A Massive Korean Fried Chicken Chain Will Open Its First Oregon Location

The Great Fried Chicken Wave of 2019 shows no sign of stopping next year, and in 2020, the wave hits the suburbs. One week after Seattle chain Ezell’s announced it would open in Washington Square, a booming South Korean fried chicken chain nabbed a lease for its own spot in Happy Valley. This August, Bonchon will open its first Oregon restaurant in Clackamas Town Center, bringing not only fried chicken, but Korean dishes like bulgogi and bibimbap.

Through the years, Bonchon has been celebrated by major publications and names, from Anthony Bourdain to Business Insider. The chain’s chicken is distinct from other American fried chicken traditions, double-fried for crunchy-crispiness and then tossed in various sauces — spicy (with gochugaru), soy garlic, or sweet crunch. The chicken often comes with pickled radish or coleslaw, but the restaurant also has a number of Korean and American sides — kimchi, fries, onion rings. Outside of chicken, the restaurant chain is mainly known for classic Korean dishes like japchae, a stir-fried glass noodle dish, and tteokbokki, stir-fried rice cakes.

The brand has exploded since the first store opened in 2002 — The company has more than 90 locations in the United States and more than 300 worldwide. In August of 2020, Oregon’s 1,256 square-foot location will open at 12000 SE 82nd Avenue in Happy Valley. Stay tuned for menu details, opening dates, and more.

• Bonchon [Official]
• Anthony Bourdain’s Fave Foodie Neighbourhoods [West Jet]
• I ate chicken wings from 5 major chains, and a little-known newcomer beat out all the classics [BI]