Wow Helen's midtown has always been one of our first stops when flying into Nashville from Denver, CO. Today my wife made the usual run to discover it was recently damaged in a fire and is currently closed (look up news article in Nashville). Hopefully Russell and his crew will be up and running again soon. read more

I've eaten at the Helen's Hot Chicken location near Vanderbilt dozens of times now. This is mostly because of the convenience, but no other place near me does chicken wingettes like Helen's. Their menu covers the standard Nashville hot chicken essentials, alongside an unexpected spread of seafood options if you want catfish or shrimp. My default order is almost always the 6-piece or 8-piece wingette combo, paired with fries and a drink. First, a quick reality check on the space and timing: Helen's is housed in an older, no-frills building. On hotter summer days, be prepared for it to get pretty stuffy inside since the HVAC clearly struggles to keep up. Everything is cooked strictly to order, which means your food comes out piping hot, but it also means ticket times can easily stretch long during peak rushes. Plan accordingly and don't come in expecting fast-food speed. When the chicken arrives, the fry job is exceptional. The skin has a serious, audible crunch that holds up all the way through the box. My only technical critique is that the chicken could really use an extra minute to rest and drain before getting packed up; taking that first bite often leads to a literal burst of trapped hot grease and oil popping out, noticeably more so than other fried chicken spots in town. That said, it often is convention to dip or brush chicken with oil before boxing to let it carry better. Service has a couple of distinct friction points. For one, they are notoriously stingy with dipping sauces. Most spots toss in at least one complimentary ranch or house sauce with a wing combo, but Helen's charges for every single packet. They also aren't particularly upfront about the upcharge until you see the total. Then there's the standard counter-service tipping prompt. I usually leave a tip because I'm a regular and the staff recognizes me, but it does sting a little when you realize you're still bagging up your own takeout containers at the counter. All that said, as long as you walk in with the right set of expectations regarding the service and atmosphere, Helen's easily earns a spot in my regular rotation. It lands at a solid 4 out of 5 stars for me... I just have to make sure I have my own ranch waiting at home in the fridge. read more

Helen's has some of the best hot chicken in the game! My friend & I are slowly making our way to every hot chicken place in Nashville, so I'd rank them in the top 5. The food is cooked fresh to order, so be patient & don't come starving. We ate in, and the space is simple and clean. One of the team members was extra kind & welcoming- she's a star. There's affordable street parking and garage parking across the street has at least one hour free parking. Love: hot chicken (medium spicy, crispy, fresh); okra (well-seasoned, crispy, fresh) read more

Helen's Hot Chicken - Party wings & fried okra - Chicken Shop Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

I promised the staff I'd write a review. I preface saying I know nothing about hot chicken. This was my first time in Nashville and the only thing I knew I needed to eat was hot chicken. Given the weather was 10000 degrees, I wasn't thrilled about this, but you do it for the food. I had Hattie B. the day before, which was famous and solid, so I wasn't sure what to expect. As I entered, one thing struck me - the price. Why is everything so affordable? Could it be good at this price? As I pondered the menu, I saw multiple people waiting, or pre-order and walk in to pick up. All of these people looked local. Made me feel better. Eventually, due to stomach size, I ended up ordering a hot chicken tender and a fried catfish. Staff asked me how hot I'd like it, and I mentioned, as an Asian, I can generally do spicy. He took it as a challenge. I may have mentioned the chicken I had before which was good but for "hot" it wasn't hot. If you want to do a spicy challenge, THIS IS THE PLACE. The hot chicken was HOT. Like, melt your face off hot. But it was still flavorful and delicious. I'm not sure if its a Carolina Reaper or what, but the spicy was borderline painful when the chicken was still hot, then much more bareable when the meat cooled down. Like magic. The fried catfish was the best catfish I've had in my life. IN. MY. LIFE. Batter was crispy and perfectly fried. Fish was melt-in-your-mouth soft. NO muddy flavors. Absolutely amazing. This is one of those times that you can't fully trust the famous spots. Hattie B was great, but I'd come back here any day. read more

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Smells like incense burning when you walk in. Which I'm not really oppose to in any other setting, but having it burning in a restaurant just seems a bit different. I was quoted 10 minutes wait time. They were pretty spot on. I ordered a fish sandwich with no pickle and no tartar sauce, which leaves mustard, onion, and hot sauce. I received a plain fish sandwich instead. Pretty disappointed considering I was headed to work and access to onions, mustard, and hot sauce isn't an option. Overall the fish had a good flavor, I would have just loved to have it how it was ordered. The fried okra was amazing. It's a must get. read more

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We ate at Hattie B and then came here. I was surprised how empty it was (we were the only ones seated). We were told it would be 18 mins. It took over 30 minutes for 2 leg quarters and we were the only ones waiting for a while. The chicken was bland inside. The hot only had spiciness without any flavor. It was disappointing overall. The dining area was in disarray and not very clean. Would not recommend read more

Helen's Hot Chicken - Quarter Chicken Leg mild and hot - Chicken Shop Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

Helen's Hot Chicken is cool. I definitely appreciate them serving real catfish rather than the Swai fish so many restaurants are fooling their customers with. Our order was served quickly and piping hot. Everything was fresh and fried perfectly. I would've liked more seasoning though despite not having everything dipped. read more

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Came here after reading all the positive reviews on Yelp and Google. This place definitely does not disappoint. The hot wings are very hot so be aware if you don't eat spicy foods. I would actually suggest mild for most people. The wings are made fresh to order; flavorful, juicy, crunchy, and hot to the bite. You may want to air it out to cool it down a bit before taking a bite. Okra is also fresh and tasty. The cashier is friendly and helpful. Right next to Vanderbilt University. Will be back to checkout the rest of the menu. read more

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The two stars are just for the courteous cashier and the fried okra. My 18 minute wait time turned into 30+ minutes, only to get the greasiest hot chicken I've ever been served that tasted overwhelmingly of oil/lard and was somewhere between mild and medium spicy even though I ordered the "hot." Maybe just a notch above Bojangles or Popeyes on the spice range, but covered up by the grease. Apparently the fountain machine is broken, so you can't even get ice water. Only bottles or cans. The downstairs dining room was pretty dirty and they have incense burning. The wait, the chicken and the parking situation means I can't recommend this place. If you do come here, get some fried okra. It was much better than the chicken. read more

Helen's Hot Chicken was a good little spot for lunch in Nashville. It wasn't fast and I had a pretty long wait but the food was hot and freshly prepared when I received it and the sides of potato salad and baked beans pretty great. The heat level of my quarter chicken platter I chose was hot that was the 2nd highest level of heat but it definitely wasn't hot for me and was more like a medium any other hot chicken places I've been to before but I have a high tolerance for spicy hot food. The hot chicken while delicious wasn't on par with a few other Nashville hot chicken joints that are my favorites so far I've found on all my visits to Nashville. The service was perfunctory as I ordered at the counter, neither warm nor cold but wasn't worried about it. The inside of the place was clean and a little odd how the sitting area was arranged. read more

This is hard rate at 2 starts because the staff is fantastic and very friendly. Im hoping this quick review will help the owner and I wish her/him best of luck. 1. Food is made to order and my order took 25 mins. Kitchen is one man show. 2. Seating area is sadly chaotic and not very clean. 3. I got very sick eating the friend chicken. 4. Skip the fish entirely. 5. The okra was the star of the show. 6. The cashier was a delightful lady who was more than welcoming and inviting. read more

The chicken strips is OK. You have to eat it some old table down in the bottom of the no wind basement with all their drinks and stuff sitting around the walls and one little television you want hurry up and eat and leave, but as it is a college nearby so it's OK if you're real hungry I didn't go back. I looked for something else. read more

This is a must go to place. The chicken was seasoned to perfection. The hot was perfect and not too spicy. The service was good. They let you know ahead it's freshly made to order. The atmosphere was family oriented. If you like fried chicken you need to try this spot. read more

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Be ready for Helen's because you're not just walking into a restaurant--you're entering a place where love is the secret ingredient, and you can *taste* it in every single bite. From the moment we walked in, we were greeted with warm, genuine smiles that set the tone for a great experience. The owner of Helen's welcomed us with such kindness and enthusiasm that it felt like we were being invited into a friend's home. We ordered the chicken tenders and a chicken breast sandwich, and let me tell you--both were mouthwatering masterpieces. The chicken was hot, crispy, and *so* juicy, it practically melted in our mouths. Each bite was a symphony of flavors, with just the right kick of spice to keep things exciting. E. Jay's skill (the master behind the masterpiece) in the kitchen is undeniable; the chicken was cooked to golden, crunchy perfection, bursting with love and care in every tender and sandwich. As if the food and hospitality weren't enough, Helen's Hot Chicken surprised us with a military discount, a thoughtful gesture that made our experience even more special. It's clear that this place isn't just about serving food--it's about creating moments of joy and connection. If you're in the area and craving a meal that's made with heart and soul, Helen's Hot Chicken is the place to go. We can't wait to come back for more of that hot, juicy, love-filled chicken! read more

Helen's Hot Chicken - Chicken Tenders and fries - Chicken Shop Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

If you're looking for hot chicken, look no more! We came here looking for some hot chicken sandwich and this place was worth it. There was no line and the wait was minimal since they make the food to order. I enjoyed it and the staff was super friendly! read more

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It's not fancy. The menu board is on a TV screen in the "lobby" and the dining room is a basement. There's a bar downstairs but it wasn't staffed on a Saturday afternoon. I got a tender combo meal with slaw. It included a canned or bottled fountain drink from the cooler. The chicken was indeed cooked to order - it took about 10 minutes - and yes, it was "hot." Tasty and cooked thoroughly. Cole slaw was creamy and good. Service was pleasant but they could do more to clean tables after diners depart. read more

Helen's Hot Chicken - Chicken tender meal with cole slaw. - Chicken Shop Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

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Great flavorful food. Chicken and waffles 10/10. Would come back every time. Great customer service as well. read more

Helen's Hot Chicken - Chicken and Waffles - Chicken Shop Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

Unassuming and no frills deliciousness! I joined my partner on a work trip to Nashville and decided to explore the Vanderbilt area while he was in meetings. Previously and notedly whelmed~ by other local hot chicken places I decided to give Helen's a shot. I ordered the chicken tender meal with fries and was pretty blown away! The chicken was just so perfectly done! So beautifully tender and juicy while also delightfully crispy and packing quite the spicy punch!! I really enjoyed the space as well; a pretty chill atmosphere with a variety of seating options! Service was quick and friendly! Lowkey hoping to come back to Nashville if only to try Helen's again! read more

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Best food i have had, very juicy chicken. seasoning is great, the only thing was the packet ranch but with food this good and juicy and seasoned it is worth it. read more

During my first visit to Nashville i decided to look for some famous "Nashville hot" chicken. This place seemed to have the best reviews without the frills of a franchise/corporation, which I feel usually takes away from quality and flavor. I made the right choice!! This chicken was DELICIOUS. I got the three tender combo and it was not a problem to each one a different flavor. The options are plain, mild, hot, and hella hot. Plain was delicious!! Amazing quality chicken, perfectly cooked, crispy batter and a decent hint of spice for "plain." I suppose since all of the chicken is hot, even the plain has a bit of a kick. Mild is definitely what I consider "hot," and "hella hot" was practically inedible but very fun to try!! I do like spicy food but Nashville is different!!! The server was so friendly and helpful with my questions. Coleslaw and potato salad were both delicious but the combo only comes with one side, so I added the other. Very cooling for the spice! Love the classic building, no frills means good food! I'm a big fan and will be back, thank you! read more

Helen's Hot Chicken - Chicken Tenders Combo, Potato Salad, Coleslaw - Chicken Shop Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

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A bit puzzled with this place, but I genuinely can't imagine trying to run a small business right now. Chicken was ok, and friendly people. Soda machine was broken, and not really enough tables to seat customers upstairs. The really weird part, the girl taking orders rarely got off her barstool or iPhone. Then, as I sit down to eat, she turns the tv on, full volume, to some sort of rap videos. So loud, my customers and I, had to go eat our lunch on the sidewalk out front, so we could try and have a conversation. read more

I've had Helen's twice now and it's the best hot chicken I've ever had - and I've had a lot! It's juicy and the flavor is just right. First visit I got it to go and they packed the order well and it was hot when I got home. The second time I went I ate in and they had plenty of tv's to watch the game. I like the breast quarter and most other hot chicken restaurants are dry. Not Helen's! read more

Super friendly staff and excellent chicken sandwich. We visited Nashville and were advised of two awesome chicken sandwich places, Prince's and Hattie B's. Both were underwhelming and I would not recommend it to anyone or go back to either of those establishments. Note to Helen's Hot Chicken: I suggest you toast your bun, that would make it next level. read more

I absolutely love Helen's. I literally eat at this particular restaurant 2-3 times a week. I get the same thing every time "Hot Catfish Combo" this is the only place I will eat catfish I go to this restaurant so much they know me by name. Again they have the absolute best Catfish eveeeerrr. read more

The food and service is exactly what you want to expect from southern hospitality! The wings were seasoned like my grandmother's but just hotter. I will go back whenever I'm back in Nashville. read more

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By far the juiciest chicken i've ever consumed. The wait was long and the ranch was in packets, but regardless of that i'm rating 5 stars solely by how blown away i was by the chickens quality and seasoning read more

Best hot chicken tenders in Nashville. I've been here several times and always recommend it to out of town guests that want hot chicken. Chicken is perfectly cooked and spiced. Their fried okra is a must have as well. Their location near Vanderbilt is an under appreciated gem for dining in, take out, or delivery. I've had it each way. Wheelchair access for take out is good. Accessibility for dining in isn't perfect, primarily restrooms, but the staff does their best to meet your dining needs with seating arrangement and service. Our wheelchair bound family member says that dining in here is definitely worth managing the accessibility issues. read more

In the battle of hot chicken the finalists were Helen's and Party Fowl. Three weeks later and the judges are still debating. Helen's isn't fancy at all. It is a dive restaurant. However, don't let the boxes on the floor food you. The chicken and the catfish were outstanding. The catfish was so good I made my own version when I got back home, and it wasn't nearly as good as Helen's. As for the chicken I can't find a single thing wrong with it. It was poultry perfection. Also Helen's was one of the few places that served fried okra. read more

Helen's Hot Chicken - Nashville hot chicken and fried okra - Chicken Shop Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

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Great service, amazing food. CRISPIEST chicken I've ever had. I'm not the biggest fan of potato salad, but dannnnnng theirs is good. Thought we were gonna take it to go, but after discovering the large seating area, TVs and fans - we decided to stick around. Forget about all the hot chicken places and come to Helen's! read more

Helen's Hot Chicken - Wingette Combo + Potato Salad - Chicken Shop Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

We were in town visiting family and wanted to try hot chicken before we left. We went to the location by Vanderbilt. I ordered some of pain, hot and Hella. We were hungry so while we drove back to our family's house in Mt. Juliet, we shared the "plain" catfish. Baby. The catfish was hot out the fryer, seasoned well and fire! It was so good! I said compliments to the chef. Got home and tried to chicken, everyone loved it. Depends on your heat level, but plain and hit with all! Hella, was exactly what is was for some Hella hot! Next time we're in TN, that is a stop we'll definitely make again!!! Love from Minnesota read more

Great food...TERRIBLE SERVICE!! When we ordered (6pc wings w/Mac & Cheese, chicken sandwich and gizzards) the cashier told us the order would be about 18 minutes. I SPECIFICALLY told her, "take as long as you need but I want my wings cooked very well. If my husband's food is ready before mine, please bring it out." FOURTY minutes later, we are still waiting for our food and trying to be patient. Then a group of about 6 white men received their order!! So my husband brings this to the cashier's attention and she IMMEDIATELY gets an attitude. She made excuse after excuse even after I reminded her that I wanted my wings cooked well but explicitly mentioned to bring his food out first if it was ready. Long story short, the food is good but not worth the shitty attitude that comes with it. read more

Went to Helen's today and we're beyond impressed the food was fresh and delicious and the ambience of the patio was amazing the lady who took our order was amazing and the cook was awesome at explaining dietary concerns we had we can't wait to come back read more

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Definitely a must try! Only complaint is I wanted more heat! Loved the fries! Check this place out! read more

Helen's Hot Chicken - Chicken Shop Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

By far the best chicken I have ever had. It was cooked to perfection and juicy. During my trip to Nashville my husband and I HAD to come back a second time because we could not stop thinking about the chicken at Helen's. The staff is friendly and welcoming as well. We ordered the chicken tenders hot, the chicken breast quarter, with fried okra, baked beans, and coleslaw. I will be dreaming about this meal when I return back home. The ambiance is quaint and exactly the experience we were looking for. read more

Food- so oily, and not enough flavor very bland. Service- the lady who took our order was funny! Ambiance- ghetto to all hell... box's stacked everywhere Honestly not worth the 22$ I spent I wish I would've not been lazy and just cooked lunch. read more

Helen's offers great hot chicken in Nashville. The chicken is juicy and flavorful. The pricing is also reasonable. I highly recommend it.

A solid hot chicken restaurant in vicinity of Vanderbilt. Kind of a hole in the wall laid back vibe. There was a pretty substantial wait time between order and delivery of food, so the warning on the wall that your food takes time to be cooked is valid. The wait time was like 15 minutes which is hardly a big deal but is also unexpected for venue. If you're eating here make sure you aren't in a rush! I had chicken and waffles and the waffle was pretty awesome! read more

When tourists come to nash, forget hattie b's, they need to visit Helen's. WAYY better flavor, juicy yet still crispy. SUPERB service and just has a great, southern vibe. I might argue that Subculture is still #1..but if they're closed, Helen's is my go to! read more

I'm hate hot chicken but I heard that the catfish was good. I placed an order through their app. Easy and my food was ready pretty quickly. The catfish did not disappoint. It was soo good. I'll def be returning. read more

Helen's Hot Chicken - Catfish Sandwich - Chicken Shop Near Me - Nashville, Tennessee

Chicken was very good. The hot is very flavorful and moist. The okra could use more seasonings. The dips come in packets instead of dipping cups and they don't have any dipping cups which makes it challenge. Ambiance is terrible and customer service is atrocious. Prices are steep for all of the extra hurdles! read more