Asian Fried Chicken Restaurant Chik'n & Mi Closing for Good

Louisville restaurant cites rising costs, pandemic impacts as reasons for shutting down after nearly a decade in business.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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After nearly a decade in business, the Asian fried chicken restaurant Chik'n & Mi in Louisville, Kentucky, has announced it will be permanently closing its doors on February 28, 2026. The owners cited the rising cost of food, operational expenses, and impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic as the reasons for shutting down the restaurant.

Why it matters

The closure of Chik'n & Mi represents the ongoing challenges facing small, independent restaurants in the face of rising costs and the lingering effects of the pandemic. The loss of this unique, Asian-inspired fried chicken concept is a blow to Louisville's diverse dining scene.

The details

Chik'n & Mi, located on Mellwood Avenue and Brownsboro Road, had to close for an extended period in 2024 after its exhaust system went out. The restaurant was eventually able to replace the system and reopen, but the owners say the rising costs and pandemic impacts have made it unsustainable to continue operating.

  • Chik'n & Mi will serve its last dinner service on Saturday, February 28, 2026 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
  • The restaurant had to close for an extended period in 2024 after its exhaust system went out.

The players

Jason and Aenith McCollum

The owners of Chik'n & Mi restaurant in Louisville, Kentucky.

Chik'n & Mi

An Asian fried chicken restaurant that has been in business in Louisville for nearly a decade.

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What they’re saying

“It is with a heavy heart and deep reflection that we are writing to share that Chik'n & Mi will be permanently closing our doors this Saturday, February 28th 2026.”

— Jason and Aenith McCollum, Owners (wlky.com)

The takeaway

The closure of Chik'n & Mi is a reminder of the fragility of the restaurant industry, especially for small, independent establishments that have faced compounding challenges in recent years. This loss highlights the need for continued support and innovation to help sustain Louisville's diverse dining scene.