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Discover the Best Fried Chicken in Austin

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by The OpenTable Team
Updated January 24, 2020

Today Austin stands out as the culinary capital of Texas. But looking back to the city's early days, settlers relied on prairie hunting and farming to feed their families. That all changed with the arrival of the railroad which brought in exotic foods from Asia and everywhere in between. Even as their cuisine diversifies, Southern cities still excel at soul food. While Tex-Mex, breakfast tacos, pecan pies and barbecue might define the fare of the city, the fried chicken remains a Southern delicacy. This makes finding the best fried chicken in Austin a delicious way to spend an afternoon. So where are the most experienced diners eating out? Welcome to the Tastemaker 20. We’ve gathered data from OpenTable’s culinary connoisseurs to pinpoint where to find the best fried chicken in Austin. Check out these hotspots and book a table today!

June's All Day
4.8 (1095)
$30 and under
Contemporary American
South Austin
With a menu that pays tribute to NYC hipster wine bars, Parisian cafes and Spanish tapas bars, June's All Day provides Austinites with a dining experience they can’t find anywhere else. Guests are first greeted with tile floors, stools at the bar, quirky lighting and an old-school jukebox – all indicative of a vintage café. They’ll occasionally have a DJ onsite or the big game playing, but this never detracts from the overall ambiance. Menu favorites include steak tartare, smoked salmon salad, charbroiled burgers and some of the best fried chicken in Austin served on a bun with kohlrabi ranch slaw and hot sauce.
Top review
Jessica
Dined 6 days ago
Tables are too small and AC leaked on us. It’s a great place but those can be fixed.
With a menu that pays tribute to NYC hipster wine bars, Parisian cafes and Spanish tapas bars, June's All Day provides Austinites with a dining experience they can’t find anywhere else. Guests are first greeted with tile floors, stools at the bar, quirky lighting and an old-school jukebox – all indicative of a vintage café. They’ll occasionally have a DJ onsite or the big game playing, but this never detracts from the overall ambiance. Menu favorites include steak tartare, smoked salmon salad, charbroiled burgers and some of the best fried chicken in Austin served on a bun with kohlrabi ranch slaw and hot sauce.
Top review
Jessica
Dined 6 days ago
Tables are too small and AC leaked on us. It’s a great place but those can be fixed.
Foreign & Domestic - Austin
4.8 (2119)
$31 to $50
Contemporary American
Central Austin
Using foreign techniques to prepare domestic cuisine creates an exceptional flavor, and that's the main goal of Foreign & Domestic. The eatery offers a massive wine selection to go with their dishes, and popular menu items include steak tartare, seared lamb heart, Parisian gnocchi and duck fat fingerlings. Those fiending for the best fried chicken in Austin, though, will need to show up for brunch. This is the only time the fried chicken biscuit – complete with sunny side egg and red eye gravy – is available to guests. Anyone who gets lost trying to find the eatery can just look for the 10-foot flying pig painted on the exterior wall.
Top review
CharlieVIP
Dined on May 21, 2025
It was a fantastic culinary experience. It’s too good to be a best kept secret.
Using foreign techniques to prepare domestic cuisine creates an exceptional flavor, and that's the main goal of Foreign & Domestic. The eatery offers a massive wine selection to go with their dishes, and popular menu items include steak tartare, seared lamb heart, Parisian gnocchi and duck fat fingerlings. Those fiending for the best fried chicken in Austin, though, will need to show up for brunch. This is the only time the fried chicken biscuit – complete with sunny side egg and red eye gravy – is available to guests. Anyone who gets lost trying to find the eatery can just look for the 10-foot flying pig painted on the exterior wall.
Top review
CharlieVIP
Dined on May 21, 2025
It was a fantastic culinary experience. It’s too good to be a best kept secret.
Uchiko Austin
4.8 (6080)
$50 and over
Sushi
Central Austin
One might not anticipate finding some of the best fried chicken in Austin at a Japanese restaurant, but Uchiko manages to buck this expectation. Their karaage is a marinated chicken complete with cucumber and seasonal pickles, but visitors can also enjoy short rib, branzino, onion ring tempura and an impressive variety of sushi. For a chance to experience the cuisine while having a blast, patrons should come during the Sake Social. Regardless of the time, though, the wicker lamps, artsy chandeliers, massive mural of vegetables and unique layout provide a relaxing ambiance.
Top review
Lisa
Dined 6 days ago
Uchiko is AMAZING every time-food, service & ambiance. One of my most favorite places to dine, ever. Brought a foodie-friend who was visiting Austin and he was blown away!
One might not anticipate finding some of the best fried chicken in Austin at a Japanese restaurant, but Uchiko manages to buck this expectation. Their karaage is a marinated chicken complete with cucumber and seasonal pickles, but visitors can also enjoy short rib, branzino, onion ring tempura and an impressive variety of sushi. For a chance to experience the cuisine while having a blast, patrons should come during the Sake Social. Regardless of the time, though, the wicker lamps, artsy chandeliers, massive mural of vegetables and unique layout provide a relaxing ambiance.
Top review
Lisa
Dined 6 days ago
Uchiko is AMAZING every time-food, service & ambiance. One of my most favorite places to dine, ever. Brought a foodie-friend who was visiting Austin and he was blown away!
The Salty Sow
4.8 (4120)
$30 and under
Gastro Pub
East Austin
Poaching, braising and other old-world cooking methods are combined with newer techniques to create modern farmhouse cuisine at The Salty Sow. They're intent on keeping the old ways alive, and this is why the eatery is housed in the former general store of iconic jazz pianist Robert Shaw. This focus can also be seen through rustic décor – such as antique silverware chandeliers – and barnyard art. While the name may be focused on pork, the crisp chicken thighs are among the best fried chicken in Austin. Guests should try the candied pork belly and duck breast as well.
Top review
Claire
Dined 5 days ago
Great food and made the birthday girl feel very special for her big day
Poaching, braising and other old-world cooking methods are combined with newer techniques to create modern farmhouse cuisine at The Salty Sow. They're intent on keeping the old ways alive, and this is why the eatery is housed in the former general store of iconic jazz pianist Robert Shaw. This focus can also be seen through rustic décor – such as antique silverware chandeliers – and barnyard art. While the name may be focused on pork, the crisp chicken thighs are among the best fried chicken in Austin. Guests should try the candied pork belly and duck breast as well.
Top review
Claire
Dined 5 days ago
Great food and made the birthday girl feel very special for her big day
Fixe
4.8 (3173)
$31 to $50
Southern
Downtown
Anyone who has called the South ‘home’ knows how warm and welcoming Sunday dinner can be, and Fixe provides its guests with this feeling every day of the week. One step inside transports patrons straight to the countryside. Platters and mirrors line the walls, and antique doors and windows round out the rural appeal. This is a terrific way to enjoy the best fried chicken in Austin – which comes with kale, green apple and spicy honey. Other progressive twists on Southern classics include the lobster & crawfish pot pie, duck breast, Antebellum grits and dry aged ribeye.
Top review
CamileVIP
Dined 5 days ago
Beautiful decor, but food was just okay. Catfish was flavorless.
Anyone who has called the South ‘home’ knows how warm and welcoming Sunday dinner can be, and Fixe provides its guests with this feeling every day of the week. One step inside transports patrons straight to the countryside. Platters and mirrors line the walls, and antique doors and windows round out the rural appeal. This is a terrific way to enjoy the best fried chicken in Austin – which comes with kale, green apple and spicy honey. Other progressive twists on Southern classics include the lobster & crawfish pot pie, duck breast, Antebellum grits and dry aged ribeye.
Top review
CamileVIP
Dined 5 days ago
Beautiful decor, but food was just okay. Catfish was flavorless.
Colleen's Kitchen
4.7 (1020)
$30 and under
Southern
Central Austin
The exterior of Colleen’s Kitchen gives off a contemporary big-city vibe, but once inside, guests are treated to a taste of Southern inspiration. Country lighting, vintage photos, simple seating, rustic décor and plenty of natural light define the ambiance. They also have a couple options for the best fried chicken in Austin. The Little Biscuit comes with pickled mustard seed mayo, and for lunch or dinner, the fried chicken plate or Yardbird are both great options. Show up on Friday or Saturday to enjoy the tasting menu.
Top review
MelissaVIP
Dined on May 23, 2025
If you want the best biscuits, mashed potatoes, and everything southern and beyond, come to Colleen's Kitchen in Mueller!! The wait staff are extremely friendly, knowledgeable, and efficient. You'll want to keep coming back for more!
The exterior of Colleen’s Kitchen gives off a contemporary big-city vibe, but once inside, guests are treated to a taste of Southern inspiration. Country lighting, vintage photos, simple seating, rustic décor and plenty of natural light define the ambiance. They also have a couple options for the best fried chicken in Austin. The Little Biscuit comes with pickled mustard seed mayo, and for lunch or dinner, the fried chicken plate or Yardbird are both great options. Show up on Friday or Saturday to enjoy the tasting menu.
Top review
MelissaVIP
Dined on May 23, 2025
If you want the best biscuits, mashed potatoes, and everything southern and beyond, come to Colleen's Kitchen in Mueller!! The wait staff are extremely friendly, knowledgeable, and efficient. You'll want to keep coming back for more!
Ranch 616
4.6 (1599)
$31 to $50
Southwest
Downtown
For a real South Texas Icehouse experience, Austinites head over to the Civic District for Ranch 616. The large snake logo and huge metal archway covering the outdoor seating area are easily identifiable, and once inside, everything defies expectations. The décor is incredibly diverse. It includes everything from bison trophy mounts to 1950’s diner ornamentation. Mexican folk art and cowboy kitsch are also sprinkled throughout, and the menu is similarly diverse. While they don't have the best fried chicken in Austin, they do have chicken fried quail and tenderloin. These are both delicious alternatives to typical poultry offerings.
Top review
Harkawal
Dined 1 day ago
Great cocktails with all fresh ingredients. Which unfortunately is not available at most of the places. Great service. Food was not good not the best place to dine.
For a real South Texas Icehouse experience, Austinites head over to the Civic District for Ranch 616. The large snake logo and huge metal archway covering the outdoor seating area are easily identifiable, and once inside, everything defies expectations. The décor is incredibly diverse. It includes everything from bison trophy mounts to 1950’s diner ornamentation. Mexican folk art and cowboy kitsch are also sprinkled throughout, and the menu is similarly diverse. While they don't have the best fried chicken in Austin, they do have chicken fried quail and tenderloin. These are both delicious alternatives to typical poultry offerings.
Top review
Harkawal
Dined 1 day ago
Great cocktails with all fresh ingredients. Which unfortunately is not available at most of the places. Great service. Food was not good not the best place to dine.
Stella San Jac
4.3 (1604)
$31 to $50
Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service
Downtown
Few restaurants are as quintessentially Austin as Stella San Jac. Located in Downtown Austin, this popular eatery offers a contemporary atmosphere that demands to be photographed and shared on Instagram. Modern lighting structures, an unequalled ceiling design, vibrant artwork and constant celebrations define the interior. Guests can even bring their canine pals on National Dog Day! The chicken & waffle offering comes equipped with bourbon maple syrup and country gravy. For patrons seeking something new, the lobster mac and cheese, prawn and foie gras pad Thai, BLT salad and Stella Burger are perfect options.
Top review
Cara
Dined 6 days ago
The cod was wonderful! We had the biscuits with honey butter, crab cake eggs Benedict, and chicken and waffles. Everyone was so attentive and welcoming! A great spot to eat and relax!
Few restaurants are as quintessentially Austin as Stella San Jac. Located in Downtown Austin, this popular eatery offers a contemporary atmosphere that demands to be photographed and shared on Instagram. Modern lighting structures, an unequalled ceiling design, vibrant artwork and constant celebrations define the interior. Guests can even bring their canine pals on National Dog Day! The chicken & waffle offering comes equipped with bourbon maple syrup and country gravy. For patrons seeking something new, the lobster mac and cheese, prawn and foie gras pad Thai, BLT salad and Stella Burger are perfect options.
Top review
Cara
Dined 6 days ago
The cod was wonderful! We had the biscuits with honey butter, crab cake eggs Benedict, and chicken and waffles. Everyone was so attentive and welcoming! A great spot to eat and relax!
Geraldine’s
4.6 (2406)
$30 and under
Unspecified
Downtown
Taking in the view of Downtown Austin's skyline and Lady Bird Lake are just a small part of Geraldine's appeal. Their rooftop lounge is also a popular attraction. After all, the private cabanas easily defeat the Texas sun. Toss in the nightly live music, elegant chandeliers and interior reminiscent of an opera house, and this is truly an exciting dining experience. They also cook up a chicken sandwich – complete with red chili chow chow and jalapeno mayo – that easily qualifies as some of the best fried chicken in Austin. Repeat visitors should eventually try out the crispy fish tacos, pork carnitas sandwich and farro grain bowl for a change of pace.
Top review
WilliamVIP
Dined 7 days ago
Great first time experience. Good food and drinks and the music was excellent
Taking in the view of Downtown Austin's skyline and Lady Bird Lake are just a small part of Geraldine's appeal. Their rooftop lounge is also a popular attraction. After all, the private cabanas easily defeat the Texas sun. Toss in the nightly live music, elegant chandeliers and interior reminiscent of an opera house, and this is truly an exciting dining experience. They also cook up a chicken sandwich – complete with red chili chow chow and jalapeno mayo – that easily qualifies as some of the best fried chicken in Austin. Repeat visitors should eventually try out the crispy fish tacos, pork carnitas sandwich and farro grain bowl for a change of pace.
Top review
WilliamVIP
Dined 7 days ago
Great first time experience. Good food and drinks and the music was excellent
The Peached Tortilla
4.8 (1958)
$30 and under
Asian
Central Austin
Austin locals may remember The Peached Tortilla when it was nothing more than a single food truck. Since that time, it’s evolved into one of the most popular brick-and-mortar restaurants in the city. They've never forgotten how they got their start, so the sliders and famous tacos from the street truck remain on the menu. In addition, they now also offer pork belly buns, Dan Dan noodles and a variety of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. And while the Crispy Umami Wings may not meet the traditional criteria of ‘best wings in Austin,’ they certainly leave guests comfortably satisfied.
Top review
LindaVIP
Dined on May 19, 2025
Amazing collaboration with Mind Da. Excellent food and drinks. Great experience.
Austin locals may remember The Peached Tortilla when it was nothing more than a single food truck. Since that time, it’s evolved into one of the most popular brick-and-mortar restaurants in the city. They've never forgotten how they got their start, so the sliders and famous tacos from the street truck remain on the menu. In addition, they now also offer pork belly buns, Dan Dan noodles and a variety of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. And while the Crispy Umami Wings may not meet the traditional criteria of ‘best wings in Austin,’ they certainly leave guests comfortably satisfied.
Top review
LindaVIP
Dined on May 19, 2025
Amazing collaboration with Mind Da. Excellent food and drinks. Great experience.
Fulton
4.3 (205)
$30 and under
American
Austin
Few places in Austin offer the diversity that Revue has on their menu. Traditional Italian classics, Asian delicacies, a variety of seafood and tasty offerings from the pastry shop ensure there’s a little something for everyone. They focus on sustainability by utilizing locally grown ingredients, and this progressive attitude continues through creating a shareable and communal experience. Neon lighting, beautiful indoor trees and a hip bar area establish fun surroundings. The Korean wings are an interesting take on the best fried chicken in Austin, but the Angus burger, oysters, artisanal cheese board and salmon poke are worth mentioning as well.
Top review
CKseesit
Dined on Jan 1, 2021
I had the waffles they were good..but not very hot. However it was a busy time so I understand.
Few places in Austin offer the diversity that Revue has on their menu. Traditional Italian classics, Asian delicacies, a variety of seafood and tasty offerings from the pastry shop ensure there’s a little something for everyone. They focus on sustainability by utilizing locally grown ingredients, and this progressive attitude continues through creating a shareable and communal experience. Neon lighting, beautiful indoor trees and a hip bar area establish fun surroundings. The Korean wings are an interesting take on the best fried chicken in Austin, but the Angus burger, oysters, artisanal cheese board and salmon poke are worth mentioning as well.
Top review
CKseesit
Dined on Jan 1, 2021
I had the waffles they were good..but not very hot. However it was a busy time so I understand.
Culinary Dropout - Austin
4.5 (2458)
$30 and under
American
Northwest
Giving a long-deserved nod to those on the fringe of society, Culinary Dropout shows that not all greatness comes equipped with a suit and tie. The mural featuring celebrity 'bad boys' in their mugshots reminds guests that the tatted-up cooks in the open kitchen are just as valid as everyone else. For those who feel a little hyped up after this reminder, there are plenty of backyard games in the outdoor area. Guests should make sure to not get overly excited, however, and miss out on the spicy vegan curry, rainbow trout, bistro steak or buttermilk biscuits served with some of the best fried chicken in Austin.
Top review
RonaldVIP
Dined 2 days ago
Food was good. Drinks were good. Service was good. No complaints.
Giving a long-deserved nod to those on the fringe of society, Culinary Dropout shows that not all greatness comes equipped with a suit and tie. The mural featuring celebrity 'bad boys' in their mugshots reminds guests that the tatted-up cooks in the open kitchen are just as valid as everyone else. For those who feel a little hyped up after this reminder, there are plenty of backyard games in the outdoor area. Guests should make sure to not get overly excited, however, and miss out on the spicy vegan curry, rainbow trout, bistro steak or buttermilk biscuits served with some of the best fried chicken in Austin.
Top review
RonaldVIP
Dined 2 days ago
Food was good. Drinks were good. Service was good. No complaints.
Eberly
4.7 (1891)
$31 to $50
American
Bouldin Creek
Anyone who missed the opportunity to visit New York City's historic Cedar Tavern Bar need only visit Eberly Restaurant. While the NYC landmark may have closed in 2006, it was brought to Eberly in 2016. This centerpiece meshes well with the rustic and industrial touches throughout the eatery. Fortunately for foodies, the menu is equally as impressive. While the fried chicken sandwich doesn't come with three pieces and mashed potatoes, it's still some of the best fried chicken in Austin. The grilled octopus, bison tartare, stone fruit salad and spicy pomodoro do well at rounding out this impressive menu.
Top review
Eden
Dined 3 days ago
The food was AMAZING. Ordered rosemary lemonade, the half chicken, and creme brulee for myself and wouldn't do anything different upon going again. It was all so delicious. Our server was very sweet. When I had originally ordered my drink, they didn't have the grenadine for what I wanted. The server made the suggestion of the rosemary lemonade I ended up with and I loved it so much!! On top of that, the atmosphere was lovely, and the restaurant was absolutely beautiful. The date went very well too. :)
Anyone who missed the opportunity to visit New York City's historic Cedar Tavern Bar need only visit Eberly Restaurant. While the NYC landmark may have closed in 2006, it was brought to Eberly in 2016. This centerpiece meshes well with the rustic and industrial touches throughout the eatery. Fortunately for foodies, the menu is equally as impressive. While the fried chicken sandwich doesn't come with three pieces and mashed potatoes, it's still some of the best fried chicken in Austin. The grilled octopus, bison tartare, stone fruit salad and spicy pomodoro do well at rounding out this impressive menu.
Top review
Eden
Dined 3 days ago
The food was AMAZING. Ordered rosemary lemonade, the half chicken, and creme brulee for myself and wouldn't do anything different upon going again. It was all so delicious. Our server was very sweet. When I had originally ordered my drink, they didn't have the grenadine for what I wanted. The server made the suggestion of the rosemary lemonade I ended up with and I loved it so much!! On top of that, the atmosphere was lovely, and the restaurant was absolutely beautiful. The date went very well too. :)
Doc B's Restaurant - Austin
4.8 (1102)
$30 and under
American
North Central
While Doc B’s might not be exclusive to Austin, this is only because its popularity couldn’t be contained to a single region. Their craft beer, spirits and wine selection help tell the tale of why the eatery is so widely loved, but locally, offering arguably the best fried chicken in Austin certainly plays a role as well. The crispy chicken sandwich and boneless 'hot' chicken are just a few of the fried poultry options. They also offer a variety of pizzas, salads and specialty burgers. Each Doc B's has its own personality, and in Austin, this means an expansive bar, plenty of televisions and remarkable music-centered art.
Top review
Natasha
Dined on May 12, 2025
Food and service were both excellent! Always a great experience dining here!
While Doc B’s might not be exclusive to Austin, this is only because its popularity couldn’t be contained to a single region. Their craft beer, spirits and wine selection help tell the tale of why the eatery is so widely loved, but locally, offering arguably the best fried chicken in Austin certainly plays a role as well. The crispy chicken sandwich and boneless 'hot' chicken are just a few of the fried poultry options. They also offer a variety of pizzas, salads and specialty burgers. Each Doc B's has its own personality, and in Austin, this means an expansive bar, plenty of televisions and remarkable music-centered art.
Top review
Natasha
Dined on May 12, 2025
Food and service were both excellent! Always a great experience dining here!
Paul Martin's - Austin
4.5 (2364)
$31 to $50
American
North Central
Anyone walking around the Domain Northside is likely to catch a whiff of perfection. This is thanks to Paul Martin's and their insistence on using live fire to mesquite grill their guests' favorite offerings. These include juicy burgers, braised short rib, blackened ribeye and more. Of course, they also offer up some of the best fried chicken in Austin – complete with a hot honey dipping sauce. Watching television while enjoying these options and the expansive wine list is an option, but patrons should also stop to admire the rural art, outdoor old-fashioned string lighting and overall pastoral appeal of this awesome restaurant.
Top review
PatriciaVIP
Dined on May 11, 2025
This was the best artichoke dip ever!! Great food, service, and the ambiance was very clean!
Anyone walking around the Domain Northside is likely to catch a whiff of perfection. This is thanks to Paul Martin's and their insistence on using live fire to mesquite grill their guests' favorite offerings. These include juicy burgers, braised short rib, blackened ribeye and more. Of course, they also offer up some of the best fried chicken in Austin – complete with a hot honey dipping sauce. Watching television while enjoying these options and the expansive wine list is an option, but patrons should also stop to admire the rural art, outdoor old-fashioned string lighting and overall pastoral appeal of this awesome restaurant.
Top review
PatriciaVIP
Dined on May 11, 2025
This was the best artichoke dip ever!! Great food, service, and the ambiance was very clean!

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