Ali's Chicken & Waffles

Truly a hidden treasure. The best chicken sandwich in San Diego. I've been here many many times and each and every time the chicken is perfectly crispy and the fries are amazing. Price point is really good compared to competition for what you get. The service is great - friendly staff and they take pride in what they do. Love this place!

Their combo#2 was just awesome. I love their waffle and chicken combination. It's a novel idea. Well done!!!

Everybody needs to try this place. Better than popeye sandwich or anyother. Good job. Yum

This is one of my favorite San Diego gems for a casual meal. It's a bit hidden, sitting inside a donut shop in a small shopping plaza, but don't let that stop you. The waffles are sweet and soft and fried chicken is always well seasoned. I rotate between sauces because they are all delicious and usually add on Mom's Iced Tea with spices that perfectly compliment the meal. I am also going to vouch for them and say they have the best grits & mac & cheese in the city.

Food, service, and chicken quality was amazing! Super kind staff, freshly fried and seasoned chicken, and definitely get the Ali’s sauce and coconut syrup!

We loved the all halal food options. I wish there was a restroom at least to wash your hands if you don't take out. It was a quick service and prices are just right.

I tried this place this week. I had the #2 combo. The fries were perfect. Even after the drive home they were crispy and delicious. The waffle was small but really good, the coconut syrup just made it better. The chicken I got plain, I'm not a fan of spicy. That being said there was some heat in the super crunchy coating. But probably too mild for most. I recommend you try give it a try.

Very good! Had the combo 1 and spicy sandwich . It was very well seasoned and crispy.

Absolutely love this place! Best chicken and waffles period. The sandwich’s are all amazing. Been coming here for years and tried the new location and the food is always great

First time here and only good things to say about this place. The menu is small and straightforward. The employee taking the orders was friendly and patient. I got the chicken, waffle, and fries combo. The waffle was really good with the coconut syrup and the chicken with the "Ali sauce" was fire. The Chipotle mayo sauce was good but I liked the Ali sauce more. I also enjoyed the Thai tea with coconut milk. The portions and prices are good too. It shares a space with a donut place. It's kind of small so you might end up taking it to go. Everything was really great and I will be returning!

Stopped in for a late lunch and dawged down a combo #2. Medium heat. The coconut syrup was 🔥. Worth the trip! Tucked away inside a donut shop.

I happened to be in the area around breakfast time and found this place pretty quickly. It is located inside a donut shop and next to a 7/11. The scene in the parking lot is a little rough around the edges. However, if you spend any time in this area you know that just is what it is. I had not heard of it before and the menu looked good. I tried the breakfast burrito and it was awesome!

The best chicken sandwich in San Diego. The spicy is seriously good. We love their mac and cheese, and fries. First time trying a waffle and chicken here and I must say that was great too. Pro tip: order online via toast app, so that your food is ready upon arrival. Also, It's so good that you might want to order more than 1 sandwich per person ;)

Food is so good I had to come and leave a review through my job’s email! Awesome location with plenty of options. I got the Original Chicken Sandwich combo & it never disappoints. Definitely recommend getting it with their Ali’s Sauce. A must visit in City Heights. ✨

The best chicken and waffles I’ve ever had! First time I had these was over pandemic when we ordered for take out. It took over an hour but when we opened the box, I was surprised that the waffles were not soggy from all the steam. It retain its texture, the flavor was semi sweet and I didn’t need to use syrup. That’s how I like my waffles and to me, that’s a major bonus. The chicken was juicy even though it’s white meat. The flavor in the breading was on point as far as spice levels. Fast forward, post pandemic, we’ve revisited several times and this past weekend, it was just how I remembered it. The location shares a space with the donut shop. Parking in that lot is tight, you would be lucky if you found one. It’s also not the best area. There are a few tables inside to dine in. We ate it fresh and took 30 minutes for our order to come out. Recommend to call in your order. Prices are reasonable, the combo #1 came with 2 tenders, waffle or fries and a side. The mac and cheese wasn’t super creamy. It was a perfect mix of cheddar and Parmesan. Ali’s fries were also a nice treat. Similar to carne asada fries with all the toppings. We got chicken instead of shrimp. The spicy chicken sandwich was not spicy. They said next time, to let them know that we want it higher than Thai spice I also got sambusas, which are similar to empanadas or samosas but different shape. Choice of filling, I got savory. This was not my favorite because of the dried texture. The chicken curry just needed dipping sauce. Overall, we would come back here again and again.

Simply the best. Limited menu. Just Chicken and dipping sauce. Same ideal motip as Raisin Cane Chick Fil a I love all sauce especially Coconut Sauce. Chicken tender was juicy and crunchy spice cover. Thai tea was good.

THE BEST chicken and waffles I’ve ever had, tender, seasoned chicken, soft waffles, and amazing sauces to top it off. You NEED to get extra coconut syrup, it takes it to a whole other level. Don’t forget about the fries, they are also seasoned perfectly and top any fast food restaurant. If you haven’t been here, I’m so sorry, you have not experienced life yet. I only come down to San Diego once a year, and this is a must stop. Plus this location is joined with a donut star, which has some of the best donuts I’ve had too! Only downside is that it’s a small shop, so they ran out of utensils when we were there.

Incredible comfort food and great vibes! Ali’s Chicken and Waffles hit the spot! The chicken was crispy, juicy, and perfectly seasoned, while the waffles were soft, buttery, and just the right amount of sweet. The combo is seriously addictive. Staff were friendly and welcoming, and the portions were generous. Whether you’re grabbing brunch or a late-night bite, this place delivers on flavor and hospitality. Definitely coming back!

The Cluckfast breakfast burrito and the home chicken sandwish are delicious! The chicken and waffle are pretty good as well. Bot the biggest fan of the French fries tho.

Best Chicken & Waffles in town. I'm glad my son found this place. Absolutely amazing! The flavors of the south. Southern Cuisine at the best! Will be back. Outstanding service as well!

Yes yes yes! This place slaps! Oh my gosh it’s so cute and nestled inside of a little doughnut shop. My shrimp and grits was holy goodness good. The shrimp flavoring was delicious and perfectly cooked. My kiddo liked the chicken, very well cooked and the waffle was ok but nothing to wriye Home about. I really want to try other things on the menu. Will for sure Be back

Mac and cheese is a must order because it was perfectly creamy, cheesy, and not salty! I ordered the chicken tenders and fries (no spice...so BF could try) with Mac and Cheese and a side of coconut sauce. The chicken is good quality, and the batter has great flavor. The fries were really good also (similar to McDonald's style fries), thin cut, and seasoned mildly. The coconut sauce is not overly sweet and perfectly compliments the fried food (especially the fried shrimp). I highly recommend it even though I didn't try the waffles.

Ali’s is an amazing hidden gem! It has some parking as it’s attached to a donut shop and next to a 7/11. Limited seating inside but quick and friendly service. The chicken is extremely flavorful, we got the Thai spicy and it was amazing. Fully halal as well! The sauces add to all the flavor. Best chicken and waffles place in town!

Sooooo good. My favorite chicken and waffles ever! Different than your normal spots with Thai spices and Thai tea, but that just makes it better. Prices are super affordable as well. The Chickn waffle sandwich (spicy) with coconut syrup is my favorite. The spice, savory, and sweet combine for the perfect bite. The waffles are also incredible, sweet, crunchy, and fluffy all in one. Definitely try their sauces! The coconut is my favorite but the Ali Sauce is also yummy. I've gotten both the grits and mac as sides. Both are super flavorful and make a great meal with a sando. 10/10 recommended, if you haven't tried this spot you are missing out! Ample parking as it's right next to a 7/11 and in a donut shop.

Second time here and it was just as good as the first time. Biggest strips in San Diego! Well seasoned and tasty. Black Owned ✊🏿

Ali's fried chicken...mmmmmmm goodness! It's the proverbial hole in the wall that packs that fried chicken yumminess! Crunchy batter and juicy meat inside the original chicken sandwich! All in a buttery brioche bun! The spicy chicken is topped with thai chili oil so it gives a good kick! Ali's fries, wow! Seasoned fries with either chicken or shrimp topped with the famous Ali sauce! What a wonderful experience!

The most deliciously seasoned chicken, waffles and fries that I have ever had! Service was great. Staff was friendly. If I lived here, I would definitely have to visit several times a month. Mom’s Tea was also delicious!

So I finally tried this spot and wow, the regular chicken sandwich is amazing. It was crispy, juicy and the bread is also good. I also got a combo #2 the chicken with the thai spicy and Ali sauce, delicious. Fries and waffles were awesome too. Will be going here more often.

My Le

The best chicken and waffles I’ve ever had! First time I had these was over pandemic when we ordered for take out. It took over an hour but when we opened the box, I was surprised that the waffles were not soggy from all the steam. It retain its texture, the flavor was semi sweet and I didn’t need to use syrup. That’s how I like my waffles and to me, that’s a major bonus. The chicken was juicy even though it’s white meat. The flavor in the breading was on point as far as spice levels. Fast forward, post pandemic, we’ve revisited several times and this past weekend, it was just how I remembered it. The location shares a space with the donut shop. Parking in that lot is tight, you would be lucky if you found one. It’s also not the best area. There are a few tables inside to dine in. We ate it fresh and took 30 minutes for our order to come out. Recommend to call in your order. Prices are reasonable, the combo #1 came with 2 tenders, waffle or fries and a side. The mac and cheese wasn’t super creamy. It was a perfect mix of cheddar and Parmesan. Ali’s fries were also a nice treat. Similar to carne asada fries with all the toppings. We got chicken instead of shrimp. The spicy chicken sandwich was not spicy. They said next time, to let them know that we want it higher than Thai spice I also got sambusas, which are similar to empanadas or samosas but different shape. Choice of filling, I got savory. This was not my favorite because of the dried texture. The chicken curry just needed dipping sauce. Overall, we would come back here again and again.

Isra Heal-thy

The best chicken sandwich in San Diego. The spicy is seriously good. We love their mac and cheese, and fries. First time trying a waffle and chicken here and I must say that was great too. Pro tip: order online via toast app, so that your food is ready upon arrival. Also, It's so good that you might want to order more than 1 sandwich per person ;)

Rosario Perez

Food is so good I had to come and leave a review through my job’s email! Awesome location with plenty of options. I got the Original Chicken Sandwich combo & it never disappoints. Definitely recommend getting it with their Ali’s Sauce. A must visit in City Heights. ✨

Muhammad Syahrul

Incredible comfort food and great vibes! Ali’s Chicken and Waffles hit the spot! The chicken was crispy, juicy, and perfectly seasoned, while the waffles were soft, buttery, and just the right amount of sweet. The combo is seriously addictive. Staff were friendly and welcoming, and the portions were generous. Whether you’re grabbing brunch or a late-night bite, this place delivers on flavor and hospitality. Definitely coming back!

Sinh Nguyen

Simply the best. Limited menu. Just Chicken and dipping sauce. Same ideal motip as Raisin Cane Chick Fil a I love all sauce especially Coconut Sauce. Chicken tender was juicy and crunchy spice cover. Thai tea was good.

Andrew Atnip

THE BEST chicken and waffles I’ve ever had, tender, seasoned chicken, soft waffles, and amazing sauces to top it off. You NEED to get extra coconut syrup, it takes it to a whole other level. Don’t forget about the fries, they are also seasoned perfectly and top any fast food restaurant. If you haven’t been here, I’m so sorry, you have not experienced life yet. I only come down to San Diego once a year, and this is a must stop. Plus this location is joined with a donut star, which has some of the best donuts I’ve had too! Only downside is that it’s a small shop, so they ran out of utensils when we were there.

A T

The Cluckfast breakfast burrito and the home chicken sandwish are delicious! The chicken and waffle are pretty good as well. Bot the biggest fan of the French fries tho.

Lawrence Crawford

Second time here and it was just as good as the first time. Biggest strips in San Diego! Well seasoned and tasty. Black Owned ✊🏿

Jaime Furtado

Best Chicken & Waffles in town. I'm glad my son found this place. Absolutely amazing! The flavors of the south. Southern Cuisine at the best! Will be back. Outstanding service as well!

Dawn Bright

Yes yes yes! This place slaps! Oh my gosh it’s so cute and nestled inside of a little doughnut shop. My shrimp and grits was holy goodness good. The shrimp flavoring was delicious and perfectly cooked. My kiddo liked the chicken, very well cooked and the waffle was ok but nothing to wriye Home about. I really want to try other things on the menu. Will for sure Be back

Mary Taylor

The most deliciously seasoned chicken, waffles and fries that I have ever had! Service was great. Staff was friendly. If I lived here, I would definitely have to visit several times a month. Mom’s Tea was also delicious!

Berre Daoodi

Mac and cheese is a must order because it was perfectly creamy, cheesy, and not salty! I ordered the chicken tenders and fries (no spice...so BF could try) with Mac and Cheese and a side of coconut sauce. The chicken is good quality, and the batter has great flavor. The fries were really good also (similar to McDonald's style fries), thin cut, and seasoned mildly. The coconut sauce is not overly sweet and perfectly compliments the fried food (especially the fried shrimp). I highly recommend it even though I didn't try the waffles.

Iffat Bhuiyan

Ali’s is an amazing hidden gem! It has some parking as it’s attached to a donut shop and next to a 7/11. Limited seating inside but quick and friendly service. The chicken is extremely flavorful, we got the Thai spicy and it was amazing. Fully halal as well! The sauces add to all the flavor. Best chicken and waffles place in town!

Katie Johnson

Sooooo good. My favorite chicken and waffles ever! Different than your normal spots with Thai spices and Thai tea, but that just makes it better. Prices are super affordable as well. The Chickn waffle sandwich (spicy) with coconut syrup is my favorite. The spice, savory, and sweet combine for the perfect bite. The waffles are also incredible, sweet, crunchy, and fluffy all in one. Definitely try their sauces! The coconut is my favorite but the Ali Sauce is also yummy. I've gotten both the grits and mac as sides. Both are super flavorful and make a great meal with a sando. 10/10 recommended, if you haven't tried this spot you are missing out! Ample parking as it's right next to a 7/11 and in a donut shop.

Alison Patron

Ali's fried chicken...mmmmmmm goodness! It's the proverbial hole in the wall that packs that fried chicken yumminess! Crunchy batter and juicy meat inside the original chicken sandwich! All in a buttery brioche bun! The spicy chicken is topped with thai chili oil so it gives a good kick! Ali's fries, wow! Seasoned fries with either chicken or shrimp topped with the famous Ali sauce! What a wonderful experience!

P “PM” M

So I finally tried this spot and wow, the regular chicken sandwich is amazing. It was crispy, juicy and the bread is also good. I also got a combo #2 the chicken with the thai spicy and Ali sauce, delicious. Fries and waffles were awesome too. Will be going here more often.

Mitzi Torres

Holly Molly! This little hole in the wall was amazing!! We had the #1 which is 2 piece strip wit a chose of a waffle or fries and picked Thai Spicy! It’s was delicious and juicy and cooked to perfection! And Lord don’t get me started on the Moms iced tea! Wow just wow! We are definitely coming back!

Wendy Rivas!

The macaroni and cheese is delicious!! Oh my goodness. That’s all i can say. The place was clean and the people were kind.

The spicy chicken sandwich is a must try. One of the best chicken sandwiches I’ve ever had. The fries are extremely average and not worth ordering. I’ve placed orders ahead of time and each time the service has been quite slow—you’ll probably be waiting a while. With that said, giving 4 stars should speak to just how good their sandwiches are!

Used to be reliable and a joy to order from but the last few times my order was missing things such as pickles, the correct sauce, napkins. Also some days the chicken breading is very dark and greasy like the oil needs to be changed, the collard greens were burnt and way too garlicky it was bitter. Not sure what is going on with the kitchen. Double check your order.

I love ordering from here but the ranch is got today is so weird. Hope y'all check your ranch out!

Edit: I came in on 26JUN2024 and the chicken didn’t have any seasoning like it normally does. Also my shrimp was not seasoned and a little under cooked. I still like them but the rating went down. I started coming here two weeks ago and when I tell you that the food is fire! It’s fire. The chicken taste different, crunchy, has a lot of flavor without being salty and the people here are always nice to me. Definitely recommend you guys support local restaurants like this that care about your health.

Really good halal gem in SD. Has hot chicken, burritos, waffles, breakfast.. one stop shop. The spicy chicken sandwich had some Thai seasoning which made it taste very unique and I quite liked it. The difference sauces there are second to none. Highly recommended

Great food! The Thai chili oil in the spicy chicken sandwich is unmatched! Mac n cheese was good - just runny, cheese didn't really cling nor have that stretch to it. Collards were amazing!

Very tasty and well made fried chicken, not oily at all. They have spicy levels to choose from. The prices are so reasonable compared to the quality and quantity. The waffle with fried chicken was a new thing to try, but not a wow for me. What I didn't like is the small dining area, that is why most people take orders to go.

Nada ElSabry

Very tasty and well made fried chicken, not oily at all. They have spicy levels to choose from. The prices are so reasonable compared to the quality and quantity. The waffle with fried chicken was a new thing to try, but not a wow for me. What I didn't like is the small dining area, that is why most people take orders to go.

Sau Rieng Nguyen

Used to be reliable and a joy to order from but the last few times my order was missing things such as pickles, the correct sauce, napkins. Also some days the chicken breading is very dark and greasy like the oil needs to be changed, the collard greens were burnt and way too garlicky it was bitter. Not sure what is going on with the kitchen. Double check your order.

I can only review the food, because it was delivery so here we go. I'm sorry, but I can't get behind the hype of this place that I'm seeing in the reviews. I got three medium spiced chicken strips, a waffle and fries. I also got one of the waffle sandwiches. Neither the waffle, nor the chicken had any flavor. Just Bland. The chicken strips were cooked very nice, they were moist and tender. Just no flavor. I was looking forward to this punch of flavor on my tongue as soon as I took a bite and was left wanting. Again, great cook, no taste. I gave it a three because it wasn't bad, it was average.

A friend recommended this place while we were in the area. We tried it out and we were not impressed. Location is okay. We ordered two chicken and waffles, a spicy chicken sandwich, and an Ali’s burrito. The waffle was actually very good. The chicken was okay. We thought that for seven bucks it was a good deal but the size of the chicken tender was small. We ordered Thai spicy and it tasted pretty wimpy. Although there were disappointing aspects of the chicken, I have to admit it was very crispy. The chicken sandwich was pretty small too, and a little stingy on toppings. The burrito was one good item we ordered. The Ali’s sauce was great as well. Staff were also very nice and helpful. So overall, not too bad.

The reason why I’m giving them 2 stars is because they didn’t make my order right(left mostly tortilla bread instead of the actual chicken etc). Anyways I feel like they could do better.

That spicy chicken sandwich 🤤 Add tomatoes & lite with the sauce.. If only there was a combo with small fries on the side.. 🤯

I’ve been a regular customer at Ali’s Chicken and Waffles for quite some time and generally enjoy the food and the atmosphere. Most of the staff — including the owner’s relatives and other employees — have always been welcoming and professional, which is why I continue to come back. However, I’ve had repeated negative experiences with one manager on duty named Rakia. Over the past several months since she began working there, my interactions with her have consistently felt uncomfortable and unwelcoming compared to the service I receive from the rest of the staff. On my most recent visit, I came in during my work shift (I work security across the street and visit often), sat down preparing to order, and was finishing some work documentation before placing my order — something I’ve done many times before without issue. During this interaction, I felt pressured to leave and did not feel comfortable continuing my order due to how the situation was handled. My concern isn’t about rules being enforced; it’s about consistency and customer service. Anyone who walks into a restaurant is a potential customer, and how people are spoken to and treated goes a long way toward whether they return. I hope management reviews this feedback because this restaurant has great food and good staff overall, but customer experience should feel welcoming and consistent for everyone.