Archive · 3 Sep 2025
New York City Experiencing a 'Maximalist Chicken Moment'
In New York City, fancy chicken dishes are the new hot thing!
Chefs are creating whole-roasted chicken 'experiences,' like at Adda, with custom smokers and special butter, or Chez Fifi, with foie gras.
These dishes are more exciting than your average meal and are becoming popular.
Restaurants are also turning to chicken because it's more affordable than other meats, allowing them to make money.
This trend is spreading, offering delicious, cozy meals that are also a good value, attracting people who love the feeling of safety and nostalgia from chicken.
Whole-roasted chicken is trending in NYC, replacing other high-end entrees.
Restaurants are creating elaborate chicken 'experiences' with interactive service and unique flavors.
Chefs are drawn to chicken for its affordability and potential for high profit margins.
The trend offers diners comfort food with a sense of community and nostalgia.
The chicken trend is spreading to other cities, including London, Dallas, and Denver.
- Who
- Chefs and restaurants in NYC and beyond, including Adda, Papa San, Chez Fifi, and Riot BBQ.
- What
- A trend of serving elevated and ambitious whole-roasted chicken dishes as a dining experience.
- When
- The trend has been growing, with increased attention in the past year.
- Where
- Primarily in New York City, but also expanding to other cities like London, Dallas, and Denver.
- Why
- Chefs are capitalizing on the affordability and appeal of chicken, offering comfort food with skill, and appealing to communal dining.
- Trend:
- Upscale, whole-roasted chicken experiences
- Key Restaurants:
- Adda, Papa San, Chez Fifi, Cafe Commerce, Nightly's, Limusina, Riot BBQ
- Price Range:
- $42-$160 per dish
- Chefs embracing Chicken
- Chintan Pandya, Erik Ramirez, Harold Moore, Craig Koketsu, Manny Barella, Francisco Blanco
- Beef Price Increase (June 2025):
- 10.6%
- Poultry Price Increase (June 2025):
- 3.4%
- Origin:
- NYC & expanding to London, Dallas, Denver