TLDR
Legendary cast-iron fried chicken. Authentic, crispy, and tender, perfect for a quick, high-quality bite.
Reddit Sentiment for CHARLES PAN-FRIED CHICKEN(based on 63 Reddit opinions)
Instagram Posts References
The video highlights the process of frying chicken in a large pan, showing a chef tending to multiple batches, and then showcasing a platter of golden-brown fried chicken along with sides like ribs, cornbread, sweet potatoes, collard greens, and macaroni and cheese. It emphasizes the classic preparation and satisfying meal portions.
Details
Famous for its unique cast-iron skillet technique, this spot delivers exceptionally tender fried chicken with a perfectly seasoned, crispy crust [1]. While widely considered a must-try for authentic soul food in New York City, it operates primarily as a casual takeout destination [1], [2]. Diners consistently laud the chicken as the premier attraction, often noting that it stands as a superior, traditional experience compared to other local options [3], [4].
Food Overview
The restaurant specializes in classic Southern fried chicken, which is pan-fried in cast iron to achieve a signature golden-brown, crispy texture [1], [8]. While the chicken is consistently lauded as the star of the menu, feedback on sides—such as mac and cheese, cornbread, and okra—is mixed, with some diners finding them excellent while others suggest they do not always meet the high standard set by the main dish [6], [7], [9].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About CHARLES PAN-FRIED CHICKEN
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Looking For Blackowned Restaurantsnack For Group
"The user suggests this place for a group lunch, noting they have three locations and online ordering capabilities."
PositiveFrom post: Looking For Good Food Recommendations In West
"Good for takeout."
PositiveFrom post: Solo Dining Recommendations In Upper West Side
"Frequently suggested as a convenient replacement for the original Harlem location, though the reviewer feels everything besides the fried chicken is replaceable."
PositiveFrom post: Solo Dining Recommendations In Upper West Side
"Listed as a recommendation."
PositiveFrom post: The Best Juicy Crunchy Flavorful Fried Chicken In
"Considered the only place in New York reaching Southern standards."
PositiveFrom post: The Best Juicy Crunchy Flavorful Fried Chicken In
"Strongly disagrees with the recommendations, stating the chicken is not good."
NegativeFrom post: The Best Juicy Crunchy Flavorful Fried Chicken In
"Noted frustration with ordering specific cuts of meat."
NeutralFrom post: The Best Juicy Crunchy Flavorful Fried Chicken In
"Described as having a great, traditional flavor profile."
PositiveFrom post: The Best Juicy Crunchy Flavorful Fried Chicken In
"Mentioned as a location on 72nd street."
NeutralFrom post: The Best Juicy Crunchy Flavorful Fried Chicken In
"Mentioned as a point of comparison for chicken."
NeutralFrom post: The Best Juicy Crunchy Flavorful Fried Chicken In
"Suggested in a list of fried chicken spots."
NeutralFrom post: The Best Juicy Crunchy Flavorful Fried Chicken In
"Recommended as a place to try."
PositiveFrom post: Sylvias Has Fallen To A New Low And Is Now Going
"The user asserts that Charles Pan-Fried Chicken's fried chicken surpasses even the best places in Charlotte, NC, and compares it favorably to New Orleans chicken, while noting NYC's general limitations with authentic southern food."
PositiveFrom post: Sylvias Has Fallen To A New Low And Is Now Going
"The commenter praises Charles' fried chicken as unmatched in its class in NYC and generally finds their mac and cheese to be good, though acknowledges it might have been an off day for the sides."
PositiveFrom post: Sylvias Has Fallen To A New Low And Is Now Going
"This user agrees that Charles Pan-Fried Chicken is superior to Sylvia's."
PositiveFrom post: Sylvias Has Fallen To A New Low And Is Now Going
"Following a disappointing meal at Sylvia's, the user visited Charles Pan-Fried Chicken and found their fried chicken to be satisfying. However, they noted that the sides (mac & cheese, yams, okra) were not as good as Sylvia's, though acknowledged Charles is known for its chicken."
PositiveFrom post: Still Havent Found A Great Waffle Place In New
"This user acknowledged that Charles' waffles can be inconsistent, sometimes great and sometimes mediocre. They still rate it over Clinton Street Baking Co. due to being cheaper and not requiring a long wait."
NeutralFrom post: Still Havent Found A Great Waffle Place In New
"In response to a comment about Charles' waffles, this user agreed they were good but stated that if the waffles were on par with the chicken, they would agree with higher praise."
NeutralFrom post: Still Havent Found A Great Waffle Place In New
"Charles Pan Fried Chicken was mentioned for their waffles, with the author considering them good but not great."
NeutralFrom post: Which Places Have Become Part Of Your Regular
"Charles Pan Fried has been a staple for the commenter for several years and remains so."
Positive