When it comes to comfort food, few things hit the spot like a perfectly fried piece of chicken. Crispy on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside, and seasoned to perfection — fried chicken is a dish that transcends borders and cultures. From the bustling streets of Seoul to the soulful kitchens of the American South, fried chicken has found its way into the hearts (and stomachs) of people worldwide.
But which fried chicken joints truly stand out on the global stage? What makes them so special? Is it the secret spices, the method of frying, or simply the love poured into every batch?
Let’s embark on a crispy, golden journey as we explore the top fried chicken stores in the world — and why they deserve their legendary status.
1. Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken (United States)
Where: Memphis, Tennessee (with locations across the U.S.)
When you think of fried chicken, the American South is likely the first place that comes to mind. Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken has become an institution in Memphis and beyond. Known for its spicy kick, Gus’s chicken strikes the perfect balance between heat and flavor. Unlike heavily battered Southern styles, Gus’s opts for a thin, crispy crust that clings lovingly to the juicy chicken beneath.
What sets Gus’s apart is its unapologetically fiery seasoning that seeps deep into the meat, not just the skin. Paired with traditional sides like baked beans, coleslaw, and white bread, a meal at Gus’s feels like a warm Southern hug. Fans around the world rave about the consistency of quality across locations, making it not just a local gem but a national treasure.
Why it’s on the list: Authentic Southern flavor, perfectly spiced heat, and a loyal following that spans the country.
2. Jollibee (Philippines)
Where: Philippines (now global)
If you’ve ever met someone from the Philippines, you’ve probably heard them sing praises of Jollibee. What started as a small ice cream parlor in Manila has exploded into an international fast-food empire, thanks in no small part to its famous "Chickenjoy."
Chickenjoy is exactly that — pure joy in crispy, golden form. The chicken is marinated to the bone, resulting in a depth of flavor that’s unmistakably Filipino. It’s crunchy, juicy, and often served with rice and a savory gravy that takes things to another level.
But what really makes Jollibee special is the emotional connection it holds for millions of Filipinos worldwide. For many, it’s a nostalgic taste of home, wrapped up in a joyful red-and-yellow bee mascot.
Why it’s on the list: Irresistibly crispy, flavor-packed, and a symbol of Filipino pride around the world.
3. Bonchon Chicken (South Korea)
Where: South Korea (now international)
Korean fried chicken has taken the culinary world by storm, and Bonchon is arguably the brand that carried it across borders. Bonchon’s double-fried method creates a thin, shatteringly crisp crust that retains its crunch even after being sauced.
You’ll usually get two flavor options at Bonchon: Soy Garlic and Spicy. Both are lacquered with a glossy, flavor-packed glaze that strikes a perfect balance between sweet, salty, and spicy. Pair it with pickled radish and an ice-cold beer, and you have a quintessential Korean dining experience.
The magic lies in the technique. The double frying method renders out extra fat, leaving the skin audibly crunchy while keeping the meat succulent and juicy. It’s an art form that Bonchon has mastered — and exported to delighted fans across the globe.
Why it’s on the list: Unmatched crunch, flavorful sauces, and pioneering Korean fried chicken’s global popularity.
4. Dishoom (United Kingdom)
Where: London (multiple locations)
Dishoom might be best known for its homage to the Irani cafés of Bombay, but its "Chicken Ruby" and "House Black Daal" are not the only showstoppers. Their fried chicken, infused with Indian spices and served with an array of dips and chutneys, elevates the humble bird to new heights.
The star here is their take on "Chicken Lollipop," a frenched wing that's marinated in ginger, garlic, and chili before being deep-fried to perfection. Served with tangy dipping sauces, it delivers an explosion of flavors that bridge East and West.
Dishoom doesn’t just serve great fried chicken — it delivers an experience. The ambiance, the thoughtful menu, and the consistently high standards make it one of London’s most beloved spots.
Why it’s on the list: Bold Indian spices meet crisp frying techniques, making every bite unforgettable.
5. Fry the Coop (United States)
Where: Chicago, Illinois
Nashville hot chicken has enjoyed a meteoric rise in recent years, and Fry the Coop in Chicago is one of its finest ambassadors. Fry the Coop specializes in Nashville-style hot chicken sandwiches that are as fiery as they are flavorful.
What makes their chicken exceptional is the fiery, cayenne-infused oil brushed over the fried bird after cooking. Heat levels range from "Mild" to the daring "Insanity," so there’s something for everyone — from spice novices to heat seekers.
The sandwich options here are indulgent, often piled high with slaw, pickles, and creamy sauces that complement the spice. It’s the perfect balance of pain and pleasure, and fans can’t get enough.
Why it’s on the list: Spicy, crave-worthy Nashville hot chicken done right in the heart of Chicago.
6. Yardbird Southern Table & Bar (Hong Kong, Miami, and more)
Where: Hong Kong, Miami, Los Angeles
Yardbird takes the humble chicken wing and elevates it to gourmet heights. With its Japanese-influenced yakitori-style approach, Yardbird focuses on precision and quality. Each part of the bird is meticulously prepared, seasoned, and grilled over binchotan charcoal.
While not your typical fried chicken joint, Yardbird’s KFC (Korean Fried Cauliflower — yes, cauliflower!) and fried chicken wings deserve serious recognition. The wings, in particular, are brined, dusted in seasoned flour, and fried until they reach golden perfection. Finished with a hint of spicy shichimi togarashi, they deliver an umami-rich flavor that keeps diners coming back.
Why it’s on the list: Fine-dining flair meets fried chicken perfection, creating a refined yet deeply satisfying experience.
What Makes These Fried Chicken Spots Truly Great?
Across all these incredible establishments, a few themes emerge that explain their global appeal:
Technique Mastery: Whether it’s double-frying, brining, or seasoning to the bone, these restaurants understand the science of perfect fried chicken.
Bold Flavors: From the heat of Nashville hot chicken to the sweet-salty glaze of Korean styles, flavor is never an afterthought.
Cultural Identity: Each spot tells a story — about a region, a family tradition, or a national pride. Eating here isn’t just a meal; it’s a cultural experience.
Consistency: These top-tier spots deliver the same mouthwatering quality time after time, no matter the location.
Fried chicken is a dish that unites people across continents, and these global icons prove that great things happen when crispy, golden perfection meets culinary passion. Whether you’re sinking your teeth into a fiery Nashville hot chicken sandwich in Chicago or savoring sweet soy-garlic wings in Seoul, you’re part of a worldwide community bound by a love for this timeless comfort food.
