BHC Chicken Now Open at The Well: Toronto’s New Korean Fried Chicken Hotspot
Toronto’s food scene is no stranger to new flavours, but come October 17th, a heavyweight from South Korea will change the fried chicken game. BHC Chicken, South Korea’s largest fried chicken chain, is opening its first Canadian location at Wellington Market Food Hall.
This isn’t just another place to grab a quick bite—it’s a chain with a global following, one that’s bringing bold, inventive flavors to Toronto’s already buzzing fried chicken scene.
- Location: Wellington Market Food Hall @ The Well – 486 Front St. W., Toronto
- Opening Date: October 17, 2024, at 11 a.m.
A Global Giant in the Fried Chicken Game
Since its founding in 2004, BHC Chicken has built a global reputation for pushing the boundaries of fried chicken. Known for its crispy textures and flavor-packed sauces, BHC has grown into a major player with over 2,000 stores globally. The brand’s clever mix of traditional techniques and modern twists on flavors has made it a dominant force in Korea’s cutthroat fried chicken market—where fierce competition demands constant innovation.
But how did BHC get here? Korean fried chicken itself has an interesting backstory. After the Korean War, American troops introduced fried chicken to locals, who adapted it using their own ingredients and techniques, including a now-iconic double-frying method. This method ensures chicken that’s juicy inside and perfectly crispy outside—qualities that helped Korean fried chicken establish its foothold both in Korea and around the world.
BHC took this foundation and added their own creative flair, launching new and unique flavors like Bburinkle Chicken, a crispy fried chicken coated in a blend of cheese and vegetable powders. Pair it with their signature Bburing sauce, a creamy, tangy dip, and you’ve got a flavor experience that’s become a cult favorite.
What’s on the Menu?
If you’re planning to check out BHC Chicken when it opens, here’s a taste of what you can expect on the menu:
- Bburinkle Chicken: The star of the show. This crispy fried chicken is coated in a cheesy, vegetable-flavored powder that adds a salty-sweet kick. Paired with Bburing sauce, a tangy, creamy dip, it’s one of the most talked-about dishes at BHC locations across the globe.
- Classic Fried Chicken: Fried to perfection using sunflower oil, this version delivers the clean, crispy flavor that BHC is known for. If you prefer your fried chicken unadorned, this is your go-to.
- Sweet & Spicy Chicken: If you like your chicken with a little heat, BHC’s yangnyeom sauce is a must-try. This sweet and spicy red chili glaze is a staple in Korean fried chicken, offering layers of complex flavor that keep you coming back for more.
- Cheese Balls: Don’t sleep on the sides. Prinkle Cheese Balls are essentially crispy doughnut holes stuffed with gooey, melted cheese. These have earned their own fanbase alongside the chicken.
But BHC’s menu goes beyond fried chicken. The Toronto location will also offer a variety of Korean comfort food dishes that round out the experience:
- Tteokbokki: Spicy rice cakes in a gochujang-based sauce, offering a chewy, savory bite that’s a perfect accompaniment to the crispy chicken.
- Dakbokkeumtang: This hearty Korean spicy braised chicken dish is simmered with gochujang, garlic, and vegetables, topped with udon noodles and rice cakes.
- Kimchi Fried Rice: A classic stir-fried dish made with tangy, fermented kimchi and rice, offering a savory, spicy balance that complements the rich textures of the fried chicken.
Toronto’s food scene has embraced international flavors for years, and Korean fried chicken is already well-loved across the city. But BHC offers something different: a brand that’s perfected the balance between crispy texture and bold, innovative flavors. Their menu offers a taste of Korean food culture that goes beyond just chicken, delivering an authentic experience that speaks to Korea’s deep relationship with fried food.
The Big Day
Mark your calendars for October 17th, when BHC Chicken will officially open its doors at 11 a.m. The first 30 people in line have a chance to win gift cards worth up to $100—a perfect incentive for any fried chicken fan. Whether you’re a die-hard Korean fried chicken lover or just curious to see what all the hype is about, BHC is set to become a new staple in Toronto’s food landscape.
BHC Chicken’s arrival in Toronto represents more than just another food chain opening its doors. It’s part of a larger story—of how Korean fried chicken evolved from a post-war adaptation of American fried chicken into a global sensation that’s come to define modern Korean cuisine.
With its crispy, flavor-packed dishes and an array of authentic Korean sides, BHC is offering Torontonians a chance to explore a side of Korea’s food culture that’s often underappreciated. So, if you’re in the mood for something crispy, cheesy, spicy, or tangy, BHC Chicken at Wellington Market is ready to deliver.
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