The fried chicken sandwiches are magical. The french fries cooked in Schmalz are literally the best in the city. They also have tons of sauces that you can mix and match and there's a nice open air bar. The staff is friendly and attentive. It's just a cool vibe all the way around. The best part is the men's restroom which has one star reviews as wallpaper. It's hilarious and shows how confident they are in the product they produce to showcase clueless haters. This is a don't miss place that locals, love and visitors will too. read more

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Cool place to visit! I came here for lunch on a Saturday on the way to San Diego. I ordered the Coop Deville Sandwich and the Half Bird Bone-In Chicken, and both chickens were juicy and good. The only reason I gave this place a 4 star is because I asked for the Half Bird to be the Tossed in Fire option; however, the Coop Deville was instead the one tossed with the fire, which made the sandwich very spicy. I was contemplating on informing one of the staff, but I was already on a time crunch and the food took a while to come out. I was more of a fan for the Half Bird Bone-In Chicken, which paired well with the variety of self-serve sauce choices offered. The restaurant is pretty big and I loved the ambiance. Overall, recommend this place! read more

The Crack Shack - New American Near Me - Encinitas, California

Ordered a whole bird and 2 large order of fries for 4 of us to share. The chicken was crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside. They have Stubborn Soda in the machine as well as the high fructose corn syrup varieties. We also had a couple of cookies: the chocolate chip was a little too sweet, but the cowboy cookie was really good read more

Delicious! My boyfriend loves this place. It was our first time coming to this location. We came super early in the day before running some errands. The staff are extremely nice and welcoming. The worker who brought our food out made sure we were checked on. This location is MASSIVE and clean. It looks brand new. We got the firebird sandwich and chicken wings. My favorite part about this restaurant is that they have an unlimited sauce bar! All of the sauces are SO GOOD! I bet everything on their menu is great. This seems like a place that would be super busy on the weekends or even weeknights for sports. We'll be back! Make sure you don't eat before cause it's a lot of food and very affordable!! read more

The Crack Shack - Firebird Sandwich - New American Near Me - Encinitas, California

Food was decent. Cashier was friendly & helpful. Place was busy but not packed. Calm easy going environment. read more

Yes to the chicken! We came to The Crack Shack for the first time a few years ago. I remember that our order included chicken oysters, chicken sandwich and salad that was available at that time. It was really good experience! We craved their great tasting food and came here again. I am sure this won't be the last visit either. Our order: Cocky with a chance of Meatballs sandwich with chicken meatballs, pepperoni, marinara, and mozzarella on garlic bread. Meatballs were super succulent and all ingredients were nicely mixed with sauce and cheese. Mouth watering and super delicious. We added side of fries which were very good too. Anti Salad Power Bowl with smoked chicken, quinoa, pickled onions, egg, and arugula. Another great dish. Chicken was the hero (as always). Perfectly smoked and very tender. The quinoa was well cooked and served warm. The bowl doesn't come with any sauce but there is big selection of sauces that you can choose from to accompany your dishes. Great time, great food. It's a must visit place when you are in Encinitas! read more

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Food: So Crack Shack is not at all close to where I live, but we finally decided to make the trip to try the chicken sandwiches. The sandwiches were good, but surprisingly most of the flavor came from the sandwich toppings because it didn't seem like the chicken was marinated in anything to give it any intrinsic flavor or saltiness. There are a bunch of dipping sauces (I love sauces!) but I didn't really have anything to dip. -Mexican poutine 2/5: Portion size is very generous. The jalapeno cheese whiz is delicious and not too-spicy. I guess I can't read the menu correctly, but I was SO disappointed that the chicken on the poutine is grilled (pollo asado) instead of deep fried and crunchy like literally every other chicken item on the menu. I was not in a grilled chicken kind of mood. If I wanted to eat healthy I wouldn't have ordered the fries drowning in cheese whiz. Hence the low stars, which shouldn't deter you from trying it if you want, but if I had known I would have just gotten a giant serving of regular fries to dip in all their sauces. -Coup DeVille 4/5: There is a nice kick but not too spicy. Given the chicken did not have a lot of flavor, this was the best sandwich of the two I tried because of the heat from the slaw. The buns were a soft brioche. -Senor croque 3/5: I don't think it was intentional but my egg was well-done, so I was horribly disappointed by the lack of runny yolk that was displayed in other people's pictures. Ambiance: I love the way this restaurant is designed. There is outdoor dining, but even the indoor dining is basically outdoor dining because all the doors/windows are kept wide open. So it is a very well-ventilated space. There is a hand washing station in the dining area, which is very convenient. A bathroom is available around the corner. Service: You place an order at the front and then wait inside for your food. I didn't interact with many staff but everyone was very courteous. read more

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Buss. Very nice people very good atmosphere very good food wonderful experience i love it. read more

Nice open inviting environment and dining room area. The chicken sandwich (Cali Drip) was delicious, just enough heat from the jalapeños, I don't need much so, if you like more heat add jalapeños. six jidori chicken nuggets balanced taste, biscuits good but, a tad dry. Will be back. read more

The food here is delicious! The employees are all extremely friendly and the atmosphere is extremely welcoming. I'd definitely tell recommend checking it out. read more

The food at this place is always outstanding and never ceases to amaze me. No matter what I have ordered off the menu it has came out wonderfully made and always juicy. I don't know how they make their chicken flavor so well and not have a dry out. I love the different options of sauces they provide I always get a mix of all of them together. Can't tell which one is my favorite. Will continue to go to this place and recommend it to others. It's a great stop after church with the family! The service there is always quick and they help you with anything else needed along with your order. They are very attentive. They also have a great outside area for the kids to hang out, especially if they get a little rambunctious. read more

Overall, the chicken sandwich was good, but it could have used more spice and the chicken could have been thiccer. The service was great. I would not recommend the drinks, they're pretty pricey and hardly have any alcohol... or maybe they forgot to add alcohol in ours. Plenty of parking. read more

The Crack Shack - Firebird Sandwich - New American Near Me - Encinitas, California

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Food was of course so delicious. We are visiting here from Florida our son, daughter-in-law and grandsons. We have been to Crack Shack multiple times in the past years, and it didn't disappoint this time either. Everything was hot and fresh , ready with a smile when we picked it up. We really love this place, and we're so eager to get back this trip. Thank you! read more

I got the new Italian sandwich with toma sauce and cheese and the chicken part of the sandwich was terrible. Overcooked, super hard to chew. I was so bummed. Quality control at Encinitas restaurant not good. read more

Chicken is wayyyyyyyyyyyy too greasy, prices are crazy. Don't go. Not worth the wait in ông

I went in here thinking that it would be nice to have a chicken sandwich, and ended up marking it as one of my places I will return to... The pricing was a little higher than I expected but the chicken sandwich was fresh and tasty which certainly made up for it - I don't mind paying a little bit more for quality. It was definitely a family place as there was a ton of families eating, with picnic style tables on one side and a bar on the other you really can't go wrong - I tried one of the on tap beers with delightful results both in the beer and how friendly the staff was.. As far as the chicken sandwich goes, it's probably not one of the best I've ever had but I will say it's far above average and the speed of ordering as well as the price make this a worthwhile stop read more

The Crack Shack - New American Near Me - Encinitas, California

Used to frequently visit The Crack Shack in Little Italy. Was pleased to see one in Encinitas, so we dove in to give it a try. Parking lot was kinda crammed, a lot of spaces, but it was pretty crammed for a Wednesday night. The dining area was actually packed. Was told that only "to-go" is available cuz the dining area is full. But tables opened up and we grabbed a seat. We got half a fried chicken (5 pieces) and some cole slaw. The chicken seasoning is amazing. It's kinda spicy, but kinda lemon peppery too. It's interesting, but really good. The chicken is juicy. Especially the breast, it was basically gushing. Sorry not using appetizing words... but it was delicious. I reiterate tho, the chicken is juicy. The slaw was pretty basic. I remember the fries and chicken oysters being great here, but we didn't order them on this visit. The dipping sauces are good too. There's a pineapple mustard that's pretty tangy. But their ranch sauce is on another level. Try it, I think you'd agree. read more

The Crack Shack - New American Near Me - Encinitas, California

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i used to eat at crack shack at least once a week--i loved their food and was happy to pay the higher prices because i thought i was paying for the highest-quality ingredients, like their website claims. they go on about "mostly organic produce," "artisan baked breads," "housemade condiments," and "antibiotic-free, preservative-free, 'beyond free-range' chicken," even comparing their menu to their fine dining restaurant, juniper and ivy. but here's the kicker: they use canola oil to cook their fries. canola oil. the cheapest, most heavily processed oil out there. it's not exactly what i'd call "the absolute highest quality" or "high-end" like their website says. as someone who's had cancer, i'm extra careful about what i eat, and canola oil is a hard no for me. it's high in omega-6s, inflammatory, and not something i'd expect from a place that prides itself on premium ingredients. it's disappointing to realize i've been paying for what i thought was a commitment to quality, only to find out they're cutting corners with something as basic as the cooking oil. if you're paying crack shack prices, you deserve better. i love their food, but unless they make a change, i can't keep going back. just something to think about if you're deciding whether it's worth the money. read more

Looks good when presented but there are major flaws. Lacks flavor overall and meat wasn't juicy enough. Had the coop deville. Customer service was good and everyone seems nice! The environment is spacious with huge windows and seating outside. read more

Everything was 10/10. The fries are amazing and the chicken sandwich was the best i've ever had. Dessert was amazing as well.

I Tried The Crack Shack for the first time today, and this place doesn't disappoint. I had the Oyster Chicken with a side of orange toss, fries and a Mint Shake. read more

The Crack Shack - New American Near Me - Encinitas, California

Came on a Sunday a little after 12 noon. There was a line, as usual, but it moved very quickly. Staff taking orders was super friendly and professional. Ordered a half chicken, 3 chicken tenders, large fries, and coleslaw to go. Cost: $40. Wait was approx 15+ min. I live less than 5 miles away so taking it to go made sense, or so I thought. When I got home and unpacked the food the fries were cold and the tenders were not crispy what so ever and were so small. Very disappointing, especially at $2.50 each. Added pic with pen for size reference. The half chicken was wonderful. Hot crispy and exactly what we r used to getting. The Cole slaw is outstanding, not your usual slaw and the perfect accompaniment for the chicken. I'm guessing that maybe the tenders and fries were ready before the half chicken order and they sat for a bit. Idk. I don't mind paying more for quality food and service. I want to support local businesses but with the price point I feel like I was let down. Next time I order to go I will be sure to check the food prior to leaving. read more

The Crack Shack - New American Near Me - Encinitas, California

Yum! Exact menu as their Little Italy branch. Chicken is crispy, salads are huge, biscuits are tiny yet tasty and their fries are to die for. Actually, the fries deserve to have an extensive review. They are crispy on the outside and soft in the inside, just enough seasoning and not too thin/thick! This location would have been 5 stars, but it's right next to a busy intersection and really loud. Easy parking though! read more

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Business operating during the pandemic, "thank you" Review #40 first, a quick shoutout to Emmett T: his review series on spicy chicken sandwiches got me thinking about a couple non-fast-food contenders and inspired a re-visit The Crack Shack in Encinitas. I haven't been since they first opened. gave 'em a four-star review for those visits and that was me being generous. this go around, nearly four years later, was stellar enough to earn a solid five stars and two visits in one week. visit #1: the FIREBIRD (a spicy, fried Jidori thigh with cool ranch dressing, crispy onions strings, and dill pickle slices on a potato roll) was special. would rank it toward the top of my spicy chicken sandwich list. the SCHMALTZ FRIES were outstanding. these guys have French fries down and no, my opinion was not unduly influenced by my wife's maiden name being Schmaltz. really some of the absolute best fries I've ever had. the ANTI-SALAD POWER BOWL (smoked chicken, soft boiled egg, heritage grains, chato's salsa, avocado, and arugula) was both interesting and different. nice, light alternative to sandwiches and chicken. visit #2 the SEÑOR CROQUE (crispy Jidori chicken breast, bacon, fried egg, cheddar cheese and miso-maple butter on a brioche roll) was also really, really good. love the yellow yolk streaming down the sides of the sandwich. Wyatt, my fifteen-year-old, had a SMALL FLOCK hold the sides: five pieces of Crack Shack's Jidori fried chicken. not up to his Popeye standard, but pretty good. looking forward to our next visit. gonna try the COOP DEVILLE (fried Jidori chicken breast, pickled Fresno chilies, lime mayo, and Napa cabbage slaw on a brioche bun). will keep you posted. read more

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Food is soooo greasy, we felt so horrible after our meal, it definitely sat very heavy and we didn't even eat much. The fries were good, the sandwiches were ok, and the cookie was bad. I feel like this place is overhyped, and I don't see why. read more

The Crack Shack - New American Near Me - Encinitas, California

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Crack shack didn't disappoint! Chef Blais making comfort food and open inside outside interior really nice add to Encinitas food scene. Tried half chicken (5 pieces) crack fries and mini biscuits. Star of the show was the crack fries! Wow they are addictive. Chicken was good tried all 4 sauces favorite was the hit sauce. Mini Biscuits... ehhh they were ok. Service was easy, order then find your seat and they brought food out quick. If you are ever on the 5 FWY in North County stop in to Crack Shack Encinitas worth a visit! read more

The Crack Shack - 5 Piece 5 Pieces Fried Chicken Schmaltz Fried Fries 6 Pieces Mini Biscuits - New American Near Me - Encinitas, California

Good food. Great service. This review gives three stars for the out of control children. Running full speed through the tables around the back, up the side where customers are sitting at a long bar and back by the bar again. I feel sorry for the staff. read more

I've visited the Little Italy location which I absolutely loved. We decided to check this location out since it's in North County and closer to us with more parking availability. The setup is similar, you order at the front then they'll bring your food to your table. I had the Firebird sandwich which was excellent, crunchy and delicious! My bf had the limited time special Malibu. He loved it! It came with big pieces of bacon. We also ordered a cookie monster milkshake to go. There was a mixup and we ended up getting the salted oreo which we weren't a big fan of. They made us a new one and even offered for us to keep the salted one (we didn't since neither one of us are into the salted sweets). The shake was really good I just wish it wasn't as soft/melty as it was. Overall, service and food were great! Should you give them a try? Absolutely! Their chicken sandwiches are bomb! I think next time I'll venture out and choose a bowl. read more

The Crack Shack - Firebird - New American Near Me - Encinitas, California

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Excellent experienced relaxed vibes, great food definitely will repeat strong recommendation if you are looking for a casual tasty experience. read more

We need this place where I live. Love it! What a fun concept and the food was great!

So disappointed!!! So the online menu shows they have gluten free fried chicken IT DOESN'T say it's only for the bone in. We ordered- Baja chop W/chicken - so much vinegar dressing I couldn't eat it and a mixed mess of avocado that was mashed and not good. Had it with the spicy sauce and this added to the vinegar taste not good.. Fries- soggy not crispy and no flavor Chicken nuggets- these are by the piece $1.50 each... Not worth it and not flavorful Croque Sandwich- this was ok it was a small sandwich for the price not flavorful.. Mini biscuits with miso butter that was not good. Biscuits were dry and the miso butter had an after taste. We paid over $60.00 and left not impressed. I don't typically leave bad reviews but this place left me with a bad taste and is a no go for me. read more

The Cali sandwich was delicious! Very hearty little sandwich for sure. I'd also recommend the Coop on burger buns. It is a full sandwich with all the works! read more

The Crack Shack - California Dip Sandwich - New American Near Me - Encinitas, California

Rated A+++ Best chicken sando ever!! I got the chicken senor croque and I thought it was heaven when my first bite came across the moist chicken! Wow, why didn't I come here the first time around when my husband told me! So good! The French fries are also on another level! Woah! read more

The Crack Shack - New American Near Me - Encinitas, California

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I come here once in a while and always have a 10/10 experience. The past few times I've been helped by Emily and she has provided the best service. Great staff and great food/drinks. Can't wait to come back! read more

The Firebird Crack Shack in Encinitas brings the fire with their fried chicken and just about everything there will have you leaving stuffed and happy! Highly Recommended items to order from Crack Shack: - The Firebird (Spicy Chicken Sandwich...drown this baby in their delicious ranch) - Salted Chocolate Chip Cookie (perfect crispy edges with a soft core, sprinkled with salt) read more

The Crack Shack - The Firebird Sandwich - New American Near Me - Encinitas, California

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If you're going to eat fried chicken, this is the way to do it! Jidori hormone-free happy lil chicks really do taste better. Fried chicken can be an elevated food, and Crack Shack is showing us how. I eat fried chicken like once a year, so when Crack Shack was running a $10 off deal on their Flock Meal, I decided it was a good day to take the plunge. And for $50, the Small Flock is a DEAL. So much food, all so delicious, no regrets on this indulgence. Everything was packaged perfectly & delivered to my car door a lá perfect Covid style too. read more

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Want chicken? Goto chick fila. Overpriced mediocre food. Place was overhyped for sure.

The meat was so thin that all I could taste was the greasy breading. In many places, there was only greasy breading and no meat. I guess there isn't much consistency in their meat cuts. I'll be going to a fast food competitor instead. At least I'll know what I'm getting there. read more

Ease of ordering was good, menu was limited. I really wanted the deviled eggs. That was my whole reason for coming. And my GF friend wanted to try the new GF Fried Chicken. GF chicken runs about $5 a piece. We order 5pc GF chix, and a regular fry for $37, with tax and tip. So, we have high hopes. Considering you can buy a whole chicken for about $6.00 @ Costco. (Ps a whole chicken is eight pieces, Incase you're curious). For the Covid protocol they are pretty good. Love the humor in the sign. You order from the car and they deliver it to you. And they have curbside zones. All online delivery services have a special pick up spot "inside". The ordering and register area is partitioned off with plexiglass. Place the order online, call when you get there, press 1. The staff delivers to your car. Pretty easy and straight forward. *Wear your mask when they deliver* So the chicken smelled, amazzzzing!! It was properly packed, with sauces and napkins. We took our box o chicken to Moonlight Beach. Where we sat at the most amazing oceanfront picnic table sunset view. So, GF friend bites into her first bite and was like ehhh. Tis ok. THEN she put the honey butter on it. OMG, yes that did it. It sparked the flavors to come alive and hit all the flavor buttons. She affirmed that yes it was worth all that cash, not EVERY DAY, but once a month or so. The GF experience could be improved, especially at about $5.25 a piece of chicken. The customer should be able to specify what pieces they would like. The GF friend has already along to them about this, and alleged they are working on it. As a non-fried chicken lover, and a non GF person, I can appreciate the thought and trials and failures that went behind this successful chicken. The GF batter was as good as any fried batter I've had. It is a very creative use of ingredients m. I did flavor hunt for them, and I could find a few of them. The fries were decent. They were also GF. Which made my pal happy :) read more

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Basically everything here is so delicious. Fresh and customer service is great. I always opt for the Baja chop salad with a fried chicken thigh. My daughter loves the biscuits with the miso butter. I also love the deviled eggs. read more

The Crack Shack - Baja Chop Bowl with Fried Thigh - New American Near Me - Encinitas, California