Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Howlin' Ray's

    4.8 (1.3k reviews)
    Open 11:00 am - 7:00 pm
    Updated a few days ago

    Howlin' Ray's Photos

    Business Info

    HOWLIN' RAY'S ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Loud
    Hipster
    Casual
    Trendy

    You might also consider

    More like Howlin' Ray's

    Recommended Reviews - Howlin' Ray's

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Anna A.

    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.

    Sando + Fries
    Karena S.

    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.

    Linh Y.

    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.

    tenders
    Bernadine S.

    2nd time here while also taking the train so that is a huge plus that it is walking distance from the station! The chicken was so delicious and flavorful as always and I tried Howlin spice this time and wow it was intense! This location has the best employees and are so communicative and helpful. I've always had a great experience here even when it's busy!!

    Inside the tender; look at that juicy piece of chicken breast
    Monte L.

    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.

    chicken sandwich (medium)
    Erin K.

    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!!

    Mac salad
    Leilani M.

    Limited street parking with time restrictions. Upon our wait as the line wrapped around the building the staff came outside to offer umbrellas for our comfort. A mood setter for calm guests. Order first then show your receipt to staff to get put on waitlist for a table. Wait to be seated. Nice touch of self serve water and sparking water on tap with ice machine. Perfect for the hot day. Inside or patio seating options. Chicken sandos were awesome. Crinkle fries were crisp on the outside fluffy on the inside, slaw was the kind I can eat perfect acidity hit between bites. Mac salad was nice and creamy with tender pasta bites. Will return for another round. A must when craving some spicy, crispy chicken!

    Menu
    AndyMike E.

    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.

    The Sando (Medium spice level) & shake fries
    Tanya K.

    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!

    Anny O.

    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.

    The Sando mild fries and an extra chicken strip mild...
    Bruce R.

    Once again Howlin' Ray's killing the chicken sandwich game, absolutely amazing grub and the customer service is A1++++ man this place has it all. I want to thank Jay and Rodrigo for the amazing customer service they provided us with, other restaurants need to take notes. This place was jamming with customers but the line kept moving. HOWLIN' RAY'S you guys are knocking the chicken game outta the Ballpark. Love everything about HOWLIN' RAY'S. Thanks to everyone at Howlin' Ray's for the great experience...

    Chicken Tenders
    Megan D.

    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.

    Kara L.

    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

    See all

    Photo of Aja G.
    26
    32
    8

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Thuy F.
    99
    75
    240

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of D P.
    18
    104
    49

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Eduardo A.
    374
    21
    10

    3 years ago

    One of the best chicken sandwiches I ever had!! Seriously I almost cried with tears of joy after my first 2 bites.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Joy S.
    39
    7
    4

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    The best spicy chicken sandwich I've ever had. Highly recommend putting the slaw on the sando.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Jonathan N.
    11
    104
    197

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    The service was great. The food was also great and the ambiance was the best. Their customer service was excellent. I highly recommend it.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Mel C.
    2
    34
    4

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Lil M.
    2
    77
    31

    3 years ago

    Excellent food and service. I tried the sando 2.0 and ordered the chicken and waffles for my mother. Both were outstanding.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Jessica C.
    125
    43
    10

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Phat N.
    1
    27
    20

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Ed R.
    1
    47
    28

    2 years ago

    Y'all need to have an order ahead option because I know your chicken is good, but it's not 1hr in line good.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Shay C.
    0
    343
    31

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Autumn A.
    150
    68
    25

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Debbie T.
    314
    30
    3

    2 years ago

    Good food and friendly service. The atmosphere is great place to be! The sando is the bomb and Mario fries and yummy!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Stan E.
    7
    32
    19

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Karen N.
    202
    599
    224

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Camilla C.
    317
    40
    18

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 2
    Love this 3
    Oh no 1

    Page 26 of 34

    Howlin' Ray's Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Howlin' Ray's

    Do you use soy in your food?

    Hi John! There is no added Soy in our menu items!

    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! Do you guys have gift cards?

    Yes they do.

    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!

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

    You might also consider

    Clifton's Gourmet Barbecue

    Clifton's Gourmet Barbecue

    4.5
    (119 reviews)
    1.4 mi
    $

    PURE SOUL, PERFECT SAUCE PAIRINGS, AND 10/10 NOSTALGIA VIBES…read more On my way to A.G. By Car bakery, the aroma drifting from this BBQ joint completely stopped me in my tracks. I felt like a character in an old-school cartoon, levitating in a trance and totally hypnotized by the smell. Just walking by gave me a wave of nostalgia, so on my way back, stopping for a quick bite wasn't optional it was a necessity. Inside, the air is thick with the scent of delicious pies and soulful cooking. The sweet lady at the counter gave off the kind of warmth that made me feel like I was getting a hug from a grandmother I never got to meet. She was incredibly patient and steered me toward the perfect sauce pairing for my rib plate. That combo? Absolute heaven. While I'm sure locals already know all about this spot, it was a brand-new revelation for me, and they've officially won a loyal customer. And please, do not skip the potato salad. The tangy mustard blend is a perfect science formula. I have no idea how they dialed it in so perfectly, but I'll happily leave the genius to the kitchen!

    Had to pay this place a visit after seeing it featured on the local news. Sundays there open from…read more12p - 4p. Got there about 1:15p and there were about 5 or 6 small groups in front of us. The word spread that they were already out of sweet potato pie and green beans! We eventually found ourselves at the counter to order. Hubby ordered GG's Combo Plate, and I ordered the pulled pork sandwich. GG'S was outstanding! Mac n cheese - yum! Potato salad - yum! The pulled pork was flavorful except it's on a hamburger bun with the meat on the bottom bun served open faced. When I put the top bun on and picky up the sandwich the bottom fell apart due to it soaking up the drippings. It came with a side of cole slaw but it was missing flavor. We shared a peach cobbler - Wow, so delicious! I could've and should've eaten a whole one by myself. The pulled pork sandwich isn't discouraging me from going back. It'll be a reason to try something else. Bring your patience!

    Photos
    Take out only
    Take out only
    Take out packaging.
    Take out packaging.
    Clifton's Gourmet Barbecue

    See all

    Gus's Barbecue

    Gus's Barbecue

    4.1
    (3.1k reviews)
    1.1 mi
    $$

    The ribs were decent and had good flavor, but nothing that really stood out compared to other BBQ…read morespots. Service was alright, staff were polite but a bit slow during my visit. The place has a cool, classic BBQ vibe, but it felt a little crowded and noisy.

    My husband has been wanting to try Gus's Barbecue and, when finally presented with the opportunity,…read morewe only had one regret after our meal; not visiting sooner. We placed a large takeout order and everything from the service to all of our food was amazing. Some of my favorite items we ordered included the - Cast Iron Cornbread - Ribs and Two Meat Combo - Gus's Famous Burger The cornbread was divine, especially with that honey butter . Definitely a solid appetizer, but complemented the main dishes perfectly. The meats were prepared well; tender and flavorful. The bbq sauces paired well and merely elevated each of the meats. Gus's Famous Burger was one of my favorite burgers I've had recently. Ordered the potato salad as my side and couldn't have been more satisfied. I'd recommend any of these items if you're on the fence. I think it's important to review that we had all of this as a takeout order, so I can only imagine how much more delicious this would be if we dined in and ate everything right away. Gus's Barbecue is definitely going to be a repeat visit for us. There's so much more we want to try off of their menu. Can't wait to come back soon and dine in!

    Photos
    Gus's Barbecue
    Happy hour cocktails
    Happy hour cocktails
    Gus's Barbecue

    See all

    Henry Parsons Project

    Henry Parsons Project

    4.6
    (195 reviews)
    0.3 mi
    Locally owned & operated
    Outdoor seating

    This place should get a 6 stars but Yelp doesn't allow it. 4 words: prepare to be amazed!…read moreHigh quality ingredients, delicious creations, nutritious food, they have it all! And to top it all off, their customer service is impeccable. (Shoutout to Ariel!) Had an excellent experience, and will definitely be back for more! We were seriously mindblown! This is a must try.

    I hope this pop-up becomes permanent! I came here on a Saturday evening with a group of eight. The…read morerestaurant is right next to Guisado's and has its own parking lot. The restaurant/building is large with ample seating in and outdoor. We were seated by the bar area in the back. The hostess and servers were all very nice and came back frequently to check on us. We were informed that the menu recently changed and there were more Cajun dishes on the menu so I was really excited. I got the Ruby to drink and gumbo as my entree and shared the biscuit. I originally planned on getting my own biscuit but was then told that they were quite big so the table ended up sharing. My partner got the squash ribbons. The Ruby almost tasted like just juice so it's easy to drink. Very fruity and summery. The biscuit, we were too excited to eat it and didn't get a picture but it was hot, large, soft, and very comforting. The gumbo was great! It's a very filling dish and was seasoned perfectly. My partner's squash ribbons were very well seasoned with bright, citrusy flavors. It would be perfect on a hot day. The table also got hoe cake, Mac n cheese, corn, and collard greens. Hoe cakes were new to me and they were delicious. It's like a pancake but tasted more corn-y to me. It had a blueberries and pico on top. Greens were very well seasoned and tasty. The Mac n cheese was good but not amazing. All in all, a very filling and satisfying dinner. Would definitely go back for more!

    Photos
    Olive Oil Cake, Parmesan Ice Cream, Sweet Tomato Jam
    Olive Oil Cake, Parmesan Ice Cream, Sweet Tomato Jam
    Shrimp & Grits
    Shrimp & Grits
    Holiday Party Set Up

    See all

    Holiday Party Set Up
    The Dive Oyster Bar

    The Dive Oyster Bar

    4.2
    (1.6k reviews)
    4.6 mi
    $$
    Full bar
    Happy hour specials

    Haven't been to the Dive in a while and I decided to drop by for a business dinner. We got plenty…read moreof appetizers and two entrees share. Out of the appetizers, the sprouts was the one that surprised me the most. The bacon and seasoning complement the baked Brussels sprouts perfectly. The calamari was whatever, I felt it was too battery for my personal liking but my friend loved it. The oysters were smaller than what I usually get from other restaurant but it still hit the spot. The entree was amazing and the jambalaya has quite a kick to it even when I ordered it at medium heat. There was plenty of shrimp, mussels, sausages, and protein in the pasta and rice dish. Parking in the plaza was atrocious because it is a busy plaza with a gym and other amazing restaurants and quick bites. Can't wait to stop by again.

    The two of us stopped by on a Monday afternoon for happy hour. There were plenty of empty tables,…read moreand we were seated quickly. The environment is family-friendly, with several tables occupied by kids and families. Just be aware that the music and overall noise level are fairly loud. Service was attentive and they checked up on us regularly. We ordered 2 dozen oysters ($1.50 each), the fish and chips ($11.50), mussels and clams ($10.50), and a beer. The oysters were fresh, mostly clean, and came with the usual accompaniments. My only minor complaint is that small seafood forks would have been nice to have available. The mussels and clams were the disappointment of the meal. While the broth itself was flavorful, the portion was downright sad. We received only 4 mussels and 4 clams total, and the bowl felt almost empty. The standout was definitely the fish and chips. Dare I say the best fish and chips I've ever had? The batter was well-seasoned without being overly salty. The fish was crispy, hot, flaky, and surprisingly not too greasy. The fries were also excellent, with a crunchy exterior and fluffy, mashed potato-like interior. I would absolutely order this again. Overall, for happy hour, come for the fresh oysters and fish and chips. Skip the embarrassingly skimpy bowl of mussels and clams.

    Photos
    Freshly Shucked Oysters.
    Freshly Shucked Oysters.
    The Dive Oyster Bar
    Bread Pudding with a mixed berry compote

    See all

    Bread Pudding with a mixed berry compote
    Fixins Soul Kitchen

    Fixins Soul Kitchen

    4.4
    (2.9k reviews)
    9.0 mi
    $$

    Fixins Soul Kitchen is a fantastic restaurant near Crypto.com Arena and the LA Convention Center. I…read morecame on a weekend lunch and it was packed. I tried the three piece fried chicken and the fried fish entrees. Both came with two fixin's (sides), in addition to cornbread / hush puppies or biscuitsI highly recommend the grits and okra with bacon. The flavors were on point in all aspects, and the meal was well balanced. Best of all is the good portions for the price point. The decoration inside is worth reading, featuring soul-food related comments pertaining to products like Wonder bread and Quaker Oats. The service was friendly, hand working, and attentive. Nothing unique, but a great execution.

    I had previously tried Fixins Soul Kitchen as part of a company luncheon and enjoyed it so much…read morethat I convinced my family to come with me because I wanted them to experience how great it was. Unfortunately, after our experience on the holiday evening, it may be a while before I give it another chance. First, I want to say that every staff member we encountered was genuinely pleasant. Our server was kind, apologetic, and clearly doing her best. The problem wasn't the attitude of the staff, it was that the restaurant was completely overwhelmed and simply not prepared for the holiday rush. Not ready at all. We were seated at 9:04 PM and didn't place our order until around 9:20 PM because it took that long just to get drink orders taken. Wanting to avoid any further delays, we ordered everything at once. Our meals arrived around 9:42 PM, which seemed reasonable, except my daughter's meal never came out. We informed our server and were repeatedly told it was "on the way." Fifteen minutes later, still nothing. We began sharing our food with our daughter so she could eat with us. We asked again and again, receiving apologies each time, but no meal. By 10:25 PM--more than an hour after ordering--my daughter's plate finally arrived. By then everyone else had already finished eating and were simply waiting while she rushed to eat alone. Thinking we were finally nearing the end, I requested our bill and ordered two slices of red velvet cake to go. Surely that wouldn't take long. Wrong again. While waiting, another large table from the East Coast asked to speak with a manager and described their own frustrating experience with delayed orders and lack of assistance. When the manager returned, I simply asked if we could please get our two slices of cake so we could leave. He apologized and went to retrieve them. It took 25 minutes to get 2 slices of cake and possibly longer if I had not stopped the manager. We finally walked out more than two hours after being seated, having spent most of that time waiting rather than enjoying our meal. To make matters worse, going a few minutes beyond the two-hour mark triggered another hour of parking charges, making an already expensive evening even more frustrating. I feel bad because I had built this place up so much to my family, and their first experience was disappointing. I know holiday crowds can be difficult, and I truly appreciate the staff members who remained courteous throughout the night, but management seriously underestimated the demand and the customer experience suffered because of it. I hope Fixins can address these issues because I'd like to remember the restaurant for its food and hospitality and not for spending two hours mostly waiting to be served. I had to take pics of my daughter with her head down on the table waiting on her food. Happy to share them privately.

    Photos
    Fun interior and on Friday they had a great DJ
    Fun interior and on Friday they had a great DJ
    Shrimp and grits
    Shrimp and grits
    Side salad

    See all

    Side salad
    Joyce

    Joyce

    4.2
    (694 reviews)
    8.7 mi
    Locally owned & operated
    Family-owned & operated

    Joyce is a new restaurant in Downtown Los Angeles and they have a really good happy hour…read more From the small plates I love the Maple roasted butternut squash. Crystal was amazing!!

    My friend and I discovered Joyce two years ago and we have been back for both brunch and dinner…read moreseveral times since. It never disappoints! I couldn't believe I'd never reviewed it before so I wanted to do so following another delicious brunch at Joyce today. From the moment we sat down, the service was impeccable. Our table never lacked for tea, water, coffee, etc. Foster took great care of us (and shout out to Nick who's also provided amazing service to us there). The Bloody Mary was the first thing to blow my mind. It was absolutely delicious and maybe my new favorite Bloody Mary in LA. It made me wish I'd Ubered. But I also had some wonderful hot, Earl Grey tea. I love how they present it to the table. We covered a lot of ground and no notes. We had the caviar with crème fraîche and truffle kettle chips, a seafood platter that , the fried green tomatoes - which I will order every time I'm there, and the Dungeness crab and rock shrimp Benedict. The dining room itself is beautiful--comfortable, stylish, and inviting. When you look around the room there, it feels like every table in there is celebrating something. In a city overflowing with brunch options, it's surprisingly rare to find a place where the food, service, atmosphere, and pacing all work together so seamlessly. It was one of those meals that reminds you why dining out can still feel special.

    Photos
    Joyce
    Crab Claw
    Crab Claw
    Joyce

    See all

    Holy Saints

    Holy Saints

    4.6
    (205 reviews)
    1.1 mi
    $$$

    LATE REVIEW…read more Finding little neighborhood gems when it comes to food has always been an exciting experience for me. Having family alongside makes the journey more special. We chose Holy Saints to announce our baby's gender with our parents and we had an amazing time during our intimate dinner here. The restaurant's ambiance was the perfect combination of homey and inviting. It is a smaller place and the number of tables are limited so I highly suggest making a reservation when dining here. During our dinner, it was a bit difficult to have a full blown conversation as the place was packed with guests when we came plus the loud background music that was playing the whole night. Service and food were nothing but amazing! Their menu is very limited. Maybe not everyone will appreciate that, but I think it is more intentional on what is being served to the table. Our highlight of the night was the Grandpa's Pan Roasted Duck Magret Au Poivre for sure. It was so tender on the inside and crispy on the outer edges! We never had a meal like that elsewhere and we will for sure be back just because of it.

    Great cozy, American small plates spot in Pasadena. Parking around is pretty simple with structures…read moreall around and pretty easy to make a reservation for a Saturday. Dishes tried: - Sourdough bread and bbq butter, solid for a bread dish, butter is definitely unique, reminded me of Lay's BBQ chips in a good way - Grandma's Risotto w/ prosciutto, okay for me? Prosciutto was a supplement here and needs it imo for that oomph, otherwise a fine risotto dish but would pass unless it speaks to you - Barnyard Bolognese - a bit underwhelming to start, just too one-note for me, but it eventually grew on me and would get it again if I wanted a rich pasta - Duck Magret Au Poivre - easily my favorite dish here and what I would come back for and recommend for people, tender duck with the right amount of fat and a great sauce. Fries are a bit thicker than I would like, but still enjoyed it. - Seasonal apple pie - more of a danish if I had to describe it to someone, but nice texture and more importantly, not too sweet!

    Photos
    Dining on the patio
    Dining on the patio
    Dad's Habanada Griddle Cakes
    Dad's Habanada Griddle Cakes
    Dad's Habanada Griddle Cakes

    See all

    Dad's Habanada Griddle Cakes

    Howlin' Ray's - southern - Updated June 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...