San Diego's Best Chicken and Waffles [Updated 2024]

From hole-in-the-wall joints to trendy brunch spots, I've explored and devoured them all. With my taste buds as my guide, I've sampled the chicken and waffles offerings in all corners of San Diego, from the bustling Gaslamp Quarter to the laid-back beachside neighborhoods.

Trust me when I say that I've meticulously reviewed 13 different establishments, leaving no crispy chicken tender or fluffy waffle unturned. So buckle up and prepare for a mouthwatering journey as we uncover the best chicken and waffles in San Diego!

Ali's Chicken & Waffles

Highlights
Best chicken
Massive tenders
Plain syrup is best
Delicious mac and cheese
Good service and great food

From the moment I stepped into Ali's Chicken & Waffles, I knew I was in for a finger-lickin' good time. The aroma of sizzling chicken and freshly made waffles filled the air, making my taste buds dance with anticipation.

Let's start with the star of the show - the chicken. Oh boy, let me tell you, this place has some of the best chicken in town. The massive tenders were perfectly seasoned, crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Each bite was a delightful explosion of flavors that left me wanting more.

Now, let's talk about those waffles. They were light and fluffy like a cloud, yet sturdy enough to hold their own against that glorious chicken. And here comes my bold statement: plain syrup is best. Yes, you heard me right! Sometimes simplicity is key, and in this case, it allowed all the other flavors to shine through.

To complement my heavenly main course, I indulged in their delicious mac and cheese side dish. Creamy, cheesy goodness nestled between layers of perfectly cooked pasta - it was pure comfort food at its finest.

The service at Ali's Chicken & Waffles was top-notch too. The staff was attentive and friendly throughout my visit, ensuring that I had everything I needed to thoroughly enjoy my meal.

In conclusion, Ali's Chicken & Waffles is an absolute gem when it comes to finding the best chicken and waffles in San Diego. With their mouthwatering chicken tenders, fluffy waffles, delectable mac and cheese, and fantastic service - they truly hit all the right notes for a memorable dining experience. So if you're craving some soul-satisfying fare that will leave you feeling oh-so-happy (and maybe even licking your fingers), make sure to pay them a visit!

You might also want to check out the best chicken fried steak in San Diego.

The Crack Shack - Little Italy

Highlights
Delightful experience
Tempting array of dishes
Exceptional dining experience
Friendly and accommodating staff
Delicious all la carte sandwiches

From the moment I stepped foot into The Crack Shack, I knew I was in for a delightful experience. The aroma of sizzling chicken filled the air, instantly tempting my taste buds. As I perused the menu, I was greeted with a tempting array of dishes, but it was their chicken and waffles that truly stole my heart.

The presentation alone was a work of art; a golden brown waffle towered over succulent pieces of fried chicken, creating an enticing symphony of flavors. With each bite, the perfectly crispy exterior gave way to tender and juicy meat. It was like biting into a cloud made of savory goodness.

But what truly set this dining experience apart was the exceptional service from the staff. They were not only knowledgeable about their offerings but also friendly and accommodating. Their passion for food shone through as they guided me through their menu with enthusiasm.

While The Crack Shack offers an array of delectable options, it's their all-la-carte sandwiches that deserve special mention. Whether it's their Firebird sandwich with spicy fried chicken or the Senor Croque with bacon and sunny-side-up eggs, each bite is a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more.

In conclusion, The Crack Shack - Little Italy is undoubtedly one of San Diego's gems when it comes to chicken and waffles. With its delightful ambiance, exceptional dishes, and welcoming staff, this establishment provides an unforgettable dining experience. So if you're looking for the perfect blend of bold flavors and playful atmosphere, look no further than The Crack Shack.

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The Waffle Spot

Highlights
Friendly and attentive staff
Delicious and flavorful food
Quick service
Thick and fluffy waffles
Cute and cozy interior

Prepare your taste buds for a delectable adventure! As soon as I entered The Waffle Spot, the friendly and attentive staff made me feel right at home. They were knowledgeable about their menu and eager to assist me in finding the perfect combination of chicken and waffles.

Now, let's talk about the main event - the food! Oh boy, was it ever delicious! The chicken was tender and juicy, with a flavorful coating that left my taste buds dancing with delight. The waffles were a true work of art; thick and fluffy, they had just the right amount of crispiness on the outside while remaining soft and pillowy on the inside.

The service at The Waffle Spot was impressively quick, ensuring that I didn't have to wait too long to devour my meal. It's always a pleasant surprise when you don't have to sacrifice quality for speed.

As I sat in the cute and cozy interior of The Waffle Spot, surrounded by whimsical waffle-themed decorations, I couldn't help but appreciate the attention to detail. It added an extra touch of charm to an already delightful dining experience.

In conclusion, if you're searching for the best chicken and waffles in San Diego, look no further than The Waffle Spot. With its friendly staff, delicious food, quick service, thick and fluffy waffles, and adorable ambiance, it's a winner in my book. So go ahead and indulge in this mouthwatering combination – your taste buds will thank you later!

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StreetCar Merchants Chicken Bar

Highlights
Good flavors
Fast service
Crispy and juicy chicken
Amazing flavored waffles
Hidden gem

Walking into StreetCar Merchants Chicken Bar, I was greeted by a cozy and laid-back atmosphere. This hidden gem quickly caught my attention, and boy, was I in for a treat!

As soon as I placed my order, the fast service impressed me. It didn't take long before a plate of crispy and juicy chicken and waffles landed in front of me, making my taste buds dance with anticipation.

The chicken at StreetCar Merchants Chicken Bar is truly something to behold. Each bite revealed good flavors that were both satisfyingly savory and subtly spiced. The crispy coating provided a delightful crunch that contrasted perfectly with the tender meat inside.

Now let's talk about the star of the show - the waffles. Oh my goodness! These waffles were nothing short of amazing. They were light, fluffy, and had an incredible depth of flavor that left me yearning for more. The combination of sweet and savory was simply divine.

StreetCar Merchants Chicken Bar offers a unique twist on traditional chicken and waffles with their array of flavored waffles. From classic buttermilk to enticing options like chocolate chip or bacon-infused batter, there's something to satisfy every craving.

Overall, StreetCar Merchants Chicken Bar exceeded my expectations in terms of both taste and service. If you're looking for a place that serves up crispy perfection alongside amazing flavored waffles, then this is the spot for you. Trust me; you won't be disappointed!

So go ahead and hop on over to StreetCar Merchants Chicken Bar – your taste buds will thank you!

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Atypical Waffle Company

Highlights
Delicious waffles
Eclectic atmosphere
Quick service
Fun and unique

Upon entering Atypical Waffle Company, I was immediately taken aback by the eclectic atmosphere. The walls were adorned with quirky art pieces and the seating arrangements were as diverse as the waffle options on the menu. It felt like stepping into a whimsical wonderland.

Now onto the star of the show – the waffles. Oh my, these waffles were something else! Each bite was a symphony of flavors, with a perfect balance between sweet and savory. The waffles themselves were golden brown and had a delightful crispiness on the outside, while remaining tender and fluffy on the inside. They truly lived up to their reputation as being among the best in San Diego.

But let's not forget about the chicken! The crispy fried chicken served alongside the waffles was seasoned to perfection. The juicy meat paired harmoniously with the sweetness of the waffles, creating an explosion of taste in every mouthful.

What impressed me most about Atypical Waffle Company was their quick service. Despite its popularity, my order arrived promptly, allowing me to indulge in chicken and waffle bliss without delay.

One thing that sets Atypical Waffle Company apart from other establishments is their commitment to innovation. They offer unique toppings such as maple bacon glaze and lemon curd that take traditional chicken and waffles to new heights. It's like they have a secret laboratory where they concoct these fantastic flavor combinations!

In conclusion, if you're seeking a truly atypical experience, look no further than Atypical Waffle Company for your chicken and waffle fix in San Diego. With delicious food, an eclectic atmosphere, quick service, and plenty of fun and unique options to choose from, this place is a must-visit for any discerning food lover or adventurous eater.

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Morning Glory

Highlights
Incredible experience
Unique menu additions
Amazing staff
Delicious food
Uniqueness and atmosphere

Morning Glory truly provided an incredible experience that I won't soon forget. From the moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by a vibrant and energetic atmosphere that set the tone for what was to come.

The menu at Morning Glory offers some unique menu additions that go beyond your traditional chicken and waffles. As a foodie always on the lookout for something new, I was delighted to see creative twists like bacon-infused waffle batter and spicy maple syrup. These unexpected combinations added an extra layer of excitement to my dining experience.

What truly stood out during my visit was the amazing staff who made me feel right at home. They were attentive, knowledgeable, and had a genuine passion for their craft. Their recommendations were spot on, ensuring that I got to taste some of the most delicious food in San Diego.

Speaking of delicious food, Morning Glory's chicken and waffles certainly did not disappoint. The crispy fried chicken had a perfect golden coating that gave way to tender and juicy meat. Paired with their fluffy waffles, each bite was a harmonious blend of savory and sweet flavors.

But what sets Morning Glory apart from other establishments is its commitment to uniqueness and creating an unforgettable atmosphere. The restaurant's colorful decor, whimsical artwork, and lively music created an ambiance that transported me into a world of culinary delight.

In conclusion, Morning Glory is more than just a place for chicken and waffles; it's an adventure for your taste buds. With its incredible experience, unique menu additions, amazing staff, delicious food, and unmatched uniqueness and atmosphere, Morning Glory earns its rightful place among the best chicken and waffle spots in San Diego.

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Rudford's Restaurant

Highlights
Adorable throw back to the 60s
Best onion rings ever
Insane French dip sandwich
Open 24/7 with great food
Respectful late-night service

Walking into Rudford's is like stepping into a delightful time capsule, with its adorable throwback to the 60s. The cozy retro vibes instantly transport you to a simpler era, where chicken and waffles were the epitome of culinary delight.

Now, let's get down to business. When it comes to chicken and waffles, Rudford's doesn't disappoint. They serve up a plate that could make even the most discerning food critic weak at the knees. The crispy yet tender fried chicken is perfectly seasoned, providing an explosion of flavors with every bite. And oh, those waffles! Light and fluffy on the inside, with just the right amount of crispiness on the outside.

But wait, there's more! Rudford's onion rings are nothing short of divine. They have truly mastered the art of creating the best onion rings ever. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch followed by a burst of sweet, savory flavor that will leave you craving for more.

Now, if you're feeling adventurous (and hungry), I highly recommend trying their insane French dip sandwich. It's loaded with succulent slices of roast beef and dripping with au jus that will make your taste buds do a happy dance.

One thing that sets Rudford's apart from other establishments is its 24/7 opening hours. Where else can you indulge in mouthwatering chicken and waffles at any hour? Plus, their late-night service is top-notch - respectful and attentive even during those bleary-eyed post-midnight visits.

In conclusion, if you're searching for San Diego's finest chicken and waffles experience—and maybe some killer onion rings—look no further than Rudford’s Restaurant. It’s a groovy spot that will take your taste buds on a delicious trip back in time.

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The Huddle

Highlights
Delicious food
Great service
Affordable prices
Classic American diner experience

Upon entering The Huddle, I was immediately greeted by the friendly staff, who exuded warmth and enthusiasm. The cozy atmosphere of this classic American diner made me feel right at home.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the chicken and waffles. Oh boy, were they delicious! The crispy fried chicken was cooked to perfection. Each bite was a symphony of flavors, with a harmonious blend of herbs and spices that danced on my taste buds. The waffles were fluffy and light, providing the perfect canvas for the succulent chicken to shine.

The service at The Huddle was exemplary. The attentive staff ensured that my dining experience was nothing short of extraordinary. They promptly refilled my drink and checked in on me regularly without being intrusive.

What impressed me even more was the affordable prices at The Huddle. It's not often that you find such high-quality food without breaking the bank. This establishment truly offers great value for your money.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a memorable chicken and waffle experience in San Diego, look no further than The Huddle. With their delicious food, great service, and affordable prices, it's a winning combination that is sure to leave you satisfied. So why not treat yourself to a delightful meal at The Huddle? Trust me; your taste buds will thank you later!

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Crest Cafe

Highlights
Homemade breakfast
Fresh ingredients
Vegetarian options
Kid-friendly

Crest Cafe, oh how you've captured my heart with your delightful chicken and waffles! Nestled in the heart of San Diego, this cozy little eatery boasts a menu filled with homemade breakfast delights that are sure to make any foodie weak at the knees.

From the moment I walked through the door, I was greeted by the tantalizing aroma of freshly cooked chicken and the warm smile of the friendly staff. The first bite of their famous chicken and waffles sent my taste buds into a frenzy of ecstasy. The crispy yet tender fried chicken paired perfectly with the fluffy, golden waffle. It was a match made in culinary heaven!

What sets Crest Cafe apart is their commitment to using fresh ingredients. Each bite was bursting with flavor, as if they plucked the ingredients straight from their garden that morning. And for those who prefer a vegetarian option, fear not! Crest Cafe also offers mouthwatering vegetarian alternatives that are just as scrumptious.

Not only is Crest Cafe a haven for food enthusiasts like myself, but it's also kid-friendly. So whether you're on a family outing or simply seeking some comfort food for yourself, this place has got you covered.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an unforgettable chicken and waffle experience in San Diego, Crest Cafe is where it's at. With its homemade goodness, fresh ingredients, and options for vegetarians, it's no wonder this hidden gem has stolen my heart...and my appetite!

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Lazy Hippo

Highlights
No wait at brunch
Huge portions
Amazing Nutella & banana waffle
Spectacular food
Friendly staff

Let me start by saying that Lazy Hippo lives up to its name, as it offers a relaxing and laid-back atmosphere. What caught my attention immediately was the fact that there was no wait at brunch, which is practically unheard of in San Diego.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the chicken and waffles. The portions at Lazy Hippo are simply enormous. I had to remind myself that I wasn't competing in an eating contest! But hey, who's complaining when you're getting your money's worth?

The waffle itself was a delightful masterpiece. The menu boasted an enticing option with Nutella and banana toppings, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. Each bite was a heavenly combination of crispy waffle, gooey Nutella, and sweet bananas.

As for the chicken, it was nothing short of spectacular. The golden-brown crust had a satisfying crunch while still maintaining moist and tender meat inside. It was clear that they took pride in their fried chicken game.

Not only was the food exceptional, but the staff also added to the overall experience. They were welcoming, attentive, and never failed to bring a smile to our faces.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a place with no wait time at brunch, huge portions that will leave you feeling satisfied (and maybe even take some leftovers home), and amazing flavor combinations like Nutella and banana on your waffle – then look no further than Lazy Hippo. Trust me; this place is definitely one of San Diego's hidden gems when it comes to delectable chicken and waffles.

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Truckstop

Highlights
Great food
Great atmosphere
Great service
Bottomless mimosas
Flavorful brunch meals

Let me start by saying that Truckstop truly lives up to its name as a haven for all food truck enthusiasts. As soon as I stepped inside, I was greeted by the tantalizing aroma of freshly cooked chicken and waffles, and my taste buds were instantly intrigued.

The menu at Truckstop boasts an impressive array of brunch options, but it was their chicken and waffles that truly stole the show. The crispy yet tender fried chicken was perfectly seasoned, creating a mouthwatering flavor explosion with every bite. And let's not forget about those waffles - light and fluffy, they provided the perfect canvas for the savory chicken to shine.

But it wasn't just the food that impressed me; the atmosphere at Truckstop was lively and vibrant. The eclectic decor paired with upbeat music created a fun and energetic ambiance, making it an ideal spot for a weekend brunch with friends or even a solo adventure.

The service at Truckstop was top-notch too. The staff members were attentive and knowledgeable about the menu, offering excellent recommendations when I couldn't decide between their various delectable options.

And here's the cherry on top: Truckstop offers bottomless mimosas! Yes, you read that right - endless bubbles to accompany your flavorful brunch meal. It's safe to say that I left Truckstop feeling satisfied, both in my stomach and in my soul.

In conclusion, if you're looking for an extraordinary chicken and waffles experience in San Diego, look no further than Truckstop. With great food, a fantastic atmosphere, impeccable service, bottomless mimosas (for those who enjoy a little bubbly), this place has all the ingredients for an unforgettable brunch adventure.

So hop into your imaginary food truck and head on over to Truckstop – your taste buds will thank you!

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Maggie's Cafe

Highlights
Tasty and diverse menu
Friendly and attentive service
Dog-friendly atmosphere
Great food quality
Plenty of free parking

From the moment I walked into Maggie's Cafe, I knew I was in for a treat. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with a touch of rustic charm that made me feel right at home. The staff greeted me with a smile and showed me to my table promptly - their friendly and attentive service continued throughout my visit.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the chicken and waffles. Maggie's Cafe offers a tasty and diverse menu that caters to all taste buds. Their twist on this classic dish is simply outstanding. The crispy fried chicken paired perfectly with the fluffy waffle, creating a beautiful symphony of textures and flavors.

But what sets Maggie's Cafe apart from other contenders in San Diego is their commitment to quality. Each bite of chicken was juicy and flavorful, while the waffle was light yet satisfying. It's clear that they take pride in sourcing fresh ingredients and preparing their dishes with care.

Another plus point for Maggie's Cafe is its dog-friendly atmosphere. As an animal lover myself, it warms my heart to see establishments that welcome our furry friends. So bring your four-legged companions along for a delightful brunch experience.

And here's a little extra perk - plenty of free parking. We all know how elusive parking can be in San Diego, so this is definitely something worth mentioning!

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for the best chicken and waffles in San Diego, look no further than Maggie's Cafe. With their delicious menu options, friendly service, and dog-friendly atmosphere, they have truly earned their spot on the list of top contenders. So grab your appetite (and maybe even your pup) and head over to Maggie's Cafe for an unforgettable culinary experience!

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Broken Yolk Cafe

Highlights
Tasty food
Quick and friendly
Great vibe
Best brunch spot

Let me start by saying, the chicken and waffles at Broken Yolk Cafe are phenomenal. The combination of crispy fried chicken with fluffy waffles is a match made in breakfast heaven.

From the moment I walked in, I was greeted by a quick and friendly staff who made me feel right at home. The cozy atmosphere and cheerful decor added to the overall experience, creating a great vibe that made brunch even more enjoyable.

Now let's talk about the chicken. Oh boy, it was cooked to perfection! The outer crust was golden and crunchy, while the meat inside remained juicy and tender. Each bite was bursting with flavor, leaving my taste buds dancing with delight.

And let's not forget about those waffles! Light, airy, and slightly sweet, they provided the perfect canvas for the savory chicken. The combination of textures and flavors was simply divine.

What really sets Broken Yolk Cafe apart from other places is their attention to detail. They take pride in using high-quality ingredients that elevate their dishes to new heights. It's clear that they put a lot of thought into every aspect of their menu.

In conclusion, if you're on a quest for San Diego's best chicken and waffles, look no further than Broken Yolk Cafe. With its tasty food, quick and friendly service, great vibe, and being an all-around top-notch brunch spot - this place has it all! Trust me when I say that your taste buds will thank you for this delightful culinary experience.