Dave’S Hot Chicken Vs Howlin Rays: Which Side Are You On?
What To Know
- Dave’s chicken has a crispy exterior and a juicy, flavorful interior.
- Dave’s Hot Chicken has a more casual, fast-food-style atmosphere, with limited seating and a focus on takeout.
- However, if you prefer a more balanced spice level, a rustic flavor profile, and a wider selection of sides, Howlin’.
When it comes to mouthwatering fried chicken with a spicy kick, two names stand out: Dave’s Hot Chicken and Howlin’ Rays. These culinary powerhouses have taken the food world by storm, leaving aficionados craving more. This comprehensive guide will pit Dave‘s Hot Chicken against Howlin’ Rays, exploring their unique flavors, heat levels, and overall experience.
Heat Levels
Heat is the cornerstone of both Dave’s Hot Chicken and Howlin’ Rays. Dave’s offers seven heat levels, ranging from the mild “No Spice” to the scorching “Reaper.” Howlin’ Rays has five levels, with the “Country” being the mildest and the “Howlin'” delivering an inferno.
Winner: Howlin’ Rays. While Dave’s offers more heat levels, Howlin’ Rays’ “Howlin'” level provides a more intense and memorable experience.
Flavor Profiles
Beyond the heat, the flavor profiles of Dave’s Hot Chicken and Howlin’ Rays differ significantly. Dave’s chicken has a crispy exterior and a juicy, flavorful interior. The spicy coating is complemented by a tangy vinegar-based sauce.
Howlin’ Rays’ chicken, on the other hand, has a more rustic and smoky flavor. The coating is slightly thicker and has a hint of sweetness. The sauce is also thicker and has a bolder, peppery taste.
Winner: Tie. Both Dave’s Hot Chicken and Howlin’ Rays offer unique and delicious flavor profiles that cater to different preferences.
Spice Levels
As mentioned earlier, Dave’s Hot Chicken offers seven spice levels while Howlin’ Rays has five. However, the spice levels between the two restaurants are not directly comparable.
Dave’s Hot Chicken’s “Reaper” level is notoriously spicy, but Howlin’ Rays’ “Howlin'” level is considered more balanced and flavorful. The heat from Howlin’ Rays builds gradually, providing a more nuanced experience.
Winner: Howlin’ Rays. While Dave’s Hot Chicken‘s “Reaper” level is hotter, Howlin’ Rays’ “Howlin'” level offers a more enjoyable and flavorful spice experience.
Sides
Sides are an integral part of any fried chicken meal. Dave’s Hot Chicken offers a limited selection of sides, including fries, mac and cheese, and coleslaw. Howlin’ Rays has a more extensive side menu, featuring items such as potato salad, beans, and cornbread.
Winner: Howlin’ Rays. Howlin’ Rays’ wider selection of sides provides more options to complement the fiery chicken.
Ambiance
Dave’s Hot Chicken and Howlin’ Rays have distinct dining experiences. Dave’s Hot Chicken has a more casual, fast-food-style atmosphere, with limited seating and a focus on takeout. Howlin’ Rays, on the other hand, has a more upscale ambiance, with a larger dining area and a full bar.
Winner: Howlin’ Rays. Howlin’ Rays’ more comfortable and inviting ambiance provides a more enjoyable dining experience.
Price
Price is an important factor to consider when choosing between Dave’s Hot Chicken and Howlin’ Rays. Dave’s Hot Chicken is generally more affordable, with a typical meal costing around $10-$15. Howlin’ Rays is slightly more expensive, with meals averaging around $15-$20.
Winner: Dave’s Hot Chicken. Dave’s Hot Chicken offers a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality or flavor.
The Verdict
The ultimate winner in the Dave’s Hot Chicken vs. Howlin’ Rays showdown depends on personal preferences. If you prioritize extreme heat and a crispy, tangy flavor profile, Dave’s Hot Chicken is the way to go. However, if you prefer a more balanced spice level, a rustic flavor profile, and a wider selection of sides, Howlin’ Rays is the clear choice.
What You Need to Know
Q: Which restaurant has the hottest chicken?
A: Howlin’ Rays’ “Howlin'” level is considered hotter than Dave’s Hot Chicken‘s “Reaper” level.
Q: Which restaurant has the best sides?
A: Howlin’ Rays has a wider selection of sides, including potato salad, beans, and cornbread.
Q: Which restaurant is more affordable?
A: Dave’s Hot Chicken is generally more affordable than Howlin’ Rays.
Q: Which restaurant has a better ambiance?
A: Howlin’ Rays has a more upscale ambiance with a larger dining area and a full bar.
Q: Which restaurant is better for takeout?
A: Dave’s Hot Chicken has a more streamlined takeout process with limited seating.
