The much-anticipated Fried Chicken Fest returns to Winnipeg, inviting locals to indulge in a variety of unique and crunchy chicken dishes. This festival, unique to Manitoba and a staple for the past six years, showcases more than 40 participating restaurants from January 17 to 27. Celebrating the richness of Winnipeg’s culinary talents, Fried Chicken Fest offers a platform for chefs to engage in friendly competition and creative culinary expression.
Over a span of ten days, culinary enthusiasts are encouraged to explore and taste numerous chicken dishes, ultimately voting for their top pick. “Fried Chicken Fest has quickly become a cornerstone event in our local culinary landscape. It’s a fantastic opportunity for chefs to flex their creative muscles, and for the community to come together and savor Winnipeg’s finest offerings,” remarked Chef Allan Pineda, the co-founder of the event.
Each participating restaurant will compete by offering a unique fried chicken dish, exclusively available during the festival. These dishes are not just about the fried chicken; they’re an exploration of flavors, spices, and innovative presentations, challenging the taste buds of every food lover in the city.
The festival, conceived by Susie Erjavec Parker and Chef Allan Pineda, aims to spice up the chilly January days while supporting local eateries. Parker, known for her #saveMBrestaurants campaign, brings extensive expertise in restaurant and food marketing. Chef Allan, a culinary maverick behind Bahay Kubo and Baon Manila Nights, is renowned for his international pop-up culinary events. The concept of Fried Chicken Fest was born over a table in a Winnipeg restaurant, and it has since become a cherished tradition.
“We’re overjoyed to see the community embracing this festival as a January highlight. We’re already excited for next year’s festivities,” expressed Susie Erjavec Parker.
About Fried Chicken Fest
From January 17th to 27th, 2024, a bevy of Winnipeg restaurants will compete by presenting their exclusive fried chicken creations for Fried Chicken Fest. People of all ages, from across the city and nearby areas, are invited to partake in this culinary adventure. They can sample the array of dishes and cast their votes for their favorite at FriedChickenFest.ca.
Confusion Corner Drinks & Food – Fried Chicken Tacos
Crispy buttermilk-marinated fried chicken breast, toasted corn tortillas, melted cheese, chimichurri mayo, shredded letuce, pico de gallo, and house made hot sauce.
James Ave. Pumphouse – Mr. Croque
Our spin off of the croque monsieur! Marinated buttermilk fried chicken in between two slices of cheesy garlic challah, chipotle honey mustard, bacon and a creamy mornay sauce. Finished off with parmesan cheese and that honey drizzle!
Kyu Bistro – Fried Chicken Sando
Ultra crispy golden-fried chicken wedged between soft fluffy slices of bread, creamy egg-salad, smoky-salty tobiko fish roe, and finished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Block & Blade – Bring The Beet On- Block’s Chicken & Waffles
Crispy chicken on two Belgian waffles, topped with beet compote, mascarpone, pickled onions, pickled cucumbers, dill weed, and pea shoots.
Tommy’s Pizzeria – Oh Cluck!
Introducing the “Oh Cluck” burger! Because you’re going to get messy! Tommy’s entry starts off with a Flaming Hot Cheeto-fried chicken thigh, topped with jalapeno aioli, Tommy’s secret mac n cheese, pickled jalapenos and cheeto dust!!
