Spicy Sichuan fried chicken & sandwiches, next-level sides. Chinatown's crispy, juicy, flavorful hotspot.
Will Hartman reviews Pecking House, a small Chinatown spot famous for its Chinese-inflected fried chicken. Discover their standout chicken sandwiches, unique sides, and lively atmosphere.
This Chinatown gem offers a vibrant take on American fried chicken with a bold Sichuan kick. From their legendary spicy chicken sandwich to crispy quarter chickens, the focus is on intense flavors and satisfying textures. Don't miss the creative and often surprising sides that elevate the meal beyond just the main event.
The restaurant is celebrated for its Chinese-American fusion cuisine, with a particular emphasis on spicy fried chicken and creative chicken sandwiches. Dishes like the 'Chili Chicken Sando' and 'spicy Sichuan fried chicken' are frequently highlighted for their crispy texture, juiciness, and bold, numbing spice. Sides such as potato salad and butter beans are also recommended for their unique flavor profiles. While most feedback is positive, a few reviews mentioned less flavorful fries or a disappointing 'spice bag' experience.
"The spicy chicken sandwich, particularly the 'Chili Chicken Sando' and 'OG chicken sandwich,' are frequently praised for their crispiness, juiciness, and bold flavors. The Sichuan chili fried chicken and unique sides like potato salad and butter beans are also highly recommended."
Overall, customers rave about the intensely flavorful and crispy fried chicken, often calling it some of the best in the city. While some note minor inconsistencies or a preference for certain locations, the food quality is overwhelmingly praised.
Important Note
Some users have reported negative experiences including food poisoning from the Chinatown location, and a few have found the 'spice bag' and curry sauce to be disappointing. The Chinatown location is also noted for being small with limited seating, making takeout a recommended option.
"In response to a request for spicy fried chicken sandwich recommendations, the commenter mentions Pecking House as a fine option, although not as unique as Rowdy Rooster was."
Neutral"The commenter believes the quality of Pecking House, specifically the Chinatown location, has declined."
Negative"The author found the OG chicken sandwich from Pecking House to be incredibly crispy and chili-spiced, with a great crunch in every bite."
Positive"Confirms Pecking House as a favorite and outstanding option for fried chicken sandwiches."
Positive"This user lists Pecking House as one of their favorite fried chicken sandwich spots."
Positive"This user found the chicken at Pecking House to be bitter and preferred the chicken sandwich from Burger Day."
Negative"Recommends the chile oil sandwich from Pecking House."
Positive"This user recommended Pecking House, noting its Sichuan spice flavor."
Positive"In response to a query about Bobwhite, this user stated that while Bobwhite was good, Pecking House was still superior."
Positive"This user seconded the recommendation for Pecking House, ranking it above Rowdy Rooster, Bobwhite, and Fuku."
Positive"This user recommended Pecking House for chicken sandwiches."
Positive"This user strongly agreed with the recommendation for Pecking House, stating it is "ridiculously good" and better than several other establishments."
Positive"This user listed Pecking House as a recommendation for non-fast food chicken sandwiches."
Positive"This user recommended Pecking House for non-fast food fried chicken sandwiches and tenders."
Positive"Pecking House is suggested as a good option for chicken."
Neutral"Pecking House uses Chinese spices for its fried chicken and is primarily a takeout spot with limited seating, making it suitable for a casual meal rather than a date night."
Positive"The user inquired about the difference between Pecking House and Rowdy Rooster, seeking to understand their distinct flavors."
Neutral"Pecking House is considered good, although not exceptional."
Positive"Pecking House is highly recommended for its unreal fried chicken, utilizing Chinese spices. It's primarily a takeout spot with limited seating."
Positive"This user found the extra hot at Pecking House to be less spicy than expected, especially compared to Caribbean hot sauces, and recommended it for those with a decent spice tolerance."
Positive