Finally made it to the new Rowdy Rooster. Forget everything you know about fried chicken--this is a whole different beast. ​I tackled the Big Rowdy with dark meat and that Hakka chili heat. It's an absolute unit of a sandwich. Replacing pickles and mayo with red onion and mint chutney? Mental. Chef is a straight-up genius for that one. ​Grabbed the mini samosas on the side and washed the fire down with a Thums Up. That soda hits way harder than a Coke--sharp, spicy, and high voltage. ​Shoutout to Eric for holding it down and helping me navigate the spice. The art is sick and the vibes are high. ​If you're tired of the same old bird, come get punched in the face with some actual flavor. This isn't just lunch; it's a heavyweight bout. read more

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New York has no shortage of burger joints, but an Indian burger spot? It was a first for me, and Rowdy Rooster made sure it was a memorable one. A classic NYC hole-in-the-wall, this place is almost designed to be missed. Blink, check your phone, or dodge one too many pedestrians, and you've walked right past it. Try not to, it's worth the stop. Pricing sits a little on the higher side for a combo, but let's be honest - this is New York. The burgers are bold, satisfying, and built to impress. I went for the chicken and veggie sandwiches, both dressed with a mango lime sauce that genuinely were very flavorful. The tomato aioli on the side was another win. And the fries? Crispy, golden, and dusted with a Cajun-meets-Indian spice blend that somehow makes complete sense and zero sense at the same time - in the best way. Rowdy Rooster is a must-visit: come ready for real Indian heat and flavor. read more

Rowdy Rooster - Chick len sandwich with fries - Chicken Shop Near Me - New York, New York

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I stopped at Rowdy Rooster for lunch while in the area. It wasn't busy at all; I went on a Friday around 11:30am and was one of the only customers I saw. I got the Big Rowdy Combo. At first I was impressed with all the flavors of the sandwich; however about halfway through, it became very soggy from all the sauces. I ended up ditching the bread by the very end and eating the chicken with my hands. I also wasn't a fan of the fries. They were overdone. The texture and taste was almost like they had been cooked previously, then refried again to make my order. The meal was just 3 stars for me. That being said, it's a unique concept and quite a few of their menu options looked good! Maybe I just ate there on an off day... read more

Rowdy Rooster - Big Rowdy Combo - Chicken Shop Near Me - New York, New York

Desi flavored sandwiches with green chutney, garlic mayo, and pickled onion. I'd go to satiate a fried chicken craving! read more

Rowdy Rooster - Chicken Shop Near Me - New York, New York

My new favorite spot by MSG! So glad I came here before a concert. Very quick. The big rowdy sandwich was very tasty. The medium spice is quite spicy, but I thought it had a lot of flavor. The spicy fries were so fun. Excellent fry quality and crispy. Friendly Jokey staff. read more

Rowdy Rooster - Big Rowdy Sandwich - Chicken Shop Near Me - New York, New York

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Rowdy Rooster's menu here is briefer than at the original location. The Big Rowdy sandwich has multiple spice options and even a choice between thigh or breast. The heat was impressive as was the careful meat/condiment/bread ratio. The hakka chili sauce on the fries was stunning. Per Lailah J.'s 2025 review, the $4 combo upgrade allowed mango lassi or lemonade options. If that still holds then my choice of bottled water was a "me problem" and I'll be back soon. read more

What a meal! I was in Korea town with the intent of finding a Korean place for dinner. But I walked by Rowdy Rooster & a sign in the window screamed my name. The sign declared they had Vada Pao. I can't tell you everything in Vada Pao, but I do know it is one of my favorite Indian Street Foods. It's a puffy ball with mashed chickpeas, tons of spices & herbs, tamarind, on a small sandwich bun. So I shifted gears & went in. I also ordered chicken strips with mango lime sauce. Oh mama was this food excellent! I spoke with the owner who told me he was from Mumbai & that that was the style of food he served. It's a small place with bold & beautiful flavors. read more

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Service is great - very helpful folks who guide on spice level and flavor. Ambiance was colorful and pretty with excellent desi bops playing in the background. The food itself was a let down - maybe I had too high expectations. I found the burger itself was average and not as spectacular as I'd had in mind - spicy wasn't too spicy and there wasn't anything to cut the fatty texture of the burger and fries. read more

Rowdy Rooster - Chicken Shop Near Me - New York, New York

Tasty chicken, well seasoned, solid serving size. I ordered pick-up so can't speak to service or ambiance inside. Price on par with other spots in the area. Discount if you work in a Vornado building! read more

Rowdy Rooster - Fried Chicken Bowl Combo - Chicken Shop Near Me - New York, New York

A really solid spot if you're craving a fried chicken sandwich with a twist! The big rowdy sandwich was really good - super flavorful, a good portion; couldn't ask for much more. I also got the mango lassi which was also great - I do think though the masala fries were a bit underwhelming. I'd recommend pairing it with one of the sauces (the mint mayo was good!). The restaurant itself is also pretty nice - clean and they were playing good music! I'd recommend stopping by if you're in the area and craving a chicken sandwich! read more

Rowdy Rooster - Big Rowdy Combo - Chicken Shop Near Me - New York, New York

Amazing, amazing flavor. The chicken sandwich at the Rowdy Rooster was exactly what I needed to polish off a night with the girls in NYC. Just a block or so away from Penn station, the location is super convenient for this Jersey girl. The decor is vibrant and fun. The staff is very friendly and happy to help in whatever way. Also the combo is the way to go- it's a great deal and you don't want to miss the fries which are seasoned and fried to perfection. The samosas are mini and perfect for a snack or appetizer. The mango lassi was on point, the star though was the chicken sandwich. I ordered the Big Rowdy Combo, with Hakka chili on the chicken and a side of the roasted garlic dip for my fries. Amazing. The quality of the chicken and the fry on it was perfectly rendered. I can't say enough good things about this place. You're in for a treat if you come here. We came after spending time in the winter village in Bryant park and let me tell you, the food here surpasses the food at the winter village by far!! read more

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I was honestly a little surprised how good this was, given its close proximity to Penn station. The chicken sandwich was a good size and packed a lot of flavor. I loved how there is the option to choose between breast or thigh meat, as well as how hot you want the flavor to be. It really lets you customize your sandwich to your liking (I went for thigh meat and found it to be very tender and juicy). The masala fries were nothing too special, but not bad. I did like the mango lassi - it was sweet and fragrant. Service was good too - the cashier had good recommendations. I would come back if I was looking for a quick bite and am in the area. read more

Rowdy Rooster - Chicken Shop Near Me - New York, New York

Wow!! Visiting from California and stumbled upon this halal spot when looking for a late dinner. The burgers were delicious, the spice was on point, and the guy at the register was very nice. This location is small though; we took up most of it with our group of 9. read more

Rowdy Rooster - Chicken Shop Near Me - New York, New York

Manhattan, NY (midtown west: Penn District) - sooo good and one of my favorite midtown lunch spots! The menu is slightly different than when they first debuted, with more flavors and heat levels, so I'm updating my review. First of all, kudos on bringing REAL HEAT!! So many times I ask for "Asian spicy like ya mean it!" and get a tepid American medium. But this ghost chili flavor is actually FIRE! The guy at the counter looked at me skeptically like: "are you suuure?" and I'm like, "bring it on!!" LOL. I'm a high heat aficionado and this is probably the 1 in 50 times where the heat level is actually as advertised, and even made me cry a little. So unless you're a heat master, just get the regular medium hot which has a nice modest kick but isn't overwhelming. The fries are deliciously seasoned and crunchy. No more masala fries though? That's ok, as these are really great! Love the texture. The combo which is +$4 more is a great deal it includes a fries, drink (including mango lassi and house-made lemonade!) and dipping sauce. You can opt for the chicken in fried or grilled form, white or dark meat, and the fries spicy or not. There are several flavors you can choose from, either as a dry rub or drizzled in a sauce. I usually get a bowl and it's very hearty and filling. Rowdy Rooster is owned by the same restaurant group behind Semma, the Michelin-starred Indian restaurant that's a total hot ticket right now. read more

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Chicken sandwich was very good. A little wet and fell apart as I was eating, would've preferred it a lot dryer. The spicy fries were some of the best fries I've ever had in my life... yes, not exaggerating. So good especially with the tomato aioli. Would come back again for a dry rub sandwich and the fries. read more

Rowdy Rooster - Chicken Shop Near Me - New York, New York

Phenomenal. I tried the vegetarian sandwich as a combo with fries and a mango lassi. The patty in the sandwich has a great crackly texture on the outside, and the inside is a spicy vegetable and potato filling. The bread is fluffy, and the other toppings on the sandwich add some nice tartness. The fries are insanely crispy and well seasoned. I got a hakka chilli sauce to dip on the side, which is fermented and spicy. The mango lassi had plenty of fresh yogurt flavor and was just sweet enough to contrast well with the rest of the intensely flavored meal. This was a great deal for $17 - plenty of food and great flavors. Can't wait to go back! read more

Rowdy Rooster - Veggie Burger Combo - Chicken Shop Near Me - New York, New York

I stopped in here on a Friday afternoon and was greeted with a warm welcome from the cashew and manager. I was given great advice on what to order. I ordered the tenders with breast meat which was nice and juicy. My sauce was a garlic sauce. I was advised to get the tomato aioli sauce for my fries and man that sauce was ahmazzzing. You also get a side of a small serving of coleslaw. Coleslaw I give about a 6.5. It's not terrible but not the best. I loved the chicken as it was very flavorful and juicy. The fries had the perfect crisp too. I will be back. Oh btw this is an ideal location right outside of MSG and LIRR.. read more

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The staff are very nice, friendly. The food is actually good, I ordered chicken strips and fries. However they forgot my sauce. If you happen to be in the area it's a cool quick spot to grab food. Not a place I'd go out my way for again. read more

Stopped in for a quick snack: Service was quick and friendly. Space was cute and clean, and it's a simple counter service spot. We got the Big Rowdy Sandwich to share: crispy fried chicken sandwich with mint chutney and pickled onions on a potato bun. We got the medium spice level (or level 2) and loved every bite. The flavors and spices worked well together and the portion size of chicken is sizeable too. As far as drinks though: Soda is by the can, and water is bottled water *only* - no cups for tap water. read more

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Surprisingly one of the spiciest chicken I have had so far. The flavor was so good. One of the best place to eat in NYC. read more

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This was my first time at Rowdy Rooster in NYC. My friend recommended it after we tried a bunch of food at the Bryant Park Christmas Village. The restaurant is only a block away from Penn Station, and since we had some time to kill, we decided to check it out. I loved the decorations, it's colorful and there are chickens all over the ceiling and walls. I ordered the samosas and sparkling water because I was still full from all the food earlier. The samosas were really good, crunchy, had a lot of filling, and the sauce that comes with them was delicious. It's not too spicy or too sweet, just very refreshing. My friends got the burgers with fries. The fries were really good, so next time I'm definitely getting a burger too. The staff was nice and friendly, so I'll definitely be back. read more

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Limited menu. I got the rowdy. Fire sauce level 3 didn't do it unfortunately. Will order level 4 next time. Unless you only want the sandwich please go to the 14th street location. There's a ton of yummy things on the menu read more

Rowdy Rooster - Chicken Shop Near Me - New York, New York

The service at this place is excellent. The staff is willing to help and even provides table service delivery of your food. The restaurant itself is cute with limited seating that gives you the fast food vibes but is customized. I commend the owners for trying something new in such a tough city of food lovers. While I can't comment on the chicken the veggie burger was okay. My main issue was it was literally dripping in oil. It would've been nice to not be so oily or to at least get the oil off. The winner of the show was the customized Indian sauces. There was a mix of the green and sweet chutney that made a fabulous combo. Overall, I probably wouldn't come back because the food was so oily. But it's worth the try! read more

Rowdy Rooster - Veggie burger - Chicken Shop Near Me - New York, New York

This place has the best fried chicken PLUS it's uniquely Indian seasoned ... choose thigh or breast ... choose seasoning and dippers on with your fires! I got the thighs, mild .. with spicy fries and mustard dipper ... fantastic, messy, flavorful meal! Got the thumbs up - Indian cola. Hit up this place if you can ! Service was great - speedy and helpful. The vibe is chill, unless you order it spicy and cant handle your heat... read more

Rowdy Rooster - Thums Up! - Chicken Shop Near Me - New York, New York

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If I am around Penn station the likelihood of me stopping by Rowdy Rooster is high. The veggie burger, spicy fries, hakka chilli, and limca altogether is a phenomenal combo! The hakka chilli does have a kick to it so beware. I'd also recommend the vada pao which is small but packed with flavor. The space is vibrant and and the seating area is limited to a few tables. Definitely stop by if you're in the area. read more

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NY Times defines their sandwiches one of the 57 sandwiches that defines NYC...and I agree 100%. If you are looking for something different, I highly recommend the crispy chicken - spicy fried chicken rubbed in Indian spices! The Big Rowdy can be a serious contender in all the spicy chicken sandwich challenges! Get the combo which comes with fries and mango lassi..most perfect combo of spices meal and then cooled down finish with sweet mango treat. Service is super friendly. The guy that helped us really knows his food and made the perfect recommendation for our meal. It's a super casual place where you order at the counter and they bring to your table. Looking forward to coming back and trying the bowl next time! read more

Rowdy Rooster - Chicken Shop Near Me - New York, New York

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If you want some spicy Indian fried chicken, this is the place to go! We tried a sandwich, the chicken tenders at various spice levels and masala fries. The tenders are 2 pieces per order, but we got 3 small pieces instead. You can choose between dark or white meat, both were moist. The chicken was crispy, spicy and balanced nicely with the chutney on the side. They sell beer and wine, and the beer goes real well with the spiciness. Service is fairly quick. There are only a few tables to eat at, and a few small ledges, so be prepared to stand! read more

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Incredible flavor, even better texture. Chicken breading is on point, fries are perfectly crisp. The fire spice level is solid, but not overwhelming. Spicy fries with mint mayo goes crazy. Had high hopes for this place because Dhamaka is one of our favorite places to eat, period, and Rowdy Rooster did not disappoint. From the cup of mango lassi to the crispy and fries + dreamy burger and to the chicken bowl, they were all delicious through and through. I enjoyed the colorful ambiance and vibrant music inside, and the speedy, friendly service. It was a feast! We'll be back. read more

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We opted for white meat with medium spice. The sauce is through and through, not just on the skin. Bonus of an extra strip. Queen played over the speaker: an ode to the late Freddy Mercury. The mint chutney was a cool addition to dip the strip. The masala fries were outstanding. So nice; I thought about taking some to go. The four dollar soda was too small for me. Music was good. read more

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Really good chicken sandwich! Thats what I wanted and this was the right spot! My first time! I got my spice level at medium! It was spicy but I loved the sauce that cooks it! The Indian spices make this sandwich distinct and special! They didn't skimp on the bun, which was the perfect size and vehicle for this very satisfying sandwich! Service was basic, could have been more inviting and appreciative seeing as it could be family owned. Location pretty good and I can see this place being packed if there was a game at the Garden! The price was perfect for the quality! I would pay $15 bucks for this sandwich again! And Again! Would what their fries are like? read more

Rowdy Rooster - Chicken sandwich, medium spiced - Chicken Shop Near Me - New York, New York

Wow, the fried chicken sandwich is incredible. Not only is it a solid fried chicken sandwich, but it's something different from what you typically see. 10/10 perfect use of flavors and easy to recommend. read more

$10+ for a tiny slider with a piece of overcooked chicken? Thanks. It really feels like they're resting on their laurels. The midtown location is just not doing it. Overpriced, over fried, and the vibe is off. The person at the counter asked everyone - "have you been here before"? With no follow up questions. Try the East Village location. read more

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Stopped in here quickly to get a pre-dinner snack. With the East village location being super popular, I was glad to easily walk in and order quickly here. I went with the lil rowdy chicken sandwich with an order of masala fries and yogurt dipping sauce to try out. The chicken sandwich was overall juicy, well-cooked, and packed with flavors unique to me. Definitely hard to describe as my palette isn't too familiarized with Indian cuisine and spices but the sandwich hit the spot and it was just what I needed. I'll definitely be back and will be going with the bigger sando. read more

A small restaurant, big enough only for 3 to 4 groups. We came specially for the Vada Pav, however, found out that it was taken off the menu because not many people ordered it We ordered the Paneer Tikka sandwich, it was good with the sauces that they have. And definitely spicy. read more

Rowdy Rooster - Paneer Paneer Tikka Sandwich - Chicken Shop Near Me - New York, New York

Got to try this place! Was able to walk in and get my order within 10 min and catch the train. Ordered the big rowdy sandwich, lil rowdy sandwich and masala fries. The lil rowdy sandwich is a bit pricey, you're better off upgrading to a big rowdy for $3. The food was good and really tasty as you eat it but afterwards I felt like it was a bit too greasy for my taste. It's still def worth a try though. read more

Rowdy Rooster - Big Rowdy Sandwich - Chicken Shop Near Me - New York, New York

Rowdy Rooster is a solid chain for halal fried chicken sandwiches and I do like it better than let's say Dave's for example. However it didn't wow me and for the price, I would expect the sandwich to be a bit bigger. Regardless it was tasty and spicy (if requested) and I would go back if I needed a quick bite. read more

Rowdy Rooster - Chilli Chicken Sandwich - Chicken Shop Near Me - New York, New York

The fried chicken bowl is the best grain bowl ever! I had the sandwich, tasty but was a huge mess. Got the tenders with fries, delicious but is very heavy. Then I tried the fried chicken bowl and that was the one. I had level 2 spicey which definitely had a kick. Chicken paired perfectly with the rice mix and the mint sauce, chefs kiss. I am going to try the grilled chicken and see if that's almost as good cause I could save some calories, hahahaha. Service is always friendly and helpful. They are pretty fast, I usually get mine to go and the ambiance is really nice and colorful. read more

This place was incredible. I got the Fried Chicken Rice Bowl and it was sooo good. The chicken is perfectly flavored and crispy. There actually is some heat which is great. Overall, I loved this combination and can't wait to return! read more

Rowdy Rooster - Signature Fried Chicken Rice Bowl - Chicken Shop Near Me - New York, New York

I thought this was a pretty interesting concept - a Indian influenced fried chicken sandwich shop in Midtown. Given the location, a good amount of people walking in and out during noon on weekdays. I enjoyed my sandwich still tasted great bringing it back into my office! read more

I always walk by this place on my way to Penn Station. Finally, I decided to go check it out with my husband. I ordered the Big Rowdy Sandwich with dark meat chicken and Rebel spice level (which is the lowest level). I didn't want to take a chance and wanted to start out mild. I also ordered the extra peachy soda and we decided to dine in. Once or prefer was ready, one of the staff brought the sandwich and drink over. She was also kind enough to explain all of the choices to us when we were placing the order. "Thank you for being patient with me." The sandwich was a little spicy which was fine. The fried chicken pieces were sandwiches between 2 potato buns. Mint sauce and sesame yogurt were drizzled on the fried chicken and fried onions. The flavor was good. I wonder how the sandwich would have tasted if the chicken was served in between the butter pao bun instead. I didn't care for the potato bun as much. My husband didn't get to try it as I gobbled it up so we'll have to come again so he can try. The artisanal soda tasted peachy and it had just enough sugar (6g). The price for the big rowdy sandwich was $12 which is alright. They give you big pieces of fried chicken in the sandwich. The soda was $3 which was fine. Ambiance - there were 4 small tables with backless wooden stools and a long bench on the other end. It felt like an electic burger joint. The decor was simple. read more

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