Roscoe

Los AngelesUnited States of America 34° N · 118° W

Roscoe’s House of Chicken ‘N Waffles stands as a culinary and cultural icon within the vibrant landscape of Los Angeles, celebrated for its unique fusion of…

View map

What Roscoe’s House of Chicken ‘N Waffles Is

Roscoe’s House of Chicken ‘N Waffles is a Los Angeles restaurant known for pairing Southern-style fried chicken with waffles. It has become part of the city’s soul food tradition and African American heritage, with a following that includes celebrities and locals.

Roscoe’s operates seven locations throughout Los Angeles. Its original Hollywood location is at 1514 N. Gower Street, near Sunset Boulevard. The restaurant’s signature dishes, including the “Obama Special,” are part of its local lore.

History

Herb Hudson established Roscoe’s in 1975. The restaurant’s place in Los Angeles’s culinary and cultural life extends beyond its food: it has appeared in movies, TV shows, and music videos.

Roscoe Boulevard

Roscoe Boulevard is a prominent east–west road stretching approximately 18 miles through the San Fernando Valley. It began as a railroad stop in the late 19th century and became a key route as the Valley urbanized. The area’s name, once “Roscoe,” honors either a railroad employee’s romantic request or, more likely, Senator Roscoe Conkling, who played a role in a landmark Southern Pacific Railroad case.

What to See and Try

Roscoe’s is best known for crispy fried chicken served with fluffy waffles. Popular menu items include:

  • 1/4 Fried Chicken and 2 Waffles
  • Chicken Wings and Waffles
  • Choice of Thighs, Legs, or Breast with Waffles

Other notable plates include:

  • The Obama Special (No. 9) Three chicken wings and a waffle, inspired by President Obama’s visit.
  • Herb’s Special Half a fried chicken smothered in gravy and onions, with two waffles.
  • Big Mamma Special Two waffles and two pieces of chicken.
  • Chicken Livers, Gizzards, and Gravy Traditional soul food favorites.

Sides include macaroni and cheese, collard greens, candied yams, red beans & rice, and potato salad. Desserts include peach cobbler and sweet potato pie. Beverages include homemade lemonade and iced tea. Salads and several classic sides offer meat-free options.

Cultural Significance and Events

Roscoe’s is featured in movies, TV shows, and music videos. Check its website and social media for updates on special events and promotions.

Practical Visiting Information

Hours, Reservations, and Entry

Most Roscoe’s locations are open daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Hours may vary slightly by branch, so check the official website or call ahead for specific times.

No tickets are required to dine at Roscoe’s. Walk-ins are welcome, but wait times are possible during peak hours, especially on weekends. Some branches offer call-ahead seating or reservations for larger parties.

Parking and Accessibility

Parking availability differs by location. The Hollywood branch has limited street parking; nearby paid lots and public transportation are recommended for convenience.

All Roscoe’s locations aim to provide wheelchair-friendly facilities, with staff ready to assist guests with special needs. The locations are also described as accessible to wheelchair users.

Getting There

  • By car Roscoe’s restaurants are accessible via major freeways, including I-10 and US-101. Use GPS for the best route and parking information.
  • By public transit Many locations are near Metro bus stops or light rail lines. The Hollywood branch is close to the Hollywood/Vine Metro station. For trip planning, use Los Angeles Metro.

Tips

  • Plan ahead by checking hours and parking options.
  • Weekdays are best for lighter traffic and smaller crowds along Roscoe Boulevard.
  • Use public transportation to avoid parking hassles.
  • Roscoe-Valley Circle Park and Orcutt Ranch offer scenic spots for photos.
  • Check the museum’s calendar for special events and rotating exhibits.
  • Combine a meal at Roscoe’s with nearby attractions, including the Hollywood Walk of Fame or Valley Relics Museum.

Nearby Places

Hollywood Attractions

These Los Angeles landmarks are near Roscoe’s Hollywood location:

  • Hollywood Walk of Fame (0.5 miles from the Hollywood location)
  • Sunset Boulevard
  • TCL Chinese Theatre
  • Capitol Records Building

Public transit and rideshares make it easy to combine dining at Roscoe’s with sightseeing in these areas.

Roscoe Boulevard Landmarks

  • Roscoe-Valley Circle Park Open daily 6 AM–10 PM; free admission; wheelchair accessible.
  • Orcutt Ranch Horticulture Center Thurs–Sun, 9 AM–4 PM; small entrance fee; guided tours available (Orcutt Ranch Horticulture Center Official Site).
  • Van Nuys Airport Public observation areas; check the website for events.
  • Panorama City Branch Library Mon–Sat, 9 AM–6 PM.
  • Wat Thai of Los Angeles Open during temple hours and welcoming to visitors.

Roscoe Boulevard is car-friendly, with multiple lanes. Metro Local Line 152 and the G Line’s Roscoe station connect key neighborhoods. Future expansions, such as the East San Fernando Valley Light Rail Transit Project, will further improve access (Los Angeles Metro). Parking is available at most landmarks, but can be limited in some areas.

Valley Relics Museum

The Valley Relics Museum, near Roscoe Boulevard, features vintage neon signs, classic cars, and memorabilia from the San Fernando Valley’s past.

  • Hours Wednesday–Sunday, 10 AM–5 PM.
  • Admission $10 for adults, $7 for seniors/students, and free for children under 12. Guided tours may be available for an extra fee.
  • Accessibility Fully wheelchair accessible.
  • By car Accessible via the 5, 170, and 405 freeways; parking is available.
  • By transit Take the Metro G Line to the nearest stop, then a short rideshare or bus trip.
  • Weekdays are less crowded. The vintage signs and car displays are excellent for photography.

Nearby attractions include the NoHo Arts District, known for theaters and galleries, and Hansen Dam Recreation Area, for outdoor activities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Roscoe’s visiting hours?
A: Most locations are open daily from 7:00 AM–10:00 PM; check the site for specifics.

Q: Do I need tickets to dine at Roscoe’s?
A: No tickets are required; walk-ins are welcome.

Q: Is Roscoe’s wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, all locations are accessible.

Q: Can I make reservations?
A: Some locations accept call-ahead seating or reservations for large groups.

Q: Are vegetarian options available?
A: Yes, including salads and sides.

Q: Is parking available?
A: Parking varies by location; check location details.