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ZipPicks Awards

Best Fried Chicken in the Excelsior Best Wings in the Excelsior Best French Fries in the Excelsior

Vibe Check this spot

Food Quality 5
Service 5
Atmosphere 5
Value 5
Consistency 5
Cultural Relevance 5

0 / 5 selected

Master Critic Review

The Halfway Club 8.3
Excelsior
Excelsior’s kid-friendly bar and kitchen serves crisp, sauced fried chicken wings alongside Midwestern-leaning comfort fare. The lively room and patio make it a social stop for chicken and beers.
Must-Try Dishes: Soy-Garlic Fried Chicken Wings, Buffalo Wings, Chili Cheese Fries
Scores:
Value: 7.7 Service: 8.4 Consistency: 8.3 Food Quality: 8.5 Atmosphere: 8.2 Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: James Beard–recognized new bar with standout fried wings.
Who should go: Wing lovers and neighborhood groups
When to visit: Weeknights 5–7pm before it fills
What to order: Soy-garlic wings; Buffalo wings; chili cheese fries
Insider tip: The patio closes at 10pm—plan wing rounds accordingly.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Mission and nearby residential blocks; expect to circle during peak hours. No private lot or valet service.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual—locals come in jeans and team tees, but button-downs fit right in for dinner.
Noise level: Lively and energetic indoors with music and chatter; patio is more moderate and conversational.
Weekend wait: 35–50 minutes for a table after 6:30pm; bar seats turn over faster.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait before 1pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—salads, fries, and a few comfort sides available.
Vegan options: Minimal—ask to modify sides or salads, but not a focus.
Gluten-free options: Some dishes like grilled items and wings can be adapted; staff familiar with sensitivities but shared fryers.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want a fun, low-pressure night—energetic vibe, craft beer list, and lively patio; not ideal for intimate conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes—most tables are first come, first served. Go early on weekends or opt for the bar or patio to avoid long waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Definitely—families frequent the early hours, high chairs are available, and the menu includes mild wings and kid portions.
Best For
Better for: Wing variety and social energy—beats quieter sit-down spots for group nights or casual gatherings.
Skip if: You want fine-dining ambiance or fully gluten-free or vegan options.

Hours

Monday4pm - 11pm
Tuesday4pm - 11pm
Wednesday4pm - 11pm
Thursday4pm - 11pm
Friday4pm - 12am
Saturday4pm - 12am
Sunday12:30pm - 9pm