Indy's Chicken Challenge Reaches Final Four

Iconic local eateries CM Korean and His Place Eatery compete for fried chicken supremacy.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 2:23pm

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A highly stylized, abstract image composed of repeating neon-colored fried chicken drumsticks, rendered in a bold, graphic pop art style that captures the energy and excitement of a culinary competition.The battle for Indy's fried chicken supremacy heats up as two local favorites face off in the final round of a citywide competition.Indianapolis Today

The highly anticipated fried chicken showdown in Indianapolis has reached its Final Four stage, pitting the Korean-style chicken of CM Korean against the classic fried chicken and waffles of His Place Eatery. Locals and visitors alike have been eagerly voting to determine which of these beloved neighborhood institutions will advance to the championship round.

Why it matters

Fried chicken is a beloved comfort food that has become a point of civic pride in many cities. This competition taps into Indianapolis' rich culinary heritage and the fierce loyalty residents have for their favorite local eateries, highlighting the city's thriving food scene.

The details

CM Korean is known for its unique take on fried chicken, featuring a Korean-inspired marinade and double-frying technique that results in a crispy, flavorful exterior. His Place Eatery, on the other hand, has built a loyal following for its classic Southern-style fried chicken served alongside fluffy waffles. The two restaurants have advanced through multiple rounds of voting, with the final matchup set to determine which will be crowned the champion of Indy's Chicken Challenge.

  • The Chicken Challenge competition began in early March 2026.
  • The Final Four round of voting is currently underway and will close on April 5, 2026.

The players

CM Korean

A local restaurant known for its Korean-inspired fried chicken dishes.

His Place Eatery

A beloved neighborhood restaurant that specializes in classic Southern-style fried chicken and waffles.

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What’s next

The winner of the Final Four matchup will advance to the championship round, where they will compete for the title of Indy's Chicken Challenge champion.

The takeaway

This friendly competition between two iconic local eateries showcases the vibrant food culture of Indianapolis, where residents take great pride in supporting their neighborhood restaurants and celebrating the city's diverse culinary offerings.