Chen Chen's Nashville Hot Chicken just opened up their doors a little over a week ago and I wanted to check it out.
They have a few parking spots available on the ground of the Grace building but it's super small and tight. I had just backed up and was about to exit into the alley when a Telsa was turning in and didn't pay attention and almost hit me! Just make sure and pay attention! There's a large parking lot across the street.
They have very visible signage and you can smell it before you enter! When you walk in, you are greeted by the front of house staff, Cam. He was friendly. I ordered the snack box that comes with two tenders and waffle fries. I tried one tender that was Nashville Hot Medium and then the other tender Szechaun Hot Medium. It came out fresh, hot, and brought it to me. It came with aioli and ketchup. I liked the crunch of the Nashville hot medium tender. The waffle fries were fried a little too hard and I would have liked a litte more soft potato. I was really excited to try the Szechuan chicken. It is the crispy Nashville hot chicken that's dipped into their scratch-made Szechuan sauce infused with house-made Nashville chili oil. They were kind to give me a little do I could dip my tender for more flavor. I wasn't sure what level to get and definitely think I will get it hot next time. For Szechuan, it has to start at Medium. I would like to come back and try the sandwich and eat the thighs.
While I was eating, the chef in the kitchen came out and was like, "Did I see you on the bus the other night? You were in a pink dress." I said, "Yes!" Only in Nashville would you run into the chef of a local business you've been wanting to try two days later. It made me really happy that we are public transit riders.
The lemon tea is delicious. Definitely order it with your meal! I wanted to try the corn and mac and cheese so I already know what my order is next time.
I really like how Nashville hot chicken is getting different varieties and this Szechuan one is a little sweet and spicy!
If I could wish for two items to be added to the menu, i'd love to see a rice and chicken well as a chicken salad. read more