18 Sep 2024
The best places for fried chicken in Edinburgh
Sometimes there’s nothing we love more than to put the health kick on pause and indulge in some good old comfort food – and what better food for the soul than a plate of perfectly golden and crispy fried chicken? But rather than opting for a bucket of fast food and a lonely night on the couch, why not venture out into town with pals and enjoy some drinks and good vibes with your food instead? Here are our five favourite spots for fried chicken in Edinburgh, which will be sure to entice any fried chicken fanatic!
This burger joint really is comfort food heaven for fried chicken lovers, with a relaxed vibe which is perfect for casual dining. Whether you want your ‘Buttamilk’ fried chicken in the form of wings, burgers or chicken fingers, there’s something for everyone here. Featuring a menu packed to the brim full of fried chicken burgers, you’ll have the choice of options such as Korean Chick, which is a kimchi and bonnet hot sauce delight, or the Chicken Chilli Cheese served with American cheese, smoked jalapeño relish and ranch, or the Gravy Chick with pickles and chicken gravy mayo for a taste of the Deep South. There’s also three types of chicken fingers too, each with a different yet equally delicious dipping sauce. And if you like crispy fried hot wings, Butta Burger’s really pack a punch – if you can handle the heat!
Located within the Bonnie and Wild food market in St James’ Quarter, Chix is a new hot spot for those looking for a wow factor from from their fast food. Brought to Edinburgh by Chef de Partie at Heston Blumenthal’s Fat Duck, Ed Cresswell and Max Murray, Chix seeks to reinvigorate fried chicken dishes and give them a so-called ‘fine dining makeover’. On the menu, you’ll find incredible fried chicken sandwiches and boneless marinated chicken ‘tendies’, which are perfect for dipping. Condiment choices include Sicilian Pesto Mayo, Spicy Gojuchang and Polynesian Coconut Curry & Lime – if you fancy dips which are a bit more gourmet than your usual chippy sauces.
If fried chicken burgers are your thing, you’ll be spoiled for choice with Bread Meats Bread’s delicious range of burgers, which come in an array of different flavours. Spice lovers will love the Angry Bird burger, which is served with buffalo sauce, chillies, jalapeños, and blue cheese mayo. Or if you’re more of a truffle fan, the Truffle Shuffle burger is packed full of flavour, topped with smoky mozzarella and truffle mayo, and served on a bed of rocket and parmesan cheese. Or go back to basics with the Classic Fried Chicken Burger topped with pickles, lettuce, tomatoes, and garlic mayo. All burgers are made with free-range buttermilk fried chicken and the portion sizes are perfect for big appetites. Bread Meats Bread’s laidback American diner vibes make it a great spot for family meals or casual catch ups with friends over an ice-cold beer.
If you’re over in Leith, head over to this trendy gastropub for craft beers, refreshing cocktails and some seriously good fried chicken. The menu is packed full of comfort food classics, which will transport you Stateside, with a stylish, Brooklyn-esque dining space to match. If you’re just after a wee bite, opt for the irresistible Crispy Chicken Goujons, which are seasoned to perfection and fried until crispy and golden. They’re great for dipping in your choice of buffalo or ranch dressing, and go great alongside some of the Loaded Potato Wedges or Corn on the Cob with a Cajun rub. If you’ve got more of an appetite, try the Big Trouble in Little Burger – a crispy fried chicken burger topped with onion rings, rocket, Asian slaw, and teriyaki sauce.
Café Andaluz serves up some incredible Spanish tapas plates, including a gourmet fried chicken dish called Pollo Rebozado Con Miel, which is to die for. Made with succulent chicken breast fillets coated in a light, crispy batter and drizzled with a honey and grain mustard dressing, this dish is a refined take on fried chicken. On the tapas menu, you’ll find plenty more Iberian small plates to accompany this dish, including pork, seafood, beef, chicken, and vegetable dishes. And if you’re dining out with several people, we recommend ordering one of the refreshing Sangria pitchers to share for a true Spanish dining experience.