The Best Chicken Shops in Melbourne

by Dan Cunningham and Holly Bodeker-Smith

Updated 8 months ago

Before fried chicken captured Melbourne’s attention, there was the charcoal chicken shop. They’re still everywhere and remain reliable spots for a nicely charred bit of chook and a side of chicken-salt chips. But now, there’s a new breed of chicken shops. Some are run by former chefs keen to escape night shifts, others by people with no training but plenty of passion.

The settings and prices vary, but the next-gen approach is the same across the board: free-range and/or organic birds cooked low and slow, with great attention to detail. We’re talking beer marinades, specialist woods for smoking and even house-made chicken salt.

Looking for something specific?

El Jannah
Restaurant
This Lebanese charcoal chicken chain has ascended to cult status since opening in Sydney in 1998. After dark, the busy Preston shop has a green neon halo that can be seen from blocks away. Go for its signature charcoal chook or the fuss-free chicken plate with Lebanese pickles, pita and a secret recipe garlic sauce.
Cookshop Rotisserie
Cafe
Chicken, chips, gravy, salads and roast veggies from a former Mamasita chef.
Henrietta
Restaurant
Henrietta is not a “grab your chook and go” situation. If the $2.5 million fit-out doesn’t draw you in, the garlicky aroma of toum, fresh bread and fire-grilled chicken surely will.
Bird
Restaurant
A red neon arrow beckons you inside for a choose-your-own-chicken adventure. Just decide what cut, heat and sauce you want – then add on silky mash with 48-hour gravy and some wads of garlic-butter brioche.
Book a Table
Sunshine Social
Bar
How many chicken shops have a beer garden and playground? Also, we could drink this gravy by the pint.
Smith Street Alimentari
Cafe
Bannockburn chooks and colourful salads that are perfect for takeaway lunches.
Foxes Den
Shop
Four south-side locations to score roast chicken and substantial salads.
Belles Hot Chicken Fitzroy
Restaurant
The colonel’s got nothing on this fiery Nashville-style fried chicken joint. Choose your cut, heat and condiments and let the good times roll. You’ll also find a fluid list of excellent wines from around the country.