"This casual counter-service spot in SoMa (with another location in Hayes Valley) has an excellent fried chicken sandwich that’s loaded with pickles, mayo, and sweet apple slaw. It comes two ways: classic or spicy. Both are delicious and a napkins-necessary experiences, and the bright red spicy version packs some serious heat. Get a side of curly fries and some freshly-fried apple fritters for dessert." - julia chen 1, lani conway, patrick wong
"There’s no shortage of fried chicken sandwiches in SF, but the ones from The Bird are simple perfection that we’ll never say no to. Here, you choose between classic or spicy, and each one comes loaded with pickles, mayo, and a sweet, refreshing apple slaw. Unlike the original location in SoMa, this Hayes Valley spot has beer on tap and cocktails, if you’re in the mood for something boozy." - julia chen 1, ricky rodriguez, patrick wong
"One of the best fried chicken sandwiches in SF lives blocks from Union Square. So prepare to push your way through the mass of backpack-wearing banker bros and tourists in Fisherman’s Wharf sweatshirts to get to this counter-service spot. The bun is soft and squishy. The fried chicken thigh drips with spicy, bright red juices you’ll lick right off your hand. And the apple slaw is a refreshing cool-off from the heat. Make sure to get some just-sweet-enough apple fritters for dessert or as a snack for later." - julia chen 1, lani conway, ricky rodriguez
"In a neighborhood that’s seriously lacking an affordable option for a chicken sandwich or a burger, the Bird remains the golden goose. Everything at the Bird is solid, quick, and inexpensive. Throw in a couple beers on draft, an impressive back room, $4 baskets of curly fries, and suddenly the Bird is the best place in the neighborhood to watch a game. The chicken sandwich here should catch your eye, but the burger is as good as any in the area." - Matt Tillquist
"The Bird offers fried chicken sandwiches with pickles and a brightly acidic slaw. Add a beer and curly fries to make it a happier meal, and try the apple fritters if you have extra room in your stomach." - Paolo Bicchieri