Philadelphia’s hot chicken scene, a recent addition to the city, continues to grow and thrive, with most new players flocking to Northeast Philadelphia, writes Michael Klein for The Philadelphia Inquirer.
The city’s highest concentration of hot chicken shops per square mile can be found driving west on Cottman Avenue from Roosevelt Boulevard.
This chicken alley opens with Asad’s Hot Chicken, located just beyond a gas station at the edge of Roosevelt Mall’s parking lot. The popular local chain always has a line of customers waiting.
After a few blocks, more shops begin to pop up. Next to the library is Hot Clucks, another local chain. Next block over is Nanu’s, another local. The same block is home to the nationally known Popeye’s, Tex’s Chicken & Burgers, and Jollibee.
The trend of sandwiches styled after Nashville hot chicken arrived in Philadelphia in 2022 when Asad Khan opened his first takeout spot. He became so popular that in two years, he expanded to 10 locations in Pennsylvania and South Jersey. His success has already prompted many others to jump on the bandwagon.
“People thought [hot chicken] was a trend, I guess, and started opening them,” said Khan.
It’s a trend that is likely to continue throughout the city.
Read more about Philadelphia’s booming hot chicken scene in The Philadelphia Inquirer.
_____
