Exciting: ChainFest 2024 Brings Gourmet Fast Food Extravaganza to Los Angeles

ChainFest, the world’s largest gourmet chain food festival, is set to return to Los Angeles on October 5, 2024, at Row DTLA. This year’s event promises to be bigger and better, featuring an all-star lineup of America’s favorite food chains. The festival, which debuted last year to a sold-out crowd of 5,000 fans, will once again be under the culinary direction of Michelin-starred chef Tim Hollingsworth.

The highlight of this year’s ChainFest is the revival of Los Angeles’ beloved rotisserie chain restaurant, Koo Koo Roo. The chain, known for its charbroiled skinless chicken plates and healthy fare, will make its grand return at the festival before reopening permanently. Koo Koo Roo, which shuttered its last outpost in 2014, has been a topic of nostalgia for many Angelenos. The restaurant first splashed onto the LA dining scene in 1988 and quickly expanded to operate 40 locations across North America.

Tickets for ChainFest start at $100 and include tastings from each vendor. An unlimited VIP option is available for $400, offering early entry and exclusive bites. Tickets go on sale on Friday, August 23, at 10 a.m. PST, with a presale available via registration on ChainFest’s website.

A Star-Studded Lineup of Gourmet Collaborations

ChainFest 2024 will feature a lineup of dishes from iconic chains such as KFC, Red Robin, Domino’s, Krispy Kreme, and Red Lobster. Each chain will present unique pop-up restaurants, offering festival-goers the chance to experience their favorite fast-food brands in new and exciting ways. Highlights include exclusive gourmet collaborations, the revival of discontinued fan favorites, and the debut of new menu items that will be available at select restaurants later in the year.

Chef Tim Hollingsworth, known for his work at The French Laundry and Otium, has collaborated with each chain to create one-of-a-kind dishes exclusive to ChainFest. For instance, KFC will introduce a fan-favorite menu item with specialty sauces curated by Hollingsworth. Red Robin will debut a new gourmet burger creation, the French Fry Martini, inspired by their Bottomless Steak Fries. Panda Express will offer their spiciest menu item yet, the Blazing Bourbon Chicken, in collaboration with Hot Ones™.

VIP ticket holders will be treated to exclusive dishes such as Red Lobster’s Butter Poached Lobster Biscuit, inspired by their famous Cheddar Bay Biscuits®. Domino’s will make its ChainFest debut with the Bougie Pizza, topped with smoked salmon and caviar, and the Bougie Lava Cakes for dessert. Krispy Kreme will offer a sweet seasonal twist on their Original Glazed® Doughnut, available only at the festival.

The Return of Koo Koo Roo: A Nostalgic Revival

The return of Koo Koo Roo is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated aspects of ChainFest 2024. The chain, which was a staple in Southern California dining throughout the 90s and early 2000s, is making a comeback with a renewed focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and original recipes. CEO Daniel Farasat, who is spearheading the relaunch, expressed his excitement about bringing Koo Koo Roo back to its origins and honoring its mission.

Koo Koo Roo was founded in 1988 by brothers Mike and Ray Badalian, who launched the business as a healthy, fast-food alternative. The chain quickly gained popularity for its “no frying, no breading, no coating, no preservatives or additives” approach to food preparation. At its peak, Koo Koo Roo operated 40 locations, mostly in Southern California. However, the chain faced financial difficulties, filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2003, and eventually shuttered its last location in 2014.

The relaunch of Koo Koo Roo is being led by LA real estate company Tiger West Capital LLC, with investments in other fast-casual chains like Sweetgreen. The revival aims to tap into the nostalgia of Angelenos who fondly remember the chain’s charbroiled chicken and healthy fare. The restaurant’s return has already generated buzz on social media, with fans eagerly awaiting the chance to taste their favorite dishes once again.

Our Advice on the City

For those planning to attend ChainFest 2024, we recommend arriving early to make the most of the festival’s offerings. With over 15 gourmet bites and immersive experiences, there’s plenty to see and taste. If you’re a fan of Koo Koo Roo, be sure to visit their pop-up early, as their return is expected to draw significant crowds.

For expert travelers, consider exploring the surrounding areas of Row DTLA. The district is known for its vibrant arts scene, trendy boutiques, and eclectic dining options. Take some time to wander around and discover hidden gems that showcase the unique culture of Los Angeles.

In conclusion, ChainFest 2024 promises to be an unforgettable culinary experience, bringing together the best of America’s favorite food chains with a gourmet twist. Whether you’re a local or an occasional traveler, this festival offers a unique opportunity to indulge in nostalgic flavors and innovative dishes. So, mark your calendars and get ready to savor the best of fast food in a way you’ve never experienced before.