DL Chicken, a Vancouver-based eatery specializing in hormone-free Nashville hot chicken and comfort food, is set to open its first Toronto location at 538 Manning Avenue.
The Toronto location is scheduled for a soft opening on March 20, 2026, and a grand opening on March 24 in Harbord Village, according to Toronto.com. To celebrate the opening, the first 100 customers will receive a free OG Fried Chicken Sandwich, available starting at 11 a.m. DL Chicken’s Toronto debut will introduce the city to its signature offerings, including hand-dredged, deep-fried chicken and house-made sauces and sides. The 20-seat dining room will offer a more refined experience than the Vancouver locations and will also feature a liquor license. Future plans for the Toronto restaurant include adding a patio and a private dining room.
Founded in 2018 by Doug Stephen, a Toronto native, DL Chicken quickly became a fan favorite in Vancouver. Known for hormone-free, GMO-free, and Halal-certified chicken sourced from Rossdown Farms, DL Chicken has garnered a loyal fanbase, especially among those craving high-quality Nashville-style fried chicken. This new location in Toronto will be the brand’s first outside of Vancouver, where it already operates at 905 Commercial Dr. and 6065 University Blvd. A third Vancouver location is planned for Oakridge Park.
The menu at DL Chicken features the OG Fried Chicken Sandwich with slaw, pickles, and house sauce. Other favorites include crinkle-cut fries, mac and cheese, potato salad, and waffles, all made with fresh, local ingredients. Customers can choose from a range of spice levels, from mild to fiery, and also enjoy options like caramelized onions and cheese dust on their sandwich, plus sweet tea and dessert cakes. The Toronto location will accommodate most dietary restrictions, and staff are happy to answer any questions about menu items or customization options.
