Baba's Hot Chicken opens in Hillcrest

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A lot of hot chicken spots have been popping up in San Diego over the past couple of years but don't miss out on the mess out on a new hot spot that just opened up in Hillcrest. This is the first San Diego outpost for Baba’s Hot Chicken, an independent brand that began as a small yet sought-after pop-up concept and has today grown to three locations in the Southern California region.

On the menu, the signature Baba’s Hot Sandwich and Mini Baba are layered with fried chicken tenders, slaw, pickles and house sauce with more add-ons available. For something different, Baba’s Loaded Fries are topped with chopped chicken, cheese, house sauce, ranch and slaw - or guests can opt for classic Baba’s Hot Tenders on white bread.

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Southern-influenced sides include Mac & Cheese and Fried Pickles, and off-menu specials give guests the option to replace sandwich buns with grilled cheeses or add a hefty serving of mac & cheese onto a hot chicken sandwich. Throughout its menu, Baba’s Hot Chicken uses halal, hormone-free chicken and a few imported, proprietary spices for a distinct flavor profile.

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“We researched in depth how Nashville makes its hot chicken, not just the seasoning but the entire process. Then, we added a little twist with spices you won’t experience at other hot chicken places,” said founder Mahmoud “Mike” Hemood. “I love the loaded fries, but if it’s your first time get the chicken sandwich.”

Baba’s Hot Chicken is open daily from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and currently offers takeout and through online ordering and via phone at (619) 600-0080. In addition, they're now offering indoor dining (for the first time since its opening, in accordance with local regulations). They're located on 406 University Avenue in Hillcrest.

Learn more and order at www.babashotchicken.com and follow them on Instagram at @babas_chicken.