Hello dear
Welcome to World Famous Hotboys
Welcome to World Famous Hotboys, a beloved eatery nestled in Oakland, CA, specializing in Halal spicy chicken sandwiches. Our story is rooted in a passion for bold flavors and satisfying cravings. Here, diners can indulge in juicy fried chicken dressed with customizable spice levels, paired with hearty sides like loaded fries and rich etouffee. The casual yet trendy atmosphere is perfect for both takeout and outdoor dining, fostering a community vibe. With vegan options available and a commitment to sustainability using compostable packaging, we cater to every palate while ensuring a delightful experience. Discover the fire that makes our chicken legendary!
Today's Suggestions
Explore the featured selections!
Sando Combo
WF Chicken Waffles
Slaw
Money Sauce
About
World Famous Hotboys
Welcome to World Famous Hotboys, a sensation in the heart of Oakland, California, located at 1601 San Pablo Ave. Renowned for its delectable, halal-friendly options, this culinary gem has captured the hearts and taste buds of many. With a casual and trendy vibe, it's the perfect spot for lunch or dinner, especially if you love bold flavors and juicy fried chicken.
As you step into World Famous Hotboys, expect a no-frills experience focusing on what truly matters: the food. The menu prominently features their famed chicken sandwiches, each crafted to perfection. Customers rave about the juiciness and flavor of the chicken, complemented by a variety of spice levels that cater to all palates. Luciano Z. enthusiastically remarked on the medium plus spice, hinting that he might crank it up to hot on his next visit. It’s this ability to customize that makes every guest feel at home.
- Signature Dishes:
- Fried Chicken Sandwich: Crispy on the outside, tender and flavorful on the inside. It's a must-try, highly regarded as one of the best in the Bay Area.
- Etouffee: A delightful addition that has garnered its own fanbase, perfect for those looking to indulge in something hearty.
- Loaded Fries: A crowd-pleaser that complements any meal, adding an extra layer of comfort to your dining experience.
- Ambiance: Casual outdoor seating sets the tone for a laid-back meal, with options for takeout and delivery for those on the go. Plus, the establishment is wheelchair accessible, and dog-friendly, making it welcoming for all.
- Payment Options: With the convenience of accepting Android Pay, Apple Pay, and credit cards, you can focus more on savoring your meal than worrying about payment.
Feedback from patrons like Scott L. highlights the unique batter used for the chicken, creating an irresistible crunch that pairs beautifully with the sweet slaw and firm bun. While Francis T. succinctly captured the essence of their offerings, declaring them "STRAIGHT FIRE," it's clear that the ambiance and service match the food’s quality. Just be mindful during busy hours, as some guests note that service can slow down; ordering ahead might just be the key to your satisfaction.
World Famous Hotboys stands out not just for its incredible dishes, but also for its commitment to sustainability, using compostable containers and plastic-free packaging. Enjoy free Wi-Fi while munching away, or relish in happy hour specials that set the stage for a delightful evening.
Whether you’re dining in with friends, enjoying a casual lunch, or indulging in a comforting dinner, World Famous Hotboys offers an experience that’s hard to beat. So next time you’re in the area, make sure to stop by and see if the acclaim is well-deserved!
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ I'm a bit late to the game with this one but finally got to try World Famous Hotboys and it was worth it! The chicken had to be some of the juiciest and flavorful on the chicken sandwich. I like how you can also choose your spice level. I tried the medium plus which wasn't too spicy. I'd probably opt for hot next time. It's also a no frills spot so you pretty much just order and either sit outside or take it to go. Service can take a little while on a busier night so definitely recommend ordering ahead if you get a chance. Dare I say best chicken sandwich in the bay?! ”
“ This is such a great comfort food location! The chicken is always flavorful and juicy! The sauce they use is amaaazing!!! I always get extra! Their etouffee is ....and their fries, omgggg. They also have loaded fries that are to die for!!! The only reason I didn't give them 5 starts is because I found a hair in my food once. But we are all human right? - I am just really weird about that kinda stuff. ”
“ The fried chicken sando is A Number 1 in my book. Crispy, spice level of your choice, nice sweet slaw to complement, and a good firm bun. The chicken etoufee is not too shabby either. I would pass on the bronuts though, too dense for me. Order at the side door and take it home or eat at the outside adjacent tables. ”
“ (5 out of 5) Best Nashville hot chicken spot you'll find in the bay. Great sauces, and big pieces of chicken. Can't go wrong going here, great quality as well! Service has always been good when I go. And the ambiance is nice. No indoor seating but the look of the building is pretty cool. Outdoor seating available. (Pics from Hayward location, review about Oakland location, both places 5/5) When you come tell them Rothyy sent you! ”
“ I don't got much to say except this place is STRAIGHT FIRE. It's my favorite spicy chicken sandwich place for sure. Loved the fries and the chicken's batter was unique with great flavors. The guy taking our order was super chill as well. ”
“ A solid choice for spicy chicken sandwich. Food: - Sando combo - Good. Fried spicy chicken sandwich with fries. The chicken thigh cut is large and juicy. However, the sandwich started to fall apart over time as the bun got more soggy (maybe cut them into 2 smaller sliders). The spice level is quite high even at medium plus and feels a bit grainy when eating since some spice was still raw. Service: Great. Walked up to the counter, placed order, self-seated at an open table, and got our food after 10min. Parking is easy to find right in front. They also have online ordering as well if you want save some time. Ambiance/Vibe: Good. Casual outdoor seating on a quiet street with music playing in background. Cost/Value: Great. $13 for just the sandwich, combo is $16. On par with other spicy chicken sandwich places. Visit again? Maybe. Definitely worth trying at least once if you are a chicken sandwich enthusiast, but personally I prefer a different place over this. ”
“ My friends and I all got the Sando meal which comes with fries. None of us thought the spice level was crazy spicy. So if you like spicy, I'd recommend medium or above. The fries were very crispy and delicious. Some of my friends thought the portion were huge so they didn't finish their food. The order is generally quick. There were a lot of people who were doing take out so your order might be behind those people but it was still generally quick. The store has only seating on the outside. They are picnic tables and there are at least a few of them. ”
“ Now if I saw this name on a marquee in the Castro, I would've thought this was a completely different business. However, we're in the heart of Downtown Oakland, so of course, we're talking about hot chicken. The stripper boys are elsewhere, certainly not here. However, that doesn't diminish the appeal of this spot because their exclusive use of chicken thigh meat makes a big difference. Jamie W and I came here after overloading on potent tiki cocktails at Kon-Tiki. Of course an excess intake of tiki libations brings on the munchies like nobody's business. I ordered the $16 Sando Meal, a thigh-exclusive hot chicken sandwich on s a soft roll with their house sauce, dill pickle slices, and plenty of krinkle fries (photo: https://yelp.to/hkDkGC7qdj). Delish as lips that touch white breast meat don't touch mine. Jamie went Hawaiian on me and ordered the $12 Pollo Moco. It definitely had a Rainbow Drive-In vibe. The dark chicken tender sat atop white rice with sage gravy and a fried egg (photo: https://yelp.to/6f7DBIiIa5). He was feeling like true white trash in Honolulu, and that was a good thing. However, the indulgence didn't stop there, as I also ordered a couple of $5 Bonuts which was described "like a biscuit n' a donut had a baby". I wasn't thinking in reproductive terms, but the result was chewier than I was hoping (photo: https://yelp.to/nAaS3r4WDo). Unlike the Castro, these Hotboys are within reach. FOOD - 4 stars...it's all in the tender thigh meat AMBIANCE - 3 stars...graffiti covered and still using COVID barriers, but there's usually a picnic table available SERVICE - 4 stars...quick turnaround TOTAL - 4 stars...these are hotboys I can afford RELATED - Exploring Oakland? Here's my collection of places I've visited and reviewed: https://bit.ly/2ObVcpQ ”
