Downtown Disney in Anaheim, California, is known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse culinary offerings, and one eatery that has quickly become a fiery sensation is Clyde’s Hot Chicken. If you’re a fan of bold flavors, sizzling spice, and finger-licking goodness, then Clyde’s is a must-visit destination. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of Clyde’s Hot Chicken, exploring its food, menu, pricing, location, mobile ordering, magic key holder discounts, operating hours, and the fascinating story of how it all began.
What is Nashville Hot Chicken?
Nashville hot chicken originated in Nashville, Tennessee. Legend has it that the spicy fried chicken was first created by accident in the 1930s when a woman cooked her boyfriend’s fried chicken with extra pepper as revenge for him staying out late. However, he ended up loving the spicy chicken, and a new dish was born. Nashville hot chicken is characterized by:
- Fried chicken that is first marinated in spices, then dredged in a spicy flour coating before frying
- A range of heat levels from no heat to very spicy
- Typically served on white bread with pickles to help cool the burn
While the dish started as hot chicken tenders or wings on top of bread, today it is also served in other forms like sandwiches and on bone-in fried chicken.
Clyde’s Hot Chicken Menu
The Clyde’s Hot Chicken menu features spicy fried chicken in a variety of forms:
Clyde’s Hot Sticks
- The signature item at the Downtown Disney location
- Skewers with 5 pieces of boneless fried chicken
- Offered in 3 heat levels: Natural (no spice), Original, and Hot as Cali
- Served with potato chips and pickle slices
- $14 as a combo, $12 for just the stick
Heat Levels
One of the hallmarks of Nashville hot chicken is the range of spice levels available. Clyde’s offers chicken in the following heat levels:
- Natural – No spice
- Original – Mild spice and sweet flavor
- Hot as Cali – Blend of cayenne and habanero peppers
The Original and Hot as Cali levels are the most popular choices. Guests who can’t handle any spice should order the Naked preparation.
Prices and Payment
Clyde’s Hot Chicken offers affordable quick-service pricing. A single Clyde’s Hot Stick combo is $14. A Hot Stick is $12. Clyde’s Hot Chicken accepts all major credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Disney gift cards. They do not accept Disney Dining Plan credits.
Location and Hours
The Clyde’s Hot Chicken kiosk is located in Downtown Disney near the Disneyland Monorail station and ESPN Zone. It is open daily:
- Monday to Thursday: 11am – 12am
- Friday and Saturday: 11am – 1am
- Sunday: 11am – 12am
During peak seasons like summer, hours may be extended. Check the Disneyland website for updated hours.
Mobile Ordering
Clyde’s Hot Chicken does not offer mobile ordering at the moment.
Disney Magic Key Holder Discounts
Magic Key holders receive a 10% discount on food and non-alcoholic beverages at Clyde’s Hot Chicken. To get the discount, Magic Key holders must show their Magic Key card and photo ID. It cannot be combined with other offers.
The History of Clyde’s Hot Chicken
Clyde’s Hot Chicken was founded in 2019 in Fullerton, California by owner Raymond Haroutoonian. The first location was opened next to the historic Fox Theatre. The restaurant aims to bring authentic Nashville hot chicken to the West Coast using fresh, all-natural ingredients. Their chicken contains no hormones, antibiotics, or artificial additives. Since opening in Fullerton, Clyde’s has expanded across Southern California. They now have locations in Placentia, Montclair, and Yorba Linda, in addition to the new Downtown Disney outpost. The Downtown Disney location represents Clyde’s first foray into the world of Disney. The fan-favorite hot chicken restaurant joins other Southern California brands like Porto’s Bakery and Afters Ice Cream at Downtown Disney.
Bringing the Heat to Downtown Disney
For guests looking to add some spice to their Disney day, Clyde’s Hot Chicken is serving up hot crispy chicken in the heart of Downtown Disney. The Nashville flavors offer a new quick-service option for foodies who crave heat and excitement. From mild to wildly spicy, the range of heat levels allows everyone to enjoy Clyde’s hot chicken. And while it may seem out of place next to Disney favorites like churros and corn dogs, the restaurant’s commitment to fresh, natural ingredients fits right in with Disneyland’s focus on food quality. So next time you’re strolling Downtown Disney and want to turn up the heat, head to Clyde’s Hot Chicken for some fiery fried chicken done right. Be sure to have those wet wipes handy!
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