Tender, perfectly seasoned pan-fried chicken & ribs in a classic American soul food joint.
This classic American soul food spot on the Upper West Side is a must-visit for its tender, flavorful pan-fried chicken. Beyond the star of the show, patrons rave about the delicious ribs, collards, and cornbread. While seating is limited to a few bar stools, many opt to take their comforting meals to nearby Central Park.
This restaurant specializes in American soul food, with a strong emphasis on its signature pan-fried chicken, often described as tender and well-seasoned. Other popular items include ribs, collards, and cornbread. While many find the food to be excellent, a few commenters suggest that the quality may have declined since its original location.
"The pan-fried chicken is consistently highlighted as the must-try item, with ribs, collards, and potato salad also receiving positive mentions. Consider trying the family meal deals."
Customers consistently praise the flavorful pan-fried chicken and other soul food staples like ribs and collards, though some note that the quality may not match original locations.
Important Note
Some customers note a decline in food quality compared to the restaurant's original location. It is primarily a take-out establishment with limited seating and no bathroom available.
"This user stated that Charles Pan Fried Chicken serves some of the best chicken in the city, although not in sandwich form."
Positive"This user describes Charles Pan Fried Chicken as solid, but notes that Southern fried chicken is generally superior. They also mention Bobwhite has declined and RedHead is gone."
Neutral"This user argues that it's helpful to manage expectations by stating NYC fried chicken isn't as good as Southern options, comparing it to Katz's as an overrated spot."
Negative"This user defends the previous negative comment about Charles Pan Fried Chicken, stating it's unhelpful to compare NYC options to Southern ones if the OP isn't traveling."
Neutral"This user agrees with the previous comment stating Charles Pan Fried Chicken is not top-tier."
Neutral"This user rates Charles Pan Fried Chicken as solid but not top-tier compared to Southern standards."
Neutral"This user states Charles Pan Fried Chicken is 'absolutely top tier' for fried chicken, though wishes they had a spicy version."
Positive"This commenter also recommended Charles Fried Chicken, specifically mentioning their 2-piece special and limited counter space."
Positive"Charles Pan Fried Chicken was mentioned as a popular option near Levain Bakery."
Positive"Charles' Pan Fried is mentioned as a solid soul food option alongside other popular choices."
Positive"Charles Pan Fried is suggested as a good option for soul food."
Positive"The user is asking for recommendations for the best soul food spots in NYC."
Neutral"Charles Pan Fried Chicken is insisted upon as a historically significant and quintessentially NYC American food experience."
Positive"This user expressed doubt about the availability of tables at Charles Pan Fried Chicken, suggesting it might not be a suitable option."
Negative"Charles Pan Fried Chicken is listed among several restaurant recommendations. However, another user noted that there might not be tables available anymore."
Neutral"This user checked out Charles Pan Fried Chicken but was looking for a sit-down place, implying it might not fit that criteria or was not the intended dining experience."
Neutral"This user acknowledged that Charles Pan Fried Chicken is not Cajun after it was pointed out."
Neutral"This user pointed out that Charles Pan Fried Chicken is not a Cajun restaurant when it was suggested as an option."
Neutral"This user suggested getting rice & beans and okra from Charles Pan Fried Chicken as an alternative, although it was later clarified not to be Cajun."
Neutral"Charles Pan Fried Chicken was recommended as a place for chicken wings."
Positive