Mrs. Knott's Chicken Dinner Restaurant
A historic Buena Park institution famous for its crispy fried chicken and signature boysenberry pie, offering a taste of classic Americana.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Midnight Breakfast Buffet
Mrs. Knott's Chicken Dinner Restaurant
Best Time
Midnight Breakfast Buffet
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Buena Park institution famous for its crispy fried chicken and signature boysenberry pie, offering a taste of classic Americana.
"The best fried chicken I've ever had, crispy, juicy, and seasoned perfectly!"
📞 Call for Large Groups
For parties of 16+, call daily to secure reservations as online booking may not be available. :telephone_receiver:
🌙 Midnight Buffet Access
Access the Midnight Breakfast Buffet via the rear entrance during Knott's Scary Farm. :moon:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mrs. Knott's Famous Fried Chicken
The iconic, crispy, and juicy fried chicken is a must-try, often hailed as the best ever.
Boysenberry Delights
From jam with biscuits to pies and even sausages, the signature boysenberry flavor is everywhere.
Midnight Breakfast Buffet
A special treat during Knott's Scary Farm, offering classic comfort food and a way to avoid peak crowds.
+2Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Groups
Timing is Key for Buffets
+2Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📞 Call for Large Groups
For parties of 16+, call daily to secure reservations as online booking may not be available. :telephone_receiver:
🌙 Midnight Buffet Access
Access the Midnight Breakfast Buffet via the rear entrance during Knott's Scary Farm.
💰 Value Dining Plan
Consider the dining plan for a cost-effective way to enjoy various park foods. +1 :moneywithwings:
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Snap a pic with Rufus the Rooster statue outside the restaurant!
Tips
from all over the internet
📞 Call for Large Groups
For parties of 16+, call daily to secure reservations as online booking may not be available. :telephone_receiver:
🌙 Midnight Buffet Access
Access the Midnight Breakfast Buffet via the rear entrance during Knott's Scary Farm.
💰 Value Dining Plan
Consider the dining plan for a cost-effective way to enjoy various park foods. +1 :moneywithwings:
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Snap a pic with Rufus the Rooster statue outside the restaurant!
🥧 Don't Skip Dessert
The boysenberry pie is a classic, especially with vanilla ice cream. :pie:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
This historic restaurant is celebrated for its iconic fried chicken and boysenberry treats, often described as the best ever by many diners. While the traditional dinner is a highlight, some reviews mention inconsistent chicken quality and bland sides. Special seasonal buffets, like the Midnight Breakfast during Scary Farm, are popular for their unique offerings and crowd avoidance.
"I went for the midnight brunch avalible only select days during Knotts Scary Farm
The entrance for the midnight brunch is at the back. Opposite of the main entrance.
It was of course delicious. The must haves were the boysenberry sausages and biscuits with boysenberry jam. Everything else was filler.
Coffee was hot and had a good flavor and the juices was ice cold super good.
Plastic utensils were provided with sturdy disposable plates.
No other toppings for the scrambled eggs other than salt pepper and ketchup.
Parking is $40.
This midnight brunch about 24 per person.
All in all not bad especially if you don't like crowds but miss a buffet setting.
There is a choice of:
Waffles
Pancakes
Biscuits
Scrambled eggs
Country fried potatoes
Fried chicken thighs and legs
Bacon
Boysenberry Sasuage
Sasage gravy
Boysenberry jam
Hot syrup
Fruit
Coffee
Orange juice
Apple juice
Water"
E
"Alexa! Play “You should’ve gone elsewhere” by Knotts Chicken Dinner….
Attempted this location after a long day at Knotts Berry Farm..
This chicken was drier than my eczema 😒
ZERO flavor and not a piece of seasoning in sight! Not to mention I had to send an undercooked piece back to the kitchen.
Don’t let the presentation fool you. A lot of things “look” good when you’re hungry but for almost $24+ a plate and $6.99 for drinks, you would at least expect something great.
The hostess was obviously ready to go home and had a lot of people waiting with plenty of tables open…Yeah, we should’ve gone elsewhere…"
W
"Family atmosphere, waitress had amazing customer service. Had to try the famous 100 year old fried chicken recipe. It didn't disappoint, it was literally the best fried chicken ive ever had. Crunchy, crispy, juice seasoned perfectly, portions are so big. Breast, wing, thigh, leg. Mashed potatoes perfection, strawberry rhubarb side and cabbage and ham, 6 biscuits with boysenberry Jam. And comes with pie slice. Under $26.00 could feed two. Additionally $8.00 to split the plat but worth it if you want to share. Kid, had the sliders, equally as good. I wish we had this restaurant in Oregon. 10 out of 10."
Jenelle Cooke
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mrs. Knott's Chicken Dinner Restaurant is located at Knott's Berry Farm in Buena Park, California. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available (though it can be pricey, around $40). Public transportation options may also be available depending on your starting point. +2
Yes, parking is available at Knott's Berry Farm, where the restaurant is located. Be aware that parking fees can be around $40.
The restaurant is located at the entrance of Knott's Berry Farm, so you can access it without a park ticket. However, some special events like the Midnight Breakfast Buffet require a separate entrance at the rear of the building.
From Los Angeles, you can drive via I-5 South. The drive typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic. Rideshare services are also a convenient option. +1
While there isn't a dedicated shuttle specifically for the restaurant, the Knott's Hotel offers convenient shuttle services for guests staying there, which can take you to the park entrance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you do not need a ticket to Knott's Berry Farm to dine at Mrs. Knott's Chicken Dinner Restaurant, as it's located at the park's entrance.
The famous fried chicken dinner is around $26.50, which is a substantial portion that can often feed two people. Drinks are typically extra.
Reservations are recommended, especially for large parties. For groups of 16 or more, it's advised to call the restaurant directly as online booking might not be available.
Operating hours can vary, especially during special events like Knott's Scary Farm or holiday seasons. It's best to check the official Knott's Berry Farm website or call ahead for the most up-to-date hours.
Yes, during Knott's Scary Farm, they offer a Midnight Breakfast Buffet on select nights. They also have special brunches during Boysenberry season.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The restaurant is most famous for its Mrs. Knott's Famous Fried Chicken, a recipe that's been around for decades. They are also known for their boysenberry-themed dishes and desserts.
The traditional dinner typically includes fried chicken pieces, mashed potatoes with gravy, cabbage with ham, rhubarb, salad, biscuits with boysenberry jam, and a slice of boysenberry pie.
While the fried chicken is the star, sides like mashed potatoes, gravy, salad, and biscuits can be enjoyed by vegetarians. The boysenberry pie is also a vegetarian-friendly dessert.
You'll find boysenberry jam served with biscuits, boysenberry pie for dessert, and sometimes boysenberry sausages or other specialty items during seasonal events. +1
Reviews are mixed, with many praising the chicken as the best they've ever had – crispy, juicy, and perfectly seasoned. Others have found it dry or lacking flavor on occasion. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Don't miss a photo with the iconic Rufus the Rooster statue outside the restaurant! The charming country-style decor inside also makes for great shots.
Yes, you are welcome to take photos inside the restaurant to capture your dining experience. The rustic ambiance provides a lovely backdrop.
Absolutely! Being at Knott's Berry Farm means you're surrounded by opportunities. Consider photos with Snoopy and the Peanuts characters or the park's themed areas. +1
Daytime offers natural light, which is great for food photography. Evening visits can be atmospheric, especially if there are special decorations or events.
Of course! The fried chicken and boysenberry pie are very photogenic. Just be mindful of other diners and use your flash sparingly.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider visiting during special events like Breakfast with Santa for an extra festive experience. The restaurant's generous portions mean you can often share meals, making it budget-friendly for families. Just be prepared for potential wait times, especially during peak hours or weekends.
💰 Budget Travelers
+1Look out for potential dining plans if you're visiting Knott's Berry Farm, as these can sometimes include meals at the restaurant, offering a bundled discount. For those on a tighter budget, focusing on the main dinner and sharing sides or desserts can help manage costs.
🎢 Theme Park Enthusiasts
Don't miss the seasonal dining events like the Midnight Breakfast Buffet during Knott's Scary Farm, which offers a unique twist on the classic dining experience. It's a great way to refuel after a night of thrills and immerse yourself further in the park's atmosphere.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Mrs. Knott's Chicken Dinner Restaurant
+1The restaurant is renowned for its traditional fried chicken recipe, a closely guarded secret that has been passed down through generations. This recipe, combined with the farm's own boysenberries, created a unique culinary identity that drew visitors from far and wide. The charming, country-style atmosphere further enhances the dining experience, making it feel like a step back in time.
+1Today, Mrs. Knott's Chicken Dinner Restaurant continues to uphold its legacy by serving its famous chicken and boysenberry treats. It remains a beloved destination for both long-time fans and new visitors looking to experience a piece of California history and enjoy a classic American meal.
Seasonal Dining Experiences
+3Another highlight is the Boysenberry Brunch, typically offered during the annual Boysenberry Festival. This special brunch features an expanded menu with breakfast classics, carving stations, omelet bars, and even boysenberry champagne. It's a festive way to celebrate the season and indulge in a variety of delicious dishes.
During the holiday season, the restaurant also hosts events like Breakfast with Santa, allowing families to enjoy a festive buffet and create memorable holiday moments. These seasonal offerings add an extra layer of appeal to the already popular restaurant, making it a destination for year-round celebrations.
Navigating Large Group Dining
To increase your chances of securing a reservation for a large group, persistence is key. Calling daily and being prepared to wait on hold are often necessary steps. It's also advisable to be flexible with your desired dining time, as popular slots like 5 PM can be highly sought after. Arriving early might also be a good strategy if reservations are difficult to confirm.
For those attending during special events like Knott's Scary Farm, the Midnight Breakfast Buffet offers a different approach. While it might not require traditional reservations, understanding the specific entrance (rear of the building) and operating days is crucial for a smooth experience.
+1
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