Hook Fish & Chicken — Restaurant in Woodlawn

★★★★★ Food quality ★★★★★ Service ★★★★☆ Ambiance ★★★★★ Value ★★★★★ Menu selection ★★★★☆ Location/Accessibility ★★★★★ Overall experience Date visited: 11/24/2023 On a crisp November day, the post-Thanksgiving air carried a sense of holiday calm as I ventured into the world of Hook Fish & Chicken, a casual dining spot that had been warmly endorsed by a former colleague and an Arab, AA, with exquisite taste. Black Friday unfolded, and amidst the aftermath of Thanksgiving closures, Hook Fish & Chicken stood as a sanctuary ready to cater to hungry souls. Around noon, I found myself at the intersection where the restaurant, snugly occupying a corner, beckoned patrons to savor its offerings. The holiday lull had subdued the usual hustle, providing a seamless parking experience in the diminutive lot that could cradle a dozen vehicles. Opting for a quiet spot, I strolled through the main entrance and was promptly greeted by two affable young ladies behind the counter, their accents hinting at Middle Eastern or South Asian roots. My predetermined order swiftly left my lips, met with the assurance that my food would be ready in a mere 10 minutes. As I awaited the unveiling of my feast, the ambiance within Hook Fish & Chicken unfolded before me. An olfactory symphony of fried goodness permeated the air. While a more robust air regulation system might be a welcome addition, the coziness of the intimate dining space compensated for any culinary-scented haze. The interior, though modest in size, exuded a certain charm. Tables were thoughtfully arranged, allowing just enough room to accommodate the hungry patrons. The kitchen, visible beyond the counter, hinted at the magic in progress. Old yet well-maintained, the ceiling and floor whispered stories of many meals shared and enjoyed. Glass panels and windows adorned the walls, inviting sunlight to grace the interior and expanding the spatial perception. Childhood nostalgia beckoned from a corner where capsule vending machines stood, a tempting journey into memories that, for this occasion, I resisted. Predictably, a few more patrons joined the fold, placing their orders as I eagerly awaited the fruition of my culinary desires. True to their word, the efficient staff presented my meal just as the aromatic crescendo reached its peak. In a paper bag, the warmth and alluring aroma of my chosen feast begged to be explored. Taking my treasures to a nearby park, I indulged in a natural setting for this gastronomic adventure. The combo, a symphony of one-piece deep-fried tilapia, five succulent shrimp, crispy deep-fried okra, and ample fries, all crowned with a complimentary Coke, unfolded before me. The unhealthy indulgence of an all-fried affair was a conscious deviation from the norm, and yet, the flavors justified the culinary transgression. The tilapia, tender and enveloped in a crispy skin, hinted at a well-seasoned preparation, inviting each bite to be savored. The shrimp, in a smaller yet equally delightful portion, left me yearning for more. The okra, encased in a delicate fried batter, offered a textural dance that complemented the earthy flavor, evoking a sense of satisfaction and warmth. The fries, though slightly underwhelming, bore witness to my delayed attention. Nonetheless, they played their part, especially when paired with the refreshing companion in the form of a Coke. Overall, the meal at Hook Fish & Chicken was nothing short of extraordinary. An ensemble of flavors, each dish a note in a symphony, left an indelible impression. A hearty recommendation extends to all seeking an indulgent experience, with a minor wish for a healthier alternative to cater to...

If i could give 0 stars i would . I door dashed a meal that was 42 bucks and when I received my order it was Wrong and the receipt said a different name . The food i ordered was for my kids and the order i got was hot wings. So i went in person for the man and woman at the counter Arabic descent to smirk at me and say that’s not our problem call doordash . I have worked in customer service and been a general manager for 10 years and even though i brought the food back 20 wings that my kids wouldn’t eat i understood my order got switched around and it was On doordash . Howverr the way you go about things in an establishment isn’t “ that’s not our problem “ i am disgusted . & the only reason i described their race in hopes that maybe they’ll at the very least check themselves . Mistakes happen and i understand that but being kind goes a long way . I’m still shocked i was treated that way . I will never order from there again and i know they don’t care but im writing this review in hopes to maybe save...

I've ordered from hooks several times at several different locations, mostly from Woodlawn. This review is based on my experience at the Woodland location. I always order the catfish dinner and after my first time receiving it I've requested everything prepared well done. I don't know if my cooking preferences are being ignored or it's the quality of the fish and breading, or the lack of an egg wash being used before breading is applied but the result is alway soft breading & soggy fish with 0 adhesion between the fish and the breading except for the left and right ends . The hot sauce packets provided in store are of the fluorescent red variety which is minorly off-putting but they taste okay. The french fries are great and crispy with or without seasoning and the female staff are friendly and attractive. Enclosing despite the softness I do enjoy my catfish dinners from Hooks and they always leave me satisfied and less hungry than I was...