Delicious Chicken Salads at California Chicken Cafe in Los Angeles

The Delicious Offerings at California Chicken Cafe

California Chicken Cafe has been a staple of the Los Angeles food scene for years. Their signature Chinese chicken salads have earned them a devoted following. Keep reading to learn all about this beloved local eatery and their mouthwatering menu.

The Restaurant's Humble Beginnings

California Chicken Cafe first opened its doors in the 1980s. Back then it was just a small takeout spot in a strip mall. But word quickly spread about their fresh, flavorful chicken salads loaded with crunchy wontons and tangy dressings. Before long, California Chicken Cafe earned a reputation as one of the best salad joints in LA.

The original owners eventually retired and sold the business. But the new owners kept everything that made the restaurant so special. They still use the same recipes that turned California Chicken Cafe into a sensation back in the 80s.

Satisfying Salads

California Chicken Cafe built their whole menu around chicken salads. Over the years, they've expanded the options. But each salad features their trademark mix of ingredients.

Every salad starts with a base of fresh mixed greens. Then you pick your protein, either grilled chicken or crispy chicken tenders. Next, select a crunch topping like wonton strips, noodles, or toasted almonds. Finally, dress it up with one of their housemade dressings.

Diner favorites include the Chinese Chicken Salad. This iconic dish combines grilled chicken, shredded cabbage, carrots, green onions, crispy wontons, and sesame ginger dressing. The California Cobb mixes fried chicken, bacon, egg, avocado, tomato, blue cheese, and ranch dressing.

Other tasty salad varieties include Thai Peanut, Honey Pecan Chicken, Mexican Chicken, and Chicken Caesar. Vegetarian options are also available, with fried tofu or tempeh instead of chicken.

Beyond Salads

While salads may be their claim to fame, California Chicken Cafe serves up more than just greens.

Their menu features a selection of hearty sandwiches stuffed with chicken. Choose from classics like the Chicken Parmesan, Chicken Philly, or Chicken Bacon Ranch. Sandwiches come on a soft roll with fries or coleslaw.

For the Little Chicks kids menu, try the chicken tenders meal. Kids can get crispy breaded chicken tenders served with fries or fruit. Mac and cheese, grilled cheese, and quesadillas are also available.

Don't forget to save room for dessert! California Chicken Cafe serves up delicious cookies, brownies, and rice krispie treats. Or cool off with a creamy gelato or sorbet.

The Restaurant Experience

California Chicken Cafe offers casual counter service dining. Head to the counter to place your order, then have a seat. Workers will bring your food to the table when it's ready.

Most California Chicken Cafe locations have a vibrant, retro diner style interior. Vintage license plates and neon signs adorn the walls. Pop music plays in the background, adding to the lively ambiance.

Outdoor seating is available at many locations as well. Soak up the sunny California weather while enjoying your salad al fresco.

No matter which location you visit, the service is friendly and efficient. The staff aims to deliver your meal quickly and with a smile.

Local Favorite

Ask any local where to find the best salad in LA, and California Chicken Cafe will surely top the list. After over 30 years in business, they've become a beloved California institution.

Their winning formula of flavorful chicken, fresh toppings, and housemade dressings makes each salad a satisfying meal. People keep coming back for their delicious food in a casual, laidback environment.

From office workers enjoying a quick lunch to families treating themselves to dinner, California Chicken Cafe caters to all types of customers. Their broad menu appeals to meat lovers, veggie fans, kids, adults, and everyone in between.

For excellent chicken salads in Los Angeles, you can't beat California Chicken Cafe. This local legend remains as tasty as ever.

FAQs

What is California Chicken Cafe best known for?

California Chicken Cafe is best known for its signature Chinese chicken salads. These salads feature mixed greens, grilled chicken or crispy chicken, wontons or noodles, and tangy Asian dressings like sesame ginger or Thai peanut.

Do they have menu options besides salads?

Yes, California Chicken Cafe also offers chicken sandwiches, kids meals with chicken tenders, and desserts like cookies and brownies.

What is the atmosphere like at California Chicken Cafe?

The atmosphere at California Chicken Cafe is casual and retro. Most locations have a classic diner style with neon signs, license plates on the walls, and pop music playing.