Chickenara

Korean fried chicken may share the same initials as a certain fast food American brand, but that’s where the similarities end.

Chickenara, which opened in Ōrewa last December, serves chicken fried the Korean way – cooked fresh to order, with no food warmers in sight.

Owner Jeong Seol opened two Chickenara stores towards the end of last year – the other is in Remuera. The name means ‘land of chicken’.

“Fried chicken is hugely popular in Korea,” he says. “It is always cooked fresh, so it is moist and juicy inside, with a crisp outside.”

Jeong says many people think of fried chicken as fast food, popular with young people, but Chickenara has something on the menu for all age groups including ‘mix your own’ salads and rice.

The batter has 19 ingredients and is designed to add maximum flavour. The range of sauces, which include soy garlic, hot spicy, sweet spicy and maple butter, are also made at Chickenara.

The Ōrewa store, opposite New World, is boutique with a small seating area so that customers can dine in, or takeaway their order.

Jeong says the store has had a very positive reception and reviews – “it’s a tight-knit community here, and they have made us very welcome,” he says.

A customer review online sums up Chickenara’s point of difference, commenting on the quality, delicious taste and portion size as well as the friendly, helpful staff.

“That is exactly what we are aiming for,” Jeong says.

Business Directory: Chickenara Ōrewa