The Secret Behind 98K Chicken & Burgers: 7 Asian-Inspired Flavors That Are Taking Over NYC
Since its emergence as a New York City hotspot, 98K Chicken & Burgers has quickly redefined the fast-casual landscape, offering a unique fusion of classic American fare with a vibrant, bold kick of Asian-inspired flavors. As of this current date, December 22, 2025, the chain continues to garner attention for its signature "Chinese mainland style" fried chicken, which promises a juicy, succulent interior encased in a golden-crisp exterior, a taste many compare favorably to the best fried chicken found across Asia.
This isn't your average burger joint; 98K has carved out a niche by focusing on high-quality, often Halal-certified ingredients and a menu that pushes the boundaries of traditional quick-service food. From their intensely flavored wings to their unique burger combinations, the restaurant offers exceptional value and a culinary experience that keeps customers returning for more of that irresistible, savory crunch.
98K Chicken & Burgers: Detailed Business Profile and Locations
98K Chicken & Burgers is a growing fast-casual chain that has successfully blended the familiarity of American comfort food—namely burgers and fried chicken—with distinct, authentic Asian culinary techniques and flavor profiles. The focus on "Chinese mainland style" cooking is its core differentiator, setting it apart from standard Western fast-food competitors.
- Cuisine Style: Fast-Casual, American-Asian Fusion (specifically Chinese Mainland Style Fried Chicken).
- Key Offering: Halal Fried Chicken and Juicy Burgers.
- Reputation: Known for great taste, excellent value, and superb customer service.
- Signature Flavor Profile: Spicy, succulent, and savory, often compared to popular fried chicken chains in Asia.
Primary Locations (Key Entities)
While the brand has a strong presence across several boroughs of New York City, it is also expanding its reach to other states, establishing itself as a multi-regional favorite.
- Brooklyn, NY: Multiple locations, including the 8th Ave, Bay 25th St, and 62nd St areas.
- Staten Island, NY: Located in the New Dorp neighborhood.
- Doraville, GA: A key location on Buford Highway Northeast, serving the Atlanta metro area.
- Pittsburgh, PA: A location on Forbes Avenue further demonstrates the brand's expansion.
The 5 Must-Try Menu Items That Define the 98K Experience
The menu at 98K is extensive, but a few items stand out as true representations of their Asian-American fusion concept. These dishes are the cornerstone of their topical authority in the competitive fried chicken market.
1. The Hot Spicy Chicken Thigh Burger
This is arguably the most famous item and a centerpiece of the 98K menu. It features a tender, juicy chicken thigh—the preferred cut for maximum flavor—that is marinated and fried to perfection in their signature crispy coating. The heat level is significant, delivering a satisfying, lingering spice that is characteristic of Chinese mainland-style preparation.
2. Crispy Leg Quarter and Crispy Whole Chicken
For those who prefer traditional bone-in chicken, the Crispy Leg Quarter and the Crispy Whole Chicken showcase the quality of their frying technique. The skin is intensely crispy, while the dark meat remains exceptionally succulent. This is the dish that most clearly reflects their unique Asian-inspired batter and seasoning blend.
3. Codfish Burger Combo
A surprising yet popular alternative to the chicken and beef options, the Codfish Burger Combo features a delicious codfish patty. This inclusion caters to a broader audience and demonstrates a willingness to experiment beyond standard poultry and beef offerings, a common trait in dynamic Asian fast-food markets.
4. Pineapple Beef Burger (菠萝牛汉堡)
The Pineapple Beef Burger is a clear nod to Asian culinary preferences, where sweet and savory combinations are highly celebrated. The inclusion of pineapple adds a tangy, acidic cut to the rich beef patty, creating a balanced and flavorful experience that is both unexpected and delicious. This item, often listed with its Chinese name (菠萝牛汉堡), highlights the brand's cultural roots.
5. The Family Bucket and Combos
98K understands the importance of value, especially for family and group dining. The Family Bucket and various Combos, which often include a mix of chicken thigh burgers, fries, Popcorn Chicken, Hot Wings, and sodas, are incredibly popular, offering a cost-effective way to sample a wide array of their best offerings.
The Culinary Entities: How 98K Achieves Its Unique Asian Flavor Profile
The secret to 98K’s success lies in its use of specific techniques and ingredients that elevate its offerings beyond typical American fast food. The "Chinese mainland style" is more than just a marketing phrase; it’s a commitment to a distinct preparation method.
The Halal Commitment
A significant factor in their appeal, particularly in diverse metropolitan areas like NYC, is their commitment to serving Halal fried chicken and burgers. This dedication to quality and adherence to dietary standards broadens their customer base and reinforces their reputation as a community-focused establishment.
Beyond the Chicken: Asian-Inspired Sides and Beverages
To establish true topical authority, 98K ensures its side dishes and beverages complement the main course's Asian-American fusion. The menu is rich with entities that reflect this blend:
- Fried Dumplings (6): Served with a soy garlic sauce, these are a classic Asian appetizer rarely found in a typical burger joint.
- Spring Rolls: Another essential Asian appetizer that provides a fresh, savory contrast to the heavy fried items.
- Mozzarella Sticks: A classic American side, proving the menu is truly a fusion.
- Honeydew Sparkling (哈密瓜气泡水): This beverage choice is a clear indication of Asian influence, as fruit-flavored sparkling drinks are incredibly popular across the continent.
LSI Keywords and Entities for Topical Authority
The extensive menu and multiple locations allow 98K Chicken & Burgers to dominate the search landscape for a variety of related terms. Key entities that drive their authority include: Crispy Leg Quarter, Grilled Leg Quarter, Roasted Wings, Chicken Nuggets, Wraps, French Fries, Onion Rings, Dark Meat Thigh Sandwich, value and superb customer service, Fast-casual dining, Juicy burgers, Crispy chicken, and Online Order options for convenience. These terms ensure the brand is highly visible to customers searching for both traditional and unique fast-food options.
In a saturated market, 98K Chicken & Burgers has found its winning formula by not just serving fried chicken and burgers, but by infusing them with a memorable, spicy, and authentic Chinese mainland style flavor. The combination of Halal certification, unique menu items like the Hot Spicy Chicken Thigh Burger and Pineapple Beef Burger, and a commitment to great value solidifies its place as a must-visit destination for food lovers in New York, Georgia, and beyond. Its continued expansion and positive customer reviews, even into early 2025, suggest that the 98K sensation is far from over.
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