Where to Find the Best Fried Chicken in Melbourne?

If you want something crispy, juicy and mouthwateringly delicious, Melbourne has you covered. Melbourne’s fried chicken industry has developed into one of the most exciting in Australia. The central business district offers Korean double-fried wings, while the outskirts offer Nashville-style hot chicken. This article will help you find the best fried chicken in Melbourne.

Why Melbourne loves fried chicken

Melbourne has long been Australia’s culinary capital and its passion for fried chicken does not appear to be diminishing. Because the city has so many varied cultures, you can find anything from Korean “chimaek” (chicken and beer) restaurants to American-style hot chicken bars. With relaxed service, excellent local beers and outdoor seating, it’s no surprise that fried chicken has become a staple of Melbourne’s casual dining scene.

What makes great fried chicken

Before deciding where to go, it’s important to understand what distinguishes outstanding fried chicken:

• Crunch that lasts: The chicken should still be crunchy after a short tram ride home.
• Juicy inside: Brine or soak the meat in buttermilk to make it tender and juicy.
• Balanced spice: The flavour should complement the heat, whether you prefer it light, medium or intense.
• Quality sides: Good sides include creamy slaw, tangy pickles and perfectly seasoned chips.

Best fried chicken spots in Melbourne

1. Belles Hot Chicken – Fitzroy, Docklands & CBD

Belle’s Hot Chicken has been offering Nashville-style fried chicken in Melbourne since 2014. The chicken is brined, coated, then fried to perfection, with a distinct crunch that people all across Australia recognise and enjoy. You may choose from moderate to “really f**kin’ hot” spice levels and don’t forget to get the mac and cheese or waffles on the side.

Why locals love it: It’s ideal for casual nights out or weekend meals because of its steady heat levels, strong southern flavours and central location.

2. Gami Chicken and Beer – Multiple locations

Gami is well-known among Australians as a restaurant that serves Korean fried chicken. Their double-fried chicken is crunchy but light and you may have it plain or with sauces like soy garlic or sweet chilli, which make it difficult to stop eating. You may have a traditional Korean night out with the chicken and a jug of beer or soju.

Why locals love it: The quality is consistently superb, it’s ideal for groups, and there are numerous sites throughout Melbourne, including the CBD, Carlton and Box Hill.

3. NeNe Chicken – Melbourne Central & Box Hill

NeNe Chicken, a Korean restaurant, delivers crunchy fried chicken topped with flavour powder or sticky sauce. People adore their “snowing cheese” chicken and there are also burgers and loaded fries on the menu for a quick, satisfying meal.

Why locals love it: Quick service, unique flavours and perfectly crisp chicken that is ideal for takeout.

4. Koreatown’s chicken havens – Healeys Lane, CBD

The Koreatown district of Melbourne, which is booming near Healeys Lane, is a fried chicken lover’s dream come true. Buza Chicken, Sam Sam, Sinjeon and Pocha serve authentic Korean fried chicken alongside cold beer and a late-night atmosphere.

Why locals love it: Authentic flavours, a friendly setting and it’s ideal for dinners after work or on weekends.

5. Pecky’s Hot Chicken – Coburg

Pecky’s Hot Chicken in Coburg serves authentic Nashville-style chicken that bites back for those who prefer American-style heat. Their sandwiches feature succulent chicken, crunchy pickles and creamy slaw wrapped in toasted buns.

Why locals love it: The perfect amount of spice and generous servings with a genuine Nashville crunch.

6. Dante’s Hot Chicken – Kensington

Dante’s Spicy Chicken is a neighbourhood classic. They provide tenders, wings and burgers with heat levels to suit any taste, ranging from moderate to “are you sure?” spicy. The chicken is always juicy and well-seasoned and the sides are consistently outstanding.

Why locals love it: The service is courteous, the spice control is exceptional and the cuisine is so delicious that you’ll want to return.

7. Hot Star Large Fried Chicken – Swanston Street

You might have observed people in the Melbourne CBD carrying massive portions of chicken larger than their faces. Hot Star, a Taiwanese restaurant chain, is renowned for its expertly seasoned large, crispy chicken cutlets.

Why locals love it: It’s quick, cheap and delicious, making it popular among students, shoppers and late-night snackers.

8. El Jannah – Preston & Melbourne CBD

El Jannah is famed for its charcoal chicken, but it also serves delicious fried chicken that is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. For a complete dinner, pair it with their famous garlic sauce, chips and pickles.

Why locals love it: It’s an excellent choice for families and those seeking both charcoal and fried cuisine in one location.

Suburb breakdown – where to go?

• Gami, NeNe, Belles and Hot Star are all excellent options for a chicken crawl in CBD.
• For American-style spiciness, visit Pecky’s in Coburg or Dante’s in Kensington on the north side.
• Box Hill and Hawthorn are excellent spots to get Korean fried chicken. Gami and NeNe are two wonderful places to visit.
• Check out Belles in Docklands and pop-ups in Footscray, both in the inner west.

Tips for fried chicken lovers in Melbourne

• Arrive early on weekends: Korean eateries in the CBD frequently have large queues after 7 p.m.
• Pair with beer or soju: “Chimaek” (chicken and beer) is the genuine deal when it comes to Korean cuisine.
• Mix it up: Try Nashville-style hot chicken and Korean double-fried wings.
• Follow the local pages: Many places on Instagram claim to only have a few variations, which makes them ideal for foodies looking for new flavours.

Conclusion

There isn’t just one best spot to buy fried chicken in Melbourne; there are numerous options for different moods. Melbourne has a fried chicken spot for everyone, whether you prefer American fry, Korean crunch or an Australian spin on both. So, the next time you’re out with friends, skip the burger and try some of Melbourne’s famous fried chicken, which is usually golden and crispy.