Downlow Chicken Shack

This is some of the highest quality hot fried chicken sandwiches you’ll eat. It has all the elements required: soft bun, good amount of coleslaw, and a huge piece of chicken. Moreover, I love that you can choose between chicken breast or thigh (go with thigh please). Lastly, they offer multiple types of heat. I took the second highest (called “Side Of Milk) heat level and it is quite spicy. I think most people will not be able to go above Extra Hot. I feel the only things that could’ve kicked the sandwich up a notch, for my personal taste is - Use a bit more of the OG sauce to add some creaminess and balance to the spice - Use some kind of chili oil season instead of dry rub. The best part of all this was the really great accommodating staff. I think the owner/manager was some of the friendliest people I’ve met and you can truly tell he cares about the food and the service. Overall, an amazing experience for someone who sets very high standards with hot fried chicken. FYI the sandwich is $19 (after tax) which is a bit steep, but worth it for the size and quality. There are a couple of tables inside and a few more on the patio outside.

Two years after my first visit, I'm back, and this place has reconfirmed its status as the best fried chicken in the world. The chicken is consistently delicious, tender, and incredibly soft, complemented by their fantastic sauces. The staff is exceptionally kind and friendly. I was surprised and grateful when they gave me a free side after I told them I was visiting from out of town and hadn't been there in two years. I highly recommend trying the tenders and the Big O sandwich, and you can't go wrong with their amazing lemonade. I'll make sure to visit every time I'm in Vancouver!

The chicken sandwich (Rookie of the Year) was juicy and flavorful: 5 stars The chicken tenders: the flavor didn't quite reach the inside and it wasn't as juicy as the chicken sandwich. Disappointed with this: 3 stars Staff members have lots of energy and are welcoming: 5 stars The place doesn't look very clean, but will do: 3.5 stars * I came here to try their highly-rated chicken. I don't think I'll be coming back. For the price, I expected more. I'll just go to my usual chicken burger place, which is Popeyes.

So good, love their chicken thighs and the tenders too. Got it hot but could have gone more. Fries were incredible too. Down to visit again

Great chicken burger! A must-visit spot. The chicken burgers are made with dark meat, giving them a rich and juicy flavor you don’t find everywhere. There’s a bunch of free two-hour parking nearby, but the spots right in front of Downlow are paid. It feels more like a take-out place in my opinion, but I was able to grab a table inside. Definitely worth the stop!

This is hands down my favorite non Asian fried chicken spot. Everything on the menu is made incredibly well. Whether I go for the regular, spicy, or any other flavor, I’m always satisfied. The chicken is always crispy, never soggy, even when they’re super busy. You can really tell they care about consistency and quality. And the sauces? Absolutely amazing. Every single one I’ve tried has been packed with flavor and pairs perfectly with the chicken. If you’re a fried chicken fan, this place is a must-try.

From the moment we walked into Downlow Chicken Shack, the vibes were absolutely immaculate. We were welcomed like old friends rather than just customers, which instantly set the tone for an unforgettable experience. A special shoutout to Alex at the front—so personable, warm, and genuinely passionate. He completely elevated our visit. We were even gifted some fries and lemonade, which was such a thoughtful and unexpected surprise. Now the food… WOW. The chicken was perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside—just how it should be. The fries were seasoned to perfection, light, crispy, and full of flavor. And the lemonade? No exaggeration—the best I’ve ever had. Tangy, sweet, refreshing—I’ll be thinking about it until the next time I’m back. If you’re looking for top-tier chicken and unmatched hospitality, this is the spot.

Straight up Delicious Chicken. This place has tasty crinkle fries perfectly seasoned. Their Chicken was packed full of flavor with perfection on their fried skin. Prices seem high if it’s your first stop in the area but for Vancouver it’s on par. Staff were friendly and. Very lively singing random songs. Expect a crowd as this place is small and very popular. Overall it’s a great place for a delicious meal.