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The Original American Chicken
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
The Original American Chicken
7.6
A takeout-first chicken shop focused on grilled/rotisserie-style comfort: chicken with sides that scratch the “weeknight meal” itch without complication. The best path is the combo meal—pick your chicken, choose two sides, and treat it like a practical staple rather than a destination sit-down.
Must-Try Dishes:
Half grilled chicken combo, BBQ grilled wings meal, Rice & beans with plantains
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 7.2
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 7.7
Atmosphere: 6
Cultural Relevance: 7
What makes it special: Takeout-friendly grilled chicken plates with strong value and steady neighborhood demand.
Who should go: Families and no-fuss takeout planners
When to visit: Early dinner for the smoothest pickup
What to order: Half chicken combo, BBQ wings meal, rice & beans
Insider tip: Go combo-style with two sides—best value and balance.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; generally manageable earlier in the evening but can tighten after 6pm along 37th Ave.
Dress code: Very casual — jeans, sneakers, work clothes all standard.
Noise level: Low to moderate — mostly takeout traffic with short in-and-out interactions.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes during peak dinner hours, faster if ordering a standard combo.
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait; quick turnaround is the norm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited — mostly side dishes like rice, beans, salads, and fries.
Vegan options: Very limited — a few sides may qualify, but not a primary strength.
Gluten-free options: Some grilled chicken and sides can work, but cross-contact is possible; confirm when ordering.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a traditional sit-down date — it’s best framed as a casual takeout stop or quick shared meal rather than a linger-and-talk experience.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but seating is limited and secondary; most diners order to-go or eat quickly without reservations.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — simple chicken plates, mild flavors, and fast service make it easy for kids, especially for takeout family meals.
Best For
Better for: Reliable grilled chicken combos with strong value and minimal decision-making — a practical alternative to fried fast food.
Skip if: You’re looking for polished dining, vegetarian-forward meals, or a place to linger; other sit-down American spots will suit those needs better.
The Original American Chicken
7.5
A long‑standing Jackson Heights spot known for charcoal‑grilled chicken, BBQ ribs and classic sides with generous portions at wallet‑friendly prices. Casual counter‑service and quick takeout make it a neighborhood staple, though consistency and service can vary.
Must-Try Dishes:
Whole Charcoal Grilled Chicken, BBQ Beef Ribs, Buffalo Wings
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 6.8
Consistency: 7.2
Food Quality: 7.5
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 7
What makes it special: Charcoal‑grilled chicken and ribs at everyday prices
Who should go: Budget diners and quick BBQ seekers
When to visit: Lunch or early dinner, casual takeout
What to order: Whole chicken, BBQ ribs, buffalo wings
Insider tip: Order early for freshest grilled chicken
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available, but can be limited during peak hours. Expect to find a spot nearby, though it may take a few minutes.
Dress code: Casual – no need for anything fancy, jeans and a t-shirt are perfect.
Noise level: Moderate – conversation is easy to have, though it can get a bit louder during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 30-45 minutes without a reservation, especially on busy weekends.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically, especially during mid-day hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited – there are a few sides that can be enjoyed, but not a dedicated vegetarian menu.
Vegan options: Limited – a few options like salad and sides are available, but not a full vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes – some items are gluten-free, and staff can assist with making gluten-free choices.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It’s a casual, no-frills spot perfect for a laid-back meal. If you’re looking for something a little more intimate, you might want to consider a more quiet setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, though you might experience a wait during peak hours. If you’re visiting for lunch or early dinner, it's usually fine to walk in.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes – the relaxed atmosphere and generous portions make it a great option for families with children.
Best For
Better for: The Original American Chicken excels in offering affordable, hearty BBQ meals quickly, making it ideal for budget diners and those craving a casual takeout experience.
Skip if: If you're looking for high-end BBQ or a more refined dining experience, this may not be the right choice. Consider alternatives if you're seeking more consistent service or ambiance.