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San Jose, CA

North America

United States

# Hey Chicken – Fried Chicken Restaurant in San Jose, CA
Hey Chicken is a vibrant fried chicken restaurant located at 670 River Oaks Pkwy, San Jose, CA. Known for its fusion of Chinese and American flavors, this eatery specializes in various chicken dishes, including sandwiches, wings, and popcorn chicken. Since its inception in 2014, Hey Chicken has rapidly gained popularity, particularly with its first Bay Area location opening recently. The restaurant's bright branding and casual atmosphere make it a go-to spot for fried chicken lovers, with a focus on takeout and delivery options. Customers appreciate the affordable prices and generous portions, although some reviews indicate room for improvement in flavor and service.

## History
### The story of Hey Chicken
Hey Chicken was founded in 2014 with a vision to blend Chinese culinary traditions with American fast-food favorites, particularly focusing on fried chicken. The brand quickly gained traction in Southern California, leading to the establishment of multiple locations. The San Jose branch marks the first foray into the Bay Area, showcasing the brand's expansion strategy and commitment to reaching a broader audience.

### Milestones and growth
- 2014: Hey Chicken founded, introducing a unique fried chicken concept.
- 2021: First U.S. location opens in San Gabriel Valley, California.
- 2022: Expansion continues with the opening of the San Jose location, the first in the Bay Area.
- 2023: Plans for additional locations in Cupertino and beyond.

### Cultural and local influence
Hey Chicken has made a notable impact on the local food scene by introducing a new style of fried chicken that combines traditional Chinese flavors with American fast-food elements. This fusion appeals to a diverse customer base, including families and young professionals, contributing to the growing popularity of Asian-inspired fast-casual dining in the Bay Area.

### Continuing the tradition
As Hey Chicken expands, it aims to maintain its core values of quality, affordability, and community engagement. The restaurant continues to innovate its menu while honoring its roots, ensuring that each dish reflects the brand's commitment to delicious, well-prepared food.

## Community
### Community involvement
Hey Chicken actively engages with the local community by participating in events and supporting local initiatives. The restaurant's dog-friendly outdoor seating area encourages families and pet owners to enjoy their meals together, fostering a sense of community and inclusivity.

### Community notion about the place
Local patrons appreciate Hey Chicken for its casual vibe and affordable menu. Many reviews highlight the restaurant as a convenient option for a quick meal, especially for those working in the nearby offices. The brand's playful and inviting atmosphere resonates well with the community, making it a popular spot for casual dining.

### Events and gatherings
Hey Chicken hosts various events and gatherings, often promoting special deals and menu items to attract customers. The restaurant's communal seating area allows for social interactions among diners, enhancing the overall dining experience and encouraging repeat visits.

## Offerings
### What Hey Chicken offers
Hey Chicken specializes in a diverse range of fried chicken dishes, including sandwiches, wings, and popcorn chicken. The menu features unique flavor profiles, including original, Nashville, and cuttlefish ink chicken, catering to various taste preferences. Customers can also enjoy a selection of sides and beverages, making it a versatile dining option.

### Dining and food experience
The dining experience at Hey Chicken is casual and straightforward, with options for takeout, delivery, and limited indoor seating. Customers can order at kiosks or through the cashier, ensuring a quick and efficient service. The ambiance is bright and inviting, with a focus on comfort and convenience.

### Events and packages
Hey Chicken offers various meal packages, including family-sized options and combo deals that provide great value for money. These packages are designed to cater to groups, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or family meals.

### Facilities and features
- Indoor dining area with limited seating
- Dog-friendly outdoor seating
- Contactless ordering kiosks
- Takeout and delivery options
- Bright and playful branding

## Pros and Cons
### Key insights from reviews
Customer reviews of Hey Chicken reveal a mix of positive and negative experiences. Many patrons commend the restaurant for its affordability and generous portions, while others express concerns about flavor and service.

### Compliments and strengths
- Affordable pricing for generous portions
- Unique flavor combinations in chicken dishes
- Casual and inviting atmosphere
- Quick service during off-peak hours

### Contrasts and notable mentions
- Some customers find the food lacking in seasoning and flavor
- Mixed reviews on service quality, with some noting a lack of attentiveness
- Limited menu options available during peak hours

### Summary evaluation
Overall, Hey Chicken presents a promising dining option for fried chicken enthusiasts. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in flavor and service, the restaurant's affordable prices and unique offerings make it a noteworthy addition to the San Jose food scene.

## Location & Nearby Attractions
Hey Chicken is conveniently located in San Jose, CA, at 670 River Oaks Pkwy. The restaurant is situated in a bustling plaza, providing easy access to ample parking. The surrounding area features various shops and eateries, making it a convenient stop for those exploring the neighborhood. San Jose is known for its vibrant cultural scene, and Hey Chicken contributes to the diverse culinary landscape of the city.

## FAQs
**What type of cuisine does Hey Chicken serve** Hey Chicken serves a fusion of Chinese and American cuisine, specializing in fried chicken.
**Is there outdoor seating available** Yes, Hey Chicken offers dog-friendly outdoor seating for patrons.
**Are there vegetarian options on the menu** Currently, Hey Chicken primarily focuses on chicken dishes and does not offer vegetarian options.
**What are the operating hours** Operating hours may vary; it's best to check directly with the restaurant for current hours.
**Is there parking available** Yes, there is ample parking available in the plaza where Hey Chicken is located.

## Visit Hey Chicken Today
Experience the unique flavors of Hey Chicken, a fried chicken restaurant in San Jose, CA. With its fusion of Chinese and American culinary traditions, the restaurant offers a variety of chicken dishes that cater to diverse tastes. The vibrant atmosphere and community-friendly approach make it a great spot for a quick meal or casual dining. Whether you're in the mood for a crispy chicken sandwich or flavorful popcorn chicken, Hey Chicken promises a satisfying dining experience.

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When it opened in my office area, I decided to try it out. They were opening at that time. They had some menu items available. I tried out their basic chicken sandwich. It was tasty but doesn't give me a rise. It's cramp in the front where you order and the front entrance is. Not too spacious. Seats under 15. It's a good go to place when you're in the area looking for some fried chicken to munch. It's located in a small plaza with a shared parking lot. For extra parking, there is a garage located under apartments when you drive in.

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The prices are good for what you are getting, I didn't pay more than $15 for what I got. I decided to go with the popcorn chicken and and some chicken wings, they were ok, the part that was not very good was the service, I asked the guy at the counter about the options and I felt I bother him, also when the food was ready he didn't even called out my name/number I think the other spot (pelicana chicken) was way better, I miss it

033360d5-b42e-4df1-9521-78a55084bde2

This is a review for only the popcorn chicken at Hey Chicken. I ordered this through doordash, and i'm not sure if there was a pricing error or something, but it was about $6.50 for an order which is definitely cheap compared to other places. Strangely enough, the other items weren't cheap, just the popcorn chicken. Portion wise, you get a lot for just one order. The fry was really nice, it was very light and crispy. My only issue was that it was a bland - no pepper or salt even, and no sauce was provided either. So you either have to buy this house that they sell or have something ready of your own. Because of the portion size, the price and the fry, I would definitely recommend checking this place out and trying the popcorn chicken.

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Prices are good, good portions too, and the bag is cute. I ordered the spicy chicken sandwich and the popcorn chicken. But the breading is too thick and greasy, and the chicken lacks flavor. I hate wasting food but I just couldn't finish.. Popeyes/kfc has more flavor honestly :/

bd7d97a8-7181-4563-8119-c6f4eb9cd3f7

3.5 STARS Hey Chicken, Hey!!! One thing that Hey Chicken has down solid is their branding. The bright yellow with cute cartoon chicken mascot on the wall, takeout boxes, bags, tray lining, etc. Who can hate on that? In the last year or so, there's been a few Chinese KFC/Popeye's style shops opening in the bay like Macho Burger and ABC Chicken... Hey Chicken is the newest arrival. They're a Chinese fried chicken chain that started in 2014. Their first US location opened in SGV last year with several other SoCal locations following after. This N San Jose location is the first Bay Area location to open with a Cupertino location in the works. Hey Chicken offers takeout, delivery, indoor dining, and dog-friendly outdoor dining (communal seating in the plaza). M E N U Fried chicken in various forms: sandwich, wrap, bone-in pieces (whole, thigh, drumstick, and wings), nuggets, and popcorn. - Flavors: original, nashville, cuttlefish ink (black chicken), and new orleans (inspired by general tso's chicken). - Sides: fries, onion rings, and mozzarella sticks. Not everything is available with items *sold out* like wings and cuttlefish ink chicken (at opening time). For drinks, they have tea and canned soda. No bottled water or water dispenser for tap water. O R D E R I N G Contactless ordering via two kiosks (Chowbus). You'll receive a text when your order is ready to pick up at the counter. F O O D Food spread: https://tinyurl.com/5dp8bnz6 * Crispy Chicken Combo Sandwich w/ fries, canned soda ($14.49) // 4 Stars The highlight of our meal - the thigh cutlet was on-point, crunchy and juicy, nestled between a pillowy soft bun skin to shokupan or Hawaiian roll with a smear of sweet mayo and crisp shredded lettuce. Savory, buttery, and sweet in a good way. The accompanying diner-style fries were crunchy but room temp. I'm guessing they fry a large batch and keep them under the heat lamp? * Golden Whole Fried Chicken ($19.99) // 3.5 Stars - Original seasoning (spicy was not available) Great fry, the chicken was golden brown and crunchy with a flaky crumb. Not oily or greasy. Like heathens, we tore into the chicken with our hands as juices gushed and squirted. No dry chicken here but it was flavorless, like they forgot seasoning. I was yearning for a bottle of Crystal to drizzle all over but ketchup had to do. The "whole chicken" is a cornish hen, small and ideal for one person. * Nashville Hot Chicken Thigh ($5.49 each x2) // 3 Stars Huge, meaty thigh heavily battered and incredibly juicy meat. Deceptively mild, on a scale of 1-10, it was a 2. I was hoping their take on Nashville hot chicken would have a málà numbing spice but there wasn't. Like the whole chicken, the meat itself had no flavor so it was monotonous after several bites. Wish they included a pickle. * Hey Chicken Sauce ($.99 x2) // 2 Stars Aside from free ketchup, this was the only dipping sauce available that day. I think this is their take on the Big Mac sauce but it tastes like a bland mayo with a hint of sweetness (no tang). IMO, fried chicken needs something tangy and/or spicy to offset the richness and this wasn't it. It didn't complement, nor elevate the fried chicken. S E R V I C E With no line at opening time, food took about 15 minutes (chicken fried to order). A M B I A N C E Casual with the bright yellow carton chicken mural being the centerpiece. Small dining area with a mix of seven low and high tops. One TV to watch the game. Communal outdoor seating was mostly shaded. No restroom available. We were told to go to Starbucks next door. P A R K I N G Easy, plentiful parking in the plaza. NEEDS IMPROVEMENT / SUGGESTIONS: * Kiosk doesn't allow for any modifications (e.g. no mayo) or notes. * There's a separate section to add "seasoning" powder (sichuan, cumin, garlic) but you can't denote for what item - chicken, wings, fries? Does food come coated in seasoning? Or, is it a side of seasoning powder that you sprinkle onto your food? * For the $14.49 combo meal, you get a choice of fries ($3.99) or popcorn chicken ($6.99). A combo meal with fries should cost less? * Add a veggie side like coleslaw. * Add a water dispenser for free tap water. Or, add bottled water to the menu. Overall, Hey Chicken has great cutesy branding and a solid fried chicken sandwich (if you like sweet notes). They nailed the fry on the chicken but seasoning needs work or sauces to boost the flavor. IMO, Jollibee is still tops for fast food fried chicken.

78f53495-3032-4f2e-b9d4-ca19092308e8

Yes! Yes! YAAAAAAAAASSSSSSSSSS!! Shout out to my nephew and his girl for not only living close by to this establishment but ultimately introducing me to all of this deliciousness!!!! Hey Chicken is a fusion of Chinese & American food specializing in .... CHICKEN!! [[ As if the business's name wasn't already a dead giveaway!!]] Lunch purchases: *FRENCH FRIES *POPCORN CHICKEN *HEY CHICKEN WINGS BOX [20pc wings + 2 drinks] *WHITE PEACH LYCHEE GREEN TEA FOOD: Everything was really good. The only complaint is the ZERO options when it comes to non spicy flavorings/items. This made it extremely tough for my 4 year old to dine. The chicken may not look hot but the spices are embedded between the chicken's crispy skin and its juicy meat. Although "original" & "spicy" flavoring options are listed, staff informed us that they only had spicy chicken available. With our drinks included in the wings box combo, there was only one drink option [peach lychee GT]. Fries were on the soggy side & while I prefer limp fries, this place may not be recommended for this who absolutely demand some crisp & some crunch. The highlight of the meal was the crispity crunch each piece of chicken had. The wings and the popcorn chicken contained an addictive crunch that keeps you wanting more! 4 stars but this joint could easily be a 5. Docked one star because the establishment's availability on items are VERY lacking. Plenty of items were not available. If you are not a fan of spicy or have children dining, Hey Chicken is not for you. The business doesn't carry anything beyond spicy @ the moment.

10079c45-f559-4f1e-875b-556d03cd9d3e

I heard about Hey Chicken and that it's very similar to KFC in China. I heard that the wait might be long so I ordered online in advance. When I arrived about 20 minutes after I placed my order, my order was still not ready, so I ended up waiting an extra 10 minutes inside the restaurant. The restaurant is very small and there's no bathroom also. You can order at the kiosk or at the cashier. I ordered the chicken sandwich, french fries and popcorn chicken. The french fries were soggy and nothing special. I thought the chicken sandwich was okay and I have tried other Chinese fried chicken restaurants lately and those have been much better than Hey Chicken. The fried chicken sandwich was pretty plain and dry. The food wasn't really hot either. I ate it immediately inside the restaurant and was thinking maybe they forgot to bring out my order to the front counter. I do love the packaging and they gave me a reusable bag as well. Hopefully, they can improve and I know they are still in the soft opening stage. I thought it was also pretty pricey compared to other Chinese fried chicken restaurants in the South Bay.

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A new fried chicken spot? I'm there! We found Hey Chicken on Yelp when searching for fried chicken last Saturday evening. We decided to take the adventure and make a drive out to north San Jose. This is located in a plaza so plenty of parking. When we arrived around 8 PM, there wasn't a lot of people there. It is a soft opening so I'm sure people are slowly learning about it. They have two kiosks available or you can put your order in with the cashier. As of 9/21/24, they were offering a GREAT DEAL of $1.99 popcorn chicken on the kiosk. Get it while you can! Even without the deal, the prices for all of their items are pretty affordable in comparison to other snack/chicken places around. FOOD: + popcorn chicken: good on crispiness, but I would recommend getting one of their sauces or spices to add onto it for some flavor. It's a little bland and more breading than chicken for some pieces. + Spicy chicken sandwich: very big chicken piece! The sandwich itself is like an elevated McDonald's McChicken. The bread is like a sweet, soft brioche. The mayo is sweet. And they use the same shredded lettuce. The chicken fillet is pretty good and the perfect amount of crispy. Though, I wouldn't say it's very spicy. + spicy chicken wings: probably the best thing we had from here. Great flavor and standard sized wings (not too small, not huge). They also sell a few options for teas and other drinks. We ordered to-go but they have lots of tables to dine-in or eat outside. They have a TV too, in case you're looking to watch the game while you eat. Overall, solid. I probably wouldn't drive out of my way to come back, but would definitely consider it if I was in the area!

47950bed-36e1-418f-a7cc-544c2d45db5e

I was taking a walk outside and stumbled upon this place doing their soft opening! There were a decent amount of tables filled inside despite it being an hour before closing, and I realized how hungry I was so hey, why not! I ordered on their digital screen menu, which was very easy to navigate and had both Chinese and English on it. Checking out was easy, and the server even came by to give me a menu to take home as well, she was super nice!! The popcorn chicken is supppeerrrr crispy!! There is a small kick in the seasoning underneath which gives it some depth of flavor, but isn't too spicy to notice unless you pay attention to it. I really appreciate that they took the time to think about all the flavors. The chicken sandwich is definitely the STAR of what I ordered. Oh my gosh!! Sooooo good. The chicken was still SUPER crispy when I got home to eat, and the mayo on it is a little sweet which balances the salty and spicy of the chicken. I like that they put shredded lettuce in it for some freshness, they aren't wilted or anything either so it gave some brightness to my sandwich which I enjoyed. The white peach lychee green tea was really good too! Perfect amount of sweetness, and the jelly is perfectly bouncy and chewy. Next time, I wanna try their different sauces and get their family box of fried chicken, it looked really good too but I knew I couldn't eat it all by myself! I'm excited to see this place blossom and try more of their menu.

3ddcdcad-ac38-4f26-a878-f70a617ceb25

Crispy and juicy fried chicken especially the spicy chicken sandwich. The pieces and portions were big. Free reusable bag. Quick service. Self service. One point of improvement is that they only have ketchup sauce. They do not have spicy sauce.

Discover Hey Chicken in San Jose, CA—your go-to spot for delicious, crispy fried chicken. Experience bold flavors and inviting ambiance today.

Hey Chicken in San Jose, CA - Best Fried Chicken & Bold Flavors

San Jose

Hey Chicken

California

Explore the full menu at Hey Chicken in San Jose, CA. Discover signature dishes, drinks & must-try items. Visit us at 670 River Oaks Pkwy.

Hey Chicken Menu – Food & Drinks in San Jose, CA

Learn about Hey Chicken, a popular restaurant located at 670 River Oaks Pkwy, San Jose, CA. Discover our story, cuisine, and what makes us special.

About Hey Chicken in San Jose, CA

Opening hours for Hey Chicken, San Jose, CA. Find opening hours for Hey Chicken, San Jose, CA on 670 River Oaks Pkwy.

Hey Chicken Menu Overview

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