Our Love Letter to Harold's Chicken Shack: A Chi Institution
Harold’s is more than a chicken spot — It’s a Chicago institution. There are stories of NBA MVP Derrick Rose getting bottles of their famous mild sauce brought to his home. Kanye West set a music video at Harold’s. It’s even been name-dropped by a certain former U.S. president. But somehow, even with dozens of franchise locations, it’s been able to maintain a community feel and remains a must-try for anyone coming to the city (but newcomers be warned: you better know your order before you get to the counter). Shakeia Taylor recently wrote about Harold’s legacy for the Eater. She and journalist (and City Cast friend) Arionne Nettles talk with host Jacoby Cochran about the history of the iconic chicken joint, their orders, and where the best (and worst) locations are. Plus, we hear from a former Harold’s franchise owner.
In the newscast, we mentioned the lobbying efforts for the 2024 DNC to be held in Chicago. You can revisit our episode with City Cast Las Vegas — who’s also in the running — here.
Follow us on Twitter: @CityCastChicago
Sign up for our newsletter: chicago.citycast.fm
Call or Text Us: (773) 780-0246
Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Stay connected to City Cast Chicago and get ready to join the local conversation.
Latest Episodes
Here’s Who Won the Midterm Elections
The results are in! Host Jacoby Cochran and interim executive producer Michelle Navarro break down who won and who lost on Election Day i...

It's Election Day! Plus, Taste Tossed 800 pounds of Unsafe Food
Today we’ve got your Election Day FAQ’s including where to register and vote, the most helpful voter guides, and which restaurants to may...

Why Lt. Gov Shouldn’t Be an Afterthought. Plus, a South Side Teen Lounge
Today we’re talking about the race for Illinois lieutenant governor and why it’s drawing more attention than ever. Also, what happe...

Your Guide to November 2026 in Chicago
It’s a new month, and that means a new guide! Creative producer Emmi Mack and The Brown Line’s Ghazala Irshad join us with what they’re l...

Who Wants to Be the Next Mayor of Chicago?
Monday was the deadline for candidates for mayor and City Council to submit their petitions to get on the 2027 ballot. Host Jacoby Cochra...

Do You Know Who Owns Your Building? Plus, Can Doula Care Really Cost Thousands?
We’re asking a question most Chicago renters probably can’t answer: who owns your building? Today we’re talking about the two competing r...

Are Pritzker and Preckwinkle Shoo-Ins on Election Day?
We have covered school board elections, nonbinding ballot questions, and judicial retention elections ahead of election day next Tuesday....

Waymo in Chicago. Plus, Investing in Crisis Response
We’re still not done talking about Mayor Brandon Johnson’s budget proposal. Contributors Leigh Giangreco and Al Scorch discuss crisis ass...

What’s in the Mayor’s 2027 Budget Proposal?
Mayor Brandon Johnson unveiled his $17.6 billion budget proposal at City Hall this week. The mayor called it “Chicago’s Fair Share Budget...

Sexual Assault Allegations at UChicago Frats. Plus, These Local Businesses Need Your Support
This episode mentions sexual assault, so please take care when listening. Today we’re talking about two sexual violence allegations...


