The chicken hit different here. I don't throw around five stars lightly, but World Famous Hotboys earned every one. The chicken was impossibly tender on the inside with a crispy, flavorful crust that had just the right amount of heat. You can tell they're not cutting corners -- every bite felt intentional. The vibe alone is worth the visit -- hip-hop energy, retro games, and a staff that clearly takes pride in what they're putting out. This isn't fast food. This is a whole experience. If you're sleeping on this spot, wake up. Hotboys is doing something special. read more

World Famous Hotboys - American Near Me - Sacramento, California

See all

I put this place off for years because well. Chicken Sando restaurants are a dime a dozen. But I was in the area and decided to give it a try. The aesthetic is cool. Creative designs. The food: I enjoyed the food. Chicken had a light batter and a good crunch. Not sure what about it but it got soggy fast. Bread soaked up so much sauce. The money sauce was great! Loved it. Problems with ordering: need a bigger menu or bigger writing. Person taking orders needs to speak louder or use a microphone. Couldn't hear anything over the music. The biggest con: They have heat levels. But anything above medium+ cost $1 extra and they don't tell you. I saw it pop up when he rang me up and I declined. I took medium +. You're a hot chicken joint. Why are you charging for spice? That's ridiculous when it's already $16 for sando and fries. read more

World Famous Hotboys - American Near Me - Sacramento, California

We were going to go downtown to a concert at the golden 1 and wanted a quick bite. Since we're closer to Rancho our typical hot chicken place is roosters, but this is definitely a contender for best local hot chicken. My biggest blunder while ordering was not understanding the "Chicken Tender Sando Combo" item, I thought it was a combo with a sando and tenders. But instead it's a combo made of a sandwich composed of a chicken tender. It was still delicious though. We ordered a Chicken Tender Sando and some extra Tenders to share. I got the mild because at hot chicken places mild is more like an actual hot anywhere else, but it was exactly what I was craving- very good crunch, moist, and spicy. The tenders themselves were just as good, and the house sauce was super good as well, went perfectly with the spicy chicken- it was less mayoey than roosters, but not in a bad way, it may have been thicker too. Lastly the fries, they had an amazing crunch, definitely some of the best fries in the Sac area, super super crispy and seasoned super well to go with the sauce. Definitely give this place a shot if you're craving fried chicken, or even just some good fries. We will be back at some point, probably for another Sac concert. read more

See all

So I was hanging with my bud playing some Pokemon and visiting pops spot at the California Firemen's memorial in downtown Sacramento when we both realized we hadn't eaten yet and after a little back and forth I asked "You ever been to Hotboys and tried their bomb hot chicken sandwiches?" When he said no,it was settled-we headed out to World Famous Hotboys on 21st street in midtown Sacramento. Parking for this location could be tricky but for anyone used to parking in midtown,it's a breeze-tons of street parking in the area-just got to find it. When you 1st walk into this place,it's kind of sensory overload-they got loud music playing- graffiti-filled walls-feels chaotic-but once u get past that and take a moment to look at the menu-it's a pretty standard spot. Looking at the menu,they got the usual suspects you would expect at hot chicken spots.sandwiches-tenders-combos on both-they have various types of fries from plain to loaded-they got Mac n Cpheese-they got regular chicken-heck they even have a food challenge-I guess it's an extremely hot single chicken tender-which I'm sure would blow your tastebuds out-point being,they got a pretty good menu. I decided to go with their Sando Combo($16.00) which features a chicken thigh filet in a chicken sandwich which comes with fries.Now the tough part-deciding what heat level to go with.All ego aside historically I've been the guy who goes for 1 level below the hottest available,which in this case would've been HOT-but I can admit I've learned a thing or 2 in my hot chicken sandwich travels and been burned out a few too many times-so now I'm a MEDIUM guy,which is 5th hottest levels of the 8 levels they offer.Most places medium is pretty tolerable but HotBoys is a special place and their medium features habanero & ghost pepper-I was a bit worried. They have a decent sized inside dining area so finding a spot for my bud and I was pretty easy.Once the food arrived I was really impressed just on sight-the chicken was really big and it looked like it was drowning in seasonings.The fries that came with the sandwich were crinkle cut and also seasoned with some sort of spicy seasonings.One small container of the "money sauce" comes with your order-it's like some type of ketchup-ranch combo sauce-it's pretty good 1st bite of the sandwich and I think I saw stars for a moment-it was way hotter than I expected it to be,at least on 1st bite-I consider myself a "chili-head" so I love hot things but yeah their MEDIUM- is straight fire,both figuratively and literally.Once I recovered from the initial burn and settled into the sandwich-it was delicious-something I enjoyed on the 1st bite and the last bite-nothing but goodness.It was pretty greasy but that's got to be expected when your eating chicken thigh-based hot chicken sandwiches-it was not a detriment. The fries were pretty good-not nearly as hot as the sandwich-I ate em all with their money sauce-so yeah they hit the spot like fries are supposed to do.My friend ordered the Mac n Cheese as a side and I tried it-pretty good-definitely not the worst I've had or the best but pretty good-yep. The employees here were solid-very courteous and helpful with their spice levels-they have a self serve option for water at this place and that's what I went with.I did notice they had a beer menu,but it was way too early in the day to start down that path-free water did the trick.They have code-less bathrooms for customers in the back of the restaurant-always a plus in midtown area. In closing-I would say the gauntlet has been throw down and at this time I consider World Famous Hotboys to be the best chicken sandwich in Sacramento-but I will try more spots in the future-let's see if they can retain that title. PS-I do regret not trying the food challenge-it sounds pretty fun-for $8 you get to try their ultra hot chicken tender and try to finish it without dying-sounds awesome-I do plan on coming back just to try out that challenge-Be Kind Out There. read more

See all

My son loves hot chicken sandwiches so we decided to try this location in a very busy part of Midtown Sacramento. We parked close by, meter parking, and entered a graffitied restaurant that that had the appearance of a garage repair shop. Definitely a vibe for those that can appreciate the urban lifestyle and atmosphere. Staff is friendly and most importantly the service is great and definitely a "quick express." They do have dine in seating and to go. We chose to go and ordered the Nashville chicken sandwich and a side of fries. The fried chicken is nicely seasoned, tender and perfectly served in a bun with pickles & coleslaw. The crinkle fries were seasoned too and were fantastic. This is Midtown and you will come across our homeless, this establishment gives courtesy to them as well. A unique establishment with great chicken and fries. Come hungry. read more

See all

My husband and I were craving hot chicken sooo bad and wanted to switch it up from Dave's Hot Chicken, so after spotting World Famous Hotboys on Yelp, we decided to give it a try. And let me just say... we were not disappointed. Parking was a little tricky since we went on a Friday night, but that is pretty typical for Midtown. When we first walked in, it was not too busy, but it definitely started picking up after we ordered which is always a good sign. Our food also came out pretty quick, which I always appreciate, especially when I am starving. I ordered the #3 chicken tender meal with slaw, and my husband got the #1 sando meal with fries. Everything was SO good and incredibly filling. The sando with the sauce and honey combo was chef's kiss. They also had this sweet butter sauce that was different in the best way and paired so well with all the flavors. You can really tell they know what they are doing with their sauces. The slaw was okay, I have had better elsewhere, so next time I would probably swap it for fries. Overall, we would definitely come back for a late night meal since they stay open pretty late Friday through Sunday. The portions are huge, the flavors hit, and it satisfied our hot chicken craving 100 percent! read more

See all

This is the first location I've tried since being recommended to it numerous times in the Bay Area. I ordered their à la carte tenders with the Training Wheels spice (least spicy option besides non spice), and the order was made fresh & ready within 10 minutes. The chicken was juicy and thick, with a crunchy coating that stayed crisp all the way through. At a mild heat level, the seasoning was still bold and flavorful! My friend tried one of their chicken bowls and was fully satisfied for a lunchtime meal. I'd love to come back to try their chicken with a spicier kick! read more

World Famous Hotboys - Chicken Tenders - American Near Me - Sacramento, California

I have been coming to Hotboys for a little over 5 years now and it is still the same as when I first came. The chicken sando is delicious and the fries come crispy with their delicious sauce! Their service is also quick since there are only so many things you can order from the menu. The location tends to have unhoused individuals, but I have seen more than once where a worker will give them food when they ask, which is nice. Overall, this place has a nice sitting area that gives a nice retro vibe with old tv screens (maybe CRTs?) and graffiti art. I recommend you check this place out if you haven't! read more

World Famous Hotboys - American Near Me - Sacramento, California

I went here to get some chicken tenders and the chicken was crispy on the outside gummy on the inside and they sell the cheese and fries separately when they should just sell cheese fries. read more

My experience started before I even got the food. When I called in to place my order, the environment was so loud that I could barely hear the employee on the phone. I politely mentioned that it was very noisy and difficult to hear, and the gentleman responded, "Duh, it's a restaurant." I found that response rude and unprofessional. Unfortunately, the food didn't improve the experience. The chicken sandwich was extremely overcooked and dry, with a dark, burnt-looking breading that made it unappetizing. My husband took one bite, said it tasted gross, and immediately spit it out. He ended up not finishing it. Between the poor customer service and disappointing food quality, this was not a good experience. I hope management takes steps to improve both the professionalism of their staff and the consistency of their food. read more

World Famous Hotboys - American Near Me - Sacramento, California

I love their little unique decors, it gives off an oldschool vibe that draws you in. I've tried their Sando Meal and their chicken tender meal different times. I love spice so I usually get medium plus with a Torpedo IPA. Although I love spice, I sweat profusely and I have tried their Hot Hot sample and I gotta say it was super hot. So hot I had to get a second Torpedo IPA. Service is usually fast and friendly. Definitely a must go. I'd eat this over Popeyes, church's chicken, KFC, and raising canes. Must try read more

See all

The loco moco!!! Friends brought me here and were raving about their loco moco. Now i'm a HUGE fan of Hawaiian food, especially loco moco. So when they described the dish I knew I was in for a treat. Place is an unassuming shop. Cute pieces of art throughout with a kind of retro 90s vibe. Loco moco was rice, hot strip, country gravy and OMG. So good. Chicken was nicely flavored. Good heat. Rice was cooked well. But man, that country gravy. I think all loco moco should be done with country gravy. 10/10 loved it. God the frieds, slaw, and potato salad. All of which were really delicious. Fries were cooked well. Also bomb was the étouffée. Definitely get this!! perfect size in a cup. Flavor was fantastic. I'd say pretty close to what I've had in NOLA. Really, really good spot. Go here for the food now. read more

See all

Stopped here the other day and it was fire! Literally lol I decided to try the "Hot" even though I was warned. You can feel the heat immediately. I was still able to finish it, but be careful. The sandwich worked perfectly with the Cole slaw, it helped with the heat. The Mac and cheese was also very creamy and delicious. The food was out quick and the guy at the cashier was very helpful and told me to be careful. read more

World Famous Hotboys - SANDO Combo Hot - American Near Me - Sacramento, California

Very good hot chicken. I got the 1/2 chicken light meat and a Modelo Especial. A great plan for Friday afternoon lunch. Sat at one of their 4 tables outside. Delightful. read more

See all

This is definitely worth the hype if you're into hot chicken. The spot has a fun, casual vibe and feels like a great place to grab something quick with friends. Service was smooth, and everything came out fresh and hot. The chicken itself was honestly the highlight--super juicy, tender, and cooked really well. You can tell they know how to fry chicken without drying it out, which already puts them ahead of a lot of places. Portions were solid, and overall, the meal felt satisfying. The only reason I'm giving this 4 stars instead of 5 is that I couldn't really taste the flavors as much as I expected. It felt like there was a little too much oil, which muted some of the seasoning for me. The heat was there, but I wanted more depth in flavor beyond just spice. That said, everything else about the experience was great, and I'd still come back--especially because the chicken quality is so good. Best for: Casual eaters, spice lovers, and anyone craving juicy hot chicken in Sacramento. read more

World Famous Hotboys - Outside! - American Near Me - Sacramento, California

See all

When I visited, there were flies everywhere: on the stove, on the fries, and all around the kitchen. What shocked me even more was that the chefs acted as if this was completely normal. Despite the obvious hygiene issues, people continued to place their orders as if nothing was wrong. It was honestly disturbing to witness. DO NOT EAT HERE ITS NASTY read more

Went there today on 9/18 at 10 after 9. The door was locked and it was closed, despite the normal hours of business. Unfortunately, that level of unprofessionalism is usually indicative of much larger issues. I won't go back if the restaurant isn't set up to run. read more

Never fully jumped on the Nashville hot chicken train. Had a few misadventures with other hot chicken joints in the area that didn't hit the mark, like Nash and Proper or Dave's Hot Chicken. Just not usually impressed with the concept, especially for the price. That said, I'm glad to say Hot Boys, a place I've driven past and drunkenly walked by many times, changed my opinion. I stopped in for a late-night snack and ordered the tender sando meal with fries. I'd say it was a fair price, especially considering how fast it came out and that we could dine in so late. The fries were crinkle cut, not my favorite shape, but like I've said in past reviews: fries are fries. I'll never turn them down. These were crispy, fluffy, and well seasoned. The sauce that came with them was a less salty version of one of my favorites: Cane's sauce. Already off to a great start, and the sandwich was packed with flavor. The chicken was perfectly crispy on the outside, not too overpowering at medium spice, and still super juicy and toothsome inside. Honestly up there with the best fried chicken I've had, probably only behind Jollibee for me (their chicken is next level). It definitely pulls in that night crowd, but I don't mind. The vibe was loud and lively, and it ended up being a perfect spot to wrap up the night with a surprisingly good, filling meal. Compared to other Nashville hot chicken spots, this one takes the cake for both flavor and value. read more

World Famous Hotboys - Tender Sando Combo - American Near Me - Sacramento, California

BEST CHICKEN SANDOS AND FRIES EVER I TRAVEL JUST FOR THESE! Try the Mac and cheese but careful it gets busy! It is small but lively and is in a busting part of town! It really shows how small places can have big impacts and how everyone can make a difference! read more

World Famous Hotboys - Pre Chicken Nuggies - American Near Me - Sacramento, California

Visited the world famous hotboys in Sacramento! I tried the Chicken and waffles. Chicken was tasty and the waffles were great. Fries were crispy and well seasoned. Staff were friendly and nice. Theres several tables inside and several tables outside for outdoor seating. There was only street parking available. read more

See all

I love world famous hotboys. I have yet to try another spicy chicken spot that is better than them. They've always been consistent with their quality. Their seasoning is perfect and I love the different spice levels. Their sauce is also perfect - not too sweet or tangy, it's just right. They also make the best Cole slaw I ever had, and they're also halal. Can't wait to come back again. read more

See all

Been a fan ever since I set up my truck next to theirs at Foodieland. This location is throw back straight to the 90s, all the art, the games, the music and the furniture. I can really appreciate it all! My kids have been asking all week for it so we came through today. The kids get the tender combo mild and my wife and I shared the chicken and waffles and B & G and clean up what ever they don't finish. As always, the chicken is juicy, crispy, and seasoned to perfection. The fuego sauce is the best around, it wouldn't be complete without it! The B&G boughnuts and gravy pretty good, get them here and there, they're a little heavy but so good. I watched them make it all fresh to order, even the gravy. The waffles are the best in town! The house made honey butter is dangerous... the waffles are crispy, with 2 tenders, syrup and that honey butter. The best chicken and waffles in sac, hands down! read more

See all

Good chicken sandwich but thats about it. Fries cold and mid, sandwich is good, rap music really obnoxious and loud, Why are we playing ts at 2:08pm? $17 for a sandwich and fry and doesn't come with drink. read more

Came here spurt of the moment while at the hospital. Conveniently just a 3-4 minute drive from Sutter. This place took my order over the phone and food was ready within 15 minutes, and it WAS DELICIOUS. Best chicken Sando I've had , Sando was generous serving size with all the fixing in the sandwich , as well as different levels of heat to choose from. Definitely enough to fill you up. combo allows you any of the sides. And in went with the jambalaya rice definitely want more of it. Guap fries were fire, came with pieces of chicken that surprisingly crispy for being eaten 20 minutes after ordering plus being slathered in cheese. Fries alone were enough to fill me up so if you're looking for an entree, and love fries, the guap fries are the way to go. I didn't get a chance to try their Mac and cheese but my wife said It was the best Mac n cheese that'she's had . Overall I would definitely recommend everyone to try this place out. read more

See all

The staff is nice and the restaurant has a cool theme to it. I tried the combo 4 with chicken and waffles and it was great! I also got some fries which were cooked fresh and crispy. The Mac and cheese was also good and had a hint of spice to it. read more

World Famous Hotboys - WF Chicken & Waffles - American Near Me - Sacramento, California

See all

Dangerously delicious! A variety of options and spice levels to choose from. I stuck with the tenders to play it safe for my first visit but will definitely be back to explore some of their sandwich and fry options. Hands down the best part was the Bonuts! A great way to end the meal of a sweet note. They have indoor seating and fun decor to add to the ambiance. read more

World Famous Hotboys - Chicken Tender Combo Bonuts Sando Combo - American Near Me - Sacramento, California

They don't miss!!! They're too good at what they do! Even leftovers in the air fryer a day later hits!!! My fave cheat meal spot. They even have a table where you can play games on. Love the vibe, love the food, and love the way the workers treat us! Parking is usually fine unless it's Friday, Saturday, or Sunday! We got the level right above mild but below medium. The flavor is there, the texture of the fried chicken is there, the fry seasoning is amazing. Can't ask for more at a place like this. read more

See all

The food was really good. It was not too fast or slow for the food. It's dangerous to try this place out because I want to keep coming back

I only come here to get the greens because I always end up eating next-door before I come here or sometimes I'll get the greens and eat it at morning fork with my chicken. I had the pleasure of talking to Gigi. She was super sweet. The staff here seems very hard-working, maybe a little understaffed if he asked me, but definitely handled the flow. I had already eaten but I had to get my greens fixed. My wife wanted french fries so we ordered some of that I was really thinking economically. It would've been better for me to get it meal, but all of a sudden a rush came in behind me and I felt pressured so I only ordered two things but definitely will continue to come back read more

I don't normally crave fried chicken but when my cousin told me to try the pollo moco here, I was intrigued. Came on a Sunday and it was packed. The decor was fitting as they were playing some Kool and the Gang and even had shoes hanging from a wire. I ordered the pollo moco and a side of the etouffee. The pollo moco is a great combo of crispy chicken and creamy gravy over rice and the etouffee is similar to gumbo with lots of flavor. It was so good we had it twice in one week. read more

See all

Came here on a Sunday night and it was pretty empty. Got the Sando combo and subbed for Mac and cheese. I opted for mild plus and it was the perfect amount of spice for me! The sandwich was everything you want in a hot fried chicken sando- spicy, juicy, and crunchy. It was made fresh to order. Mac and cheese was not bad, tasted like it was made with pimento cheese. I would probably stick with fries. Area was kinda scary at night and I was here at 7:30pm. There were 2 homeless people that walked in and sat down. They didn't bother anyone but it didn't make for the most pleasant dining experience. I'd probably just get take out as the best option. read more

World Famous Hotboys - #1 Sando combo - American Near Me - Sacramento, California

This was pretty good. I feel like this is your standard hot chicken place done well, so it is consistently good but does not blow me away.

Got introduced to them a couple years ago and it changed my life. The sauce, the chicken, the loaded fries. I mean come on. I also love the design of the building and merch!!! Nuggies are a solid way to go but the tenders and loaded fries are also go tos. read more

See all

Food was delicious! Chicken was tender and juicy. Sandwich was simple and well done. My only critique would be that the chicken piece was large and hard to get a bite with everything so I had to slice it in half. Will definitely be back next time I'm in Sacramento read more

World Famous Hotboys - Chicken Sando - American Near Me - Sacramento, California

This place is the main event for fried chicken! The vibes are vibing and the place just looks super cool! The staff is happy and nice! They have the awesome soda machine where you can pick and choose from a variety of sodas and mix and match. We ordered the mild five piece, chicken tenders and fries. The chicken easily pulls apart, which gives such an amazing bite of soft, tender chicken that is perfectly fried to a lovely crisp. They are also really big pieces, when we open the box we thought we accidentally ordered the 10 piece lol I will be back and will be door dashing this when I need my chicken fix! read more

World Famous Hotboys - American Near Me - Sacramento, California

See all

Freshness, Crispy, Crunchy, Delicious. Sandwich was on point. Stopped by after work and service as quick!

Tastiest spot for late night take out! I stopped by after midnight, and my partner and I ordered the tender sando combo with fries. Walking up, it was very loud with lots of people seated inside and out. The line was shoulder-to-shoulder, but the food speaks for itself! Surprisingly, our food came out quick despite how crowded it was. I ordered my chicken sando with mild spice and my partner ordered his with medium. Our sandos were delicious, and the sauce that they include on the side is incredible! Usually, I don't like condiments but this sauce is an exception. Given how hectic the walk-up experience was, I personally would prefer to DoorDash next time, but either way, I'm glad we were able to enjoy our late night fix! read more

World Famous Hotboys - Tender Sando Combo - American Near Me - Sacramento, California

It was love at first bite & sight! THE GRAFFITI caught my eye it's so AWESOME and then once we ordered the chicken and waffles I've never wanted anything more. The waffles are a perfect not too thick it's crispy around the edges the chicken and waffles ratio is ON POINTE, then the butter (magic) honey butter TO.DIE.FOR. You have to just go try it for yourself if I continue I will run out of space! The vibes are 90's graffiti just so sick! They have a Nintendo in the restaurant you can play and also a pac man table. Art is everywhere even in the bathroom! The pricing is pretty high for these 3 dishes I paid $75 so we don't do this often but they never miss read more

See all

Highly recommend this place, very fast service and the food was fresh and delicious! Just make sure you get the thigh sandwich instead of the tenders sandwich also I go with mild bc if not I wouldn't enjoy the heat. Anyways the vibe here is super cute, love how they decorated the place, sorry didn't get any pics. read more

See all

Yo, the place was trash like literally like the inside of it was nasty as hell. They had this old retro look, but it was grimy as hell. The old TVs had sludge on it. There was AC was dripping water into the trash and I paid like $50 for two sandwiches. I had the smallest chicken thigh in all of Sacramento. The coleslaw was lame. The fries were good. They were crispy seasoned. The mac & cheese was not mac & cheese and they had some fucking red pepper in there trying to be different but was lame. The greens was good and the girl at the front was being Hella not friendly and welcoming. She charged me for a fucking meal that came with drinks, but we wanted water, but she still charged me for the drinks and the drinks are like four dollars all in all this place was trash. Basua don't go here. read more