Any insider tips for Hillstone?

No substitutions policy is strictly enforced

What should I order at Hillstone?

Ribs, chicken sandwich, spinach dip

When should I visit Hillstone?

Weekday lunch for quick service, less crowds

Who should go to Hillstone?

Families wanting guaranteed quality dining experience

Any insider tips for The Misfit Restaurant + Bar?

Half-price signature cocktails during extended happy hour

What should I order at The Misfit Restaurant + Bar?

Mac & cheese, signature cocktails, sea bass

Who should go to The Misfit Restaurant + Bar?

After-work crowds and cocktail enthusiasts

Any insider tips for Bruxie?

Order ahead on their app to skip the line

What should I order at Bruxie?

Super Cluck sandwich, tenders, waffle fries

When should I visit Bruxie?

Weekday afternoons to avoid crowds

Who should go to Bruxie?

Families and tourists exploring the Promenade

Any insider tips for Blue Plate Taco?

$10 parking at Shore Hotel with restaurant receipt

What should I order at Blue Plate Taco?

Baja fish tacos, house margarita, guacamole flight

When should I visit Blue Plate Taco?

Happy hour Mon-Thu 4-6pm for sunset views

Who should go to Blue Plate Taco?

Tourists and beachgoers seeking upscale tacos

Best Fried Chicken Restaurants in Santa Monica (90401)

4 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated

Notable Picks

#1 Hillstone

8.7

$$$ Downtown Santa Monica

Vibes: Business Lunch Power Players Birthday & Celebration Central Group Dining Gatherings

Hillstone's Ding's Crispy Chicken Sandwich has achieved legendary status among Santa Monica locals, featuring buttermilk-fried chicken layered with spicy slaw, Swiss cheese, and mayo on a sesame bun. The upscale American restaurant near Third Street Promenade serves this perfectly engineered sandwich that's cut into three manageable wedges.

Must-Try Dishes: Hawaiian Ribeye with Pineapple, Ding's Crispy Chicken Sandwich, Spinach & Artichoke Dip

What makes it special: Consistent excellence in American comfort food execution

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#2 The Misfit Restaurant + Bar

8.4

$$ Downtown Santa Monica

Vibes: Happy Hour Hotspots Business Lunch Power Players Group Dining Gatherings

Located in the historic Clock Tower building since 2011, The Misfit serves gluten-free fried chicken from a dedicated fryer alongside craft cocktails in a high-energy atmosphere. Their crispy chicken sandwich features Jidori chicken with fennel slaw and spicy mayo, earning acclaim for accommodating dietary restrictions.

Must-Try Dishes: Bacon Mac & Cheese, Pan-Seared Sea Bass, Walnut Bolognaise

What makes it special: Best happy hour in LA according to multiple publications

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Worthy Picks

#3 Bruxie

7.8

$$ Third Street Promenade

Vibes: Quick Bites Champions Family Friendly Favorites Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance Instagram Worthy Wonders

Bruxie pioneered the waffle sandwich concept, serving hand-breaded fried chicken tenders and creative chicken-and-waffle combinations from their Third Street Promenade location. This fast-casual spot transforms Belgian waffles into crispy vessels for buttermilk-marinated fried chicken.

Must-Try Dishes: Original Fried Chicken & Waffle, Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich, Chicken Tenders Combo

What makes it special: The original chicken and waffle sandwich concept

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#4 Blue Plate Taco

7.6

$$$ Ocean Avenue

Vibes: Outdoor Dining Oasis Instagram Worthy Wonders Date Night Magic

While primarily a Baja-style Mexican restaurant, Blue Plate Taco offers Mary's shredded chicken in various preparations including enchiladas and fajitas. Their ocean-view patio and handmade tortillas create a beachside dining experience steps from the pier.

Must-Try Dishes: Baja Fish Tacos, Short Rib Tacos, Lobster Taco

What makes it special: Ocean views with organic, sustainably-sourced ingredients

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