The Thoughtful Splurge — worth every penny
Hot Chix Boston provides casual fried chicken and Southern food to Cambridge. Korean-style fried chicken with Southern influences, crispy and flavorful.
The Maitre d' Recommends
The Vibe
Hot Chix Boston brings Nashville-style hot chicken to Inman Square from three Korean-American founders who perfected their craft as a pop-up before opening brick-and-mortar. The heat levels range from "not" to "extra hot," and the crispy technique never disappoints. This is fried chicken as both comfort food and spice adventure.
Comfortable conversation level
Why It's Great
Nashville Hot Chicken Perfected by Korean-American Pop-Up Veterans
Hot Chix started the way great food often does—as a passion project. Founders Alex Nystedt, Will Yoo, and Alex Kim began selling Nashville hot chicken at breweries and pop-ups in 2019. Two years later, they found a permanent home in Inman Square.
The technique honors Nashville tradition. The chicken is fried crispy, then dipped in cayenne-spiced oil for the signature heat. The levels—"not," "mild," "hot," and "extra hot"—let everyone find their edge. The extra hot is serious; proceed with caution and commitment.
What makes Hot Chix special is the intersection of cultures. Nashville hot chicken originated in Southern Black communities; here it's prepared by Korean-American founders who understand both heat and crispy technique. The result respects both traditions.
The menu expanded beyond sandwiches to include platters, vegetarian options like crispy fried oyster mushrooms, and Southern sides that complete the experience. The space is casual—order at the counter and wait for chicken worth waiting for.
Hot chicken sandwich at "hot" level with honey-butter biscuit on the side. Respect the heat.
Hot Chicken Sandwich
The signature—choose your heat level carefully
Chicken Platter
Tenders with sides for serious eating
Crispy Oyster Mushrooms
Vegetarian option that satisfies
Honey-Butter Biscuits
The perfect cooling complement
Why It's In Our Guide
Hot Chix brings Nashville hot chicken expertise to Inman Square after two years of perfecting the craft as a pop-up. The technique and heat make it essential for fried chicken lovers.
“Three Korean-American founders serving Nashville hot chicken—cultural fusion at its most delicious.”
— Boston Magazine“The pop-up found a home, and Inman Square is better for it.”
— Eater BostonInman Square has adopted Hot Chix since the brick-and-mortar opened. The pop-up veterans brought their following with them.
Insider Tips
Lunch or early dinner to avoid waits.
No reservations—counter service.
Casual seating available. Takeout works well too.
Start at "mild" if you're new to Nashville hot. Respect "extra hot."
Street parking in Inman Square area.
Ratings & Reviews
Based on 912 reviews
678 reviews
Updated 2024-12
234 reviews
Updated 2024-12
Frequently Asked Questions
Extra hot is serious. If you're not experienced with Nashville hot chicken heat levels, start with mild or hot and work your way up.
Reddit Mentions
Contact Details
1220 Cambridge St, Cambridge, MA 02139
Mon-Thu: 11:30AM-10PM, Fri-Sat: 11:30AM-11PM, Sun: 12PM-10PM
10 min walk from Central
RedThe academic palate demands both substance and style.
“She was my Rushmore.”
— Herman Blume, on Cambridge dining