Despite being in Pasadena a lot these days and being extremely close to Howlin' Pasadena, I just never got around to actually visiting here. Well, the hot chicken craving finally hit and I finally decided to visit! Line on Sunday at 5 pm was 30 minutes, which was obviously no problem compared to the lines that we used to deal with back in Chinatown. As this was my first Howlin' dining experience since before the pandemic (although I have ordered a fair amount of takeout from Chinatown), I was very curious to see how everything was. Well, they moved all the entire Howlin' Crew over here, including people who I recognized from before and have named secret menu items. As expected, everyone was really friendly and they make you feel like you're the most important person in the place. Dining area was huge with plenty of seats! Still only one register unfortunately. And the most important thing that was missing...the counter seating so you can get that Sando handoff! Aside from that, it's still the same experience. Of course, the most important thing was the food. Ordered a medium heat Luis-style Sando, mild heat Mario-style fries, and a mild heat dark meat quarter bird. If you know anything about Howlin', you know they are the best at Nashville hot chicken! Imitated, but never duplicated! The Sando and the quarter bird was the same amazing quality as the Chinatown location. And this was my first chance to try the Mario-style fries fresh from the kitchen...they did not disappoint. Parking is alright. They have a parking lot with several spaces, but it's not super huge. Definitely got lucky on a spot. Very happy that I was finally able to try Howlin' Pasadena. Although it's not particularly diet-friendly, I'll make an exception for Howlin'. I'm happy that it's a lot more accessible than Chinatown, and will be coming here a lot more in the future. read more

See all

What else is there to say other than it's the best hot chicken sandwich in Los Angeles in my opinion. Got there around 6pm and the line was a bit around the building already, 40 minutes later I was having my order taken. Awesome staff, from the ordering, to the gentlemen who help's you reserve seating, the whole experience is top notch. Ordered a mild chicken sandwich, shake fries and a banana pudding. Everything was as delicious as I had remembered from the Chinatown branch. Chicken was crispy and juicy, fries were crispy as well as seasoned to perfection. The banana pudding was delicious as it wasn't overly sweet to my liking. Highly recommended, not sure how the lines are since it was my first time at the Pasadena location, but worth it in my opinion. read more

Howlin' Ray's - Mild chicken sando and shaken fries - Southern Near Me - Pasadena, California

Am a fan! Howlin Ray's is considered the BEST in LA for Nashville-style hot chicken. Am a sucker for anything "best of Los Angeles", and since they open up a new location in Pasadena, CA., it was time to pay a visit. The staff are efficient and organized at this Pasadena location. Don't be intimidated of the lines, it goes by pretty quickly. The vibe is fun and the staff engaging and informative. The food is worth the wait (I waited 45mins when it wasn't too busy). I had to try the spiciest level. I have a high tolerance for spicy foods so why not I thought. Their spiciest level is "Howlin": GHOST PEPPERS, HABANERO, CAROLINA REAPER, TRINIDAD SCORPION. Am pretty sure the Howlin level Sandwich can strip paint! Drinking water after only intensified the effects of the spiciness! ;D Never again! On the other hand, "the Country" (no spice) and "Medium level" are great! Fries are a must: high quality and they give you a lot for $5! For picky kids, you can request grilled cheese sandwich ( off the menu). Payment: CASH or CREDIT. Parking: Private lot or Street. read more

See all

Best chicken tenders and sandwich place! Large portions and great ambiance. The workers are nice and helped us find seats! Hope to be back

Wow, what a tasty and filling spicy chicken sandwich. They use a generous chicken breast but it is tender on the inside. The batter had really good flavor without being too much where it gets oily. The location in Pasadena is clean and bright. The parking can be tight since they get really busy. But all in all, a very good and hearty sandwich. The next time I will get the mild rub as the medium was a little too spicy for me. read more

I know this place has been raved by a lot of people so I had my expectations. Got to parking lot around 5:45pm, there's spots in the lot and street parking but was lucky enough to find a spot right away. The decorations were funny, red and white chickens everywhere. My kid loved seeing the cartoons. A line was already out the door, given the cashier isn't far from the entrance and you have to go up a few steps and if you need assistance there's a ramp you can use to get up. They had two staff helping take orders, if you ask for dine in, make sure you get on the waitlist with the other staff. If you take it to go, I suggest eating nearby or right away to get the best crispy experience. The wait for food does take a while, we waited roughly 30minute a but was seated 15min used earlier. Staff are very friendly and helpful, they tend to walk around checking on us if we need anything. Drinks are self serve unless you buy alcoholic beverages which you can buy on tap and a pitcher full. We ordered Sandos (country nonspicy and mild spicy). Fries no shake and with shake. And tenders country nonspicy with comeback sauce. Everything is Crispy and juicy, I came with my toddler who immediately took the top bun and ate from it. I had to wait for the tenders to cool a bit before I can give him some, it was steamy hot! I am not good with spicy food, shake fries were not so spicy so I can handle it. My toddler couldn't handle the shake fries but loved the tenders and fries. Comeback sauce was great, my only issue was it was very small and you had to pay 50cents for each container (which almost all places now charge the same). Although pretty expensive for 60$ (plus tip) I had a great first time with the food and the place! My friend treated me and my kid, so I was grateful she paid for everything. Restrooms are unisex and family/handicap accessible. My kid loved the disco lights inside the restroom. The images in the restrooms were funny, probably can't explain to my kid what they are but hilarious. read more

See all

Sooooo good and deliciously made with very kind and caring people the best chicken sandwich ever.The full look inside is very rebel with red and black decorations with chilly everywhere.It also has a beautiful outside seating area with a big bush that will cover you and music in the background.My experience was amazing with very kind and nice staff.I truly enjoyed and recommend HOWLIN'RAYS. This is my 9-year-old daughter's review, and I wholeheartedly agree 100% with her review ! Thank you staff for the overwhelming hospitality! read more

See all

The Best Fried Chicken in the Entire Universe Bar None! PERIOD! From the time U walk in to the Food and experience of Everyone that works there it's top Notch! read more

The line is always long but the chicken is worth it!! Some of the best fried chicken in the Los Angeles area! The line is forever-long and can be more than 2+ hours long. Admittedly the chicken is great but hard to justify that kind of wait. However if you're lucky enough to get in quickly you'll be welcomed with some of the crunchiest, juiciest, and hottest birds you ever enjoy. What's great is that you can also order waffles in Pasadena, which you can't get at the Chinatown location. There are a few tables. They also have a patio where you can enjoy the Pasadena warmth. The workers are very helpful and manage the table-wait very efficiently. Overall the service, chicken, and ambience are excellent! The wait is long but if you're in the area and the wait is around 45 minutes, give it a try! read more

Howlin' Ray's - How I feel waiting in line. - Southern Near Me - Pasadena, California

Howlin in China town is awesome. Always good. Unfortunately the pasadena location for me was subpar. We ordered chicken and waffles and they were totally mushy. It seemed like it was sitting for a while. I think Howling rays is great, but the line is insane. When I get the chance I head to Chinatown instead of Pasadena location. I gave the Chinatown location a 5/5 read more

We love howling ray's hot chicken. We used to go to the chinatown location everytime we visited my parents in Chinatown. Now we go to the pasadena location because it is closer to where we live. They have the best hot chicken. I think it is better than hattie b's in Atlanta and Dave's hot chicken around here. My husband and my mom usually get their sandos. I usually get their tenders and fries. read more

Probably the best spicy chicken sandwich in the country. Every single ingredient on this sandwich serves a purpose and delivers in both texture and taste. I don't usually like eating pickles at all but the pickles here taste amazing and together with the slaw and level of spicy in the chicken just makes everything work perfect. As someone who enjoys eating spicy food and can handle a good kick when I ordered the Medium spicy level I didn't really feel any heat. When I ordered the Hot spicy level it was toooo hot! I was sweating and had a hard time finishing it. Thankfully there's a Medium Plus spicy level (not shown in the menu) that just hits perfect. No matter what time you show up there will be a long line but it's worth the wait. If you show up to the line at 7pm when they close they will still let you order. Simply the best chicken sandwich I've ever had. read more

Howlin' Ray's - The Sando - Southern Near Me - Pasadena, California

Drove by seen a small line and busted a u. Been wanting to try for a while but the lines are always crazy. Best hot chicken sandwich in So Cal. I ordered The Sando and The Sando 2.0 two uniquely delicious sandwiches. Staff super friendly! Establishment very clean and organized. read more

Howlin Rays is amazing! On of the OG Chicken Sandwhich shops in Pasadena. The Staff is amazing! The food is fresh and taste. The checked sandwhich was so tender I was blown away. You can't go wrong, once you have their food you will be craving it again! 5 STARS all the way! read more

See all

GET YOUR LIFE TOGETHER AND TRY HOWLIN' RAY'S NOW!! All hot chicken sandwiches will forever be ruined after trying Howlin' Ray's. The chicken is perfectly seasoned and crispy yet juicy/tender and melts in your mouth. The Sando was absolutely phenomenal with sour from the slaw and sweet from the pickles. The ranch is a must; it was the best we've ever had with the perfect amount of fresh dill. The atmosphere is amazing and the staff are wonderful. Yuli was the sweetest and saved us from ordering something too spicy. She even brought over some super cool stickers for me to take home. Both Yuli and Javier provided excellent customer service and made us feel at home, checking on how our meal was often. The entire crew made it evident they were happy to be working there and the kitchen crew are clearly masters of their craft. P.S. Howlin' Ray's please come to Santa Clarita soon!! read more

Howlin' Ray's - Sandos!! The bread pudding and waffles are amazing too. - Southern Near Me - Pasadena, California

Everything you expect from the original location you'll get here. A+ Vibes, A++ Customer Service, & A+++ Chicken. With the added benefit of more seating. Simply Put: the greatest of all time... read more

See all

This meal was amazing. Definitely worth the long wait in the sun. I ordered the mild Sando and my boyfriend got the Luis sandwich. Both were impeccable. We also got a side of fries that tasted amazing. My only complaint was the music in the bathroom. It was so loud. Everyone needs to try once. read more

See all

The chicken is fine. The fries are good, and the sauces are excellent. The actual process of getting the food is awful, and I actively do not recommend Howlin' for this reason. Prices are very high when compared to their local competitor - Main Chick in Old Town. Yes, their food is slightly better, but not to the price and wait you have to go through to get this. The line is always around the block. the Food takes quite a bit of time to get ready, even after ordering. I'm talking at least 1 hour at times from arriving to actually eating. At this point it feels like this is a deliberate choice, a kind of exclusivity gimmick. Otherwise it is a fairly big failure to be open as long as they have been now and not accelerate the process at all. It's not worth the effort. I can get my food at Main Chick, which is almost the exact same, for cheaper and exponentially quicker. There I also don't have to listen to every 2k sports game's menu playlist circa 2013 to do it. It's loud, crowded, takes too much time for what is barely a step above fast food, and is pricey to boot. read more

Can't go wrong with their chicken sando! Super juicy and filling. Mild/medium is usually plenty of flavor and heat for me. Any more and my nose would be running from the heat. Love the hip vibe in there and the music is on point. Servers are all super friendly and helpful - I always feel very welcomed here! Tiny parking lot so you're better off parking on the street. read more

Howlin' Ray's - Chicken sando - Southern Near Me - Pasadena, California

Howlin' Rays always on point. Country Sando, side of Vinegar Slaw, and Banana Pudding.

I've wanted to go here for years. Sorry to say I'm not a fan. The seasoning is tasty but what a mess. Constantly having to wipe my face and fingers was not enjoyable. On the bright side, the Chinatown location moved pretty quickly. read more

This place keeps on being the top spot for Nashville hot chicken and doesn't look like that's going to change anytime soon, lines are still long and out the door. Good consistency is great and spot on, original Sando is my go to and never disappointed with medium heat. Grandsons favorite chicken sandwich spot.! Sad they got rid of the Mac and cheese though. read more

Howlin' Ray's - Sando - Southern Near Me - Pasadena, California

Not only was the food delicious, but the staff is super friendly and welcoming. There was a pretty long line to order but it moved pretty quickly. Definitely going back! read more

The service was excellent. I think when they said the chicken was the best in county, I had to try. I've had better but again I'm a serious chicken lover. The overall vibe and music was great as well. read more

I'm unsure where to begin with this review because of how fantastic our day was! My boys had a great time, not just with the food but also with the environment. The staff was just as amazing as the food. That's how you run a successful business! The team made us feel so welcome and genuinely happy--shoutout to Miles, the head chef, and Justin. In fact, all the staff were memorable. The food was phenomenal! The waffles were the best I've ever had (and I'm a picky eater) with banana pudding on the house. The chicken is incredibly juicy, perfectly cooked, and well-seasoned. It's not greasy at all! My family and I love exploring different eateries and restaurants as a bonding experience, and this place stands out. I felt inspired to write this review because of the incredible day we had together. This place has definitely made it into our top five favorites for future visits. Don't hesitate; just come and experience it for yourself--you won't regret it! Also, be sure to listen to the staff when they recommend the heat or spice level for the chicken. I prefer medium spicy, which may be considered spicy by others. Howlin Ray's, you should definitely consider giving your staff a well-deserved Howlin RAISE! read more

See all

My family and I love love Howlin' Rays. By that, I mean that it's basically religion for us. I will always stand by Howlin' Rays and hype it up to all of my friends. This was my first time going to the Pasadena location. It's not too large, so I can see how it would get difficult to find a table at times. We came around 6:30 (30 minutes before closing) on a Saturday night. They were very kind about helping us find tables (we ended up getting one while waiting for our food) and allowing us to stay in the dining room after closing hours. The inside of the store is very nicely decorated, but I can't say I was a huge fan of the music, which was hardcore club music that was kind of vibrating the room. The food... where do I begin with the food?! The chicken sandwiches are a Southern style chicken sandwich, they are so packed with flavor and the flavor balance is perfect. I could eat these sandwiches everyday... but unfortunately, it is a bit pricey for the sizing, so I would not be able to afford it The fries taste like normal cajun fries but they're so crispy. I've never had fries with a better texture and crunch. I wish I could have Howlin' Rays more often, but the hours are a bit difficult for me as a night owl and late riser Note that they are also closed on Monday-Tuesday! read more

Howlin' Ray's - Shake fries - Southern Near Me - Pasadena, California

See all

The food was amazing, and the service was even better! They even let me try a sample of their hot flavor and thank goodness I tried it because it was waayyy too hot for me. Definitely will be coming back soon ! read more

Finally have the opportunity to eat at their pasadena location and everything was amazing as always! The chicken is fried to perfection and fries seasoned just right. I truly believe there is not a better hot chicken sandwich spot out there. Everything was delicious, but i would prob skip out on their banana pudding since it was $7, small and i have tried better. The servers are always there to assist you around their busy floor and will happily help you reserve a table as you wait for your food. Can't wait to come back! read more

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

Howlin is decent but not worth the lines, parking, or wait to receive your order. I think there are better fried chicken places even in the surrounding area like Main Chick Hot Chicken on Union. read more

I knew Howlin Rays is famous but didn't expect there to be a line forming right at 11am when they open on a weekday! I arrived at 11:05 am and waited until 11:35am to order. I almost left the line because I didn't expect to wait in line to order & I had work to do! But I stayed in line and am glad I did. It was my first time checking out howlin rays-ever. When I went to the counter I boldly said "could I please get two chicken sandwiches-- one x-hot and another howlin?" The guy replied "is this your first time here?" I said yes lol. He was nice enough to give me a small sample of the hot spice level right then and there. He didn't even give me x-hot to try! I ate that sample, quickly switched my order to a medium and hot instead, all while sweating and tearing up from the spice. For me, hot spice level is definitely pushing it and medium is probably my spice level. If you can eat spicy food, maybe you can swing x-hot or howlin! So, my tip is to get there right as they open, go on a weekday, and expect to wait about 30 minutes. And, good service! Appreciated that I got to try out their spice level prior to purchasing! read more

Howlin' Ray's - Hot chicken sandwich - Southern Near Me - Pasadena, California

I'm blown away by the service at this place. Food is amazing. Ambiance is A one but the people working here are the biggest reasons why I will continue to return and bring friends along with me. I've been wanting to come in for some time now but have been reluctant to stop in because the line is usually wrapped around the building. When I saw the opportunity to drop in without the wait on a Thursday afternoon, I took advantage and made my way in. Walking in you're immediately met with eye contact and a warm welcome. The music was pumping through the speakers to set the vibe right (Just the perfect volume in my opinion, loud but not obnoxious loud, just righhht). The design is clean with some cool flare. Everyone working here looked like they enjoyed being there, not too common in most fast food spots from my experience. The guy taking my order was very charismatic and helpful with his knowledge of the menu. The line quickly built up after I ordered but there was someone there to help the cashier take more orders to expedite getting people taken care of. Although it was getting pretty busy, Everyone's orders seemed to be coming out in a timely manner. I got mine within about 7mins. The presentation of my food was on point. It looked just as good as I seen on all the IG pictures I have seen. The flavor was great. Kinda spicy for a medium which I didn't mind but if you're tolerance for spicy is low, you might want to consider the lower spice levels. All in all, this was one of the best executions on a product that I've seen. You can tell they take a lot of pride in the whole experience. I loved everything about my visit and will continue to rave to friends about this place. Thank you to the entire Howlin Rays team. You guys are awesome! read more

Howlin' Ray's - The Sando // extra pickles - Southern Near Me - Pasadena, California

My husband and I have been wanting Howlin' Ray's for awhile now and we were so glad that they had another location in Pasadena. We went at 10:50 AM on a Sunday and there was a short line already. We got in pretty quickly and ordered. We ordered two sandos, Mario style fries and the waffles for our daughter. Love that they have chicken and waffles on the weekend! I got the mild sando and it was still a bit spicy and my husband got the "hot" sando and he was feeling it. The chicken is crispy and was just as delicious and we remember. The Mario style fries were great! The super crispy fries with the pickles, slaw,, sauce and chicken pieces were tasty. The waffles were fluffy and our daughter really enjoyed it. It is a super fun spot for you to eat. The staff is super friendly and welcoming. One of the staff came by to check on us a few times and she brought stickers for our daughter. Music is playing and makes it really fun inside. Great brunch/lunch spot if you are in the area. read more

Howlin' Ray's - Sandos, waffles and Mario style fries - Southern Near Me - Pasadena, California

The best of the BEST! Food was amazing, service was incredible and they offer free unlimited sparkling water...you want to swing by during non-peak hours (i.e., 2-4 pm weekly) however, on the weekends you can expect a line outside and 5-10 min wait. Overall, ONE (1) of Pasadena's Gems. read more

Got to try the sando and half bird. I personally prefer their fried chicken over the sando. Even the fried chicken breast was super moist. Got mild for the half bird, and it really wasn't spicy at all, will definitely try medium next time. I almost got hot for the sando, but the server warned me against it which was a really great call because medium+ (spice level between medium and hot) was still really spicy! I would love to try their chicken and waffles next time. Ordering was really easy, staff were all super nice and welcoming, and the restaurant is really clean and cute. Went around 6pm and waited around 30 minutes to order + get my order. They have a parking lot but it gets full really fast. read more

My family go to spot when my son visit his family. It is a must go to spot. The staff is always timely and happy to serve. BEAUTIFUL SERVICE read more

I thought the food was awesome. A basket of fries is probably enough for two. I had the tenders (medium+ heat) and the rest had chicken & waffles and the chicken sandwich. We all agreed to dial the heat down next visit. Service was awesome and we were probably checked on at least three times while seated outside. Very nice. I had a crème soda which was delish! I sampled the waffles and they were darn good! Loved the fact we were able to eat outside. Definitely will be back despite living in San Pedro! read more

See all

In my opinion, Howlin' Ray's truly is the gold standard when it comes to hot chicken sandwiches in LA. I've been fortunate enough to visit their location in Chinatown as well as have their sandwiches at various beer events my friend threw. Each and every time I truly enjoy the food that I get from Howlin. The location in Pasadena is no different. The food here is amazing as usual and expected. This time I got the 'Luis' style sando which is basically the original chicken sandwich on sourdough bread. This was right up my alley, because I do love sourdough for sandwiches. The chicken was perfectly crispy with a nice outside crunch and juicy and tender in the middle. I always order mild because I'm already sweating at that level. I've had a medium once, and I could barely take that one. I really wanted to enjoy my food so mild is as hot as I can go, haha. Two Cher, we got some waffles and some fries. Everything here is pretty darn good. The service was great. The folks here are always friendly at both locations, and it was kind of drizzling outside so an employee came by and gave us umbrellas. The place itself had a nice chill vibe to it. Everybody was excited about the food and atmosphere felt like a kind an upscale fast casual place. Be warned, the line could be pretty long. I'm not exactly sure why it takes so long. My guess is that people aren't sure what they want so they take extra long to order. read more

See all

I finally got to visit the Pasadena location and I love it! They have their own parking lot, but it fills up quickly. There is plenty of street parking as well. The dining area inside and outside is pretty spacious. The service was great, everyone greets you upon walking in. The food is made fresh so it takes a while for the food to come out. I ordered the sando with medium spice and some fries. The Sando comes with coleslaw, pickles, and comeback sauce on a really soft bun. The fries are well seasoned and crunchy on the outside but soft in the inside (best way to have them). The chicken is so juicy, tender, and flavor full! Order a side of come back sauce with your fries to enjoy the full experience! I will be coming back to this location for sure. read more

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

Just arrived on this hot summer day! Ready for my mouth to burn with heat. Super excited to try this place, heard so many things about it! I am getting the sando extra hot, and trying the Mario Kart Fries! They have mist where the line is which really helps! It is packed and the workers are full of life I love it! read more

See all

We went there last Saturday and it was our second time at this location. We ordered a chicken sandwich, fries and a quarter chicken. When we picked up our order, the server asked if it was our first time there and I let him know it was our 2nd visit. I mentioned we got there at around 10:30 and waited for them to open. As we were eating our food, the server gave us an order of waffles to thanked us for the time we spent waiting for them to open. He also gave us some sauces because we forgot to order and the line got long after they opened. Amazing and attentive service. All the food was delicious! Don't forget to check out the disco (bathroom)! It's probably the nicest and cleanest restaurant bathroom I've ever been! :) read more

Howlin' Ray's - Waffles - Southern Near Me - Pasadena, California

See all