Harold’s Chicken & Ice Bar is an iconic Chicago establishment renowned for its signature fried chicken and vibrant ice bar atmosphere. This beloved chain has cultivated a loyal following by combining bold flavors with a unique dining experience.
The menu reflects a harmonious blend of classic fried chicken dishes, flavorful sides, and refreshing beverages. Every item is crafted to satisfy both casual diners and those seeking a nostalgic taste of Chicago’s culinary culture.
“Harold’s Chicken & Ice Bar is not just a meal; it’s a cultural experience that captures the heart of Chicago’s South Side.” – Local Food Critic
Overview of the Menu
The menu focuses primarily on fried chicken prepared with a secret blend of spices, delivering a crispy exterior and juicy interior. Alongside the chicken, the ice bar offers a variety of sides such as fries, mac & cheese, and greens, each prepared to complement the main dishes perfectly.
In addition to food, the ice bar boasts a wide selection of beverages, from classic sodas to specialty cocktails, creating an all-encompassing dining experience. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick bite or enjoying a full meal with friends, the menu is designed to appeal to a broad range of tastes.
Signature Chicken Dishes
Harold’s Chicken is famous for its hand-battered, deep-fried chicken available in several styles and portion sizes. The chicken is marinated and seasoned to deliver maximum flavor with every bite.
| Item | Description | Portion Size | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Fried Chicken | Juicy chicken pieces fried to perfection with Harold’s secret seasoning blend. | 2, 4, or 8 pieces | $6.00 / $11.00 / $20.00 |
| Spicy Fried Chicken | The same crispy chicken with an added fiery kick of special hot sauce. | 2, 4, or 8 pieces | $6.50 / $12.00 / $21.00 |
| Chicken Wings | Smaller, flavor-packed wings, available spicy or classic. | 6 or 12 pieces | $7.00 / $13.00 |
| Chicken Tenders | Hand-breaded strips of tender white meat chicken served with choice of sauce. | 3 or 5 pieces | $6.50 / $10.00 |
Note: All chicken dishes can be ordered with mild, medium, or hot seasoning, allowing customers to customize their heat level.
Popular Side Dishes
To complement the rich flavors of the chicken, Harold’s menu includes a variety of classic Southern-inspired sides. These are made fresh and designed to pair seamlessly with the main dishes.
| Side | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| French Fries | Crispy golden fries seasoned lightly with salt. | $3.00 |
| Mac & Cheese | Creamy, cheesy elbow macaroni baked to perfection. | $4.00 |
| Collard Greens | Slow-cooked greens with smoked seasoning for a hearty side. | $4.00 |
| Potato Salad | Classic creamy potato salad with a hint of mustard and herbs. | $3.50 |
| Coleslaw | Freshly shredded cabbage and carrots tossed in a tangy dressing. | $3.00 |
| Hush Puppies | Golden-fried cornmeal balls with a crispy exterior and soft center. | $3.50 |
Many customers recommend pairing the classic fried chicken with mac & cheese or collard greens for a truly authentic taste experience.
Ice Bar Beverages
The concept of the Ice Bar at Harold’s is as much about refreshment as it is about ambiance. The menu includes a variety of cold beverages designed to cool down the palate and complement the spicy, savory food.
| Beverage | Description | Size Options | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Harold’s Signature Lemonade | Freshly squeezed lemons blended with just the right amount of sweetness. | Small, Medium, Large | $2.50 / $3.50 / $4.50 |
| Classic Iced Tea | Chilled brewed tea served sweetened or unsweetened. | Small, Medium, Large | $2.00 / $3.00 / $4.00 |
| Soft Drinks | Variety of popular sodas including cola, root beer, and orange soda. | Small, Medium, Large | $2.00 / $3.00 / $4.00 |
| Fruit Punch | A tangy blend of fruit juices served chilled. | Medium, Large | $3.00 / $4.00 |
| Specialty Cocktails | Signature mixed drinks featuring unique flavors inspired by the neighborhood. | Single | $7.00 – $10.00 |
Note: Alcoholic beverages are available only at select Ice Bar locations with proper licensing.
Desserts and Extras
Although Harold’s Chicken & Ice Bar is best known for its savory offerings, the menu also features a selection of desserts and extras. These items provide a sweet finish or an additional snack to accompany your meal.
| Item | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Peach Cobbler | Warm, spiced peaches baked with a buttery crust. | $5.00 |
| Banana Pudding | Classic creamy pudding layered with banana slices and vanilla wafers. | $4.50 |
| Chocolate Cake | Rich, moist chocolate cake topped with a smooth fudge frosting. | $5.00 |
| Extra Dipping Sauces | Choice of ranch, honey mustard, hot sauce, or barbecue sauce. | $0.75 each |
These dessert options are perfect to round out a hearty meal or to share with friends after enjoying the main courses.
Special Combos and Family Packs
Harold’s menu also caters to groups and families through specially priced combo meals and family packs. These options provide a convenient and cost-effective way to enjoy a variety of menu items.
| Combo / Pack | Contents | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 2-Piece Combo | 2 pieces of fried chicken, fries, and a medium drink. | $9.00 |
| 4-Piece Combo | 4 pieces of fried chicken, fries, coleslaw, and a large drink. | $15.00 |
| Family Pack A | 8 pieces of chicken, 2 large sides, 4 drinks. | $35.00 |
| Family Pack B | 12 pieces of chicken, 3 large sides, 6 drinks. | $50.00 |
These combos are ideal for casual gatherings, game days, or simply feeding a hungry family with ease.
Customizing Your Order
Harold’s Chicken & Ice Bar encourages customers to personalize their dining experience. Options include choosing the heat level, swapping sides, or adding extra sauces and dips.
Customers can also request boneless chicken or grilled chicken options at select locations. This flexibility ensures that dietary preferences and cravings are well accommodated.
“The ability to customize the spice level and mix and match sides makes every visit unique and satisfying.” – Frequent Customer Review
Nutrition and Ingredients
Harold’s Chicken prides itself on using fresh ingredients and quality poultry. The chicken is never frozen and is prepared daily to maintain freshness and flavor.
While the menu embraces traditional Southern flavors, the chain is aware of dietary concerns and offers nutrition information upon request. Customers with allergies or specific dietary needs are encouraged to communicate with staff for tailored advice.
Key Ingredient Highlights:
- Fresh, never frozen chicken
- Locally sourced produce for sides when possible
- House-made sauces and dressings
- No artificial preservatives in main dishes
Ordering and Availability
Harold’s Chicken & Ice Bar locations vary across Chicago, with some offering dine-in, takeout, and delivery options. Online ordering is available through their official website and popular food delivery services.
Menu items may vary slightly by location, especially specialty items and alcoholic beverages. It is recommended to check with the local store for the most up-to-date offerings.
Hours of operation typically span lunch to late evening, catering to a variety of dining occasions, from quick lunches to casual late-night meals.
Customer Favorites and Recommendations
Among the menu, several items stand out as customer favorites. The Classic Fried Chicken with a side of mac & cheese and a fresh lemonade is a top pick for many.
For spice lovers, the Spicy Fried Chicken paired with collard greens and a cold iced tea provides a perfect balance of heat and refreshment.
Others enjoy sharing the Family Pack B during gatherings, appreciating the variety and value it offers.
“Harold’s signature chicken is unlike any other. The crust is perfectly crispy, and the meat stays tender and juicy. The ice bar adds a cool vibe that’s perfect for hanging out with friends.” – Food Blogger
Conclusion
Harold’s Chicken & Ice Bar offers a rich menu that celebrates Chicago’s fried chicken culture with quality, flavor, and community spirit. From their mouthwatering chicken dishes to refreshing beverages and comforting sides, the menu caters to diverse tastes and occasions.
Whether you are a first-time visitor or a loyal fan, the menu promises a satisfying experience that combines tradition with a lively atmosphere. The attention to detail in seasoning, preparation, and customization makes Harold’s a standout destination for fried chicken enthusiasts.
Explore the menu, try the iconic dishes, and immerse yourself in the unique charm of Harold’s Chicken & Ice Bar.
