Hot Chicken Takeover: Nashville-Inspired Heat in Columbus, OH's North Market

Hot Chicken Takeover Introduce

For those in Ohio with a hankering for bold flavors and a satisfying kick, Hot Chicken Takeover in Columbus brings the iconic Nashville hot chicken experience right to your doorstep. This American restaurant has carved out a unique niche by focusing on perfectly fried chicken, infused with varying levels of heat, complemented by classic Southern sides and innovative sauces. Located within the bustling North Market, it offers a vibrant and casual setting for locals and visitors alike to enjoy a truly distinctive meal.

Hot Chicken Takeover has been a notable player in the Columbus food scene, recognized for its commitment to bringing Nashville's fiery tradition to Ohio. While individual experiences can vary, as some recent reviews suggest a need for consistency, the core appeal lies in its signature offerings. Past patrons have raved about chicken tenders that come out "hot and moist," with standout sides like "super crispy and well-seasoned" hush puppies and "creamy and cheesy" mac & cheese. The array of sauces, including the "excellent" hot honey ranch and surprisingly good regular ranch and comeback sauce, provides further customization to enhance the flavor profile. Despite some concerns about service or perceived freshness in specific instances, Hot Chicken Takeover remains dedicated to its vision of serving up "juicy, perfectly-fried Nashville Hot Chicken rubbed with a cayenne-infused paste," promising a flavor explosion that lives up to its name. They offer various heat levels, from "Southern" (naked) to "Honey BBQ," "Warm," "Nashville Hot," and the extreme "Holy Hot," catering to all spice preferences.

Hot Chicken Takeover is conveniently located at 59 Spruce St 2nd Floor, Columbus, OH 43215, USA. This address places it squarely within the vibrant North Market Downtown, a popular and historic culinary hub in Columbus. Being on the second floor of the North Market means it's easily accessible to the diverse crowd that frequents the market, from downtown workers and local residents to convention-goers exploring Columbus. The North Market itself is centrally located and well-connected, with various parking options available in the surrounding downtown area, though it's always advisable to plan for parking, especially during peak hours. The dynamic atmosphere of the market allows diners to enjoy their hot chicken meal within a lively setting, often with communal seating areas available, and the opportunity to explore other unique vendors before or after their meal.

Hot Chicken Takeover offers a streamlined set of services focused on efficiency and flavor, particularly for a market-stall setting:

Kiosk-Only Ordering: Utilizes self-service kiosks for efficient ordering, streamlining the customer experience.
Casual Dine-In: Offers access to communal seating areas within the North Market for a casual dining experience.
Takeout Service: Provides quick and convenient pickup for orders.
Delivery Service: Available through various third-party online ordering platforms, bringing hot chicken directly to your home or office.
Customizable Heat Levels: Allows customers to choose their preferred spice level, from "Southern" (no heat) to "Holy Hot."
Extensive Menu: Features a wide range of chicken options (tenders, drumsticks, whole wings, boneless breast/thighs, sandwiches), plant-based nuggets, and numerous classic Southern sides and desserts.
Variety of Sauces: A selection of delicious dipping sauces, including signature options like Hot Honey Ranch and Comeback Sauce, available for an additional charge.

Hot Chicken Takeover distinguishes itself with several key features and highlights that contribute to its unique appeal in the Ohio dining scene:

Signature Nashville Hot Chicken: Their core offering is fried chicken prepared with a cayenne-infused paste, delivering a distinctive and flavorful heat. They offer various spice levels to cater to all palates, from "Southern" (no heat) to "Honey BBQ," "Warm," "Nashville Hot," and the extreme "Holy Hot."
Quality Chicken Preparations: Despite some varying feedback, many customers find the chicken to be "hot and moist," with popular options including tenders, drumsticks, and boneless pieces. They also offer plant-based nugget options.
Highly-Praised Side Dishes: Specific sides consistently receive positive mentions, such as the "super crispy and well-seasoned" hush puppies and the "creamy and cheesy" mac & cheese. Other sides include crinkle-cut fries, baked beans, slaw, mashed potatoes, green beans, and fried cornbread.
Unique and Delicious Sauces: The restaurant offers a variety of signature sauces, with the "hot honey ranch" being particularly lauded as "excellent." Their regular ranch and comeback sauce also receive positive remarks.
Classic Southern Desserts: Finish your meal with authentic Southern treats like banana pudding and Southern peach hand pie.
North Market Location: Being situated on the second floor of the North Market provides a lively and accessible backdrop, allowing diners to enjoy their meal amidst the diverse offerings of the market.
Community-Minded Approach: Hot Chicken Takeover is known for its community engagement and mission-driven approach, often hiring individuals facing barriers to employment, which resonates with many local patrons.

For those eager to experience the heat and flavor of Hot Chicken Takeover, here's how to connect:

Address: 59 Spruce St 2nd Floor, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

Phone: (614) 800-4538

For any local in Ohio, especially those in the Columbus area, Hot Chicken Takeover offers a distinct and satisfying American dining experience. Its location on the second floor of the vibrant North Market makes it a convenient and exciting spot for a casual lunch or dinner. What truly makes Hot Chicken Takeover suitable for locals is its unique take on Nashville hot chicken, offering customizable spice levels to suit every preference, from a gentle warmth to an intense "Holy Hot" kick. Despite occasional feedback regarding service or consistency, the quality of their best dishes – like the tender chicken, crispy hush puppies, and creamy mac & cheese, paired with their highly-rated sauces – consistently draws in crowds. It's a fantastic option for those seeking a flavorful, casual meal with a bit of a kick, right here in Columbus. Choosing Hot Chicken Takeover means opting for a bold flavor adventure and supporting a local establishment that brings a unique regional American specialty to the heart of Ohio.

Hot Chicken Takeover Menu

Hot Chicken Takeover - HSC Appetizers
Fried Cornbread US$5.95
Golden, crispy cornbread slices topped with a dollop of butter.
Hushpuppies US$5.95
Golden-brown cornmeal fritters served with a creamy dipping sauce.
Fried Pickles US$5.95
Crispy, golden-brown pickle slices served with a tangy dipping sauce.

Hot Chicken Takeover - HSC Mains
The Original Chicken Sandwich US$9.95
Boneless thigh or breast, choice of Southern, Honey BBQ, Warm, Nashville Hot, or Holy flavors.
Yo' Momma's Chicken Sandwich US$9.95
Choice of Boneless Thigh or Breast, with flavors like Southern, Honey BBQ, Nashville Hot, and more.
Southern Style Chicken Sandwich US$9.95
Tender chicken sandwich with choice of boneless thigh or breast. Flavors include Southern, Honey BBQ, Warm, Nashville Hot, or Holy.
Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich US$10.55
Chicken Tenders US$9.95
Choice of two or three tenders in Southern, Honey BBQ, Warm, Nashville Hot, or Holy flavors. Dipping sauces include Ranch, Comeback Sauce, Alabama BBQ, and more.
Drumsticks US$7.45
Two or four fried chicken drumsticks. Choices of Southern, Honey BBQ, Warm, Nashville Hot, Holy flavors. Served with Ranch, Comeback Sauce, Alabama BBQ, various other dipping sauces, or without sauce.
Chicken Bites US$9.30
Bite-sized chicken pieces with your choice of flavor such as Southern or Nashville Hot. Pair with dipping sauces like Ranch, Alabama BBQ, or Hot Honey Ranch.
Plant-Based Nuggs US$13.05
Plant-based Nuggs, Served with White Bread, Pickles, No Side & Choice Dipping Sauce
Whole Wings US$12.40
Whole wings in choice of two sizes. Available in Southern, Honey BBQ, Warm, Nashville Hot, and Holy flavors. Served with a variety of dipping sauces.
Boneless Thigh US$8.70
Boneless thigh fried chicken. Choose from Southern, Honey BBQ, Warm, Nashville Hot, or Holy flavors. Accompanied by a variety of dipping sauces like Ranch, Comeback Sauce, Alabama BBQ, and more.
Chicken Fried Steak US$16.15
Green Salad US$11.15
Green salad with choice of Southern, Honey BBQ, Warm, Nashville Hot, or Holy; topped with Comeback Dressing, Raspberry Vinaigrette, or Ranch. Options for Chicken Bites, Vegan Nuggs, or No Chicken.

Hot Chicken Takeover - HSC Combos
The Original Chicken Sandwich Combo US$15.50
Juicy boneless thigh or breast sandwich. Choose from Southern, Honey BBQ, Warm, Nashville Hot, or Holy flavors. Side options like fries or mac n cheese. Drinks include soda or iced tea.
Yo' Momma's Chicken Sandwich Combo US$15.50
Boneless thigh or breast chicken sandwich in your choice of Southern, Honey BBQ, Warm, Nashville Hot, or Holy flavors. Served with a side and a drink of your choice.
Southern Style Chicken Sandwich Combo US$15.50
Southern style sandwich with choice of Boneless Thigh or Breast. Flavors: Southern, BBQ, Warm, Nashville Hot, Holy. Sides like fries, mac n cheese, beans, and more. Drink options available.
Chicken Fried Steak Sandwich Combo US$16.15
Kid's Combo US$8.70
Kid's entree served with choice of Southern or specialty flavors. Sides include fries, mac n cheese, beans, or more. Beverage options like Coke, lemonade, tea, and others.

Hot Chicken Takeover - HSC Kids
Kid's Combo US$8.70
Choose from mac, tender, drum, or chicken bites. Flavors: Southern, BBQ, warm, Nashville hot, or holy. Sides: fries, mac n cheese, beans, hushpuppies, slaw, mashed potatoes, green beans, or cornbread. Drinks: Coke, diet options, Sprite, Dr. Pepper, lemonade, sweet or unsweet tea.

Hot Chicken Takeover - HSC Plates
Chicken Tenders & 1 Side Plate US$13.65
Chicken tenders with choice of side. Options: 2 or 3 tenders, flavors like Southern or Nashville Hot, various dipping sauces. Sides include fries, mac n cheese, or hushpuppies.
Chicken Tenders & 2 Side Plate US$17.35
Chicken tenders with 2 sides. Choose 2 or 3 tenders; flavors include Southern, Honey BBQ, Warm, Nashville Hot, or Holy. Dipping sauces like Ranch, Comeback Sauce, or Alabama BBQ. Sides: fries, mac and cheese, baked beans, or others.
Chicken Tender & 3 Side Plate US$21.10
Chicken tender plate with choice of two or three tenders. Select from Southern, Honey BBQ, Warm, Nashville Hot, or Holy flavors. Served with your choice of three sides and dipping sauces.
Drumsticks & 1 Side Plate US$11.15
Two or four drumsticks with flavor options like Southern, Honey BBQ, or Nashville Hot. Choice of dipping sauces such as Ranch or Alabama BBQ. One side; options include mac n cheese or crinkle-cut fries.
Drumsticks & 2 Side Plate US$14.90
### HSC Plates **Drumsticks & 2 Side Plate** Fried chicken with choice of 2 or 4 drumsticks. Flavors include Southern, Honey BBQ, Nashville Hot, and others. Served with 2 sides such as fries, mac n cheese, or baked beans. Dipping sauces available.
Drumsticks & 3 Side Plate US$18.60
Drumsticks with a choice of 2 or 4 pieces, in flavors like Southern, Honey BBQ, or Nashville Hot. Served with three sides such as Mac N Cheese, Slaw, or Mashed Potatoes. Dipping sauces available, including Ranch, Alabama BBQ, or White Gravy.
Chicken Bites & 1 Side Plate US$13.05
Chicken bites with choice of Southern, Honey BBQ, Warm, Nashville Hot, or Holy flavors. Accompanied by a side like fries or mac n cheese. Dipping sauces include Ranch, Alabama BBQ, or Honey BBQ.
Chicken Bites & 2 Side Plate US$16.75
Bite-sized chicken pieces with your choice of flavor and dipping sauce. Served with any two sides including fries, mac n cheese, baked beans, or hushpuppies.
Chicken Bites & 3 Side Plate US$20.45
Chicken nuggets with choice of bold flavors. Includes three sides: mac n cheese, baked beans, hushpuppies, slaw, mashed potatoes, green beans, or fried cornbread. Variety of dipping sauces available.
Whole Wings & 1 Side Plate US$16.15
Choice of 3 or 5 whole chicken wings. Flavors: Southern, Honey BBQ, Warm, Nashville Hot, or Holy. Dipping Sauce options include Ranch, Alabama BBQ, Hot Honey Ranch, and more. Side options: Crinkle-Cut Fries, Mac N Cheese, Baked Beans, and more.
Whole Wings & 2 Side Plate US$19.85
Whole wings with choice of sides and dipping sauces. Options: 3 or 5 wings, various flavors like Southern or Nashville Hot, and sides ranging from fries to green beans.
Whole Wings & 3 Side Plate US$23.55
Whole wings with choice of 3 or 5 pieces. Variety of flavors, sauces, and sides including mac n cheese, baked beans, hushpuppies, slaw, mashed potatoes, green beans, and fried cornbread.
Boneless Breast & 1 Side Plate US$17.35
Boneless chicken breast with one side. Flavors include Southern, Honey BBQ, Warm, Nashville Hot, and Holy. Dipping sauces range from Ranch to Alabama BBQ. Side options: fries, hushpuppies, and more.
Boneless Breast & 2 Side Plate US$21.10
Boneless chicken breast with Southern, Honey BBQ, Warm, Nashville Hot, or Holy flavor. Choice of Ranch, Comeback Sauce, Alabama BBQ, and more. Accompanied by two sides like fries, mac n cheese, or hushpuppies.
Boneless Thigh & 1 Side Plate US$12.40
Boneless thigh with a choice of Southern, Honey BBQ, Warm, Nashville Hot, or Holy flavors. Includes one side: fries, mac n cheese, beans, hushpuppies, slaw, potatoes, green beans, or fried cornbread. Choice of dipping sauce.
Boneless Thigh & 2 Side Plate US$16.15
Boneless thigh with choice of flavors like Southern, Honey BBQ, Nashville Hot. Includes two sides from options like fries, mac n cheese, baked beans. Served with a dipping sauce.
Boneless Thigh & 3 Side Plate US$19.85
Boneless thigh with choice of Southern, Honey BBQ, Warm, Nashville Hot, or Holy flavor. Select from ranch, Alabama BBQ, hot honey ranch, or more dipping sauces. Three sides like mac n cheese, baked beans, slaw, and others.
Chicken Fried Steak & 1 Side Plate US$19.85
Chicken Fried Steak & 2 Side Plate US$23.55
Chicken Fried Steak & 3 Side Plate US$27.30
Plant-Based Nuggs & 1 Side Plate US$16.75
Plant-based Nuggs, Served with White Bread, Pickles, 1 Side & Choice Dipping Sauce
Plant-Based Nuggs & 2 Side Plate US$20.45
Plant-based Nuggs, Served with White Bread, Pickles, 2 Side & Choice Dipping Sauce
Plant-Based Nuggs & 3 Side Plate US$24.20
Plant-based Nuggs, Served with White Bread, Pickles, 3 Side & Choice Dipping Sauce

Hot Chicken Takeover - HSC Sides
Crinkle-Cut Fries US$4.95
Crinkle-cut fries. Choice of dipping sauces: Comeback Sauce, Hot Honey Ranch, Ranch, Honey BBQ, Alabama BBQ, White Gravy, A1 Mayo.
Mac N Cheese US$4.95
Creamy macaroni pasta enveloped in a rich, velvety cheese sauce.
Baked Beans US$4.95
Tender beans in a savory, rich sauce.
Hushpuppies US$4.95
Golden, crispy cornmeal fritters with a hint of sweetness.
Slaw US$4.95
Shredded cabbage and carrots mixed with a creamy dressing and a hint of tang.
Mashed Potatoes US$4.95
Creamy mashed potatoes topped with rich, peppered gravy.
Green Beans US$4.95
Tender green beans, lightly seasoned, offering a simple and wholesome side dish.
Fried Cornbread US$3.75
Golden-brown cornbread topped with a dollop of creamy butter.

Hot Chicken Takeover - HSC Desserts
Banana Pudding US$6.20
Creamy banana pudding with fresh banana slices and crumbled vanilla wafers.
Southern Peach Hand Pie US$3.75
Golden pastry filled with sweet peach slices, lightly dusted with sugar.

Hot Chicken Takeover - HSC Drinks
Sweet Tea US$2.50
A refreshing blend of brewed tea and sweetener.
Unsweet Tea US$2.50
Freshly brewed tea with a robust flavor, served without added sweeteners.
Coke US$3.75
The cold, refreshing, sparkling classic that America loves.
Diet Coke US$3.75
A crisp, refreshing taste you know and love with zero calories.
Coke Zero US$3.75
The same great taste but with zero calories.
Sprite US$3.75
The cold, refreshing flavors of lemon and lime, perfectly blended.
Minute Maid Lemonade US$3.75
100% Pure squeezed pasteurized orange juice. A delicious orange juice with a taste that’s the next best thing to fresh squeezed.
Dr Pepper US$3.75
A classic carbonated drink with a unique blend of 23 flavors.
Coke Bottle US$4.95
Classic carbonated cola with a rich, sweet flavor.
Diet Coke Bottle US$4.95
Sugar-free cola with zero calories.
Dasani Water Bottle US$3.10
Purified water, enhanced with minerals for a clean, crisp taste.

Hot Chicken Takeover - HSC Dirty Drinks
Music City Cherry Popsicle US$4.35
Coke, Cherry Syrup & Vanilla Cream
Front Porch Fizz US$4.35
Sprite, Pineapple Juice & Cherry Syrup
Southern Peach US$4.35
Sweet Tea, Peach Syrup & Vanilla Cream

Hot Chicken Takeover - HSC Extra Sauce
Comeback Sauce US$0.65
Smooth, creamy sauce with a rich, tangy flavor, ideal for pairing with chicken dishes.
Hot Honey Ranch US$0.65
A blend of spicy honey and creamy ranch, offering a sweet and tangy kick.
Alabama BBQ US$0.65
Creamy white barbecue sauce with a tangy and slightly sweet flavor, perfect for pairing with grilled or smoked chicken.
White Gravy US$0.65
Smooth and creamy gravy with a rich, savory flavor, perfect for enhancing your chicken dishes.
A1 Mayo US$0.65
Creamy mayonnaise with subtle hints of spices and a smooth texture.
Black Pepper Pickle Relish US$0.65
Creamy sauce with a hint of black pepper and tangy pickle relish.
Ranch US$0.65
Creamy ranch sauce with hints of garlic and herbs, perfect for dipping or drizzling.
Honey BBQ US$0.65
Sweet and smoky, this honey BBQ sauce typically includes a blend of rich barbecue flavor and the natural sweetness of honey.

Hot Chicken Takeover - HSC Family Packs
Variety Family Pack US$68.20
2 Wings, 4 Drumstick, 2 Thighs, 2 Tenders, Choice of Side (Quart), Choice of 2 additonal sides (Pint), Bread, Ranch, Pickles
Tenders Family Pack US$68.20
10 Tenders, Choice of Side (Quart), Choice of 2 additonal sides (Pint), Bread, Ranch, Pickles

Hot Chicken Takeover - GAME DAY PACKS
25 TENDER GAME DAY PACK US$68.20
25 tender game day pack 25 chicken tenders with your choice of two flavors. Condiment options: no ranch, house ranch, or ketchup.
50 TENDER GAME DAY PACK US$124.00
Southern, Honey BBQ, Warm, Nashville Hot or Holy flavors. Choice of ranch, house ranch, or ketchup.

Hot Chicken Takeover Details

Service options
Delivery
Takeaway
Dine-in

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet

Offerings
Comfort food
Quick bite

Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities
Toilet

Atmosphere
Casual
Trendy

Crowd
Family friendly
Groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Tourists
Transgender safe space
University students

Planning
Usually a wait
Accepts reservations

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments

Children
Good for kids
High chairs
Kids' menu

Parking
Paid multi-storey car park
Paid parking lot
Paid street parking
Parking

Pets
Dogs allowed outside

Hot Chicken Takeover Photos

Hot Chicken Takeover Location

Hot Chicken Takeover

Ohio Franklin County Columbus Short North Arts District Spruce Street

59 Spruce St 2nd Floor, Columbus, OH 43215, USA

Hot Chicken Takeover Reviews

An average rating of ★4.6 from 1536 user reviews.

mac and cheesespicynorth marketbanana puddinghctranchsweet teabaked beansfanwhite bread

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

Ordering is kiosk-only. The lids were messy, and the floor felt very sticky, which made the space seem a bit neglected. I also noticed a large fridge being used in the back, which made me wonder how fresh the food really is.Chicken Tenders: came out hot and moist. Still, Hatty B’s holds the top spot for me.Pickles: Much sweeter than expected—if you like sweet pickles, you’ll enjoy them.Hush Puppies: These were a standout. Super crispy and well-seasoned.Fries: The wavy cut was fun, but they were pale, under-seasoned, and needed to be crispier.Mac & Cheese: Creamy and cheesy, just how it should be. But why was it served in prepackaged containers?SaucesThe hot honey ranch was excellent. Their regular ranch and comeback sauce were also surprisingly good.
May 31 · Lauren Tucker
This particular location use to sell out of chicken because it was that good couple years ago. Fast forward to my most recent visit July 7th around 4:45 pm, I see they must not plan on being in business that much longer. Look at the pictures a couple years ago compared to what was served to me this Monday. Chicken was burnt, nothing like it used to be.
July 09 · c2600
Nestled up in the rafters of the North Market, this joint is no-frills with great food.The hush-puppies are great. The chicken is well seasoned, crispy, and moist.I really enjoyed the Banana Pudding
June 22 · Noah Dunn
This is a must-stop for me in Columbus. I look forward to it on every visit. Chicken is excellent, staff is friendly, and if you eat there you get free sweet tea. Perfection.
March 22 · Katie Feeley
I got the Original Chicken Sandwich Combo with Nashville hot spicy level. It was barely mild to me. The food was good enough. The system they use to give the food out needs improvement and is prone to people getting each other's food and mixing up the orders. The building it's in is pretty neat.
July 23 · Almightybeeij