The 1,000 Person-a-Night Waitlist for Sustainable Fried Chicken

Simon Kim, the hospitality executive behind some of the most sought-after restaurants in the US, says diners are packing out his newest offering — a ritzy New York fried chicken venue that blends Korean flavors, American style and a message on sustainability.

He brands Coqodaq, which opened last year, as a “cathedral of fried chicken,” with its church-like design, 1,000-person plus nightly waitlist, viral caviar-topped nuggets and a champagne list that Kim boasts is the longest in the US. While these features get customers through the door, he hopes what sticks most is a focus on delivering more environmentally-friendly meals. ...