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Harold's Chicken #88
Master Critic Review
Harold's Chicken #88
8.4
On 35th Street, this Harold's outpost channels the South Side fried chicken playbook into consistently crisp wings dunked in tangy mild sauce. It draws steady traffic for late-night wing dinners, half chickens, and gizzards boxed with fries and white bread.
Must-Try Dishes:
6-Piece Wing Dinner with Mild Sauce and Fries, Half Chicken Dinner with Mild Sauce, Gizzards & Wings Combo
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Classic South Side-style fried wings drenched in Harold's mild sauce at a high-volume 35th Street shop.
Who should go: Wing traditionalists who want the full Harold’s mild-sauce treatment.
When to visit: Evenings before big game nights or after Sox home games.
What to order: 6-piece wing dinner, half chicken, add extra mild sauce.
Insider tip: Ask for your wings fried a little extra crispy if you like more crunch.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along 35th Street and nearby side streets; generally available but can be tight during Sox home games and late-night rushes.
Dress code: Casual — jerseys, hoodies, and everyday wear are typical.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during peak hours; counter-service environment with limited seating and takeout traffic.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes for most orders; longer (20–30 minutes) on game nights and late evenings.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait or short 5–10 minute ticket times.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited — fries, bread, and sides only.
Vegan options: Minimal — fried sides may share oil with chicken; not ideal for strict vegans.
Gluten-free options: No formal gluten-free procedures; breading and shared fryers present cross-contact risk.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual hangouts than a first date — it’s counter-service, focused on takeout, and can feel busy and utilitarian.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — there are no reservations here. Seating is limited and first-come-first-served, with many guests opting for takeout.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for quick, casual meals; no kids’ menu or high chairs, but families commonly order takeout or share wing dinners.
Best For
Better for: Late-night mild-sauce wings, classic South Side flavor profile, and value-focused chicken dinners served fast.
Skip if: You want dine-in comfort, broad menu variety, or formal dietary accommodations — a sit-down restaurant may suit better.