Sunday, February 9, 2020

Crunchik'n

For those in the know, Korean Fried Chicken wings are all the rage these days. Typically twice fried, these wings don't seep out grease at first touch, the meat stays incredibly juicy, and there are often a variety of glazes. Relative newcomer to the Jefferson East area is Crunchik'n and I'm here to tell you that they've got the bomb "KFCs."

What's the story behind co-owners Jon & Jen? Jon was a retiring theology professor and Jen had recently finished grad school. Jon convinced Jen to open up Crunchik'n and now they're providing that homemade touch, while executing to high-quality perfection on all fronts. I recently had the chance to meet up with Jen and try some of their menu offerings.

Clockwise from Top Right: Korean Fried Chicken Wings | Crunch Ball! | Oven Baked Galbi or Spicy Wings | Crunchik'n Spread

Do start with their wings and the whole or half chicken. The batter is light & crunchy and the meat is marinated for 24 hours. The glazes range from mild to spicy and are all tasty. They've even got an oven-baked version for those that are attempting to be health-conscious and thankfully, they're just as tasty. The galbi version of the oven-baked ring was sticky, sweet, and delicious - all thanks to Jen's dad's homemade marinade. Looking for a fried ball of goodness? Check out the Crunch Balls which have bits of veggie or beef. Top that jawn with some spicy mayo and you're set.

Co-Owner Jen of Crunchikn | Spicy Tuna Rice Bowl | Homemade Dumplings | Kimchi Cheese Fries

The ricebowls are beautifully presented with everything you could ever want. We loved the spicy tuna version, which came with a bed of rice, Korean japchae noodles (sweet potato glass noodles), a fried veggie dumpling, salsa, crisp veggie, and guac. Definitely filling and you'll probably have leftovers. Be sure to try some of the homemade veggie, meat, or kale & spinach dumplings, made by a family friend! Looking for that next level comfort food? The kimchi cheese fries provide that fusion-level goodness with the spicy funk of the kimchi and the cheese sauce all over the batter-fried fries.

Be sure to stop by and say hi! The staff is so warm, welcoming, and you can clearly get a sense of the pride and homemade touch to what they do. Most important, the food is delicious and clearly Crunchik'n has plans to be a mainstay in Philly.

Crunchik'n
212 S. 11th Street
Philadelphia, PA 19107
(267) 886-9373

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