Howlin' Ray's

4.8 (1.3k reviews)

ModerateSouthern, Chicken Shop, Sandwiches

Closed • 11:00 am - 7:00 pm

Updated 2 weeks ago

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Howlin' Ray's - Wings with mild spice - Southern Near Me - Pasadena, California

Howlin' Ray's - Interior seating - Southern Near Me - Pasadena, California

Howlin' Ray's - The Sando @dangit.all - Southern Near Me - Pasadena, California

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Howlin' Ray's - The Sando with mild plus hot chicken - Southern Near Me - Pasadena, California

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Andrew A.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!!

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.

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!

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.

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...

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Mark V.

3 years ago

Service was the best . Great people working there. But it took me almost a hour from the time I was in line till I had my chicken. If I'm on lunch that will not work. That need to find a faster way to get food out the door for take out . read more

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Kat L.

3 years ago

My family decided to try Howlin' Ray's on a random day and we were pleasantly surprised. Juicy chicken and great customer service is all you're gonna get here! Their fries are crispy and well seasoned. The staff is so kind and welcoming. The only thing we would suggest is some shade for line outside. Despite the uncomfortable wait, the food and customer service more than makes up for it! We definitely recommend! read more

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Charles G.

3 years ago

You can now get Howlin Rays by Postmates. It's not call in yet but the food is so worth it!

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Geraldo M.

612

3 years ago

The website does not allow pickup orders. It forces you to order delivery through postmates. When you call in to place in order you are sent to a full voicemail inbox without ever speaking to a human being. I don't care how good the food is, I won't be visiting an establishment that refuses orders ahead of time. read more

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Daisy G.

2 years ago

best nashville hot chicken into the world. it's so juicy and flavorful! you won't regret it! it's a must try!

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Sean T.

247

3 years ago

Dont get the dark meat. This may sound surprising but the white meat is the way to go. I would go as far as recommending the chicken tenders over the dark meat. The waffles aren't something to write home about and the same for the comeback sauce. I have yet to try all the sides but have done all the cuts of meat. If you want to try the heat levels you can skip every other level too if you are trying to compare the flavor and heat level read more

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The New J.

3 years ago

Genuinely the best chicken sandwich I've ever had, I can't recommend it enough. The service and ambiance have also been fantastic every time, making standing in line worthwhile. read more

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Andy L.

3 years ago

Exceptional service! Exceptional food! Food is wonderful as always! Before I always order to go, this my first time dine-in. I was truly shocked by the quality of service! I was helped by 4-5 employees, everyone went above and beyond to make sure my dinning experience was great! They took the time to check in on me and asked how my days was and had conversation with me! I've been to different fancy steak houses, I can say Howlin's service is better than 90% of the fancy steak houses! The ambiance is very hip and music was great! Highly recommended! read more

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Eunice L.

3 years ago

Hands down the best chicken sandwich my husband and I have ever tried. Not to mention everyone is so friendly and welcoming there and they seem like they genuinely want to make sure you're enjoying the food. Just a note to customers who've never eaten here - don't underestimate their spice level! I usually loooove anything spicy so I didn't think their spicy would actually be VERY spicy but I think I'll be going for their mild flavor next time. You have been forewarned! read more

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Eric W.

3 years ago

Long line but the chicken sandwiches meet the hype

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Sylvia P.

3 years ago

We went to the botanical gardens today and after we went on yelp to find a restaurant in the area and it gave us this choice for dinner; my gosh we ordered chicken and waffles, the fries, vinegar slaw, the collard greens and the quarter chicken everything was so exquisite and tasty, the chicken was very juicy and tender. The staff was very helpful and kind, whenever we're in the area I'm coming to get some yummy chicken. read more

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Ana H.

226

3 years ago

The best of the best. Hands down! Best customer service, clean atmosphere, best hot chicken I've ever had. Can't wait to be back.

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Numan P.

3 years ago

Amazing food and even more amazing people the really helped my best-friend get in a better mood after her heart was torn out by for the most friendly and charismatic staff I've come across. read more

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Monse R.

3 years ago

It was our first time here & I would highly recommend! The food is great. We've tried the Sando, wings, and the Mario fries. Highly recommend the Mario fries. Customers service was amazing! All staff specially, Steven, we're friendly and outgoing. The restaurant is also clean with a nice patio outside. Overall it was a great food with a great experience and I would come back again. read more

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Leslie S.

3 years ago

Most Delicious chicken sandwiches and fries, one sandwich is more then enough to fill you up

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Lain H.

3 years ago

The wait is 45 min to move ten feet. I can understand there being a line and needing to wait. I can even understand it can get busy and x amount of chicken fits in the fryer. What I don't understand, unless you can only fit 5 pieces at a time and it takes 30 minutes to cook, is how the line only moves two feet every thirty minutes. Its mind boggling and ridiculously frustrating. I have stood in lines before and would have waited if there was an end in sight but there wasn't. It would have easily taken three hours and I don't know if my food would have been ready. I waited over roughly an hour and a half to move 10 feet, maybe 4 parties ahead of me. Was there a spurt if fulfilled orders at any point to move more two feet? Nope. You see people leave, people get food and your line does NOT move. It's absolutely ridiculous. There is something inefficient about the shop and also customers. How you can spend two hours in line and still not know what your going to order when you get to the front tells you more Of the decline of the state of the world read more

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Will C.

3 years ago

so good I downloaded yelp just to write a review. Hot chicken lives up to expectation. Hands down best customer service I've seen. Shout out Justin. read more

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Alex F.

3 years ago

Bring the old waffle recipe back. Lately they have been dry and crummy. I remember them being fluffy and yummy. Everything else is good though. read more

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Joey Covarrubias N.

100

3 years ago

Thank you Javier for your kindness today. We will be back because of your service at the register. Oh yea, and the food is delicious too. It left us howling for more. read more

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Conner M.

338

3 years ago

This place is a vibe. Staff is super friendly and accommodating. Playlist is on point. There's a lot of hot chicken restaurants in the area and this one definitely stands out amongst the rest. read more

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Eugene L.

3 years ago

Today me and the boys went in to try the howlin+ chicken tenders. We were greeted and shown amazing service. The sandos were the best hot chicken ive had so far. And 2/3 of us completed the challenege with no ice cream or milk. EZ AF read more

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G A.

3 years ago

Excellent food and excellent service. The chicken sandwich is spicy but you can also get it mild.

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Kiana A.

4 years ago

Love love love the food, ambience, & service from the amazing store owner, his wife & their crew!!

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Eugenio T.

3 years ago

Wow food was great the service was excellent the hospitality was by far the best personal service can't wait to come back

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Kelvin N.

3 years ago

Me and my friend came here to try their sandos, and they were spectacular. As a dare, we ordered some tenders howlin spicy, and to say the least, we were both in immense pain. The staff were so accommodating and nice, and they were constantly checking if we were not actually dying. You'll have to wait in line to order, but it's such a great experience in terms of food and service. read more

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Tyler B.

3 years ago

The customer service here is unparalleled to any other fast food establishment I have been to. I came here to celebrate my husband's birthday with about 15 people. Though we waited in line for an hour, the staff were so friendly and genuinely helpful in trying to get us seated. They even gifted my husband a desert and a "chicken birthday cake" (wings with fries topped with Mac & Cheese and greens). I am vegan, so I only ate the fries but WOW is the seasoning so good on those fries! We had a great time and would definitely come back! read more

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Michael M.

3 years ago

Was always the best hot chicken now even better experience with this new location, service and experience always Carrie's through from the original location read more

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Cindy C.

3 years ago

Everything from the food to the service is amazing. Came here to get a quick bite and was waiting outside for a cool minute and one of the workers came out and offered everyone complimentary umbrellas to have while waiting to order since it was sunny outside. Once I get to the register, the cashier was super nice and personable and even gave his recommendations on what to get which ended up being so good. I waited in the patio they had there and 3 people in total came by to make sure the area was clean and everyone was attended to. Each of the workers made sure I was good and talked to me as if we've been friends for a long time which made waiting go by faster since I was alone. I had a convo with one of the workers about how I'm not really a waffle person and fast forward, when they gave me my order, they included waffles so i can try it and they could change my mind. And let me tell you, as someone who doesn't like waffles...these were amazing!! I ordered the tenders and fries and everything was soooooo good! 100000/10 definitely coming back here again!(: read more

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Chris G.

4 years ago

At last their restaurant has opened..usual slow lines but food consistently great..now with beers!..and a shout out to the staff who are beyond friendly..very welcome addition read more

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Craig C.

3 years ago

Great service and awesome HOT chicken! Be prepared to wait but worth it at this chicken place that feels like Cheers!

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Walter D.

4 years ago

Best Chicken out there!!!! Worth the wait and the staff is tremendous!!! Just wish they were open later because when I need a fix this is my place. read more

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Joe Z.

2 years ago

ooh wee this place is dynamite!!!!! love the waffles and sandwich here. probably the best seasoned fries i have ever tried. a must visit in LA read more

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Erick S.

3 years ago

Best food crew in LA. Their new spot in Pasadena is perfect for what they do. They even threw in a free side of fries when I went last weekend. The chicken is worth the hype and the people there match the quality! read more

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Christian A.

3 years ago

Amazing food. best customer service the staff is really nice and cool. I recommend this place if you like good food and a great time. The place was really clean and well designed read more

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서영

3 years ago

It was so delicious! It was hard because the wait was long, but there was a reason. It's a regular reservation. Thank you for making delicious food! read more

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Joseph Z.

3 years ago

Wow. First time coming here for me and my girlfriend and I can say this was by far the best customer service I've ever experienced. Javier at the cashier took the time to take us out of the "pressured to hurry up and order" mode and bring us into a grounded and present mode and he conversated with us so genuinely that I almost forgot there was a one hour+ line right behind us LOL. He said he had a little treat for us for driving so far (from Pomona) and we ended up getting free beers! But wait, there's more! The restrooms have a DISCO BALL!! When we got our food, the guy put free wings in our order on the house!! I feel bad I didn't ask for his name but he was a stocky dude with a mustache. Appreciate him and all the awesome people here man, I literally can't tell if they mistook us for critics or what cause we got a VIP experience!! I'll remember this day forever lol. read more

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B R.

3 years ago

such great food and better service, the people are so nice and welcoming!! the food is delicious!!

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Drake Velasco ..

3 years ago

My man warned me that the hot wings were extremely hot. I thought my spice tolerance was high. I destroyed my work toilet all day. And frankly, Id do it again. The food was splendorous. Flavor yummy? Mhmmm. Fried in seed oils? No no no! Peanut oil! I can officially convince myself eating fried chicken aint that bad for me. Not only that, the homie gave me an extra sando ON THE HOUSE. Like fr? So spicy i cried. My friend took a bite of it, his was only one spice level lover, and he started coughing and i kid you not his nose bled. Delicious. When all was said and done, my guy asked me how the hot spice was and bro. I told him the truth. I STRUGGLED. The homie then proceeded to give me banana pudding FOR FREE. In fact, he gave me two. All in all, this place lives up to the hype. The long lines go super fast, the heat is real, and man my taste buds were doing a dance of joy cuz it was indeed tastiful. Will go again, will order hot. PS I drove to my nearby market and drank a quart of choco milk tho. Did not help make the next day any easier. read more

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Eunique H.

312

3 years ago

I'd been wanting to try Howlin' Ray's for a while but unfortunately couldn't get to it on the visits I'd made to LA. Fortunately, I live here now and to celebrate my first birthday and second week here, I made the trek. The wait isn't ideal but it wasn't bad and the line moved quick enough. The staff was incredible! They wished me a happy birthday, gave me a birthday sweet tea and all around made me feel welcome and appreciated. Braylon, Mario, Steven and another staff member all went out of their way to to make sure I was having a good time, great meal, and an enjoyable birthday. For someone who was celebrating alone, it meant the world. I loved the way it was decorated and enjoyed some fun free swag in the way of buttons and post cards. I liked the outdoor patio because I was able to get some fresh air. The parking lot is pretty tight but people are usually heading out. I had The Sando, Shake Fries and and grabbed some tenders to take to work the next day. The sandwich was so good. Nice and spicy, buttery bun, and filling. I couldn't finish it. Overall, it was a really wonderful experience and a great way to celebrate a new year. I'll definitely be back and look forward to bringing loved ones. read more

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reptile h.

3 years ago

i came here on my lunch break and was amazed by the quick turnaround time as well as the incredible service...have never been to the chinatown location because of the line, am so glad to have finally tried it. javier and mario were so efficient, friendly, incredible people to talk to !! am very impressed read more

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Page 33 of 34

800 South Arroyo Pkwy
Pasadena, CA 91105
Directions
(213) 935-8399
Call Now
Visit Website
https://howlinrays.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does Howlin' Ray's open?

Howlin' Ray's opens at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

What time does Howlin' Ray's close?

Howlin' Ray's is closed on Monday and Tuesday.Howlin' Ray's closes at 7:00 PM on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Mon-Tue ClosedWed-Sun 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Payment methods

Does Howlin' Ray's take credit cards?

Yes, Howlin' Ray's takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Howlin' Ray's have catering options?

Yes, Howlin' Ray's does have catering options.

Does Howlin' Ray's have a drive thru?

No, Howlin' Ray's does not have a drive thru.

Does Howlin' Ray's serve alcohol?

Yes, Howlin' Ray's serves alcohol. Beer & Wine Only

Indoor Amenities

Does Howlin' Ray's allow dogs?

Yes, Howlin' Ray's allows dogs.

Does Howlin' Ray's have TVs?

No, Howlin' Ray's does not have TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Howlin' Ray's have bike parking?

Yes, Howlin' Ray's has bike parking.

Does Howlin' Ray's have outdoor seating?

Yes, Howlin' Ray's has outdoor seating options.

Does Howlin' Ray's have parking?

Yes, Howlin' Ray's has parking options. Private Lot Parking

Other Amenities

Is Howlin' Ray's wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Howlin' Ray's is wheelchair accessible.

Does Howlin' Ray's have free WiFi?

Yes, Howlin' Ray's has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

Our Pasadena location has finally opened! Come join us in celebrating by enjoying our delicious Nashville Hot Chicken! We appreciate you! ━ "This Chinatown chicken specialist is the brick-and-mortar outpost of the beloved food truck of the same name. Howlin' Ray's counter-service joint serves up Nashville-style hot chicken sandwiches in five increasing levels of spiciness: mild, medium, hot, extra hot, and howlin' hot, the last of which is characterized by a slightly sweet but intense cayenne pepper burn that's unlike any spice mix you've tasted before. The howlin' hot chicken is almost too spicy to order on its own, which is where the rotating array of daily sides specials like bacon creamed corn and pimento macaroni salad, plus crinkly-cut fries, come in handy to cool your mouth down." - Thrillist

History

Established in 2015.

We are a husband and wife team with a serious passion for fried chicken. Chef Johnny, an LA native, has worked professionally under some of the best chefs in the world, including Thomas Keller, Gordon Ramsay and Nobu Matsuhisa. Amanda grew up with her grandparents in the heartland, growing, hunting, fishing, harvesting and preserving most of their food supply and spending summers in East Texas learning about southern soul and hospitality. In 2014, during a stage at Sean Brock's Husk in Nashville, a local chef introduced Johnny to Nashville Hot Chicken. It was instantaneous love. Johnny brought back tales of this hidden gem to LA along with a strong desire to return to Nashville...and so the Hot Chicken tour was born. In November 2015, we announced the final stop of our Hot Chicken truck. The doors opened to LA's first Hot Chicken shack in March 2016! You can find us in Chinatown's Far East Plaza and Pasadena!

Meet the Business Owner: Johnny Z.

Staging for Sean Brock at Husk in Nashville, Tennessee Chef Zone fell in love with hot chicken at Prince's and decided in 2014 to bring this special dish to Los Angeles!

More Info

Special Hours, Health Score

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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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Do you serve waffles everyday or just Saturday and Sunday?

Hi Jo-Ann! We have Waffles available Wednesday-Sunday!

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Is it halal chicken?

Hi Zab! Our Chicken is not certified halal, but it is hormone and antibiotic free, plus pasture raised!

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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!

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Do they have ketchup and ranch?

Hi! We offer Ketchup Packets and a house made Ranch called Tennessee Tang!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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!

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Hi! Do you guys have gift cards?

Yes they do.

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Hi are you taking pick up order?

Hi Cristina! We currently offer walk up and dine in at our Pasadena location!

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Hi, what oil do you use to fry (peanut, veg or?

Hi Sophie - we complete all of our frying in Highly Refined Peanut Oil!

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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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46 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Sharon B.

3 years ago

I am writing to bring to your attention an unfortunate incident that I witnessed at your Howlin Rays restaurant in Glendale a few weeks ago. After much contemplation, I decided to provide this feedback so that the owners or general manager could be made aware of the situation and take appropriate measures to address it. The incident in question occurred on a Sunday around 3:30 pm. I was seated nearby and observed a mother and her son taking a seat in front of me. To my surprise, a particularly rude customer approached them and demanded that they leave the table, citing the absence of an order number. The mother politely explained that her husband had gone to the restroom and was in the process of placing their order. It was baffling to witness such rudeness from the customer towards the mother, especially since the customer was right in front of her space. Subsequently, a customer service representative became involved, though I am unsure of the exact details. After approximately five minutes, one of your servers approached the family and asked for their seat number. Once again, the mother explained that her husband was still in the restroom and would be returning with their order shortly. To my astonishment, the server insisted that they vacate the table. I could not believe that the server would ask the mother to leave, especially considering there were no signs indicating that a table could not be occupied without an order number. I have been a frequent patron of your restaurant and have observed numerous instances where customers occupied their seats before receiving an order number, myself included. The argument persisted for approximately 10-15 minutes until the husband returned and engaged in a conversation with the server. Even during the husband's attempt to complete their order, the server continued to pester the mother to leave the table. This unprofessional behavior deeply disappointed me and caused me to reconsider whether I would continue to visit your establishment in the future. As a customer, I believe that good customer service is crucial to the overall dining experience. It is disheartening to witness such incidents, as they tarnish the reputation of an otherwise excellent establishment like Howlin Rays. I kindly request that you investigate this matter thoroughly and take appropriate action to ensure that incidents like these are not repeated. Training your staff to handle such situations with empathy, understanding, and professionalism will greatly contribute to improving the overall customer experience. read more

Swt E.

1 year ago

I don't understand the hype around Howlin' Ray's. This place is the epitome of overrated and overpriced hot chicken. The entire experience feels like a carefully crafted illusion to make you think you're waiting in line for something life-changing, but in reality, it's just mediocre chicken with a side of pretentiousness. First, let's talk about the absurd setup. The restaurant has one cashier taking orders at the front of the store, forcing customers to wait outside in a long line that spills into the middle of a busy parking lot. Is this a marketing tactic to make it seem like there's some insane demand for their food? Because it's not fooling anyone. The layout is inefficient and unnecessary, especially when there are so many better hot chicken spots out there now. Why wait in a line that feels like it's designed just to create hype when you can go to Dave's Hot Chicken, get your food immediately, and enjoy a meal that's just as good (if not better)? Now, the food. It's just... not worth the wait or the price. The chicken was dry, the seasoning was unbalanced, and the heat levels felt more like a gimmick than a well-thought-out flavor profile. The sides were forgettable, and the overall experience left me wondering why I wasted my time. Maybe back in pre-COVID times, when hot chicken wasn't as popular, Howlin' Ray's could get away with this, but now? There are so many better options out there. The whole vibe of this place feels like it's trying too hard to be something it's not. The long lines, the hype, the Instagram-worthy packaging--it's all smoke and mirrors. If you're looking for good hot chicken, skip the nonsense and go somewhere else. Howlin' Ray's is a disappointment, plain and simple. Save your time, money, and sanity. read more

Jak Leroy D.

Elite 26

126

214

334

2 years ago

My husband and I have been trying all the best eats in SoCal lately, and we saw that Howlin' Ray's has one of the top-rated fried chicken sandwiches in the country, so we decided to check it out. For starters, the line is always long. Prepare to wait at least an hour. It's worth it, though. Now, for the food. The menu is small and it's tailored around a Nashville-hot-chicken theme. It features classics, such as a fried chicken sandwich ("The Sando"), chicken and waffles, chicken tenders, and sides like collared greens and potato salad. My husband and I both had The Sando, and I have to say, it's hands-down the best fried chicken sandwich we've ever had in our entire lives. Definitely worth all the praise and accolades. We also really love the banana pudding that they offer for dessert. Now, let's talk heat. The menu offers five heat flavors - country, mild, medium, hot, extra hot, and howlin'. I'm a wuss, so I had my chicken sandwich country-style (no heat). It was delicious! My husband loves spicy food, and he can handle heat. With that said, he tapped out at their 'x-hot' level. He said he can't imagine how spicy their 'howlin' level is. For reference, their 'howlin' measures in at two-million Scoville units. One of the workers said 'medium' is their most popular flavor, and people are often surprised how hot the 'medium' flavor is. So, if you like spicy food, I suggest starting with 'medium'. Lastly, the workers. Wow. They are so awesome! So friendly. So helpful. So cool. We love chatting with them every time we're in there. We've been to Howlin' Ray's three times in the past two weeks, and I'm sure this will now be one of our regular spots. Love this place! read more

Alex N.

Elite 21

766

118

3 years ago

Wow, just wow! Howlin' Rays in Pasadena is an absolute must-visit spot for anyone who loves incredible fried chicken. My experience there was nothing short of amazing, despite waiting in the rain for two hours. And to top it off, they even supplied umbrellas for us! The wait was definitely worth it, as the food at Howlin' Rays is out of this world. The fried chicken was perfectly crispy and juicy, with just the right amount of spice. The sides were equally delicious, and I especially loved the mac and cheese and collard greens. But what really sets Howlin' Rays apart is the amazing customer service. Despite the long wait, the staff was friendly and accommodating, and even offered us free waffles as a thank you for waiting. It's clear that they truly care about their customers and want them to have a great experience. The atmosphere of Howlin' Rays is also fantastic. It has a fun, laid-back vibe that makes it a great spot to hang out with friends and family. Plus, the location in Pasadena is convenient and easy to get to. Overall, I can't recommend Howlin' Rays enough. Despite the long wait, the food, customer service, and atmosphere are all top-notch. If you're looking for incredible fried chicken in the Pasadena area, this is the place to go. Five stars, without a doubt! read more

Matthew C.

Elite 25

301

293

2 years ago

Howlin' Ray's is one of those spots that lives up to the hype. While the wait can be daunting (it was quite long during my visit), it's clear that many are willing to line up for good reason. The energy of the place is vibrant and bustling, with friendly staff who keep things moving while staying upbeat and engaging. I ordered the Chicken Sandwich, but it was quite a wait. The fried chicken was perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with just the right amount of heat to make it exciting without being overwhelming. The balance of the juicy chicken, flavorful sauce, and crunchy slaw, all nestled in a soft bun, made every bite memorable. They've clearly mastered the art of creating a sandwich that's both simple and packed with flavor. The service stood out as well. Despite the crowd, the team remained attentive and made an effort to ensure everyone felt taken care of. It's impressive to see that level of consistency with such high demand. The atmosphere is lively and a bit hectic, but it adds to the charm and excitement of the experience. It's definitely a spot where the focus is on the food, and rightly so. If you're patient enough to endure the wait, you'll be rewarded with one of the best chicken sandwiches in town. read more

Hannah L.

Elite 26

181

292

2 years ago

The food, prepared to order, showcased the standout feature - the unbeatable chicken sandwich from Howlin' Ray's. Having frequented this establishment numerous times, the medium spicy, OG sando, has consistently been a delight. Our main was accompanied by an order of crispy and fluffy shake fries, perfectly paired with a delightful combination of $weet honey mu$tard sauce and Tennessee tang, a ranch with a pronounced dill-forward character. The condiments were a standout, and a particular shout-out goes to the irresistibly tasty honey mustard - a definite must-try. Immersed in a charming atmosphere, our time at this here was truly worth the trip. The outdoor seating, adorned with heating lamps, provided a cozy atmosphere enhanced by the beats of lively trap music. The service, characterized by both speed and friendliness, contributed to the overall positive vibe. What elevates this dining experience is the attention to detail. From the on-tap offerings of flat and sparkling water to the availability of beer on tap for purchase. A visit here promises not just a flavorful culinary experience but also a well-thought-out and enjoyable overall dining experience. You will not be disappointed! read more

Sean P.

190

3 years ago

First time eating Howlin' Ray's today since 2019 and proud of these folks for having opened their second location! Just as I remember on my two previous visits, and Julian Mario Steven held my team of five up. Here are my thoughts: magnificent sumptuous grand impressive imposing superb spectacular resplendent opulent luxurious palatial deluxe rich fine lavish ornate gorgeous glorious dazzling elegant beautiful stately majestic regal noble proud plush swanky splendiferous swish swank brave splendacious splendorous magnolious palatian distinguished glittering illustrious remarkable outstanding exceptional celebrated renowned famous notable noted eminent lofty venerable exemplary excellent wonderful marvelous magnificent superb glorious sublime lovely delightful first-class first-rate super great amazing fantastic terrific tremendous phenomenal sensational incredible heavenly stellar gorgeous dreamy grand fabulous fab fantabulous awesome magic ace cool mind blowing far out A1 sound out of this world marvy spanking dope def phat brilliant brill smashing bosting peachy dandy neat badass boss radical rad boffo bully bitching bodacious beaut bonzer groovy read more

John A.

7 months ago

The food at Howlin' Ray's absolutely lives up to the hype, bold, perfectly balanced heat with insanely juicy chicken. But what truly elevated our experience was the exceptional customer service. My wife, our dog, and I were patiently waiting outside for a table, not realizing we were supposed to put our name down. Instead of letting us figure it out on our own, one of the incredibly kind staff members noticed us and proactively came over to help find us a table. That small gesture set the tone for the entire visit. From there on, the team was nothing short of phenomenal, attentive, welcoming, and almost telepathic in anticipating our needs. They consistently checked in to make sure we were comfortable and had everything we needed, all while being genuinely warm and accommodating to both us and our pup. Great food is expected here, but the level of hospitality made the experience unforgettable. It was worth the 1+hour drive from OC. We'll absolutely be back. read more

Aaron J.

166

130

2 years ago

I recently tried Howlin' Ray's, a hot chicken spot south of Old Town Pasadena, and let me tell you, it was a flavor-packed experience. The spices on the chicken were just right - not too overwhelming but enough to make your taste buds dance. Word of advice: don't go too hot unless you're ready for a fiery adventure you might regret. The fries were a crunchy delight, and while the coleslaw wasn't mind-blowing, it added a satisfying crunch. Whether you go for sliders or chicken strips, both options boast generous portions that won't leave you hungry. What impressed me beyond the delicious food was the exceptional customer service. Fast and friendly, the staff even gave me a sample when I mentioned it was my first visit. The camaraderie between employees added to the positive vibe, making it a great place to enjoy a meal. I'm definitely going back; Howlin' Ray's hot chicken is a must-try, and I wholeheartedly recommend it!Hot Chicken read more

Afzal S.

Elite 24

207

3 years ago

This is the GOAT Hot Chicken spot in LA , it's very rare when a restaurant lives up to the hype but it's even more rare when a restaurant exceeds the hype and that is what Howlin Rays does. Saying this sando is just great is offensive , this sandwich is GENERATIONAL..this sandwich is 2012 Lebron James ..it's just that elite. I have to get that sandwich at least once a month or I lose my sanity. I am so lucky they have this location near me and the line doesn't seem to get too crazy like it used to be back in the day. I would wait a long time for this sandwich it's worth it I mean why would you not ? It touches every flavor node you look for in a bite. It's spicy , which is obv variable , the bun is soft , the pickles and slaw are fresh , and is seasoned to perfection. And that sauce too ...Breh. If Howlin Rays had a Tinder I would swipe right and then create another account so I can swipe right again. read more

Brandon T.

Elite 23

575

145

3 years ago

Howling Rays is the ultimate destination for fried chicken lovers in Southern California. The restaurant serves up some of the most delicious and juicy fried chicken you'll ever taste. The spice level is on point, offering options for those who prefer a more mild flavor and for those who are brave enough to take on the heat. I don't recommend getting the maximum spicy level, because it will make you cry and you'll spend the next few days in pain (all from personal experience). However if you're daring and looking for a challenge, by all means! The staff at Howling Rays are some of the most friendly and welcoming people you'll ever meet. They truly care about their customers and go above and beyond to ensure everyone has an enjoyable experience. Overall, Howling Rays is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for top-notch fried chicken and great service. read more

Halli N.

11 months ago

The El Monte location of Howlin' Ray's serves the most exceptional spicy fried chicken experience in the area. The chicken delivered both crispy texture and juicy flavor while carrying an exceptional taste from their signature spice blend. The fries received perfect seasoning and the banana pudding provided a sweet and creamy conclusion that was worth every morsel. The staff provided exceptional service by being both friendly and attentive while also distributing umbrellas to customers on sunny days. The atmosphere at this place is energetic and entertaining with its fun music selection and its bathroom disco ball decoration. The food quality and service excellence make the potential wait time completely worthwhile. Anyone seeking strong and flavorful comfort food should definitely visit this place. read more

Novia E.

Elite 26

295

616

1513

3 years ago

The fried chicken was some of the best I've ever had - juicy and flavorful on the inside, with a perfectly crispy exterior. The sides were also top-notch, with highlights being the creamy mac and cheese and the tangy coleslaw. But the real standout at Howlin' Ray's was the service - every single employee I encountered was friendly, helpful, and seemed to truly enjoy their jobs. The atmosphere of the restaurant was lively and energetic, with a cool, laid-back vibe that made me feel right at home. Overall, my experience at Howlin' Ray's was truly exceptional and I can't wait to go back for more delicious meals in the future. I highly recommend checking this place out if you're in the Pasadena area and looking for some amazing fried chicken and warm, friendly service. read more

Shreyas B.

Elite 23

3 years ago

Howlin' Ray's in Pasadena serves up what is easily the best spicy fried chicken I've ever had. As someone who typically enjoys the highest spice levels in Indian, Thai, and ramen restaurants, I was blown away by the intensity of the "Hot" level here, which is still two notches below their highest setting ("Howlin") and three below the secret "Howlin+" level. This place truly takes its spice seriously, and it's not for the faint of heart. What really elevates the experience is the staff. They are incredibly friendly, personable, and it's evident they genuinely enjoy being a part of this establishment. I can't recommend Howlin' Ray's more highly. If you're a fan of spicy food and are in the Pasadena area, you absolutely must make a stop here. read more

Joe C.

702

600

5 months ago

Howlin Ray's in Pasadena lived up to the hype for me. It was my first time and the service immediately stood out. Everyone was friendly, welcoming, and helpful when it came to ordering. Even though it was busy, everything moved smoothly and the food came out fast. I got the chicken sandwich at medium heat and it was incredible. The chicken was juicy, crispy, and full of flavor. The spice level had a solid kick without overpowering the sandwich. Easily one of the best chicken sandwiches I have had. The sides like the fries and coleslaw were also solid and paired well with the sandwich. Overall the food was great and the service made the experience even better. This place is worth the wait and I would absolutely come back. read more

Camilla B.

3 years ago

Exceeded expectations! I've had a lot of fried chicken sandwiches and this one really stands out. I held off a while before tying this place, thinking the lines were crazy but I totally get the hype now. And the line moved faster than I expected. It's definitely worth it. Portions are huge. Chicken is juicy and flavorful, loved the sando with pickles and slaw. If you're nervous about heat - Mild is super gentle, barely spicy, just a warmth that builds. Next time I'll go for Medium for more heat. Mac salad is super good, big flavor. Crinkle fries seasoned and tasty. Good beers on tap. Staff is friendly and super helpful. 90s hip hop playing. Fun vibes all around. So glad they have a dine-in spot in Pasadena now. read more

Victoria C.

258

3 years ago

First time going to Howlin' in person. Arrived Sunday ~1pm. Wait was about 1-1.5 Hr in line. A booth opened up for seating right as we placed our order and was cleaned straight away, so we had no wait time for seating. Food wait was maybe ~10ish minutes. Javier at the cashier was 5 stars for service. Thank you for the peach tea! Mario at the mic was 5 stars as well. Two people checked on us during our meal (blanking on their names, sorry!) but also 5 star service. Food was great, of course. Easily the best chicken and waffles I've had (currently weekends only in Pas). The wait time is not fun, but the food is good. If you can deal with the wait, I'd say it's worth it. read more

Jenson H.

144

3 years ago

Enduring a 40-minute wait in line heightened our expectations, but unfortunately, the overall dining experience did not quite measure up. The food, with the exception of the medium-spicy Nashville hot chicken sandwich, proved to be mediocre and somewhat overhyped. While the sandwich offered a satisfying flavor, it still fell short of being exceptional. Considering the wait time, the overall experience left us with mixed feelings. Despite the mediocre offerings, there's a possibility of returning, but the lesson learned is that waiting in line might not be worth the anticipation for what the menu ultimately delivers. read more

Aquiles F.

3 years ago

Indulging in Howlin' Ray's Nashville hot chicken in Pasadena was an unforgettable experience. Despite the line, the food and service were beyond exceptional. The chicken and waffles were a perfect blend of crispy and fluffy, while the medium heat level added a delightful kick. The wings were equally impressive, cooked to juicy perfection with just the right amount of spice. The staff's efficiency was remarkable, ensuring a prompt dining experience despite the crowd. Don't miss out on this sizzling hot chicken haven that's more than worth every electrifying moment of anticipation. read more

Paul P.

1 year ago

Howlin' Rays Pasadena is always fire! The staff exudes great vibes, always friendly and energetic, making the wait enjoyable. The music selection is on point, so you barely notice how long you're in line. I went with the medium heat, which was flavorful but didn't have much heat if any, while the hot level is a significant jump up in heat! But if you're up for a challenge, it's totally worth it. Plus, the restroom is hands down one of the coolest in town - fancy and stylish! Overall, a fantastic experience that combines amazing food and fun atmosphere. Highly recommend! read more

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