A Canadian cult-favourite fried chicken brand from British Columbia is officially opening its first location in Toronto this month.
DL Chicken, which launched in 2018 in Vancouver, will bring its celebrated Nashville hot chicken concept to 538 Manning Ave. at Harbord Street.
The restaurant was founded by Toronto native Doug Stephen, who built a career in the city’s restaurant scene before relocating to Vancouver.
“Now, with its Toronto opening, Stephen brings the concept back to his hometown in a full-circle moment for the brand,” according to the team.
“DL Chicken has built a devoted following in Vancouver since its debut, drawing regular lineups for its signature fried chicken sandwiches and comfort-driven sides. The Toronto opening marks the brand’s first expansion outside British Columbia and a significant step in its continued growth.”
DL Chicken has two Vancouver locations with a third coming soon.
James Radymski
In Vancouver, DL Chicken is located at 905 Commercial Dr. and 6065 University Blvd., with another location coming soon to the Time Out Market at Oakridge Park.
And to mark its entry into Toronto, DL Chicken will be giving away 100 of its OG Fried Chicken Sandos on March 24 to the first 100 guests at 11 a.m. The promotion is valid for one sandwich per person while supplies last.
Known as DL’s flagship handheld, the sandwich includes a thick piece of fried chicken layered onto a brioche bun with crunchy slaw, pickles and house sauce.
Also on the menu, diners will find crinkle-cut fries, mac and cheese, turbo crunch potato salad, and hand-breaded chicken tenders. Guests can choose their range of spice level for chicken from a mild warmth to a fiery signature heat.
Chicken tenders at DL Chicken.
James Radymski
And for those who can’t wait until then to try the new outpost’s offerings, DL Chicken has a soft opening scheduled for March 20.
The restaurant will operate from Monday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and will have adjusted hours for the initial opening period.
At the upcoming location, the dining room will seat 20 and operate with a liquor licence. It will offer a more “elevated design esthetic than the Vancouver locations” to reflect Toronto’s vibrant dining culture.
Interior of DL Chicken’s upcoming Toronto location.
DL Chicken
Looking ahead, DL Chicken’s future plans also include the addition of a patio and a private dining room.
“Toronto has one of the most exciting and diverse food scenes anywhere in the world,” said Stephen.
“There’s a deep appreciation here for bold flavours and great comfort food. We’ve always felt that what we do would resonate with this city, and we’re incredibly excited to finally bring DL Chicken to Toronto.”