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    The Crack Shack

    4.1 (2.2k reviews)
    Open 10:30 am - 9:00 pm

    Order The Crack Shack Takeout or Delivery

    The Crack Shack Photos

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    THE CRACK SHACK ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Casual
    Trendy
    Moderate noise
    Good for groups

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    Recommended Reviews - The Crack Shack

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    Ying L.

    My son picked up a kids meal to try. The chicken was dried. The cookie was delicious. Large indoor seating. Plenty of parking.

    Mexican potene and nitro beer
    Virgil E.

    Love the food here. We just keep coming back! The open air eating are inside & outside patio or just sit at the bar watching sports. While you order food on your way in the do deliver alcohol & food to your table. Fresh made and perfect frier temperature makes for perfect chicken and fries. The do have healthy bowls as well. Kid friendly Enjoy

    Chicken nuggets and Katsu Lookin'
    C G.

    Came for the first time ever - check was perfectly cooked and delicious! The restaurant itself has an awesome vibe. Cocktails, wine and good beer on tap. Excited to try some of their other sandwiches. They also have a self serve sauce station with some yummy dipping sauces.

    Mini Biscuits
    Michael R.

    Their chicken is crispy and flavorful on the outside, and they have a good assortment of sauces as well! I felt like 2 pieces were a bit on the dry side/overcooked but the rest were all juicy and tender. Their biscuits are also super soft and fluffy, and the paired maple butter is delicious. Only issue with them is that they're pretty small for what you're paying for (they are called mini biscuits on the menu). Food came out quickly and everyone was very nice. Lots of seating inside and outside with the cool ocean breeze.

    Noah K.

    I've been wanting to try crack shack for awhile now, and I have been missing out! The food was exceptional. My wife got one of the salads and I got the Mexican poutine and a fried chicken sandwich. Everything was very delicious. The service was great and they provided water bowls for dogs. The restaurant is very cozy and it has a spectacular view from the patio. We went right at sunset and were treated to a wonderful sunset with our meal.

    Firebird
    Gabe F.

    Have to drop this down to 2 stars . I've been here a couple times since my initial visit and it keeps going down hill. From " we're short staffed " to "She never mentioned the sauces". I tried to like this place even driving from Oceanside but it's been nothing but cold food and messed up orders. First, get rid of that IPad and tip option. There is no need to tip anything as it's self serve . Take care of the kitchen so the orders come out correctly. If they don't, that's on you . Don't take the food back to make it right. That's on you and you bring out the correct order. That's how you learn not to make mistakes. The order is on the house . Super loud with kids running around . Every time I've left my ears are ringing. It seems staffed now but just workers waking around while the kitchen suffers with orders . Part of my last order I ordered some wings and they were the size of paper clips .

    Taura G.

    This is always a great dining experience. We took some time after being back in town to come here. We both knew that we wanted to dine inside with the cold weather and we were not sure if the Little Italy and PB locations had inside seating, or enough of it. We ordered 1 Chicken Sandwich and 2 Cobb Salad, a shake, and water. Everything was delicious as usual. Staff was very customer service oriented. Our order came out in about 12-15 minutes, and we were able to find a table next to the large TV screen to watch the NBA Game. We love how consistently delicious the food is here. We also like that this location has inside dining. Thanks!

    Half Bird
    Loan N.

    Great alternative for groups and families! Came here because the nearby In-N-Out was slammed and I'm glad we did. There were no lines and the food came out quickly. It's a standard counter-service setup: order first, then find a seat. What we ordered: Half Bird: This comes with 5 pieces of fried chicken and was the standout of the meal. Crispy and well-executed. Katsu Lookin': This sandwich features Namasu pickles, which are a bit sweeter than your standard pickle. Combined with the slaw, the whole sandwich felt a little too sweet for my liking. I really missed that sharp, vinegary kick to balance the richness of the chicken. Hand Cut Fries: Decent seasoning and a good side. The Sauces: Most of the sauces even the hot sauces lean quite sweet. The interior is massive with plenty of seating. The outdoor area is great for kids. we saw little ones playing with bubbles. Even the restrooms are located outdoors. However, there is a hand wash station located inside. Staff were friendly and the vibe over all is perfect for large gatherings

    Coop Deville
    Rod S.

    Loved it! Roomy interior. Service was outstanding. I ordered the Coop Deville and made it a combo (fries and a drink). Fries were on point. Super delicious with a crispiness that gave it the right texture. The sando was perfection! Crispy, juicy, tasty, spicy...so good! I'll be back cuz Crack Shack don't lack and all the rest are wack make you wanna yack.

    Family Flock
    Maria M.

    This is a great spot for fried chicken. We had the family flock that comes with half bird bone-in fried chicken, large fry, classic slaw, mini biscuits, chicken nuggets or tenders, and choice of 2 cookies. This is a very good deal for $60. They have several sauces to choose from and I really like that you have access to refill them. My favorite ones are the ranch and the sriracha 1000 island. It's a family friendly place with big chalkboards that the kids can draw on and keep busy. The staff is always very friendly and helpful.

    Little Flock
    Ashley D.

    My son and I spent the morning at Legoland and decided chicken sounded great for a late lunch. I ordered us each a Little Flock online. The order estimate was about a 20 minute wait. We arrived within 5 minutes and let them know we arrived. We were handed our cups and we sat down. Less than 5 minutes later they called my name, which I was shocked at, it was so quick. We ended up eating there and our food was very fresh. My son finally decided to give their ranch a try and loved it. The tenders are fantastic and some of the best fries anywhere. There are a decent amount of soft drink options and there was plenty of seating. The restaurant itself was very clean. There is plenty of parking at this location which is fantastic. That is my only issue with the Little Italy location. It was a great experience and we love The Crack Shack!

    Jesse R.

    Service was out front and friendly. Get your drink and sauces on your way in to sit down to a pretty open air restaurant. A bunch of different seating options along the inside and outside of the building. Plenty of room for groups all around. Food was good portion size for the price. And very tasty. Be advised at the restrooms are outback around the corner. Will return again.

    Whole bird
    Ron R.

    You literally order outside and are presented a number. When I return and have a small party I will skip that and sit at the bar. There you can order and get "normal" service. The restaurant is large and bright with an indoor/outdoor feel and potential. The food is good. We ordered the whole bird 4/5 (perfectly cooked and nicely spiced just not the best I have ever eaten) and fries 4.5/5 (order large they are addictive). The beer selection is solid. Wine by glass or bottle in each main variety. Craft cocktails.

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    23 days ago

    The bartender she followed me out of the bar. She looks like a fucking bitch like a Mac truck such a Mac truck yeah

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    Page 1 of 55

    The Crack Shack Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - The Crack Shack

    Can you get the fried chicken coating without so much spice?

    Hi there. Yes, you can order your bone-in without Crack Spice! Just let our team know when you're ordering.

    Can you order just chicken legs?

    I'm not sure I remember they are really known for the sandwich

    Is the schmultz you use real schmultz?

    Yes, the use real Schmultz.

    Are your fries gluten free?

    Hi Lauren! Our fries are naturally gluten free, however they do share a fryer with our regular bone-in chicken so those with serious allergen concerns may want to avoid eating them. The Encinitas location does have GF bone-in fried chicken that is… 

    Do you have HAPPY HOUR?

    Every hour is happy here! We do not have specific times of day when we discount items.

    Pre-pandemic, my favorite item on the menu was the delicious Deviled Eggs. Any chance they will return to the menu?

    We went to the Encinitas location in April and they said they were not on the menu then.

    Is there brunch here?

    We have an all-day menu with some of the best quality chicken and eggs (and bacon!) you'll find. Perfect for any meal, and we make a mean Bloody Mary to wash it all down ;-)

    Has the restaurant closed? Thought I saw a sign that said "For Lease"

    We are OPEN, Steve! We did temporarily close over the weekend for a deep clean of the space, but we re-opened this morning, and are offering outdoor dining, takeout, curbside ordering/pickup and delivery. I hope you'll visit us!

    Is it halal?

    It is not certified as halal, Minha. Sorry about that!

    Is there frose?

    Yes Dani, we have delicious, refreshing frosé!

    Why no veggie option? I actually thought the "substitute grilled chix" line on the menu board meant I could get any sandwich made with a vegetarian chickn' patty like ones morning star farms makes and I was very excited.

    Great question! We do have vegetarian options on the menu--all bowls and salads can be made sans-chicken, eggs can be added to any bowl or subbed into any sandwich, and we've got sides that can be turned into a full meal, including deviled eggs,… 

    Is it a drive through?

    Sorry no drive-thru at the Crack Shack In Encinitas

    Will you be able to accommodate nut free and seafood allergies?

    Absolutely! Almost our entire menu is nut and seafood-free :) If you'd like, I can share an allergen chart with you--just send me an e-mail at nrogers@crackshack.com.

    Can we order 1/2 and 1/2 on the Fried Chicken tossing flavors?

    Unfortunately you cannot split an order, however you can order a 5-piece with one toss option, and another 5-piece in a different toss option, which technically ends up being a 1/2 and 1/2 10-piece :)

    Do you take reservations for more than 8-10 ppl?

    Hello! We do have a semi private dining area that is available to reserve. Please email madison@crackshack.com for more info!

    Can you accommodate dairy and gluten free?

    Absolutely! We have plenty of gluten and dairy free items. Just be sure to let our cashier know about any dietary restrictions and they can guide you from there. Thanks!

    View All 18 Questions

    Forchettina

    Forchettina

    4.3
    (283 reviews)
    1.4 mi
    $$

    We came in hungry! I had stopped into Forchettina in Encinitas before, to bring food to my daughter…read moreand her family. And we go back to that location decades, with different owners. The turn over is amazing. But this time, this restaurant is here to stay! I must congratulation this Italian Couple from Sicily and Naples only to say: This location has finally landed in the right hands! We start with a terrific Italian Red, recommended by the owner. Caesar Salad and Marinated Artichoke Hearts. That's what I thought the menu says but it turns out to be yummy grilled Artichokes, that includes the heart. Next is a Chicken Parmesan Plate that includes penne marinara and I take a Sausage Pizza. Totally authentic. Totally enjoyable. Totally satisfied. We will be back for sure! With garlic, gusto & gratitude, Chef Marian San Diego Foodies Carlsbad Foodies

    Forchettina is a forche-amazing. You might just miss it and just drive by this place. Don't worry,…read moreturn around. Find the parking lot and come inside. Enjoy delicious pizzas, pastas and of course the dessert. The wine is delicious. Even the water is delicious. Not to mention the owner - she's amazing - passionate, talented and authentic. Welcome to a slice of Italia in Encinitas. Ciao baby. PS: You know you stumbled up on a great gem, If you are having Spaghetti Carbonara for dessert on top of their amazing Ricotta Pistachio goodness.

    Photos
    Pastas
    Pastas
    Home made tiramisu
    Home made tiramisu
    Pasta Bolognese

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    Pasta Bolognese
    The Wise Ox Butcher & Deli

    The Wise Ox Butcher & Deli

    4.4
    (262 reviews)
    2.6 mi
    $$

    I almost drove right past this spot, but something told me, Nah... pull in!! Best decision of the…read moreday... Walked inside thinking I was just gonna grab a burger, and next thing I know I'm wandering around looking at all the meats, marinades, sauces, chips, drinks, and sandwiches like I was about to host a backyard BBQ for the whole neighborhood. This place is dangerous if you like to cook. I asked the guy behind the counter what I should order because I wasn't trying to make a bad decision. Without hesitation he said, Aged Burger and the Philly.....Say less. We grabbed those and ordered the fries extra crispy because that's the only way fries should be eaten. Man... everything was hella good. The burger was juicy, the Philly hit the spot, and those extra crispy fries disappeared way faster than I want to admit.... They've got plenty of outdoor seating too, so we just kicked back, ate, and enjoyed the vibe. I already know every time I'm in the area I'm coming here because wise ox is greater than shake shack I'm Js!

    Very friendly service…read more Butcher shop for when you want it fresh for dinner or throw on the grill for the weekend. There is a small menu of sandwiches and a few side items you can grab for the moment, a handful of tables to eat at if you can't wait till you make it home. Tons of spice and sauce options as well if you arn't a from scratch person.

    Photos
    The Wise Ox Butcher & Deli
    The Wise Ox Butcher & Deli
    Amount of cheese on the second half. Was this originally the worlds smallest slice of Swiss!?

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    Amount of cheese on the second half. Was this originally the worlds smallest slice of Swiss!?

    The Crack Shack - newamerican - Updated August 2026

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