By: Kat Bein By: Kat Bein | August 29, 2024 | Food & Drink, Guides,
It may be humble, but it sure is tasty, and there may be no better lunch on the go than a delicious chicken salad.
Whether you want it on a bed of greens or in a handy sandwich, this deli go-to remains a favorite among our editors, so we asked them who’s got the best chicken salad in their city.
Multiple locations / Website
This buzzy lunch joint is known for its tasty lunch fare—and its chicken salad sandwich is a beloved favorite. Cafe at Pharr’s chicken salad is topped with walnuts, celery or curry flavoring and served on your choice of bread with lettuce, tomatoes, red seedless grapes and a yogurt roll. Don’t stop there, because there are more great spots on Atlanta’s full list.
Various Locations / Website
Thundercloud Subs is a beloved favorite among Austinites, and there are a few options for a top-tier chicken salad at these sub-spots. You can opt for a classic chicken salad sub with all the fixins (lettuce, tomato, red onion, mayo, mustard, ThunderSauce, Provolone or American cheese, and a shake of pepper), or go in on a signature LadyBird with avocado, bacon and jalapenos for extra savory flavor and a bit of kick. Do not skip the ThunderSauce! Austin loves a good chicken salad, so be sure to check the other eateries on the city’s full list.
352 W. Armitage Ave. / Website
Lincoln Park sandwich shop and deli All Too Well crafts crave-worthy sandwiches that incorporate inventive ingredients like fig jam, chimichurri, au jus dipping sauce and pickled golden raisins. Swing by to try the “Tatanka,” a buffalo chicken salad sandwich layered with slaw, hot honey mayo and smoked parmesan, served with a side of parmesan Ranch chips. With the amount of incredible delis in Chicago, you simply must try some other chicken salads on the city’s full list.
Multiple locations / Website
Though it may be known to break the bank, this Hampton hot spot has customers raving across social media and coming back for more of its chicken salad. Fresh, locally sourced ingredients make their products extraordinarily good, and their chicken salad is no exception. Creamy, perfectly seasoned and full of flavor, it's a farm-to-table experience in every bite. A day at the beach calls for a great chicken salad, so be sure to try the other spots on the Hamptons’ full list.
311 N. 16th St. / Website
Lockeland Springs sandwich shop Bill’s serves inventive grab ‘n go favorites, from its albacore tuna-topped “Jim Halpert” to its shawarma-spiced “There Goes My Gyro.” Don’t miss out on the joint’s “Chickytown” sub, piled high with roasted chicken breast, scallion mayo, honey spiced nuts, iceberg apple slaw and ginger carrot dressing, served on a garlic butter toasted bolillo roll. County music’s capital offers more than one great chicken salad, so be sure to check the rest of Nashville’s full list.
1530 Haight St., 415-255-0643 / Website
Gus's community market has served the San Francisco Haight for more than 40 years, offering locals incredible produce and deli items made fresh and grown locally. Whether you're looking to stop by for a bite or want to have an occasion catered, the chicken salad here is a must-try. Folks love the curry chicken salad with chicken thighs marinated in curry powder-based marinade tossed with currants, toasted almonds, green onions and a house dressing of honey, lemons, curry powder and mayonnaise. Don’t miss it, and don’t miss the other spots on SF’s full list.
3450 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, 650-493-4162 / Website
Driftwood is an old-style deli committed to serving its local community. Offering a wide array of salads, sandwiches, and beverages to be enjoyed on the outdoor patio or on the go, this family deli and market promises sandwiches prepared within a 15-minute window with fresh ingredients and guaranteed customer satisfaction. Driftwood offers numerous chicken salad options, including The Cable Car order (chicken salad with bacon, cheese, avocado, lettuce and tomato), a signature chicken salad sandwich and a chicken salad and green salad option. Come check out this spot for a delicious meal and a taste of the local community culture. While you’re in the area, check the other spots on Silicon Valley’s full list.
Looking for something a little more meaty? Check our list of the best steakhouses across the country.
Photography by: Getty