Wooboi Chicken has positioned itself as a standout in the highly competitive world of fried chicken sandwiches, moving far beyond the familiar Chick-fil-A vs. Popeyes debate. Owner Michael Choi has successfully created an experience that blends high-quality ingredients with thoughtful, bold flavors at three Northern Virginia locations: Alexandria, Herndon, and its newest in Fairfax at the Shops at Fair Lakes.
The menu is simple yet substantial, built around antibiotic-free, free-range chicken cooked in 100% peanut oil. The result? Large portions of juicy, perfectly crispy white meat fried chicken. The crunch alone is worth the visit, but the five house-made sauces elevate each bite to a new level. From the familiar honey mustard to the tangy somi sauce (cilantro lime) and the signature comeback sauce, Wooboi offers something for every taste. Their mumbo sauce is also a highlight, adding a bit of local flair.
Perhaps the most impressive feature is the spice selection. With five different levels, Wooboi lets you choose how hot you want to go—from mild up to the daring “code blue,” made with Carolina Reaper peppers. Northern Virginia Magazine even highlighted this fiery option, with Alice Levitt taking on the heat for a memorable article. (Click here to read)
The atmosphere varies slightly by location. Herndon’s spot offers a few indoor tables, while Alexandria boasts both indoor and outdoor seating. Fairfax, primarily a takeout location, provides two small tables outside.
Though the menu revolves around fried chicken, there’s enough variety to keep you coming back. Whether it’s the chicken sandwiches, tenders, or the protein-packed “Skinny” bowl (featuring rice, cucumber salad, and chicken), there’s something for every appetite. Local exclusives like the “Michael” sandwich, with peppers and mushrooms, add a special touch to each location. And while the menu might be concise, the flavor combinations and customization options feel endless.
Having had the pleasure of meeting Michael Choi, it’s clear that Wooboi’s success stems from a passion for quality and consistency. In six years, the brand has grown into one of Northern Virginia’s top fried chicken destinations, and it’s easy to see why.
If you’re a fried chicken enthusiast or just looking for your new go-to spot, Wooboi Chicken sets the bar high. With a flood of fried chicken joints in Northern Virginia, Wooboi emerges as the undisputed winner. The crown is theirs—Chick-fil-A, Popeyes, and the rest, there’s a new champion of the chicken sandwich in Northern Virginia.
