Super 7: Fried Chicken
From old-school Miami institutions to newcomers bringing fresh flavors, here are seven spots serving chicken worth every calorie.
Sra. Martinez
Michelle Bernstein's legendary fried chicken makes its triumphant return every Wednesday this summer at Sra. Martinez. The bird gets brined, buttermilk-dipped, double-fried for extra crunch, and finished with a honey drizzle that'll make you close your eyes with each bite. Get it while its hot — literally.
Pro Tip: Bring friends so you can try other menu items, but never skip the fried chicken – it sells out fast for good reason. @sramartinezmiami // 2325 Galiano St, Coral Gables
Pack Supermarket
This local institution has spent decades perfecting its Haitian-style fried chicken. Each piece marinated in a tangy mix of vinegar, lime juice, garlic and Scotch bonnet peppers before getting a light flour coating and fry. The staff keeps things consistent, and the under-$10 price point feels like a mistake they haven't caught yet.
Pro Tip: Order the pikliz (spicy cabbage slaw) on the side, the vinegary kick cuts through the richness perfectly. // 8235 NE 2nd Ave., Little Haiti
Joe’s Stone Crab
The stone crabs get the glory, but locals know the half chicken for $9 might be Miami's best food bargain. The secret? A coating made from finely ground Lance sandwich crackers that creates a uniquely crunchy exterior while keeping the meat ridiculously juicy. In a city of $28 appetizers, this humble dish remains a beautiful outlier.
Pro Tip: Order at the takeaway counter to skip the notorious wait times while still getting the same legendary chicken. @joesstonecrab // 11 Washington Ave., Miami Beach
R House
Their Cayenne Fried Chicken delivers exactly what the name promises – heat and crunch in equal measure. The spicy cilantro sauce adds brightness to the perfectly fried bird, making it a standout even among the fun distractions of their famous drag brunches.
Pro Tip: Come for Sunday drag brunch when the energy matches the flavors, but reserve well in advance – these seats fill up fast. @rhousewynwood // 2727 NW 2nd Ave., Wynwood
Publix
Yes, Florid'a’s favorite supermarket made this list. Chefs across Miami will privately admit Publix fried chicken – with its aggressive seasoning, double-breaded crunch, and consistent quality – often outshines restaurant versions. The skin packs serious flavor from paprika, turmeric and black pepper, while the meat stays tender and juicy.
Pro Tip: Get the 8-piece dark meat box – it's often fresher than the family meal deals and thighs always beat out dried-out breast meat. @publix // Locations throughout Florida
ENTRY 6 [H3]
This gas station chicken chain delivers Cajun-spiced goodness that transcends its humble surroundings. The Washington Avenue location deserves special mention – not just for the crispy, flavorful chicken, but for the people-watching that comes free with every order.
Pro Tip: The 14th and Washington spot stays open late – grab a box after bar-hopping for the ultimate night-cap. @krispykrunchychicken // 1407 Washington Ave., Miami Beach
Red Rooster Overtown
Marcus Samuelsson brings his famous "Yardbird" to Overtown, serving up expertly fried chicken alongside chili butter, house pickles and perfectly braised collard greens. The technique is flawless : crispy, well-seasoned coating around meat that stays juicy. Yes, it's the splurge option on our list, but the execution backs it up.
Pro Tip: Visit during happy hour (5-7 p.m.) when bar bites are discounted but the chicken quality stays top-notch. @redroosterovertown // 920 NW 2nd Ave., Overtown