Southern Heat. Asian Twist. Toronto Made.

Born in China and raised in Nashville, Chen Chen grew up surrounded by the bold flavours and warm hospitality that define Southern comfort food. After spending time in Nashville’s vibrant food scene and later studying culinary arts and entrepreneurship at George Brown College, Chen brought his vision to Toronto — to share authentic Nashville hot chicken with a chef-inspired Asian twist.

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His journey wasn’t a straight line. Before opening his own kitchen, Chen cooked at the Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival, where his team served food around the clock to thousands — an experience that taught him discipline, consistency, and the power of great food to bring people together.

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At Chen Chen’s Nashville Hot Chicken, he combines his Southern roots with Toronto’s diverse food culture, creating a menu that’s both comforting and exciting. Each dish reflects Chen’s belief in doing simple things exceptionally well — fried chicken that’s crisp, juicy, and full of flavour, served with the same warmth and hospitality that inspired it all.