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Rice Chicken
Master Critic Review
Rice Chicken
8.4
Koreatown's only fully gluten-free Korean fried chicken spot uses rice flour batter for lighter, crispier wings without sacrificing flavor. The mom-and-pop operation opened recently and has quickly built a loyal following for wings that deliver serious crunch even in takeout form, with soy garlic and honey garlic flavors leading the menu alongside creative sandwiches and rice bowls.
Must-Try Dishes:
Soy Garlic Wings, Honey Garlic Wings, Crispy Chicken Wrap
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Only gluten-free Korean fried chicken in Koreatown using rice flour
Who should go: Health-conscious diners and gluten-free chicken wing lovers
When to visit: Lunch combo special weekdays offers best value
What to order: 10-piece soy garlic wings, kimchi fried rice, tornado potato
Insider tip: Closed Wednesdays; order ahead as everything is made fresh
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only - metered spots on 6th St, residential side streets free after 6pm. Small lot behind building often full.
Dress code: Casual - athletic wear and streetwear welcome, counter-service spot
Noise level: Low to moderate - K-pop playlist but small space keeps it conversational
Weekend wait: 15-25 min for fresh-fried orders, shorter if pre-ordered
Weekday lunch: 10-15 min typical, combo specials move fast
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - tofu wings, veggie rice bowls, and several vegetable sides
Vegan options: Limited - plain fries and rice available, most sauces contain dairy/honey
Gluten-free options: 100% gluten-free kitchen - everything safe including soy sauce
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual 2nd-3rd dates. Counter-service and limited seating make it low-pressure but not romantic. Great if you both love wings and want a no-fuss vibe.
Can I get a table without a reservation? No reservations taken - it's counter-service with 6-8 small tables. Weekday lunch and early dinner (4-5pm) you'll find seats easily. Friday-Saturday after 6pm expect to take out.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for ages 5+ - plain fried chicken available, not too spicy. High chairs unavailable but counter height works for boosters. Gets cramped with strollers during peak times.
How spicy are the wings? Soy garlic and honey garlic are mild. Spicy options range from 'medium kick' to 'very hot' - they'll warn you and let you sample sauces before committing to a 10-piece.
Do the wings travel well for takeout? Exceptionally well - rice flour stays crispy 20-30 min longer than wheat batter. They pack sauces separately so you control coating. Best takeout wings in Koreatown.
Best For
Better for: Gluten-free diners who've given up on crispy fried chicken, quick lunch that doesn't feel like fast food, takeout wings that stay crunchy, budget-conscious meals under $15
Skip if: You want tableside service or date-night ambiance, need alcohol with wings (no liquor license), want traditional Korean fried chicken with beer, prefer bone-in only (they do half boneless), visiting Wednesday (closed)