Chen Chen's Nashville Hot Chicken Review | Toronto
Key Takeaways
- Chen studied Nashville hot chicken at the source before opening in Toronto, and that care shows in every crispy, juicy bite.
- The menu features both classic Nashville and Szechuan-spiced sandwiches, with snack sizes starting at just $7.
- The texture is what sets this place apart: an exceptionally crisp exterior that holds up under sauce while staying juicy inside.
- It's a mom and pop spot using halal chicken, with a chill patio perfect for a casual meal.
- Open Tuesday through Sunday, closed Mondays, at Wellington Market on Front Street West.
From Nashville to Toronto: Chen's Journey to Hot Chicken
Chen's path to opening his own hot chicken spot reads like a love letter to Southern comfort food. Born in China and raised in Nashville, he grew up surrounded by the bold flavors and warm hospitality that define the city's food scene.
Before bringing his vision to Toronto, Chen cooked at the Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival, serving thousands of people around the clock. That experience taught him discipline and consistency under pressure. He later studied culinary arts and entrepreneurship at George Brown College, where he refined his approach and decided to share authentic Nashville hot chicken with an Asian twist that reflects his own background.
Southern Tradition Meets Asian Heat
This isn't just another hot chicken spot trying to cash in on a trend. Chen studied Nashville hot chicken firsthand before opening locally, and it shows in every detail.
The concept blends his Southern roots with Toronto's diverse food culture, creating something both comforting and exciting. You'll find classic Nashville heat alongside Szechuan-spiced versions that bring bold, Asian-inspired flavors to the table. The chicken is halal, and the approach is simple: do a few things exceptionally well rather than trying to be everything to everyone.
What to Order: Sandwiches, Sides, and Prices
Start with the Nashville Hot Chicken Sando at $12.50, which comes with a generous portion of chicken, sweet pickles, and a quality bun that holds up under the sauce. If you want more heat with a different flavor profile, try the Szechuan Hot Chicken Sando at $13.50.
Not ready to commit to a full sandwich? The snack sizes (Lil Nashville or Lil Szechuan) run just $7 and give you a solid taste. Round out your meal with coleslaw at $5 or crispy fries at $4.
The texture is what really stands out here. That exceptionally crisp exterior stays crunchy under the sauce while the inside remains juicy. The heat builds and lingers without overwhelming you, and the pickled vegetables cut through the spice beautifully.
The Space, the Vibe, and When to Visit
You'll find Chen Chen's at Wellington Market, 486 Front Street West, with a cute patio that's perfect for a casual meal. This is a true mom and pop operation with a laid-back vibe. If you're exploring the area, you're also close to other Wellington Market favorites like Cheezed.
They're open Tuesday through Sunday (closed Mondays), with hours running 11:30 AM to 10 PM Tuesday through Friday, and noon to 10 PM on weekends. If you're looking for what might be the best spicy fried chicken sandwich in Toronto right now, this is your spot.
Author
Nadia Karim