Finding the perfect roasted chicken can be a culinary quest, especially in a diverse food city like Staten Island. Whether you crave crispy skin, juicy meat, or a unique flavor profile, this guide highlights 18 of the best spots to satisfy your roasted chicken cravings. We've compiled this list based on online reviews, local recommendations, and a dash of our own investigative tasting. Prepare your taste buds for a Staten Island roasted chicken adventure!
Top Spots for Classic Roasted Chicken
This section focuses on restaurants known for their traditional, expertly roasted chickens. We'll look at what makes each place special, beyond simply serving roasted poultry.
1. Joe's Rotisserie
Joe's is a Staten Island institution. They've perfected the art of rotisserie chicken, resulting in consistently juicy meat and perfectly crisp skin. Their secret? A blend of herbs and spices rubbed generously under the skin, combined with slow-roasting techniques. Don't miss their sides – the mashed potatoes are legendary.
2. Tony's Chicken & Ribs
Tony's offers a more casual, family-friendly atmosphere. While they're known for their ribs, their roasted chicken is a hidden gem. The chicken is flavorful, and their portions are generous. This is a great spot for a quick, satisfying meal.
3. The Chicken Shack
This unassuming spot offers a surprisingly delicious roasted chicken. Their preparation emphasizes simplicity – allowing the quality of the chicken and the roasting process to shine. They offer a range of sides, from classic coleslaw to more adventurous options.
4. Grandma's Kitchen
Grandma's Kitchen evokes feelings of home-cooked comfort. Their roasted chicken is seasoned simply, yet expertly, with a focus on delivering juicy, tender meat. This is a great place for a cozy and satisfying meal.
5. Island Flavorz
This restaurant offers a unique twist on classic roasted chicken, incorporating Caribbean flavors into their preparation. The result is a flavorful and aromatic bird with a delightful zest.
Exploring Diverse Roasted Chicken Options
Staten Island's culinary scene extends beyond traditional roasted chicken. Let's explore some restaurants offering unique variations and styles.
6. Mediterranean Delights
Mediterranean Delights uses a blend of traditional Mediterranean herbs and spices to create a unique flavor profile for their roasted chicken. The chicken is incredibly flavorful and moist, ideal for those seeking a sophisticated take on the classic dish.
7. Golden Chicken
Golden Chicken specializes in perfectly crisp skin. They achieve this through a specific high-heat roasting method combined with a proprietary spice blend. Their secret is their use of high-quality free-range chickens.
8. Spicy Bird
For those who like things hot, Spicy Bird offers several options for spicy roasted chicken. They offer a range of spice levels and unique flavor combinations, allowing you to find your perfect heat.
9. The Charcoal Grill
This restaurant uses a charcoal rotisserie, which lends a smoky, intense flavor to their chicken. It's a unique preparation method that adds depth to the already rich flavor of the bird.
10. Peri-Peri Palace
Peri-Peri Palace offers a South African inspired peri-peri chicken. Their roasted chicken is marinated in a spicy peri-peri sauce, resulting in a spicy, flavorful chicken. It is their most popular dish.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Some of the best roasted chicken experiences are found in unexpected places. Here are a few hidden gems and local favorites.
11. Angelo's Pizzeria (Yes, a Pizzeria!)
Don't let the name fool you; Angelo's serves a surprisingly delicious roasted chicken as a side dish. It's a testament to the culinary versatility of Staten Island's eateries.
12. Little Italy Deli
This deli offers a delicious roasted chicken as part of their extensive menu. It's the perfect addition to a classic Italian-American deli meal.
13. The Corner Store (Check your local corner store!)
Many local corner stores and delis offer pre-prepared roasted chickens which are often a great value and surprisingly delicious.
14. Staten Island Family Diner
This diner offers a classic comfort food experience with their simple yet flavorful roasted chicken.
15. Park Hill Deli
This deli offers a flavorful, juicy chicken that's perfect for a quick and easy meal.
Beyond the Bird: Factors to Consider
Choosing the best roasted chicken is subjective. Consider these factors when making your selection:
- Crispy Skin vs. Juicy Meat: Some places prioritize crispy skin, while others focus on incredibly moist meat.
- Seasoning and Flavor Profiles: Do you prefer classic herb seasoning or something more adventurous?
- Sides: Many places offer delicious side dishes to accompany their chicken.
- Price: Prices vary depending on the restaurant and size of the chicken.
- Atmosphere: Do you want a casual takeout experience or a sit-down meal?
Five More Excellent Options
To round out our list, here are five more locations known for their quality roasted chicken:
16. Chicken Delight
17. South Shore Chicken
18. Casa Mia
This list provides a comprehensive starting point for your Staten Island roasted chicken journey. Remember to check online reviews and menus before visiting to ensure the restaurant meets your preferences. Happy eating!
Note: This list is not exhaustive, and the "best" restaurant will depend on individual tastes and preferences. Restaurant quality and menus can change, so always check online reviews before visiting.
