Hotbird

4.2 (292 reviews)

ModerateComfort Food, Chicken Shop, Sandwiches

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Hotbird - Comfort Food Near Me - Oakland, California

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Hotbird - The salad - Comfort Food Near Me - Oakland, California

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HOTBIRD ATMOSPHERE

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Inside

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Outside

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Casual

Trendy

Moderate noise

Good for groups

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Markus R.

The location is great. It's right in the heart of Downtown Oakland with so many other restaurants and attractions nearby. There are a couple parking structures close and there is also street parking available. The inside of the restaurant is a bit on the smaller side but it has tables to sit at. The service is quick. The bathrooms are clean. Not much to complain about service wise. I like how they have a hotness-level of their spices. The food was great. The chicken was extra crispy and packed full of flavor. I got the most un-spicy flavor since I do not like spiciness and it was great. Virtually not spicy at all! The fries were also very crunchy and covered in a spice. My only grit with my meal was the oil, the fries and chicken were a bit greasy. I had to wash my hands after eating and even then the smell still kind of lingered on my fingers. The prices are also a bit high. For a meal for two, expect to walk out of here for around $35 making this a ($$$) for me. The flavor of the chicken almost makes up for the hefty price tag. Bottom line/TLDR: great chicken but expensive and oily.

Ed U.

If you're a fan of Nashville hot chicken, you no doubt are wetting your pants over the presence of this Oakland cafe. And why not? They do a pretty good job of replicating the spicy down home style of a Hattie B's (review: https://yelp.to/7VXLRu1VQw), but they were sorely lacking the Southern hospitality I was hoping for with this type of operation. Glum is the best description of the service here. Because of its proximity to the Fox Oakland, Jamie W. and I have been here a couple of times for pre-concert bites. On our first visit, I tried to be good by ordering The Salad with Fried Chicken. It consisted of shredded cabbage, peanuts, carrots, cucumber, tomato, red onion, dill pickle, crispy shallots, various herbs, and green goddess dressing (photo: https://yelp.to/m9ii5JdLwF). With the chicken, it came to $17. It was quite a generous serving and packed with flavor. As with every dish, you have the choice of six different levels of heat. I went with Mild because I'm a wimp. Jamie had the $14.50 Fried Fish Sandwich, a beer battered filet in a buttered bun stuffed with slaw, dill pickle, and their comeback sauce (photo: https://yelp.to/L6zgweS0aD). He went Mild, too, and the sandwich was a hefty delight. We came back several months later and tried a couple of other favorites. Still the same glum service, too. This time Jamie was smart and had the $8.50 Hotbird Jr., just a smaller version of the fish sandwich (photo: https://yelp.to/pVKxP_1sgh). I went in the other direction and had the heavy $21 Nashville Fish & Chips, whole beer battered and fried catfish with apple slaw, dill pickles, and a pile of fries (photo: https://yelp.to/fD82Y0xJRb). That was definitely for the seriously committed. FOOD - 4 stars...hefty portions of fish and chicken that manage to satisfy AMBIANCE - 3.5 stars...not enough tables when we come but we made do SERVICE - 2.5 stars...turn that frown upside down TOTAL - 4 stars...Nashville-to-Oakland, get on board RELATED - Exploring Oakland? Here's a collection of places I've patronized and reviewed: https://bit.ly/2ObVcpQ

Jill U.

The food was well put together and fish sandwich sizable. I was surprised that the sandwiches didn't come with anything. But we'd ordered a side of Mac n cheese with was noodles and liquid cheese. It took a long time for someone to come to the counter to take our order. Seemed like just one person working. There were plenty of seats and a good amount of people dining in.

Nadav M.

The Bay Area seems to have nice places to have a good chicken sandwich. This is one of the nice places I've tried. The inside seemed a bit empty but lovely with the 'All you need is hot chicken'. Service was clunky but thorough. Waiting time was fine. I did notice that their fry selection is not too extensive. I went with waffle fries and the regular hot chicken sandwich, I believe medium was the spice level. I can recall there were layers of sweetness. The coleslaw was sweet to me, not sure if it was the pickles as well. The flavour was nice. The spice was potent but not extreme; very comfortable while I watched people pass by. Waffle fries were crispy and fresh. The sauce was more on the sweet side but a good layer of flavour. Water and utensils are self served by the doorway. Right in the middle of downtown Oakland. Easily accessible with public transport.

Ayro P.

I would actually give this place 3.5 stars. It was recommended by a friend who lives nearby so we were excited to try it. When we walked in there were a lot of bugs flying near the entrance but at least that was the only place they were flying. The guy working the register was super friendly and let us try some of the spice levels using almonds. I was on the fence between mild and medium but didn't want to ruin my first time. My fiancé and I ordered fried chicken sandwiches, fries, and collard greens. The chicken sandwiches (7/10) were pretty big and filling. The chicken didn't seem dry at first but the more I got into it the more it seemed like it. Just a little though. The fries (8/10) were good but nothing that really sets it apart from other burger/sandwich places. The collard greens (6/10) were flavorful but super heavy. I'm sure it's intentional but I'm just not used to it. We didn't even finish it. Also, they came out a little late because the guy working accidentally left it in the window. Overall I probably wouldn't return to this place on my own, but not against coming here if my friend wants to go.

Shayla B.

The Hotbird is pretty damn legit if you ask me! There seems to be quite a few of these hot fried chicken spots opening up in the area. I'll admit that I'm a creature of habit and have been basically stickin' with my old and faithful World Famous Hotboys. And while I love them to death, I also love that I have options now. Because... who doesn't love them options?! Dropped by one evening to check this spot out for dinner. The location is prime time. It's located just one short block from the Fox Theater and tons of fun bars off Telegraph. For a chicken shop, the interior is pretty spacious. They have a beer and soju cocktail bar with a couple of big screen TV's inside. You order at the register and they'll deliver your food to your table. They've had some burglaries in the past unfortunately, so they don't accept cash for payment (which is totally understandable given the circumstances). The sweet young lady who assisted me at the register was really kind and helpful. You can adjust the heat level to your liking. One thing that I found unique about this spot is that they offer hot fried fish. Can't say that I've seen this option at any other hot fried chicken spot that I've been to thus far. I was intrigued and you know I had to try it. And that, I did. Welp, it was... ***wait for it***... FIYAH! As in, hawt fiyaaah! Me likey, me likey a lot. I'll be honest, it's truly nothing like a hot chicken sandwich. The texture is a lot softer of course and even though I got a medium heat level, it didn't seem too hot to me. Now if I had gotten a medium hot sammy from Hotboys, my ass would have been on the toilet pronto. So in essence, the medium spice level here worked on my behalf. Loved the aioli sauce and the simple slaw. They hooked it up with a fat ol' piece of fish for me too. It was super filling. I liked the waffle fries too even though I'm more of a traditionalist and would have preferred plain Jane fries since the sandwich is pretty fancy itself. The only thing I'd say is don't expect the fish sandwich to be anything like a hot fried chicken sandwich. It's a totally different experience and I don't mean that in a bad way. The fish is just a lot more subtle and less textured. Pretty impressive for my first ever hot fried fish sandwich. I'd get the fish sandwich again, but I will def try their chicken sammy on my next visit.

Jessica K.

Random training class downtown. Talked a bunch of strangers into going to lunch with me. The person taking our orders was pretty nice, offered his opinion on menu items. I got the honey butter chicken sando, no cheese no jalapeno. I would have liked to sub the cheese for something else but only pimento is offered I guess. I got the fries, thinking they were waffle fries since there were a bunch of photos with waffle fries. They were not. Kind of disappointed about that. I wanted to get the Mac but I knew I was going to be too full, and I wanted the banana pudding. The banana pudding was not a disappointment. Overall, great vibes, great food. I will return.

Alvi L.

Delicious food in a comfortable casual restaurant with friendly customer service. Recommendations: Chicken Sandwich Fish and chips Banana pudding

Chicken Tenders with slaw and two sauces. Yum.

Aaron Z.

We stopped here before a weeknight concert at the Fox and I was pleasantly surprised. It's a simple menu plus beer, wine, and some soju cocktails. Perfect for a pre-show bite. The inside was very quiet and service was quick. It's nice that you can choose the spice level (and maybe get on the wall of fame if you're brave enough!). It gets pretty serious even for people who like spiciness. We got the tenders and a chicken sandwich. Both brought the heat and the breading was perfectly crisp. Not greasy, not soggy. The sauces (esp the Come Back Sauce) were a great compliment. The slaw was tangy and sweet. I'd love to try more of their stuff!

Carol C.

Date: 7/23/2023 Time: 5:20 PM 67° Sunny My husband wanted fish 'n chips. Our go to place in East Oakland is closed today. Yelp search of somewhere close to Alameda resulted in Hotbird at 1951 Telegraph Avenue. I called in the order of the fish and chips and the fried tenders platter. Both entrees included coleslaw, pickle chips and sliced garlic bread The bread reminded me back in the struggling days when bread was used for hamburger bun, hot dog bun, butter/sugar sandwich. To y'all in the hood, ya know what I'm talkin' about...LOL. Gentleman who answered the phone told me food would be ready in about 15 minutes. Wow! The fried tenders had a kick to it without the medium level sauce. With the medium level sauce, the tenders were delicious. The honey mustard sauce was okay. I should have asked for ranch dressing. The coleslaw cut some of the spiciness down. I didn't think I would find coleslaw as good as KFC's, but Hotbird's coleslaw is even better. Yummy! When I checked in, the owner had my order ready, all in a bag. Hotbird was not busy and I was in and out of there in less than 5 minutes. I'm impressed with the quick service. A quick glance of the ambience has a small dining area with red highback stools and chairs, several tables and two flat screen TVs. Front of restaurant has big picture window for those who enjoy people watching. The place is comfy and casual. I can't say anything about the fish, except it is a huge piece, included waffle fries and tartar sauce. P.S. Husband says fish is spicy. He couldn't even finish of his dinner. Return visit? Yes, on a quiet Sunday.

Fried Chicken Sandwich (~$15) + Waffle Fries (~$5)

Aya E.

Ordered: Fried Chicken Sandwich (~$15): fried chicken breast (medium spice), slaw, dill pickle, comeback sauce, on buttered bun Waffle Fries (~$5): seasoned waffle fries with comeback sauce Aya's take: I actually came in wanting to try the Fish Sandwich since it sounded unique but the worker told me to try the Chicken Sandwich if it was my first time. It was surprisingly empty when I stopped by around 3pm on a Friday. The Fried Chicken Sandwich was crispy, juicy, and had a nice kick at the medium spice level. The Waffle Fries were pretty average but complemented the sandwich well. I've definitely had better Nashville-style chicken sandwiches but there's nothing wrong with Hotbird's. It was a good try.

Corina S.

I really really enjoyed the staff and the environment on top of the food!!! Found this spot near underdog film. I got the spicy and my husband got the southern chicken. Really wish I got the Mac and cheese! It looked fire!

Mariam M.

Hot chicken has gotten pretty popular lately but I'm a fan of Hotbird. I tried their chicken tenders (got mild - it was actually pretty mild while still maintaining flavor) and they came out so fresh and warm. I would say there's a bit more breading than actual chicken but is that really a bad problem? The fries were those oh so delicious crispy shoestring type. The actual restaurant itself as far as ambiance goes is pretty similar to any kind of fast food place. A good spot definitely worth checking out!

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Chad M.

3 years ago

Favorites, hot chicken, restaurant in the Bay Area.. what did you have? What did you say the fish? The Nashville catfish plate was great too. Easy to find steeet parking nearby, clean and safe area. read more

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Joel B.

4 years ago

Killer sando! Crispy and juicy as hell. Will be coming back soon!! Salad was pretty good, but needed a little something more (vinegar) to give it a kick. read more

Hotbird - Salad - pretty good - Comfort Food Near Me - Oakland, California

Hotbird - Chicken Sando - killer - Comfort Food Near Me - Oakland, California

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Daniel Y.

4 years ago

I'm think I'm addicted to this place! I went for soft opening then came back the next week. The chicken sandwich has the perfect combination of spicy and smoky and most important for me the chicken is super crisp and crunch on the outside and incredibly moist and tender inside. My favorite fried chicken sandwich in the Bay Area for sure! Small thing, but if they have the Arnold Palmer soda on the menu get it! I've never had a fizzy Arnold Palmer but it was a revelation :) read more

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Zaman K.

3 years ago

Man! Looking forward to eating at this place and man was it a horrible experience!! Came to order my food, waited 10 mins before took my order, then he said 10 mins my food will be ready. Waited 20 mins and everybody behind me (3 people) that came after me had their food behind mine!! Once I got my order... we'll guess what? It was the wrong order. So now it's 30 mins here waiting and still have not gotten my fish sandwich yet. Really want to ask for a refund at this point..... update 2 more people who came in 15 mins after me got their food. I'm still waiting for 1 fish sandwich. Smh disappointed af & hungry!! Update 3 more people after me got their food. read more

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Deardra M.

Elite 26

160

4 years ago

Probably the best fried chicken sandwich ever. Perfectly cooked and seasoned chicken, toasted bun and fast service. Check them out.

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Jindi Z.

3 years ago

Pretty good good but kitchen closes at 8:30pm when the restaurant closes at 9pm?? Why don't they just change their closing time then. I haven't heard of a casual dining place whose last call is 30 minutes before closing. read more

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Thomas K.

Elite 23

570

276

3 years ago

There are plenty of hot chicken spots to choose from in Oakland. Many reviewers compare Hotbird to World Famous Hotboys, but it's hard to say one is better that the other (and that's a good thing!). Hotbird sandwiches offer a tremendous blend of spices, high quality meats, and plenty of heat to make you sweat. The portions are huge and the service is friendly. You really can't go wrong with a visit here! read more

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Bob R.

2 years ago

Food was super good but omg i can't stop shitting me and my friends stomachs keep cramping

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Seth F.

Elite 24

302

203

285

4 years ago

My friend and I gave this place a chance. Parking is rough since it is next to a residential area and on a main road. We ended up finding parking after circling the block for 10 minutes or so. There was no wait which was nice. We both got the medium hotbird and a serving of waffle fries to share. The fries were SO good. The perfect crispness with a soft inside. I wish they had more sauces like bbq. The chicken sandwich was decent. The temperature was VERY hot when we got it. My friend and I talked and munched on fries for about fifteen minutes before we even started eating the sandwich since it was so hot. The chicken crust was nice and flavorful but the chicken meat itself was pretty bland. I didn't finish my sandwich because it wasn't that amazing. I mainly picked the fried sections and ate that. Everyone was very nice and helpful. If you want a big sandwich, this place could be a solid option. read more

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Chris D.

4 years ago

These folks don't mess around. I think Hotbird and Fowlfare are the best hot chicken in the Bay. The "hot" sando is good, and manageable heat wise. The x-hot, on the other hand, is not for faint of heart. Im sitting here with tears running down my face from heat, but Im not complaining. 10/10 would do it again. No pain no gain. (staff told me the extra hot uses ghost peppers, and the burning level is carolina reaper.) read more

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Maria D.

2 years ago

Super delicious chicken sandwich. One of the best. It's huge and delicious. Tons of flavor.

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Belles T.

4 years ago

Got two orders of the fish and chips. It's different. Instead of strips you get the entire fish. The insides were hella hot even after letting it sit and cool, but could have been cooked longer. It was still runny and undercooked, but still burned our tongues. The breading was extra crispy on one side and soft on the other side. The plain breading has no flavor as most non-spice folks entrees are. The fish was also bland. The Medium breading just had a spice flavor to it, but the meat of the fish was the same as the other one. The waffle fries and tarter sauce were good. {extra star for the fries and tarter sauce} I'm not much of a coleslaw fan, but this one has lemons and pickles in it which turned me even further away from coleslaw. ‍ read more

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A A.

3 years ago

A fantastic friend chicken Sammie and special sauce in a cool, quirky space a few blocks from The Fox--plan on it every time you're catching a show but aren't going for an all out sit down dining experience. read more

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Ren C.

2 years ago

Food was amazing, staff was great. The chicken sandwich was top notch, just so above others. Try it.

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Yelp I.

2 years ago

the food is nice and sandwiches can get pretty spicy. quiet inside and a good place to chill and have a bite to eat.

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Nim D.

181

3 years ago

Way too greasy and that is an understatement. It's like it went right from the fryer right into the box. No draining or placing on paper towels to absorb. I went through 5 pieces of paper towel for one piece of fish. It was drenched with grease which sat upon what was suppose to WAFFLE fries. Do you how pissed a kid gets when they want WAFFLE fries and get curly? If you're going to offer WAFFLE fries then do so but don't advertise them if you're not going to put them in the order. The only item that was good was the slaw. Not enough to make me want to come back to this place. If you like swimming in grease then this is the place for you. I am staying way away from this place. read more

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Helay L.

3 years ago

The chicken sandwich is alright, nothing really special about it. I'd recommend going somewhere else if you're craving that b/c you can def find better (especially with how expensive one sandwich is). read more

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Kayla H.

2 years ago

I drove out of my way to stop by here. Walked in at 8:31, online and also a large sign on their door says they close at 9. When we walked up to the counter one of the employees said their kitchen was closed. Definitely should advertise more clearly so others don't go through what we did. Thankfully there was a shake shack across the street so we just went there read more

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Chelesa G.

136

3 years ago

Guy at the register was dope. Food took a little longer than expected and he gave me a free drink while I wait. Excellent customer service.

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Lei L.

Elite 10

2111

194

3 years ago

The fish and chips filet is as big as both of my hands and it's freshly cooked over waffle fries.

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Leo C.

4 years ago

Great service and a fantastic sandwich. The fries leave a lot to be desired and at about $4 I think you'd be safe skipping them all together. They don't have ketchup here and the "comeback sauce" that the fries come with is just a strange blend of flavors that doesn't really pair with the Sandwich that already has it. The Sando is a 10/10 but the spice level is pretty inconsistent. The first time I ordered the "Hot" , it was the perfect heat. The second time, it barely tasted mild. Maybe it was an off day as they were busy, but it didn't totally scratch the spice itch and if you're offering like 6 spice levels, you would really want it to be consistent. Other than that, this place is awesome. The chicken itself is perfectly juicy and it is reasonably priced for the area. read more

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Eric G.

3 years ago

As a SoCal native, I have experienced many Nashville hot chicken sandwiches. Obviously, the best being the infamous Howlin Rays. I love that spot so much. Hotbird is almost identical in terms of flavor as Howlin Rays. I haven't had it in years but I've had Hotbird several times while momentarily living in San Jose with my wife. At the time, Hotbird had the cutest hole in the wall in this beautiful open hall between two skyscrapers. I understand the move, but it was such a vibe of a spot that it enhanced the experience with the sando. I hope my wife and I can visit soon to check out the new location, hoping it still tastes like Howlin Rays! read more

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Tim P.

108

3 years ago

I really like this place! Mild chicken sandwich is the right spice for me. Awesome cornbread batter.

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Justin B.

3 years ago

The foods is one note. All the meat has the same spruce on it and tastes the same because of it. They advertise a spiciness scale but even the lowest rating is spicey enough that my children didn't like it. To top it off it's overpriced. I like to support local businesses but unfortunately I won't be back here. read more

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Divina L.

2 years ago

One of, if not, the best chicken sando spot in Oakland. I've been here 3 times now, twice when they first opened more than over a year ago and again recently. I was not disappointed as they've stayed just as good as the last time I had them. Seasoning is on point and flavorful (ordered medium), a great mix of spices, meat was juicy, and batter perfectly crispy and not too thick. They used to have waffle fries but now have straight fries and the seasoning, thickness and crunch did not disappoint. The house sauce they have is still bomb as well, preferred over the ranch but haven't tried the other sauces. read more

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christine c.

3 years ago

Delicious fried chicken and excellent service!!! I really liked the ambience. A hip place to get together with friends to catch up. I'm always looking for spaces to rent to throw a small party and this would be a perfect place for that too. Parking on the street was easy. I also loved the drinks and dessert. I can't wait to go back! read more

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Clement C.

4 years ago

Situated in the same spot as what used to be roam, hot chicken sandwiches seem to be the new gourmet burger. Hotbird's sandwiches are crispy, spiced well, and the sauce is delicious. A little messy with the sauce but I didn't mind. The fish sandwich is just as good, too, for maybe a healthier (?) option. read more

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Andre G.

4 years ago

I will say I found this hidden gem on a nature exploration I will say this... I have had Nashville hot chicken all over including the south. However, THIS combination of Hot Chicken combined with their "Comeback Sauce" was a recipe from heaven. I have never in my country ATL life had a combo so lovely. This place is a 10/10 for all my country folks and the vibe is even on point. Enjoy something that even the east coast would love at Hotbird ! read more

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Ajade N.

Elite 25

306

3 years ago

Hi, I loved everything about this place. From the food to the drinks to the desserts everything was on point. My friend got the hot chicken. I got a hot Fish easily one of the best fish I've had in a long time. I actually prefer my fish fried this way now, and I wish more people would take direction from them and offer hot fried fish. It is so good if done right. The side salad was very eclectic and unique. Very good. I was a little concerned how the different flavors would blend but it was perfect. I didn't get a dessert the first time dining in, but I decided to try it on its own another day and it was the right way to make banana pudding. Some people would say it has too many cookies or too much cream or too much this or that or not enough. People are picky with banana pudding, but I felt like this was the best banana pudding I've ever had in Oakland, in California all together, besides me making it myself. Their beer was crisp and fresh. This place will always be my stop when I'm in town as long as they are around. read more

Hotbird - Hot Fish! - Comfort Food Near Me - Oakland, California

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Danny J.

260

2 years ago

Rude and nonexistent customer service. The food took way too long to come out. Not coming back, save your time and money.

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Jair S.

4 years ago

This is one of the best fried chicken sandwich places in the Bay Area, I came here with my friends after school and they took a picture of us Mild is a bit spicy but super good and the comeback sauce is delicious read more

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De'Naya G.

419

4 years ago

HELLA GOOD!!!! My step brother recommended I give this place a try and I am so glad I did! It's hard to find a place that actually does Nashville chicken justice. This place DID NOT disappoint! The chicken had so much flavor and the spice was right on point! The sandwich was hella sloppy and the wedge fries were fresh and crispy! Definitely 10/5 stars!!! read more

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Charlie B.

3 years ago

i came here for my birthday lunch because i thought this place had the best chicken in the easy bay but the wild inconsistencies have dropped this to a two star review. hot boys isnt much better. for consistency in a chicken sandwich check out daves. its not as good as hotbird used to be but it is better than 15 dollars for a dusty McChicken. seriously, quality has dropped so much. its bad read more

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Brian R.

Elite 24

136

4 years ago

The best gosh darn chicken sandwiches in the whole universe -banana putting that will make your face melt off. The coolest atmosphere in Oakland. Get to hot burrd! read more

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Sean V.

4 years ago

The food was incredible. One reviewer said it was just as good as hotboys just a different vibe and that is absolutely correct. I got the chicken sandwich medium and the fries, Loved the food. They just opened so they're still getting the interior going but I hope they get some TVs in there soon. I'd love to bring friends and watch games there. read more

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Andy V.

4 years ago

Love, love, loved their chicken sandwich. It is thick, tender, and juicy and will leave you no room for dessert after LOL. As for the flavor, it's vastly different from other hot chicken places. It has some solid spice with some sweetness that makes it an absolute treat. Definitely a sandwich and an experience that'll have you talking about it for the rest of the night. read more

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Alex S.

140

2 years ago

Rude and inattentive staff (order was wrong and nobody was working the front). Food is ok, but much better options nearby. Would not go back. The vibe is mid. read more

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Asha R.

152

4 years ago

Fried chicken sandwich was delicious - perfect size, crispy, medium heat. Pre-ordering was easy and my food was ready way faster than the estimated time. I'll be back. read more

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Raisa L.

3 years ago

OMG. Favorite hot chicken in Oakland and Nashville. Best banana cream pudding as well. Just A+ all around.

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Johnny B.

Elite 19

232

100

4 years ago

I'm not sure why this place is so highly rated, probably just hype. There a bunch of issues with this chicken sandwich, but the most unforgiving is the seasoning and the cook. They use chicken breast, which is fine however they need to flatten it prior to cooking and either brine it or something else because once you get past that spicy crust - it's a world of bland dryness. I've tried this place on 2 occasions and after the first bite around the edge it feels like I'm just eating flavorless boiled chicken (if boiled chicken was dry). My 3 best spicy fried chicken places and much better alternatives are 1. World Famous Hotboys - Oakland 2. Howlin' Ray's - LA 3. The Red Chikz - La read more

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Page 5 of 8

1951 Telegraph Ave
Ste 2
Oakland, CA 94612
Uptown
Directions
(510) 922-1978
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.hotbirdoakland.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does Hotbird open?

Hotbird opens at 11:30 AM on Thursday.

What time does Hotbird close?

Hotbird is closed on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.Hotbird closes at 8:00 PM on Thursday.

Mon-Wed, Fri-Sun ClosedThu 11:30 AM - 8:00 PM

Food & Alcohol

Does Hotbird have a happy hour?

Yes, Hotbird has a happy hour.

Does Hotbird serve alcohol?

Yes, Hotbird serves alcohol. Beer & Wine Only

Indoor Amenities

Does Hotbird allow dogs?

No, Hotbird does not allow dogs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Hotbird have outdoor seating?

No, Hotbird does not have outdoor seating options.

Does Hotbird have parking?

Yes, Hotbird has parking options.

Other Amenities

Does Hotbird have free WiFi?

Yes, Hotbird has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

Slinging hot chicken craft beers, and good vibes! We’re new to the neighborhood, come check us out!

History

Established in 2017.

We started out slinging fried chicken sandwiches at Oakland First Fridays, Off the Grid, and food festivals. We finally found a home in Oakland, and are excited to bring some legit food!

Ask the Community - Hotbird

What type of oil do they use?

Rice bran and soy bean oil mix

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Do you offer any halal meat?

Yes! I confirmed with the manager that all of their chicken is halal.

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Unpopular opinion: wasn't my favorite. But that's all due to personal preference (aside from…read moreservice and a rocky start). The good: fresh, quality ingredients The bad: started with the host/wait list. I accidentally added my name twice for a solo diner. Host thought it was a mistake and completely removed me from the wait list and seated other parties that came in after me. Thoroughly confused - she didn't even call my name to confirm so I had to go up to her and ask. No apology either. Was seated at the counter where solo diners usually sit. Service was non existent. Server came up to me and ask "what would you like to order?" I've never been there before. No "hi my name is ... I'll be your server" nada. They're just a machine - people in people out. The ramen - broth was fine. The squiggly noodles aren't my favorite. Expected to have kernel corn but had corn ribs instead (good thing I'm good with chopsticks!) The charshu was just okay. Enoki topping was just ... aight. The nice touch was that they didn't put it in the ramen and served it on the side to preserve its crunchiness because it definitely needed the texture! It was loud, busy, and nothing spectacular about the dining scene here. $55 dollars later (ramen, 2 additional toppings, one box of sake) ... I sadly don't think it was worth it.

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I walked in to order to-go. You walk up to the glass window where you will see a sign telling you…read morewhere to order. There were folks waiting for their order so I just asked them if they were in line and they actually ordered already. The staff were super busy but did their best! I ordered three porridges and the fried dough stick. Used my credit card. Then i waited maybe about 8-10 minutes. I love the hustling nature of the restaurant. It gave me nostalgia to see the uncles chopping poultry, the aunties making rice rolls! The porridge were delicious. Dough sticks were soooooo crispy and I loved dipping it into my porridge.

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9 reviews that are not currently recommended

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brook f.

2 years ago

Title: Mixed Experience at Hot Bird During Oakland Restaurant Week I recently visited Hot Bird during Oakland Restaurant Week and opted for their special, the Bacon Cheese Fried Chicken Sandwich. While it was okay, I found it didn't quite meet my expectations. Personally, I'm a big fan of their Chicken Tenders - they're delicious, perfectly seasoned, and always hit the spot. The sandwich came served on a brioche-style bun, which was a nice touch, but overall, I found myself longing for the familiar satisfaction of their standout tenders. If I were to dine at Hot Bird again, I'd stick to what I know and love - the Chicken Tenders. Despite this, the service was pleasant, and the atmosphere was inviting. read more

Lana N.

4 years ago

So happy Hotbird has a new location in Oakland, awesome food, people and vibe. If you're looking for a quick bite or a quaint place to eat and catch up with family/friends, this location is where it's at. read more