11 New York Buffets That Locals Swear Have Fried Chicken As Good As The South’s
New Yorkers have high standards, especially when fried chicken is on the plate. The South may wear the crown as the birthplace of this crispy classic, but New York buffets are putting up some serious competition.
Golden crust, juicy meat, and flavors that range from Harlem soul food traditions to bold Asian fusion twists – these spots prove the Empire State knows how to fry with the best of them.
1. Jacob Restaurant Soul Food & Salad Bar: Harlem’s Crispy Crown Jewel
Soul food royalty reigns at this Harlem pay-by-the-pound paradise. The golden, crackling skin gives way to tender, juicy meat that keeps locals coming back daily.
With two convenient locations and prices hovering around $10 per pound, Jacob’s makes Southern-quality fried chicken accessible to all New Yorkers.
Pair your poultry with classic sides like collard greens or mac and cheese for the full experience.
2. Manna’s Soul Food & Salad Bar: Old-School Harlem Flavor Since the ’80s
This Harlem institution has perfected its fried chicken recipe over four decades. The secret lies in its perfectly seasoned coating that shatters satisfyingly with each bite.
Manna’s serves from its Harlem location at 320 St. Nicholas Ave, making it easy to satisfy cravings right in the neighborhood.
Beyond individual meals, their catering menu features the same legendary fried chicken that’s converted countless skeptical Southerners visiting the Big Apple.
3. Sweet Mama’s Soul Food Restaurant & Salad Bar: Harlem’s Hidden Treasure
My grandmother from Georgia once scoffed at the idea of good fried chicken in New York until I brought her to Sweet Mama’s. She’s been asking for takeout from there ever since her visit!
The generous portions at budget-friendly prices make this spot a neighborhood staple. Their extended daily hours cater perfectly to both early birds and night owls craving that perfect piece of chicken. Grab-and-go containers make it easy to enjoy at home.
4. The Door: Caribbean-Southern Fusion in Jamaica, Queens
Thursday and Sunday buffet days at The Door draw crowds for good reason. Their fried chicken marries Caribbean spices with Southern technique, creating a uniquely New York flavor profile.
Regulars strategically plan their week around these special buffet days. Home-style cooking extends beyond the chicken to their entire spread, though reviews consistently highlight the poultry as the standout. Just remember to verify buffet times before making the trip.
5. Golden Corral Bronx: Familiar Comfort in Parkchester
I still remember my shock finding chicken this good at NYC’s first Golden Corral. Despite being a chain, their Bronx location fries up batch after batch of consistently crispy, well-seasoned chicken that disappears almost as quickly as it’s put out.
The all-you-can-eat format means you can sample both their traditional breaded chicken and wings until satisfied. Open daily for both dine-in and takeout, this Parkchester staple delivers reliability when the fried chicken craving strikes.
6. Golden Corral Syracuse: Upstate’s Answer to Southern Comfort
Syracuse residents guard this Golden Corral location like a secret treasure. The kitchen staff maintains a steady flow of fresh fried chicken that never sits under heat lamps for long.
Located conveniently on Simon Drive, this outpost serves the classic Golden Corral fried chicken that’s earned a loyal following.
The variety of sides means you can pair your crispy chicken differently on each visit. Check their official page for current hours before making the trip.
7. Golden Corral Rochester: Henrietta’s Comfort Food Haven
Rochester winters call for serious comfort food, and this Jefferson Road location delivers with remarkably consistent fried chicken. Unlike many buffets where quality varies by the hour, their kitchen maintains admirable standards throughout the day.
The chicken skin achieves that ideal crispy-yet-substantial texture that Southern grandmothers would approve of.
Locals appreciate being able to check current hours and specials on the restaurant’s regularly updated location page before braving the notorious Rochester weather.
8. Umi Sushi & Seafood Premium Buffet: Albany’s Vegas-Style Feast
Growing up in Albany, my family celebrated every special occasion at Umi. While dad loaded up on sushi, I made beelines for their impossibly crispy fried chicken that somehow stayed juicy inside.
This Vegas-inspired AYCE wonderland in Colonie offers everything from hot pot to ramen. Yet reviewers consistently single out the fried chicken as worthy of special mention.
The dinner pricing might be higher, but the expanded selection makes it worth every penny for serious buffet enthusiasts.
9. Sea & Sky Feast Buffet: Flushing’s Newest Culinary Attraction
Located at 133-38 Sanford Ave in downtown Flushing, this newcomer has quickly earned a reputation for its eclectic offerings.
The fried chicken stands out with its shatteringly crisp exterior and perfectly moist interior that rivals dedicated chicken joints.
Weekends see locals lining up before opening to secure their favorite dishes. Beyond the stellar chicken, you’ll find everything from fresh seafood to dim sum and elaborate desserts, making this Flushing destination worth the potential wait.
10. Flaming Grill & Buffet: Flatbush’s Value-Packed Surprise
Brooklyn knows good chicken, and this hibachi-centric buffet in Flatbush delivers unexpectedly excellent fried versions.
Social media buzzes with posts highlighting their consistently crispy, well-seasoned chicken as the hidden gem among Asian offerings.
The teppan station might be the flashy centerpiece, but regulars know to save plate space for the fried chicken.
Open daily with hours and updates posted regularly on their active Instagram page, this spot offers remarkable value for budget-conscious chicken lovers.
11. Hibachi Grill & Supreme Buffet: North Babylon’s 300+ Item Wonder
Last Thanksgiving, our oven broke mid-cooking. Panicked, we discovered this North Babylon savior open and serving remarkably Southern-quality fried chicken that saved our holiday meal!
With over 300 items spanning Chinese, Japanese, and American cuisines, this massive buffet truly offers something for everyone. The hot line features numerous fried options, but the chicken consistently stands out for its quality.
Their official site and social pages regularly promote special offers worth watching for frequent visitors.