Surprisingly fair value and tasted good too! We got the chicken with egg, bacon, and miso butter and the sandwich was actually pretty big with a huge piece of chicken. Picking up my order after ordering online was very easy (they have a separate window). There's a section where you can serve yourself different sauces (try the pineapple mustard!) and they go really well with the food. I would definitely recommend trying this place out if you're in the area! read more

Holy Moly Sweet Baby Jeeezus!!!! I was losing sleep at night, tossing and turning and so unsettled by my last visit and review of this place I had to come back today. OMG I'm so glad I did because these guys outdid themselves!!!! Vindication never tasted so good. I opted for one of my usual orders of the Firebird Sandwich with a large fries and fountain drink. Wow, wow, wow... I would give this 47 stars out of 5 if I could. Pure awesome!!!! Thank you for bringing back the awesome to lunch. I promise to stay in my ordering lane moving forward however the table next to me ordered the fried chicken and I almost grabbed a breast as it went by... (the chicken, not the server's of course). read more

The Crack Shack - Old School Firebird... You just can't beat perfection - New American Near Me - Encinitas, California

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Came here for a sit down lunch on a weekday afternoon by myself. The staff at the front were friendly and patient while I figured out my order. I decided on a sandwich meal and a cocktail and grabbed a table while I waited. The interior (?) is nice and spacious, and I enjoyed sitting out on a nice afternoon. There's lots of tvs too that kept me occupied while I waited for my order. Drink: Delicious. I can't remember which cocktail it was to be honest but I remember liking it. Fries: Also delicious. Seasoned but not overly so, and a LOT considering how big the sandwich is. Sandwich: This is where I think I got the wrong thing. Practically speaking it was good, but I realized I didn't like the spices used to make it "spicy". I also think the flavor of the chicken overwhelmed the other flavors that I was hoping to taste (cool ranch, crispy onions, pickles). I'd probably try something on the milder side next time. I placed an order to go for the fam on my way out and that came out quickly which was great. I'd return, there spicy chicken may just not be for me. read more

The Crack Shack - Firebird Sandwich - New American Near Me - Encinitas, California

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This place is family and dog friendly. It is loud because on a Saturday night families are out and enjoying themselves. The staff are nice. The food, no good. Literally just left my whole burger and my loaded fries on the table. The fried spicy chicken sandwich squirted my entire face with grease from the smallest bite. With a mouth fool of grease I just wanted to vomit. I decided to try to pull it apart to taste the actual meat after I gathered myself, not an ounce of salt or any other seasoning. The hot sauce that is on it taste like gas. It's literally the worst spicy sandwich I have ever had. The same could be said about the French fries. There was not seasoning too it. Just ingredients thrown in top of French fries some soaked in grease. My husband had some sort of melt and said he'd give it a 4.5. Edible but do not recommend. We ordered the most popular items btw according to the host. We are from out of town and tried the local business instead of chain foods but it just was a miss. People were kind even as we were leaving but the bus person didn't even ask why we were leaving half the food on the table basically untouched. read more

The Crack Shack - Fire bird sandwich and don asada fries - New American Near Me - Encinitas, California

Best gluten fried chicken ever! Crispy,, moist inside, good flavor. Appreciated the guy at the register being up front that it would take 20-30 min since freshly made. It was so worth the wait! The kids were served first and loved their huge cookies! Friendly staff. Came at lunch time on a Tuesday - plenty of seating and those who didn't order fried chicken got their meals pretty quickly. Definitely returning for that GF fried chicken !! read more

I am from LA. Came down for a short visit to San Diego. While driving I saw this place was packed, looked online for menu. At first I was scared as I never like chicken meat in restaurants, it always taste so bad and sticky as I prefer fresh poultry. My partner was hungry so thought to try. My my my so good and fresh, the fact of food is it's not spoiled rotten or doesn't have any foul smell. It's fresh crunchy juicy with pickles and fried onions sooooo Yummmmm! Though the place was full It was quick didn't wait more than 5-10 minutes. Service was 10 on 10. Love it! I wish you have more locations here in LA too. And definitely recommend this place and will be back soon! read more

The Crack Shack - Fire Firebird Sandwich - New American Near Me - Encinitas, California

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Went into The Crack Shack to grab lunch to go in between jobs. Ordered a sandwich and fries. I was waiting quite awhile for my order, I had seen a lot of food going out but mine was not ready for some reason. I realize mistakes happen so I asked a worker if my order is getting close. There were a man and woman both working on getting my food to me asap as they seemed to be aware of my wait time being excessive. They both apologized sincerely and within a few minutes I finally had my food. The manager was getting ready to hand me some money back for making me wait. I let him know that is not necessary, mistakes happen in the restaurant business and he did not need to refund any money. I wish more workers in all forms of retail would treat customers like they matter. Like these fine employees did with me. I really did not mind the wait for my food once I saw how kind and helpful they were and the generous offer of a partial refund. Anyway I did get my food. I must say the sandwich and fries were excellent. Much to my surprise the workers put a couple do delicious cookies in my bag so I was treated to a yummy dessert for my lunch and I even had one for after my dinner later on. I wish I had gotten their names. It was a handsome young man and a beautiful young lady. I just want them to know how much I appreciated their kindness. It had been years since I had been to the Crack Shack but I will be back again thanks to the wonderful customer service and delicious food read more

One of our favorite go-to places. Senior Croque and fries is usually my order. Always cooked perfectly. The employees are great! Quick service. Genuinely nice and happy people! Creates a wonderful ambiance. Super chill. Sometimes we'll watch the Padres game there and it's always a wonderful atmosphere. read more

We'd never had Crack Shack before. The young man taking our order was awesome at helping us out. Gave us honest feedback about the spice level and options to have the sauce on the side. We ordered the firebird sandwich and the little pecker combo. It was all amazing! It was spicy but tasty. There was a smoky note to the favor. It doesn't taste like buffalo sauce like I'd assume. read more

Oh my goodness, this place rocks. The fried chicken is incredible, the chicken sandwiches are divine. And plenty of beer and cocktails to choose from. I wish I had a Crack Shack nearer to my home! read more

Got food poisoning from this place, first time too never coming back. Watch out how ya'll read more

The Crack Shack - New American Near Me - Encinitas, California

You literally order outside and are presented a number. When I return and have a small party I will skip that and sit at the bar. There you can order and get "normal" service. The restaurant is large and bright with an indoor/outdoor feel and potential. The food is good. We ordered the whole bird 4/5 (perfectly cooked and nicely spiced just not the best I have ever eaten) and fries 4.5/5 (order large they are addictive). The beer selection is solid. Wine by glass or bottle in each main variety. Craft cocktails. read more

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If you love fried chicken sandwiches, this place is a must! The menu has a variety of sandwiches to choose from. Their sauces are also plentiful. You've got to try them all! There is plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. The outdoor seating definitely gives off a San Diego coastal vibe! Easy parking also compared to the Little Italy location. Staff is friendly. You order at the front and they will bring you your order once it's ready. I'll definitely be back! read more

The Crack Shack - New American Near Me - Encinitas, California

My first time here, a very trendy and funky looking restaurant . You order as you enter and are greated by a very pleasant cashier. I ordered the coop sandwich. I like the breast meat. I also ordered a drink and fries. The sandwich was huge. A very large piece of fried chicken, well seasoned with coleslaw and Anaheim chilis on it. I am a big fan of fries. The order was plentiful and very tasty. They had a condiment bar with a verity of different dressings to use for dipping. While the meal seemed a bit pricy, it was well worth it. read more

Thank you Yelpers, for finding us a great lunch place in a part of town that I don't normally go to. Just based on the rating, we picked Crack Shack for a large group of 15, and everyone was happy! The line leading up the cashier might seem long, but the inside is all seating for guests and has a ton of space. And the food arrived pretty quickly! I got the Coop Deville, fries and a drink and everything was delicious. What I really loved, though, was 2 things that I wish every restaurant would do. 1. There is a sink OUTSIDE the bathrooms, if you just want to wash your hands. This is so smart! 2. Every table has self-service paper napkins. Need more to wipe your fingers or mouth? No problem. Did your kid spill ketchup on his shirt? No problem! Such a smart way to keep customers happy and not waste the time of restaurant staff. Run, do not walk, to this place for lunch or dinner! read more

We have dined here many times over the past few years. The food is consistently tasty. The señor croque is a favorite among our family. The power bowl is a great healthier choice. The schmaltz fries are quite delicious. Topping off the meal with a chocolate chip cookie is key. They have tasty dipping sauces and the ambience is decent with outside seating and a fire pit. Service is adequate. read more

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The food was amazing. They have great chicken and the cole slaw was amazing. The atmosphere was amazing and to top it off, dogs are welcome. read more

The Crack Shack - New American Near Me - Encinitas, California

Great chicken, big variety of chicken sandwiches, good variety of beers and alcoholic drinks as well as soft drinks. Friendly service from everyone we encountered. Family friendly. A rare restaurant that is dog friendly! Prices are moderate. This is a place you will love! read more

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WOW the firebird is incredible. It is so flavor-packed, the chicken is super tender and juicy with the perfect fried dough ratio, and the bread is delicious. I love it with the pineapple mustard too. The service was super friendly. There was a little bit of a wait in line, but there is plenty of seating inside at the bar area and many table options. This is a cool place to eat at. The decor is very unique and there is also a giant tv to watch sports. I liked that there were sinks in the middle of the eating area so you didn't have to crowd the bathroom to wash your hands after destroying a chicken sandwich. read more

The Crack Shack - Firebird Sandwich - New American Near Me - Encinitas, California

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Nice little spot right off the freeway. The atmosphere is very lively and has a fire pit outside when you wanna eat outside at night.

The food here is amazing! Service is quick if you order outside but you can also go to the bar and order. Inside the restaurant has a kind of patio feeling and always fun. read more

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Went to another Crack Shack in San Diego years ago and we were back in San Diego and came here after the beach. I don't throw around my 5 stars lightly but this place is one of them. Just so so good! Everything on the menu too.. read more

Very spacious and clean location. They have a large shared parking lot across from In-N-Out. Plenty of large tables inside and outside with a fire pit installed table to the side as well. They do have a bathroom and to get there from the inside, you will have to go to the far left and out the building. You won't need any keys to enter and they have multiple stalls inside. Their food tastes the same as the other locations and of course their must-try sauce station is great with any of their orders. I like how they separated the sauce and toppings for the Mexican Poutine for my to-go order. Made it easier for me to heat up the fries in the air fryer and the sauces in the microwave. Staff were friendly and the inside was kept clean. The open door set up made it really nice with the calm breeze. Would be a good location for small and/or big party. read more

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The Crack Shack - Encinitas isn't just serving chicken--it's serving culinary euphoria. The Firebird sandwich? A masterpiece. The breading was seasoned like a chef's secret handshake, and the chicken inside was so juicy and tender it practically melted. That onion brioche bun? Moist, flavorful, and structurally heroic--it held everything together like it was born for the job. Then came the coleslaw revelation. When a staff member says, "I don't even like coleslaw, but ours is great," and you believe them--and they're right? That's next-level persuasion backed by serious flavor. You'll be ruined for all other slaws. And let's talk about that sauce bar. Pineapple mustard, Sriracha 1000 island, homemade ranch--each one a bold flavor detour worth taking. You didn't just taste them, you experienced them. The vibe? Immaculate. Between the laid-back energy and the full bar, it's the kind of place that makes you want to clock out and chill with a cold beer every single day. This isn't just a chicken joint. It's a sanctuary for the taste buds. read more

Horrible disgusting. Food was raw. Staff didn't care. Was ignored. Will never ever go there again and will discourage anyone I know from going as well. Witnessed no hand washing to boot. UPDATE: Spoke to the manager Fitz. He was kind, understanding and concerned he refunded our visit and said he was disappointed in the way we were treated. He will address the staff. Hopefully some training and in service training will work. read more

The Crack Shack - Raw disgusting chicken - New American Near Me - Encinitas, California

Ordered for pickup. Decided to go for one Señor Croque, one Firebird, and one large order of Shack Fries. This was my first time trying the famous Crack Shack and was really happy with the size of the items we ordered. Both sandwiches were very big and stuffed and the fries order was very large. Also picked up a few of their to go sauces with the pineapple mustard and the sriracha mayo being the highlights. The sandwiches were both really tasty even though extremely heavy and greasy; let's just say it didn't at all feel like a light and healthy meal, but I know that's not the point. The fries were really good, especially when paired with the sauces; only thing is that they were over salted. Overall I enjoyed my first experience and will give it another try for hangover or drunk food when I crave something heavy and greasy. read more

The Crack Shack - New American Near Me - Encinitas, California

I associate Crack Shack w Richard Blais from Top Chef, which is pretty cool. It's high quality food inspired by Southern charm. Definitely have some rustic industrial features inside that's trendy for Insta-worthy selfies and group photos. It's located right off Encinitas Blvd, has plenty of parking, a full kitchen, bar, dining, and a play area for kids. You have to order and pay up front before taking a seat and there was a bit of a line when we got there around 2 pm Sunday. Definitely elevated compared to other fast foods such as Popeyes or KFC, but elevated comes w an elevated price. We ordered organic and gluten free fried chicken which is doused w quinoa instead of their alternative oil and batter. The half bird consists of 5 chicken parts. To me, the fries are the best way part - crunchy and flavorful. We also ordered tenders and fries as well for my brother in law. They offer a 10% military discount, which is always nice. My only con is that we ordered a full bird (10 chicken) but only received a half order. We called and they refunded that part of the order. read more

The Crack Shack - New American Near Me - Encinitas, California

All-American Chick Señor Croque Half Bird **Mexican Poutine** Schmaltz Fries TVs everywhere for NFL Sunday Sink next to bar to wash hands - HUGE GAME CHANGER Quick service Kid/Dog-Friendly Hey Crack Shack Manager - if I gave you a one-star rating, can I be included in your wallpaper? :P In all seriousness, loved everything about this place :) read more

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I just came in here to grab lunch and it is a very cool place. Very casual, family, sports good beer type place. Service! Atmosphere!! Food! read more

Husband purchased food through Uber eats and the chicken was uncooked fully. Will not be purchasing again. Update: I emailed to the crack shack and no response was given but hope staff will be mindful in the future so no one will have food poisoning. read more

The Crack Shack - Uncooked chicken - New American Near Me - Encinitas, California

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I can't believe I've not reviewed this one. It's a wonderful outpost of the original down in little Italy, and since we now live in north county, we are so grateful to have this one nearby. It's often cheaper to walk up and order to go than order pickup on your phone. They are dog friendly up here too which I appreciate! read more

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Meaty, saucy, crispy, and loaded chicken sandwiches that will blow your clucking mind. Located in a moderately sized and busy mall, The Crack Shack definitely sets the vibe. With outdoor seating, games, and self serve sauce stations, it's very family friendly and inviting to people and dogs of all ages. Soak in sunny San Diego and have a meal to remember. Their menu is quite simple consisting of chicken sandwiches and fried chicken. We ordered a few of the sandwiches to share and a few nuggets to taste and we were beyond full. Each sandwich is filling but the tangy sauces keep you wanting more. And before you know it, you've overeaten and need a nap. At the sauce station, you'll be able to get a helping of ketchup, pineapple mustard, sriracha thousand island, Baja hot sauce, or ranch. Out of all the sauces, the pineapple mustard was by far my favorite. It just went well with everything! The prices can be a bit steep but these aren't your typical chicken sandwiches. They're loaded and made well with great tasting ingredients. The chicken nuggets (non-spicy) were $1.50 a piece and aside from just trying them, it may be a bit too pricey for normal meals. Coop deville - the typical combination of ingredients you'd expect from a classic chicken sandwich but executed phenomenally. Senor croque - this dense sandwich has a hint of sweetness and keeps your mouth watering for the next bite. Pollo soprano - chicken loaded up in a sandwich roll; this one was a big one! Mini cluckers (nuggets) - crispy and pretty meaty. Great finger food for the kids but a bit pricy. Good for dipping sauces! Mini biscuits - these were really tasty and fluffy. Went well with the butter that came with them but also great for dipping that extra sauce from the sandwiches. The staff members taking and fulfilling the orders were great at communicating expectations and making our first time experience a good one. The food was packaged neatly and maintained a delicious temperature. Overall, if you're a fan of fried chicken and chicken sandwiches, you'll be a fan of The Crack Shack. This location was pretty easy to get to but they also have one near downtown San Diego. If you have kiddos or dogs, let them roam near the giant chicken outside while you indulge. The Crack Shack will have you coming back! read more

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As a regular at the Little Italy location, I decided to venture out to the North County spot to mix things up--and I'm so glad I did! This location is impressively spacious, with plenty of room to relax and enjoy your meal. The mix of indoor and outdoor seating options is perfect, no matter the weather or vibe you're going for. The staff was super friendly and welcoming, and I was impressed by the variety of tap options available--something for everyone! The food came out quickly and piping hot, which is always a plus. If you're a fan of The Crack Shack like I am, this location is definitely worth the trip. Great food, great service, and a great atmosphere. I'll definitely be back! read more

The Crack Shack - New American Near Me - Encinitas, California

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I hate to leave a review like this since this has been one of my go to spots. But moving away and coming back to less flavor, chicken that is dry, and portions that have shrunk is very disappointing. Jidori chicken is known for its juiciness, but when you pound it so thin that a butter knife is thicker, then you are left with a dry chicken tender. (See attached photo) On top of that the breading tasted like they added no seasoning to it. And to add insult to injury they no longer provide your favorite sauce options... you will have to pay extra for that. read more

The Crack Shack - Chicken tender - New American Near Me - Encinitas, California

Genuinely the worst experiences I've ever had at a restaurant. That being said, the staff were incredibly courteous. I felt bad for them as they were stretched thin working to manage so many customers. The food was fine. Decent but not the best I've ever had. Sprinting, screaming children of all ages absolutely filled the place the whole time. No break. I was run into / touched (full body contact) by no less than 5 or 6 older kids. Children were sprinting and screaming inside and out, climbing on furniture, running through the parking lot and back into the restaurant, even into the street and back. Children were climbing INTO trash cans, banging on furniture, breaking things, spilling soda everywhere. I work with kids and enjoy family friendly establishments often. This was absolute hell and there was simply no one available working to stop it. Upper management/owners should get a handle on this immediately or risk losing more of their customer base. I truly can't understate how awful it was, there was genuinely nowhere to go to escape it so we left early and took the rest of the food to go. Won't be back, obviously. I feel really bad for the staff working in these conditions. read more

The environment is really odd here. There were kids running around everywhere- climbing INTO trash cans, running into people, throwing trash, running into the street from the patio, etc. And this all went on the whole hour i was there and not a single staff member said anything. It was just weird bc I don't mind some kids playing but this was genuinely crazy behavior and good management would just politely ask the parents to get their kids calm. Plus the food was mediocre. read more

First time eating here. Let me start with the positive points because the staff is friendly, they have a lot of seating areas fitting large groups. It's a bit cold in there but there's outdoor seating. The negatives are the tables are not maintained clean. They served me raw chicken. Very scary experience for me. The food doesn't taste as good as it looks. When I went to show them the raw chicken they didn't have a way to handle it and wanted me to come up with that. They gave me chicken nuggets/strips and a cookie in exchange. That was nice of them. Bummed at the experience and won't be going to any location. read more

The Crack Shack - raw - New American Near Me - Encinitas, California

This location was how i discovered crack shack! We originally went here because my husband was looking for a different gluten-free option, & these people had gluten-free fried chicken and that is pretty rare! I thought his chicken looked really juicy, but I noticed they had regular chicken and mini biscuits with miso-maple butter. I was ready to try it!! I ended up going to the other location in Costa Mesa, which is closer to me and I've been several times because it is so delicious!! The service is fast and the chicken is so crispy and juicy excellent quality. I love their mini biscuits!! I came with my mom recently, and she got a sandwich which she really enjoyed. I like their original cocktail options even tho i dont personally drink, but they always look fun. Lots of seating & a fun outdoor atmosphere. I love that their bathroom is covered in their negative reviews. If you're in the area, I highly recommend read more

Had to give their Flaky Clucker a try. A limited-time collab with Relic Bakery. Too bad the croissant roll didn't taste fresh though the flavors are there. Still glad to have given this place a try. Been meaning to for the longest time. read more

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I stopped at the Crack Shack during a drive down from LA after about five hours in Friday traffic. I ordered the Wok Bok Bowl, some fries, and grabbed a Baja Chop Salad to go for later--perfection. Some greens after a week away from home-cooked food, and some fried chicken for comfort as a break from the rough drive. I sat outside in the sun and soaked it up. Kids were playing, and there was plenty of space for them to run around. As I got up to leave, I was stung by a bee. I had recently been cautioned--due to new allergies--to watch out for insect bites, so I was in pain, frazzled, and unsure of what to do. Nick, the general manager, kindly offered to look for something in the back that might help. He brought sting swabs and other supplies from the first aid kit and even came out to my car to help me get something from my suitcase to remove the stinger. He went above and beyond to help, all during a busy time at the restaurant. I'd like to express my sincere gratitude for the care and attention--it made a big difference in a stressful moment. read more