Donahoo&#x27;s Golden Chicken

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"Donahoo’s is the Inland Empire’s equivalent to Pioneer Chicken, the local fried chicken restaurant beloved by those in the know. The original location is still in Pomona, but it’s the Ontario outlet that carries on the original recipes and menu today. The chicken is not made until it’s been ordered, so wait times can occasionally drag, but the upshot is that the chicken is dredged, breaded, and fried in full view of everyone. Potato salad and coleslaw are the most popular of the sides, and they offer French and blue cheese dressing as dipping sauces. Don’t forget the rolls, either. Calling ahead is recommended if pressed for time." - Sean Vukan

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Cash-only and intensely local, this Ontario counter serves made-to-order fried chicken, steak-cut fries, and soft rolls. Eater LA spotlights the Ontario outlet as the place carrying forward the region’s old-school fried chicken tradition.

Best Restaurants in Ontario CA (2025)

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A no-frills favorite recognized by Eater LA for preserving classic fried-chicken recipes. Order at the counter, grab the rolls, and taste why locals keep this independent spot in their regular rotation.

Things to Do in Ontario CA

La Denna R.

Google

Donahoos chicken is always consistent. No matter when you go. Whether it be everyday, every couple of months, or years like me. It’s always consistent. The chicken is made simple and fresh. Never a time you’ll be disappointed. If you ever are simply tell them and they are so sweet and kind they will def fix it. But it’s always consistent in my opinion and experience. It’s always made to order so don’t rush this experience. Wait for your chicken because you won’t be disappointed. Chicken is flavorful, moist , and overall yummy. Go on and check them out. Don’t miss out on quality chicken.

Cole L

Google

Insane chicken. Super crunchy, not greasy. The potato wedges were the best I’ve ever had. The crew is awesome and hooked us with fried pickles also! We will be back!

Joe R.

Google

In my opinion, this place serves THE BEST FRIED CHICKEN in Southern CA (if not the entire state). Their chicken are freshly fried when ordered. No waiting chickens around. The same goes with their fries which are also fresh and hand-tossed with their special spices. The salads are always cold. Don't skip in their house cole slaw. They always greet you with a smile and respect. They truly value each customer. I have so much praise for this fried chicken joint. PRO TIP: ALWAYS order in advance, or expect to wait.

Keith C.

Google

What can i say? Well worth the drive from Temecula based on a tic tok post. Lived up to the hype. Crispy, tasty, hot and juicy chicken. Not over bearing in the seasoning of the breading either. Just right. Fire potato wedges. Mac salad is legit. Awesome service. Not a sit-down fast food spot. Order ahead and bring your appetite. Thanks guys.

Proto L.

Google

I don't usually do reviews and I've been coming here on and off for years. That being said, today's chicken was exceptionally good. The chicken was a nice crunchy golden brown, the meat was juicy and the fries and rolls were bomb like always. I would have added a photo but the food was gobbled up quick like.

Nunie B.

Google

The customer service is TOP NOTCH! The food is made to order so be prepared to wait or call your order in. I ordered a 4 piece combo. Hot & fresh. I substituted the fries for wedges and honeyyyy THE WEDGES ARE AMAZING. Made the $3.50 upcharge for them sting a bit less. The rolls would’ve been good if they were fresh and not cold. They recommended the Mac salad i didn’t bother opening it after taking a look at it, it didn’t look appetizing what so ever. Overall 7.5/10. The chicken was a bit overcooked. I had to ask for a leg to be subsisted becuhs they fried it so hard there was no meat one breading.

Cesar O.

Google

One of the original recipes Still Standing since 1969, definitely one of the best Locations, 👌 definitely was Satisfied 😌 the food Is Great and the people who work here are juat as sweet and Nice. Thank You

tauete

Google

This place is nestle towards the back of the shopping center. First time there and greeted by the cook slash owner (maybe). The gals are busy with what looks to be phone orders. The cook kept good converse and prepping the chicken to be cooked. Ordered a 4 piece chicken because that’s why I’m here. The chicken is cooked to perfection. Golden brown with the crunch on the outside and soft and tender on the inside. I feel like it needs more seasoning but that’s just me. I like that it’s made fresh and to order. I had the wrinkle fries with a little seasoning salt with a awesome CRUNCH. Their mac salad and potato salad is very good. All the ingredients seem to flow together, no real over powering flavor. The buttered bread muffin was soft and delicious. I would come again. Staff is awesome and good food. Must try!!!

Patricia W.

Yelp

It's a damn shame that I've only been here ONCE and it got a whole 5 stars from me!!!!!! When I tell you they outta be ashamed of themselves selling this AMAZING FLAVORFUL CHICKEN! I'm stuck I found this place on TikTok and OMGOODNESS I'm so glad we found it. F*** all the other chicken places Popeyes, Canes, KFC, your Grandmama's F em all this is the SPOT! The chicken made fresh so you have to wait for quality, DID NOT and I repeat DID NOT leave a nasty grease film in your mouth. We got to meet the owner and some of his family and everyone there was so nice and welcoming and just so personable I loved the whole family vibe! Thank you so much ya'll

Judy a.

Yelp

First time trying tonight. Heard so much about this place. Number one the chicken was WAY overcooked for me . The fries were definitely overcooked . Coleslaw and the bun was good . Wanted to love it so much. But I won't be back.

Joyce D.

Yelp

It's located in a small strip plaza. There's no seating. Pretty much takeout only. Best to order and call ahead of time and pick up. They really do mean made-to-order fresh because they're dropping the chicken according to orders rather than most chain restaurants that already have big batches made. We called at opening and it was already a 35 min wait. The employees are really nice. Patient with us especially since it was our first time. We ordered two 4 piece chicken meals which include your choice of salad (green salad, Mac salad, potato salad, or Cole slaw), French fries, and bread. We also ordered the potato wedges. Check your food before you leave that you have everything's. One of our meals only came with 3 chicken pieces in it instead of the 4 that we paid for. When we came back to let them know a piece was missing, they already knew the mistake had happened after we left and apologized and gave us our missing piece. With that minor inconvenience overall the food was great. Potato wedges are GOOD. It's battered and tastes entirely like the crispy and seasoned texture of the chicken. If you love potatoes, give these a try.

Gwen C.

Yelp

Great customer service, so friendly and welcoming and helped give suggestions. We called the order in advance knowing that all orders are made to order fresh and can take a half hour to prepare. We ordered the 18 piece family tub that comes with rolls and added fried pickles (secret menu item), and potato wedges. Everything was so fresh, crispy and delicious. Everything was well seasoned and they included Louisiana hot sauce that paired well with the chicken and delicious ranch dressing for the wedges that were battered and crispy. We also ordered their sweet peach iced tea that had a subtle peach flavor and strawberry lemonade and both were great accompaniments with fried chicken. We will definitely come back again.

Mr. C.

Yelp

Always have great tasting chicken and the staff is always super friendly! The parking is limited and no in door seating.

Marie T.

Yelp

I recently visited the area of my childhood of some 50+ years ago. I had fond memories of eating Donahoo's Chicken so decided to get some. I can say that Donahoo's Chicken is as good now as it was then.

Yvone M.

Yelp

Donahoo's has been here forever. I remember coming here when I first moved to the area. No fluff or frills, just some really good chicken. If you're in a rush or can't wait, you can call your order ahead for pick up, which is nice. The team here are all really friendly and helpful as well. I will add a note that aside from the fries, the sides are quite small. Plan/order accordingly, if you are feeding more than yourself. Thank you!

Michelle T.

Yelp

If I could give more I would! Since a few years ago this place has taken a turn for the better! The young man (maybe owner) is on top of his game! Definitely noticeable that he is focused on a great experience. We come from about 45 miles when we want a yummy lunch! It never fails to impress! Chicken strips always juicy and full of flavor, the right amount of breading. Fries are crinkled and have a good season too them, a lil heavy seasoned sometimes but u can request light. There coleslaw... now, if u like sweet and golden raisins... this is it! I don't care for slaw, but I'll get there's every time I order! Since the take over, the place is always clean and well kept, a lot more organized as well. We will continue to enjoy this establishment!

Angela V.

Yelp

My fiance brought me some during my lunch at work. I thought the chicken was just okay. The batter was flavorful but the actual chicken was a little bland. The fries were crispy and seasoned very well. I loved the roll.. it was buttery and soft. I'd pass on the coleslaw and macaroni salad. They were pretty average.

Rose G.

Yelp

I have visited this location in 2 different occasions, months apart. It's has not been our look to eat here. The hours of operation are not consistent. I always check Yelp and maps before heading there. Once I arrive then I'm told they won't be open until a later time. I have not tried the food but just disappointed they change the business hour once arrived.

Danny H.

Yelp

The team working is amazing. The best customer service I've ever had at a mom an pop place, or any restaurant in a really long time. They make you feel welcome and appreciated. The food was made fresh to order and was absolutely worth it. I would 100% recommend this place and will absolutely be back.

Brett K.

Yelp

Donahoos fried chicken hands down the best. And it's a family owned shop. Beats going to the big chains and the chickens way better. This is my go to for fried chicken. Ps the potato wedges are a must try.

Omar B.

Yelp

Solid place good fried chicken. Make sure you call your order in. Are you are definitely be waiting.

Arin G.

Yelp

I have been coming here my entire life as someone who grew up in Ontario. This place never disappoints. It's obviously switched ownership but they've done a really good job of keeping the food the same and making upgrades as far as the business aspect of it. It's not a place you can go sit down and enjoy, but the quality of the food makes up for it entirely. I love to introduce people to Donahoo's and I love when they ask for it over and over again. I 10/10 recommend to anyone. Especially the potato wedges. They are the most delicious thing on the menu.

Sebastian G.

Yelp

LOCATION: Nestled in a small plaza, and in what looks like the entrance to a strip mall, you'll quickly see the vibrant Donahoo's logo. There's a good amount of parking as well. When you enter the gates, you'll see awesome wall art dedicated to Donahoo's. FOOD: I ordered the 4 Piece Chicken Tender Meal with a side of Macaroni Salad. The Macaroni Salad was sweet, but not overboard and had a nice flavor to it. I liked this a lot so I can only imagine how the rest of their sides are. The fries were crinkle cut and seasoned perfectly. Crunchy, airy, and consistent. Now onto the main attraction - the chicken. I've tried a lot of fried chicken places and this one easily rose to the top. The batter is super crunchy and seasoned very well. The pepper comes through nicely. The chicken inside is moist and juicy and there's a good balance between the chicken and batter. They make every single order fresh and on the spot. SERVICE: Andrew, Letty, and their entire family-operated business is thriving for a reason. Some of the kindest people I've come across in the industry and their attention to detail is unmatched. For this alone, I'm a lifelong fan! I was told this is the ONLY Donahoo's that has the original recipe since back in the 60's so you know it's going to be good. I can't wait for the next time I come in! I HIGHLY recommend coming here!

Sarasa S.

Yelp

The chicken was pretty good and freshly made for a fair price. The service was excellent, would recommend.

Big F.

Yelp

Donahoo's is probably the best chicken place you can go to in the area. Tastes way better than Canes ever can and is priced respectfully for their customers. Their rolls are delicious and always grab the hot sauce. The customer service of the guy that helped was some of the best I've had in a long time. Finally CALL AHEAD because it is an hour wait on average especially on the weekends.

Michael H.

Yelp

Chicken is okay they claim original recipe but it's not! The batter is too thick and hard. They are not frying in bacon fat. The owners are great people they work hard they should just not claim original recipes.

Joe L.

Yelp

The fried chicken is incredible! The service is stellar and they will tale care of you. If you are in the area don't pass this up

Rob C.

Yelp

Just how I remembered it. Crispy, crunchy, juicy and tasty. This taste is tattooed on my Brain so I definitely do know if they've changed up anything over the years which they haven't and I'm extremely happy to know that. It's been years since I've had this spot, very warm and fond memories. It's funny how food can trigger your brain like that to remember either the good or the not so good. I'm just going to not try and wait too long to come back here again.

Neiva O.

Yelp

I love me some chicken tenders although i would not classify these are tenders this is chicken breast slices which some will appreciate. You definitely get more chicken for your money . Potato salad was amazing , fries were perfectly crispy, the bread was warm and soft . Everything was great ! Will definitely be going back especially on Sundays !

Malinois B.

Yelp

Best fried chicken and homemade rolls. Great service and fast. I highly recommend this place.

Easy D.

Yelp

Used to love this place when the old Irish Family owned it. Now every time I call they say it's gonna be 45 min wait or longer. What happened here? We used to order for San Antonio Hospital but that's probably not gonna happen if we can't get it in a timely fashion during our lunch break. Shame because the food is so good, but I never remember waiting that long and I've been eating here for 20 years

Katherine C.

Yelp

I love Donahoos! The Ontario location always serves fresh cooked to order food. If you're in the area, don't skip this place the chicken and the batter wedges are so good! It's definitely a good treat in the IE

John K.

Yelp

Service was great Food portions was terrible, 8 gizzards in the meal box !?! I remember when they use too fill up half the box of gizzards . Bought my family dinner and looks more like snacks then a meal I'm actually disappointed in seeing the amount of gizzards in each box.

Greg M.

Yelp

This gots to be one of the best chicken places in all of ontario, its close to home no need to go far, and the people that work here are good people...

Jeannette J.

Yelp

We were in between appointments and very hungry, so we stopped in. We are regulars at the Pomona location so we felt like we already knew what to expect. However the SUPER friendly staff, extra juicy chicken and crispy fries exceeded our expectations. Everything was perfect and of course the extremely nice staff was a major bonus. We'll be back of course!

Chris B.

Yelp

First off, let me tell you that Andrew is AMAZING. He's so friendly, and wow, his patience is definitely a virtue. He always makes sure that we get whatever we need to enjoy our meal. He may be irreplaceable, and now he's made the food here irreplaceable!!! They added in fried pickles to their secret menu, maybe we'll see it on their official soon? It's THE BEST fried pickles I've ever eaten because THEY STAY CRUNCHY!!!

Kayla V.

Yelp

The sweet peach tea here is BOMB. Biscuits were perfectly buttered and the breading on the chicken and wedges was freaking delicious. Not to mention the owners are some of the coolest and most generous people on the planet!

Mark M.

Yelp

I am giving Donahoo's Golden Chicken 5 stars because the food is excellent. However, as I write this, I am not certain as to which is more impressive, the marvelous food or the amazing young man, Andrew, who prepared it. Andrew possesses an inner light, the likes of which I have not encountered in decades, if at all. He is someone truly special; I know that sounds rather odd given that this is a restaurant review but, I am compelled to say nothing less. This man's soul, shines like a beacon. Go there, enjoy the wonderful food, say hello to Andrew and his delightful team, and, I promise, you will leave feeling a little lighter on your feet and wondering why you weren't more positive about your life, in the first place (smile). Sincerely, Mark

Gabriel Adel H.

Yelp

Definitely recommend. The kitchen area smells bomb AF! Personal are extremely nice. Definitely will be coming back over & over.

Joshua B.

Yelp

I'll only spend time leaving a review if a place truly sucks or it really is something special. This Donahoo's location specifically is the GOAT. Crispy, tender chicken, warm buttery dinner rolls, and thick cut steak fries that are seasoned perfectly. The crew here is also A1. Always chill and friendly. This the type of place to greet you by name if you are a regular. Whenever I'm servicing this area for work, I make it a point to stop here for lunch. Check this place out, it's worth the drive if you already live in the IE. And if you're a local who hasn't been here, you are straight sleepin! Zzzzzzz Keep crushing it guys. I see your hard work!!

Candace L.

Yelp

My son and I stopped off at Donahoo's after a little hike to summit Mt Baldy. I've been to another Donahoo's, which has zero affiliation with this location and mapped us here instead of the Garey spot by mistake (not knowing there are two with the exact same spelling). I was a little disappointed at first, since I've had the other a few times and like it. I was hoping this spot would be just as satisfying. It was absolutely delish! We both ordered the 6 piece chicken strip meals (w a side of hot sauce and bbq), macaroni salad, fries and a roll and ate them in the parking lot. I brought about half of mine home - it's a ton of food. These were freshly prepared while we waited about 15-20minutes. We also had two strawberry lemonades which were also yummy and super big, couldn't finish this either. Although, this wasn't the location I'd been thinking of taking us after our hike it was still a delightful treat and I'd recommend them if you're in the area.

Ryan M.

Yelp

I've been coming here for quite a while now. This place kind of blew up on TikTok and Instagram, and deservedly so. It's one of the best places to go to in the IE. Everything is made to order, extremely fresh and is a labor of love. Service is solid and friendly. This isn't a place where you can sit and dine in however, just be aware of that. The orders made here are meant for takeout. These are pictures from my first time at the location. First picture is the 4 piece chicken with the dinner roll and fries. Next picture is the 8 piece chicken strips with fries and bread roll. I also had the French Dip on the side. As of this posting, I usually order the chicken strips and potato wedges. Potato wedges come with ranch. French Dip is an additional cost, but it's worth it!

Albert F.

Yelp

Anything less than 5 stars for Donahoo's is blasphemous. Been coming here for years like many locals, i love that it never changes, we know it's gonna be bomb and you're supporting local business. Our favorite is obviously the chicken, but their potato wedges and (secret item) the fried pickles are excellent. If there's a long wait time for order don't trip, it's worth it! If you're reading this and have never been, this is your sign. Try it out! Side note:it's take out only

Elizabeth S.

Yelp

I was craving some fried chicken after work and was nearby and haven't tried this place since quarantine. I chose to get the fillet lunch ($10.25) with is 6 pieces of chicken strips, a small side of your choice, french fries, and two butter bread. I also got a extra pieces of chicken wing on the side for $1.50 a piece. The bread is softer than the other locations and the macaroni salad is good too. The breading on the chicken is crispy and seasoned well. It's not dry and the food was hot and fresh. The french fries were crispy too. The large strawberry lemonade ($4) was good too, not too tart. I actually like this location's food better than the Pomona one, which they are not affiliated with. I did ask since I was wondering if they're connected. Theirs is the oldest with the original family recipe. They do take card now. It's better to call ahead since it was a 20 minute wait and the parking lot is tiny.

Alex F.

Yelp

Been wanting to try this location for the longest. Had it saved on my phone for literally 2 years but never got around to going until yesterday. I was very excited, I had high hopes that it would beat Canes and DavesHotChicken because of all the astounding reviews I have heard. Unfortunately when I got home to eat (it was still hot) I couldn't help but notice a foul order. I checked everywhere making sure there wasnt anything wrong with it which it didn't look like so I continued to eat. The oder I would describe it as wet dog/horse barn if I had to put my finger on it but I continued to eat not caring, hoping the food was good and unfortunately I couldn't finish it. I only give it 2 stars because the fries were decent and their peach tea was great but their chicken tenders and bread felt mediocre at best, no taste on the bread whatsoever and the oder was coming from the chicken so it was hard to eat already but it being bland was the nail in the coffin for me. To make matters worse, my partner ate the leftovers I had, to see if it was just me but even they didn't like it. This morning they had a bad stomach bug which I honestly blame the food because thats all they ate the night before. They also commented on the bad odor so I know it wasn't just me. I am not one to write reviews but I haven't been this disappointed about food in a while. I'm glad others had better experiences than me but this is just my point of view.

Armida G.

Yelp

Very delicious love there gizzards and there bread and chicken cooked to order very fresh

Briann O.

Yelp

Went in for the first time while visiting my mom and this place is excellent!!! Loved the service, food and the ambiance!!! Definitely better to phone order but while I was sitting in there I got a sense of family and love! The staff in there was very sweet and caring of you and your food. They are very respectful and very efficient! Loved the chicken! The potato wedges and the mac salad!!! My most favorite part of this place was that peach tea!!!!! I'm tempted to go in for another cup !! I also heard a little something about a secret menu item so I'll be following them on instagram!!!

Tony M.

Yelp

Paid for a 4 piece and even paid extra for extra fries. Walked out and got home to find i was short a thigh. I waited a good 30 minutes understanding its jot basic fast food it takes time to cook, but when i wait that long for not even my complete order then yeah im gonna be a bit bummed. Food was good just honestly disappointed service wise.

Aileen R.

Yelp

Love love love this place! One of the best places for fried chicken in the IE. I've also tried the Donahoo's in Pomona but this one is much better by a landslide. It's a hole-in-the-wall gem that doesn't disappoint. The people working here are so friendly and kind, they always make me feel welcome. I usually get chicken strips with a side of coleslaw, and that's enough to fill me up. The chicken and fries are always crispy and carry so much flavor. They also recently started making fried pickles and they're sooo good! Thank you Donahoo's

Kathy D.

Yelp

Service was amazing. This was my first time here. The fries are to die for. The chicken perfect

Maria B.

Yelp

Friendly staff. Chicken tenders were good. The place is clean. Glad they gave a location close to me. I had always heard they were good and finally went here. Recommend to order ahead they are busy.

Linda U.

Yelp

The chicken was seasoned so that you taste the seasonings! The skin was crispy crunchy and the meat was moist and flavorful. The fries were a little bit overcooked which made them too crispy and dry. There were a few good ones in the order. Parking is tight, but thank God we got a spot. This was my first time visiting the Ontario store and they greeted me like I was a regular customer. Justine and the gentleman who greeted me and asked my name for my order both were friendly and efficient. The waiting area is small but I wasn't uncomfortable as I waited for my order which was ready. It's a a bit of a drive from Pomona but I will return because of the chicken and service. Donohoos Ontario definitely passed my taste test!

Luis H.

Yelp

Great service. The potato wedges are elite if you can call in your order early as there is usually a wait. The food is worth the wait. Despite always being very busy staff is always courteous

Richard R.

Yelp

This Gem nestled in the city of ontario is by far the best fried chicken around. Awesome customer service, fresh food, sauces, sides , chicken and even the drinks all fresh and delicious. Go visit this gem. Order the wedges!!

Jasmyne V.

Yelp

Service here is on POINT! They use the original recipe here and it shows! The food was so much better than the location in Pomona. The owner was even there boxing up orders and helping out. Love to see it, we will be back soon. Y'all, please try their buns! It's buttery, fluffy goodness! Don't sleep on this spot.

April M.

Yelp

Super good chicken! Way better than canes sorry canes loved everything we got!! Great service as well go team Donahoo's!! Not pictured: sweet peach iced tea also great

Crystal C.

Yelp

This place is a hidden gem. They have the best chicken! It is always perfectly made!! Juicy and fresh:P

Terri E.

Yelp

Food is amazing, reminds me of grandma's fried chicken, very nostalgic. Andrew and fam have best customer svc by far.

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The 20 Best Affordable Restaurants in the Inland Empire | Eater LA

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391,688 Postcards · 10,992 Cities

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