I've ever had without a doubt. I've been here a few times now, and all three times I got The Sando. My favorite spice level is Medium. As someone who loves spicy food, I did try the Hot spice level once, and I was warned that it would be pretty hot. Honestly I didn't think it would be that hot. But, it was pretty hot haha. I would say, it was really tasty but the spice was just over the top for me. So I've settled on Medium heat which is perfect. THE SANDO: 5/5 Everything about the Sando is amazing. The chicken is literally fried perfectly and is so juicy. It's a big piece of chicken too, making this sandwich very filling. While my photo doesn't really show it, the sando was perfectly assembled. It never fell apart after every bite which is a big deal! So many times I've had a fried chicken sandwich where you're constantly trying to put it back together after each bite but not this one! This sandwich stayed in tact the entire time. The sauce is AMAZING. Side Note: While I don't think they show it on their menu, they do have ranch as well! FRENCH FRIES: 5/5 French fries were awesome! While I'm not a fan of crinkle cut fries in general, they were still very very good. The seasoning is amazing. Portion is good, and shareable! If you love crinkle cut fries, you will love these fries for sure. CHICKEN & WAFFLES: 5/5 My wife ordered this and said that the waffles were some of the best she's ever had! She got the chicken Medium Spice, but she said next time she will just do Country Spice for this, not because she can't handle the spice but because she felt like spicy fried chicken just didn't pair as well with the waffles. SERVICE / SEATING: 5/5 The service here is SO GOOD! Don't worry about it being busy or having trouble finding a seat! They make sure you get a table! After you order your food, they will find you a table so that you're not fighting for one with other guests. It makes the dining experience so much better than scrambling to try and get a seat. PARKING: 3/5 They have a parking lot, BUT it can get full very easily. If you can't find a spot, just park on the street. DO NOT park in the parking lot next door or else you could get towed. There is always some street parking available and you won't have to walk far honestly. read more
Thought I do an updated review on Howlin' Ray's. I've only been here maybe 3 times. My experience every time has been top-notch. I can't say enough great things on their world class staff, exceptional service, and amazing foods + drinks. This establishment brings it every day! My most recent visit was full of spicy and sweet surprises. The young gentleman behind the register was super friendly and helpful. He offered shake fries on the house so I can try them. Thank you! I forgot to order a drink. The young lady behind the counter said she got me covered. I got a bottled orange drink on the house. Thank you! Wow, now that's generous hospitality. I got 3 chicken wings that came with one toast and some pickles plus the shake fries. Wings were lightly fried with perfect crispness. Mild spice was still spicy, but manageable good spice. Bread was good, but it would have been nice if it was lightly toasted. Pickles were delightful. It was indeed one tasty lunch. Howlin' Ray's, you're the best! I'm coming back with full force for more deliciousness. I'll be howlin' all the way here. read more
If you ever want one thing in LA, it HAS to be Howlin' Rays. I came on a Friday early afternoon and only waited maybe 20 minutes which isn't bad at all. I know that the long lines seem really intimidating but it's worth it. I love the community feel this place has because all the employees' are friendly and it feels like you're at home. If you want a table, they have these 'reserved' placards placed on the table but it's not really reserved and more so, for one of the employees to "seat" you down at a clean table. Food: Sando medium spice (9.5/10): First time trying medium and it wasn't too spicy. We didn't get rid of anything so it comes with slaw and pickles on top of a spice coated chicken breast sandwiched in between toasted bread. I do wish that the spice was more evenly distributed throughout the chicken since the most spicy part was at the beginning with the solid crunch. The slaw adds a nice freshness with every bite so it doesn't feel as heavy. The pickles add a touch of acidity and I don't think that it was acidic to the point where it overpowered everything. French Fries (9/10): Crispy exterior with a soft, fluffy interior are my cup of tea. The seasoning they use adds a nice spice to each bite. We also got a cup of their comeback sauce and it was the cherry on top. read more
1 month ago
The chicken is fire, the hot is so spicy but so good, the ranch was so bomb with it. One order of fries is enough for two, loved that The service is amazing, everyone is so friendly and help! Miles and Yuli were the best! Will def recommend and come again. The ambiance was perfect, they seat you in the tables so you are well taken care of. Service is truly elite We only got a pic of the sandwich but we got a quarter bird, sandwich, fries, and a tender read more
The food is five stars all day and night. The chicken is ALWAYS cooked to perfection: juicy, meaty, and rich with spicy goodness. If you love fried chicken, you cannot go wrong eating here. The service i have mixed opinions. Most all of the employees are friendly. Maybe too friendly. Part of the reason for their long line would be the talkative cashiers. There is a way to chat up the customer while still keeping things moving along, but I've not seen it once while there; the chicken is that good that I put up with my least favorite thing at a restaurant--unnecessary conversation that adds to the wait time. The ambiance is also not my favorite. It's too loud in there. The music could be a touch lower--I'm there to eat, not be at the club--and the top notch cooks in the back yell a lot. I will say that the yelling appears to keep them upbeat, positive, and motivated; I see the value in it, yet it's the reason I get delicious chicken to go. They have a clean bathroom, a parking lot in back, and some of the best chicken in the Greater Los Angeles area. My mouth waters when I even begin to think about going there. Also, I believe the times to avoid the long waits would be weekdays until about 3 PM ish. read more
28 days ago
I finally made my way to Howlin' Ray's after an event in the area because I feel like I've seen this place all over TikTok. There was a very long line, but I decided to wait it out, and I'm glad I did. The restaurant has a great vibe, with good music and a very friendly, attentive staff. The cashier was especially helpful since it was my first time there. He gave me a bunch of great recommendations, and I'm glad I took his advice. I ordered the Sando with medium heat, along with collard greens, macaroni salad, and potato salad. Here's my breakdown: Sando -- 5/5 The chicken on this sandwich was massive, but beyond the size, it was seasoned really well and had the perfect texture. It was flavorful, juicy, and crispy. Definitely the highlight of the meal. Macaroni Salad -- 3/5 Not my favorite, but still pretty solid. I probably wouldn't order it again, but there was nothing particularly wrong with it. Collard Greens -- 4/5 I'm from the South, so I'm usually pretty particular about my greens, but these were surprisingly good. The cashier suggested adding their vinegar sauce, and he was absolutely right. It really brought the flavor up a notch. I would definitely order these again. Potato Salad -- 3.5/5 Solid potato salad. It wasn't the best I've ever had, but it was still pretty good and went well with the rest of the meal. Overall, I understand why Howlin' Ray's gets so much hype. The line was long, but the food, atmosphere, and customer service made it worth the wait. I especially appreciated how helpful the staff was in making recommendations for a first-time customer. I'd definitely come back to try their chicken and the rest of the menu. read more
Everyone agrees the food here is legit. Best chicken west of the Mississippi. What they dont mention is the Vibes this place puts off. The employees make this spot extra special. They are professional and helpful. Top tier service all the way. If you see the line good, gwt out of the car and go stand in it. Parking is a challenge so be patient. read more
5 months ago
Went on a Saturday early dinner for our son's Birthday. They have parking in the back but stays pretty full, so be ready to wait/park in a near by neighborhood. The wait in line wasn't too bad 15-20 min wait but we just beat the dinner rush, so expect the wait time. Great detail, they have umbrella's by the entrance for customers to block sun/rain. The service first off is amazing! Very polite and high energy at this location! They made a special Bday shout out to our son when they found out it was his bday. They do their best to communicate seating and we opted to sit outside on the patio for some air and shade which was great. The music playing was a good plus and the atmosphere was chill and relaxed. It was nice to see the workers interacting and engaged with diners and very accommodating to children and fur babies too. The star though was the chicken! Hands down the best southern style chicken we've had in SoCal. We tried a little bit of everything. The chicken was juicy full of flavor and the spice levels are accurate as described. The portions also are up to par! The crinkle fries weren't over seasoned and cooked to perfection and portion wise 1 basket could feed 3. The sides were good but the collard greens could use more flavor a bit bland, it's was neither sweet nor on the vinegar side. The Mac salad was decent but also a little bland. The chicken sandwich our son loved with the tasty sauce. Highly recommend to any wanting to experience high quality chicken, service and overall good experience. Just expect the wait time be patient and try to time you cost right to avoid the rush. read more
When I say this is my favorite fried chicken spot I mean it. Growing up fried chicken has always been my favorite food and now this is my favorite spot. This stuff is so addicting like the spice cannot stop you from eating it. The sauce amazing everything here amazing. The staff super helpful and nice. Every time I go to LA i have to get this. My mouth is watering making this review. read more
2 months ago
I understand the hype! The chicken sandwich was crispy, juicy, and packed with flavor. The fries are crinkle cut which I personally don't care for. They also have loaded fries which I ordered but I didn't like it. They were topped with chopped chicken, a bunch of pickles and lettuce, and sauce. The toppings ended up making the fries soggy. It felt more like the ingredients from their chicken sandwich had been chopped up and piled onto fries rather than a dish that stood well on its own. The biggest downside was the wait. We visited on a Saturday afternoon and waited close to an hour for our food. The line moved very slowly, so if you're planning to come during peak hours, be prepared for a bit of a wait. Overall, the chicken sandwich (any spice level) is absolutely worth ordering and stick to regular fries! read more
The best hot chicken! The chicken is so juicy. The mild is a good heat level (although I think can be hotter), the medium is too hot imo if I got them as tenders. The french fries are a big portion so they are definitely shareable! The only con is you have to pay extra for sauce, but the comeback sauce is pretty yummy! The service there is amazing, the workers are so friendly and were asking if I needed anything. The restaurant itself is super fun, the bathrooms have disco balls and they have Aesop soap! Overall, amazing and will be coming back again! Also they have pebble ice!! read more
5 months ago
We visited on a slightly rainy Saturday, 4/26/26, and it was excellent. The line is usually 45+ minutes and wraps around the building, into the parking lot. Because of the precipitation, we only waited about 20 minutes. The restaurant is a well oiled machine with all of the staff working in sync. The cashier was super friendly, offering samples of chicken for folks unsure of the spice level to order or of the beer on tap. We ordered the Tenders entree with the option to have a different spice level for each of the three tenders...but I made all three medium spice. My husband ordered The Sando at a medium spice level. And we each ordered Shake Fries - very crispy and well seasoned crinkle cut fries. Pro tip, order a Tennessee Tang dipping sauce - ranch with dill, super yummy. The medium is the perfect spice level for us - enough heat for flavor and to water the nose a bit. There is a Medium Plus that gives me the hiccups and I won't go any hotter. The space is polished concrete floors, half booths along the windows across the pick up counter, and tables long the windows facing Arroyo Parkway. The parking lot is way too tiny, so we usually don't bother and just park on the street. This place is worth the wait and definitely eat at the restaurant so it's hot and fresh. They have an exclusive delivery partner, Postmates, but usually delivery takes too long where the food isn't as fresh or hot. read more
1 day ago
This place is amazing! Food is delicious and the staff are so welcoming and kind. I got the Sando (Medium spice level) with shake fries. The spice level was perfect and the portion sizes were generous. There will be a line to wait in that likely wraps around the building, but it is worth the wait! We waited about 45 minutes. After ordering and paying at the counter, we were directed to a staff member who helped seat us at the next available table. They had a very smooth flow for customers and great table management. Our food came out in about 10 minutes. The restaurant had seating inside and outside, very clean and welcoming feel. The energy from the staff was great, they really created a fun and uplifting environment. The staff also checks in while you are dining, which is nice! They have a water station where you pick up your food. They even had a sink outside of the bathrooms for customers to wash up! There is a parking lot located behind the restaurant and some street parking in the area. This is a new favorite! Can't wait to go back! read more
Best chicken sandwich! Chicken is always so juicy. Good value for the price. I've been to the Chinatown location a few times but this was my first time at Pasadena. I love the decor and they have seating! Workers are very friendly. read more
LOVED this spot. I got the mild chicken tenders and the spice level was perfect for me. I tried medium and that was way too much for me. After getting my order, I saw how big each tender was. Portions are very generous and the quality is great. Staff was so nice and continuously checked up on my party. There is also plenty of seating and staff are constantly cleaning tables, so you probably won't have trouble finding seating despite how busy they get. read more
They serve a pretty good chicken sandwich. I especially loved their fried pickles which pair perfectly with the sandwich. Service was impeccable. They handed out umbrellas to protect us from the hot sun. And don't worry about having to find a table - they will do that for you. Oh and the bathroom is like a night club. For real...go check it out. read more
It's been years since I had some Howlin and so happy that have a Pasadena location! Their nashville chicken sandwich is perfect- the medium spice leve had the right amount of spiciness , breast was juicy and the condiment help balance everything out ! We also got the chicken wing and don't order hot if you can take the heat because its burning hot Staff were so friendly and thanks for the complimentary diet soda and they do offer tap and sparkling water! The shop itself was roomy with open seating inside or outside and decorated with a fun relaxing atmosphere ! Love the idea of the box of freebie for anyone to choose from for I got a darling pin! Howlin Rays is probably the best nashville chicken I've had. read more
1 month ago
Howlin' Ray's has some of the BEST chicken tenders we've ever had! We've been here a few times as a family, and it never disappoints. The lines can definitely get long, but the food is 100% worth the wait. We literally make the drive out to Pasadena just for Howlin' Ray's! The chicken tenders are incredibly juicy, tender, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned. And the fries are BOMB -- the seasoning on them is amazing! If you've been wanting to try Howlin' Ray's, I highly recommend it. Delicious food and absolutely worth the trip! read more
Street parking or a valet parking lot next door. It's kind of hidden located inside an older plaza building. The seats are all set up outside! We came on a weekday and surprisingly still a good amount of people. I only got the fried chicken breast to try since I just had lunch nearby and always heard about this place. I must say! The fried chicken was amazing!! Super crispy skin and tender on the inside! You can also try their special sauces for an extra price. I'd definitely want to be back to try the sandwich. And the staff was also amazing!! Super nice and friendly read more
I've seen all the Youtube videos featuring Howlin Rays and I always thought to myself whether something can me as good as social media makes it out to be. But holy cow I've learn it can be true (sometimes)! I went to the Pasadena location and loved my experience there. Parking can be a bit tight but manageable. There was a line out the door but it moved pretty quickly. Seating inside if limited but doable. The service is super dope and chill, and from the two times I've been there, they are great at making you feel comfortable. I ordered the chicken sando with mild heat and this was the juiciest and most flavorful fried chicken sandwich I've ever had. The spice did not overpower the flavor, and the coleslaw helped to balance the saltiness of the sandwich perfectly. I also got their shake fries, which are crispy and flavorful, but a tad bit on the sweet side. I also tried their comeback sauce which just okay for me, but the sandwich was so good it didn't even need it. Will definitely be back here to eat this again when I'm in LA!!! read more
5 months ago
HOWLIN RAYS @ PASADENA The service here was AMAZING, the guy who helped check in for tables and the woman who took our orders were so kind and welcoming. I love how they are able to figure out seating for those eating in. The food was crispy and the place was super clean! 5/5 read more
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More info about Howlin' Ray's
800 South Arroyo Pkwy
Pasadena, CA 91105
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(213) 935-8399
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https://howlinrays.com
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Ask the Community - Howlin' Ray's
How long is the wait?
We're at about 15-20 mins at 2:15PM today! You can also always text us at 213.935.8399 for current line updates throughout the day. - Amanda
What is a person with disabilities to do when they can't stand in line for a long period of time.?
We are happy to make accommodations! Please text us at 213.935.8399!
When will you expand to the IE? We need you out here?
Hoping to make it to the IE one day! Appreciate you and all of your support!
Are the pickles made in house from scratch (homemade)?
Hi! We tried to make our pickles in house way back in the beginning, but we could never make them better than the cold processed crinkle cut dills that we source from our friends in Central California!
Hi, do you guys take telephone order to go?
'm sorry but we do not currently accept orders via phone! We're offering walk up in person orders, dine in, and Postamtes delivery at our Pasadena location!
What are their usual wait times on a Sunday during their business hours, and when are the best times to go when the wait in line is <20 minutes?
Hi! The wait time tends to fluctuate throughout the day and can vary on weekends depending on holidays or events happening in the area, but you can always text us at 213.935.8399 for current line updates throughout the day!
What is there Postmates maximum radius? I try ordering from less than 10 miles away and it's always unavailable for me despite ordering twice before :(
Hi! Our radius tends to fluctuate throughout the day dependent on how many orders the team is currently working through, but typically our radius is 2.5-7 miles!
Do you serve waffles everyday or just Saturday and Sunday?
Hi Jo-Ann! We have Waffles available Wednesday-Sunday!
Is it halal chicken?
Hi Zab! Our Chicken is not certified halal, but it is hormone and antibiotic free, plus pasture raised!
Would I be able to order a grilled cheese for my picky daughter?
Yes, no problem! We offer Grilled Cheese as part of our Secret Menu!
Do they have ketchup and ranch?
Hi! We offer Ketchup Packets and a house made Ranch called Tennessee Tang!
Looking for a semi large catering size order. Do you offer bulk offers?
Hi Michael - email us at hello@howlinrays.com and we're happy to discuss details with you!
Is it dog friendly?
There's a little patio and I saw someone with a dog. The workers also offered water! So I'd say yes!
Do you offer any gluten free options?
Hi Martie - Our Vinegar Slaw, Collard Greens, Shake Fries, Pickles, and Comeback Sauce are all gluten free! However, due to the tight quarters of the restaurant, there is the possibility that most items are exposed to gluten!
Will you eventually be open for dinner?
Hi Annelyse! Our Pasadena location is now operating with extended hours! We’re open Wednesday-Sunday, 11AM-7PM. Hope to see you soon!
Hi are you taking pick up order?
Hi Cristina! We currently offer walk up and dine in at our Pasadena location!
Hi, what oil do you use to fry (peanut, veg or?
Hi Sophie - we complete all of our frying in Highly Refined Peanut Oil!
Thinking to stop by during lunch time. What is the average wait time? Do you take phone orders?
Hi Jenny! You can always text us at 213-935-8399 for line updates throughout the day! We are currently offering walk up orders at our Pasadena location. Hope that you are able to visit soon!
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Howlin' Ray's - southern - Updated September 2026
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