Bonchon

Chicago, United States

Discover Bonchon Chicago's Korean Fried Chicken Delight in Armour Square District, IL USA 60616 - Exceptional dining, delivery and Korean specialties!

Nestled in the heart of Chicago's vibrant Armour Square neighborhood, Bonchon offers a mouthwatering journey into Korean fried chicken mastery. This casual yet lively restaurant is beloved for its perfectly crispy, juicy chicken wings and drums smothered in signature soy garlic and spicy glazes that pack a flavorful punch. Beyond chicken, Bonchon also serves up authentic Asian fusion dishes like bulgogi steak rice, chicken katsu, and japchae, satisfying a range of passionate palates.

An inviting dining experience for families and food lovers alike

Whether you're grabbing a quick lunch, enjoying a casual dinner with friends, or ordering delivery to your doorstep, Bonchon caters to all occasions. The restaurant provides a welcoming setting with attentive, prompt service, making it a favorite among locals and visitors in Chicago. Although the atmosphere leans towards simplicity, the focus remains firmly on quality and flavor. Families and groups will appreciate the accommodating space and menu options that satisfy even the pickiest eaters, making it an excellent choice for communal dining.

Standout dishes and flavors to try at Bonchon

Dive into Bonchon's celebrated Korean fried chicken, known for its crispiness and moist interior, offering both original soy garlic and fiery spicy varieties that excite the taste buds. Fans rave about the chicken katsu, praised for its tender perfection comparable to authentic Asian kitchens. Don't miss the bulgogi steak rice and pork belly bao buns, which add delightful texture and flavor contrasts to your meal.
  • Soy Garlic Fried Chicken - perfectly balanced sweet and savory glaze with crispy skin.
  • Spicy Korean Fried Chicken - fiery hot with a kick that fans crave, guaranteed to make you sweat.
  • Chicken Katsu - a crispy, juicy delight that patrons compare favorably to the best international versions.
  • Bulgogi Steak Rice - tender marinated beef served over rice for a hearty option.

Essential visitor info and community FAQs

  • What are Bonchon's operating hours? Bonchon is open Monday to Thursday and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM, and Friday to Saturday from 11:00 AM to 10:30 PM.
  • Does Bonchon offer delivery services? Yes, Bonchon provides delivery through various platforms, including their own website.
  • Is there parking available at Bonchon? Parking options include paid street parking and a paid parking lot nearby.
  • Does Bonchon accept reservations? Yes, Bonchon accepts reservations.
  • Is Bonchon wheelchair accessible? Yes, Bonchon has wheelchair-accessible seating and entrance.

What locals love about Bonchon

The community sentiment around Bonchon is overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the authentic Korean fried chicken experience that rivals other locations nationwide. Diners consistently highlight the moist, crispy texture and the flavorful soy garlic glaze that keeps guests coming back. While some mention a need for consistency in service, the overall atmosphere and taste deliver a satisfying dining option for quick meals or group outings.

Bonchon Chicago history overview

Bonchon — a name that translates to "my hometown" in Korean — has become a beloved dining destination for families and food lovers alike. Known primarily for its signature crispy Korean fried chicken and innovative Asian fusion dishes, Bonchon offers a flavorful experience rooted in vibrant Korean culinary traditions. Today, the Chicago location nestled in the Armour Square neighborhood stands as part of an acclaimed global chain recognized for its lively atmosphere and consistently delicious offerings.

founding and global expansion

Bonchon's journey began in 2002 in Busan, South Korea, where it was founded with a vision to share authentic Korean flavors with the world. The brand quickly earned acclaim for its expertly prepared fried chicken, characterized by a perfectly crisp exterior and moist, tender meat infused with a sweet soy glaze that has become its hallmark.
In 2010, Bonchon embarked on its international expansion by opening its first United States location in New York City. This milestone marked the beginning of the brand's rapid growth across the country, introducing American diners to a novel and exciting Korean fried chicken experience.

arrival in chicago and local impact

Expanding further into the Midwest, Bonchon planted its roots in Chicago’s Armour Square neighborhood in 2014. This location quickly gained popularity among locals and visitors craving authentic Korean fried chicken that balances bold flavors with a casual dining vibe. Armour Square’s Bonchon offers a welcoming environment for families and groups, complementing its rich menu of Asian fusion dishes with exceptional customer service and a lively yet approachable atmosphere.

signature dishes and dining experience

Bonchon's fame is built on its perfectly cooked Korean fried chicken, which is served in varieties ranging from sweet soy to spicy hot, allowing guests to customize their heat and flavor preferences. Other popular menu offerings include bulgogi steak rice plates, chicken katsu, pork belly bao buns, and soy garlic sandwiches, delivering a diverse and satisfying culinary journey.
The dining atmosphere in the Chicago branch emphasizes convenience and comfort, with fast and friendly service ideal for casual meals or group gatherings. While the décor is minimal, the focus remains on serving freshly prepared dishes that capture the heart of Korean flavors and satisfy cravings for something both traditional and exciting.

legacy and local reputation

  • 2002 founding in Busan, South Korea: The birth of a brand dedicated to Korean fried chicken excellence.
  • 2010 U.S. expansion: Opening the first American location in New York City, introducing authentic Korean flavors to the U.S. market.
  • 2014 Chicago debut: Establishing a vibrant presence in Armour Square, blending local charm with global culinary trends.

Bonchon at a glance

Located at 2163 S China Pl #1f in Chicago's Armour Square neighborhood, Bonchon is a casual dining establishment specializing in Korean-style fried chicken. Known for its crispy, flavorful offerings, this restaurant provides a family-friendly atmosphere with various dining options, including dine-in, takeout, and delivery.

Pros

  • Crispy and flavorful Korean fried chicken Variety of Asian fusion dishes Family-friendly atmosphere Multiple dining options: dine-in, takeout, delivery Wheelchair accessible

Cons

  • Service inconsistencies reported Parking can be challenging

Ideal for

Bonchon is perfect for families looking for a casual dining experience, friends gathering for a quick meal, or anyone craving delicious Korean fried chicken.

Things to know before visiting

Reservations are recommended during peak hours, and parking may require some planning. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible and offers a variety of payment options.

Overall impression

Bonchon offers a delightful experience for those seeking authentic Korean fried chicken in Chicago. While there are some service inconsistencies, the flavorful dishes and casual atmosphere make it a worthwhile stop.

4.2

Korean

$$

Closed - Opens 11:00 AM

Monday

11:00–22:00

Tuesday

11:00–22:00

Wednesday

11:00–22:00

Thursday

11:00–22:00

Friday

11:00–22:30

Saturday

11:00–22:30

Sunday

11:00–22:00

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