About Big Parlor
Big Parlor is a after-work chicken & wings spot in Washington, DC, with a lively feel and a casual order-and-grab layout perfect for to-go orders. The kitchen leans into chicken & wings done well, smoking their meats in a custom offset pit out back.
The signature item to try first is the Nashville Hot Sandwich, which has earned a loyal following. The rest of the menu rounds it out with options like Buffalo Wings, Chicken Tenders, Korean BBQ Wings, plus rotating specials that change with the season. Portions are generous for the price point ($$), and the kitchen is consistent — orders come out fast even when the place is full.
On a typical day you'll find couples on date night and groups celebrating birthdays, especially around the lunch and dinner rushes. The bar pours frozen margaritas, agua frescas, and a short list of cocktails. Most dishes can be made dairy-free on request. The dining room is clean, the music is at a reasonable volume, and the wifi works.
For ordering, catering trays for offices and parties can be ordered with 24 hours notice. The price-to-quality ratio is what brings most people back a second time. Whether you're new to Washington or a longtime resident hunting for a reliable chicken & wings fix, Big Parlor earns a spot in the regular rotation.
Menu highlights
A snapshot of the most-ordered items at Big Parlor. Prices and availability change — call ahead to confirm.
Customer reviews
Recent ratings averaged 4.9 out of 5 across 925 reviews.
Big Parlor has become my regular weekday lunch. Consistent quality, generous portions, and the staff has started to recognize me. I usually grab the Chicken & Waffles but I've worked through most of the menu and haven't had a miss yet.
Solid spot. The Chicken & Waffles is a standout — bold flavors, well-seasoned, comes out hot. Took off a star only because the wait at the counter was longer than I expected on a weekday. Still, I'd come back without hesitation.
Honestly impressed. We tried three different items between the table and the Korean BBQ Wings stole the show. The staff genuinely seemed to enjoy being there which makes a difference. Cannot recommend enough.
Hidden gem. We were in the neighborhood for an appointment and stopped here based on a friend's recommendation. So glad we did. The Chicken & Waffles was unreal — clearly made with care. We're already planning our next visit.
Brought the family on a Saturday and we all walked out happy. Kids loved their food, my partner ordered the Nashville Hot Sandwich and finished every bite. Prices feel fair for the portions. The dining room was a little loud but that's expected on weekends.
Great chicken & wings option for the area. The Buffalo Wings was the highlight, big portion and well-priced. Seating is limited so if you come at peak hours plan on takeout. I'll be back.
Location & neighborhood
Big Parlor is located at 4887 Market St in Washington, DC. Street parking is generally available in the surrounding blocks, and most public-transit routes that serve the downtown core stop within a short walk. The neighborhood around the restaurant has steady foot traffic during lunch and dinner, with a mix of office buildings, apartments and other small businesses on the block.