0 Followers
Dino's Famous Chicken
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Dino's Famous Chicken
8.4
Dino's Famous Chicken is beloved for its legendary, neon-orange grilled chicken, marinated in a family recipe since 1968. The no-frills counter setting, steady crowds, and craveable fries drenched in chicken juices make it a go-to for generations of Angelenos seeking hearty, affordable meals.
Must-Try Dishes:
Famous Chicken Plate, Chili Cheese Fries, Breakfast Burrito
Scores:
Value: 9.4
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Iconic marinated chicken, unchanged recipe over 50 years.
Who should go: Families, locals, college kids, comfort seekers.
When to visit: Lunch, dinner, or early evening weekends.
What to order: Chicken plate, chili cheese fries, breakfast burrito
Insider tip: Extra sauce on fries = flavor bomb.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available but can be challenging during peak hours; no dedicated lot.
Dress code: Very casual—shorts, jeans, and t-shirts are standard.
Noise level: Bustling and lively but you can carry on a conversation at most tables.
Weekend wait: 15–30 minutes typical, especially during dinner rush.
Weekday lunch: Little to no wait; walk-ins easily accommodated.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—fries, salad, and a few sides are suitable, but mains are chicken-centric.
Vegan options: Very limited; basic salads or fries, but kitchen is primarily focused on poultry.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free options or prep area; cross-contamination possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It's great for casual outings or fun, no-pressure dates, but not ideal for romantic ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—Dino's is counter-service only; seating is first come, first served, and quick turnover helps.
Is it kid-friendly? Absolutely—kids love the fries and chicken, and the staff welcomes families with all ages, though there’s no play area.
Best For
Better for: Standout for craveable marinated chicken and unbeatable value—no one else combines this flavor and price point.
Skip if: If seeking upscale ambiance, a quiet meal, or extensive vegetarian/vegan choices, consider alternatives.
Dino's Famous Chicken
8.3
Dino's delivers crave-worthy charbroiled burgers alongside their legendary chicken, making it a go-to spot for hearty, late-night bites. Locals flock for the juicy double cheeseburgers, crispy fries, and efficient takeout service, especially on weekends. Open late and packed with regulars, it remains a pillar of Pico Blvd's dining scene since the early 1970s.
Must-Try Dishes:
Double Cheeseburger, Chili Cheese Fries, Patty Melt
Scores:
Value: 8.9
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 6.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Legendary late hours & secret-recipe charbroiled burgers.
Who should go: Hungry night owls and burger traditionalists.
When to visit: Friday/Saturday late night after 9pm.
What to order: Double Cheeseburger, Chili Cheese Fries, Classic Shake
Insider tip: Order burgers with grilled onions and extra secret sauce.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available, but limited and competitive after 7pm—no valet service.
Dress code: Ultra casual—come as you are, jeans and sneakers perfectly fine.
Noise level: Lively, especially late—conversation possible but with a bustling background.
Weekend wait: Expect 10-25 minute wait for takeout. Seating turnover is fast but interior is limited.
Weekday lunch: No wait generally—quick counter pickup.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited options—can request meatless burgers or fries, but no dedicated vegetarian menu.
Vegan options: Minimal—fries and possibly salads if ordered plain, but most specials contain animal products.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free choices—buns, breading, and most menu items contain gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Best suited for low-pressure, casual hangs or late-night cravings. Not ideal if you want a quiet or romantic vibe.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-up service is the default, with quick counter ordering. Seating space is limited, so takeout is common.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids and teens; indoor seating is limited and no special kid amenities, but menu appeals to picky eaters.
Best For
Better for: Outshines competitors with its legendary late-night hours, fast service, and unbeatable prices for hearty burgers and chicken.
Skip if: Consider alternatives if you need gluten-free, vegan, or sit-down comfort—Dino’s is best for quick, hearty bites, not leisurely meals.