For International Hot & Spicy Day, I decided to celebrate (or torture myself, depending on how you look at it) with David Chang’s spiciest chicken at Fuku: “The Rippin’ Hot Chicken!” Covered in Carolina Reapers, scorpion peppers, and Szechuan peppercorns, this may be the spiciest thing I have ever eaten! (Although I am working my way up in spice level at Howlin’ Rays, so have yet to try Howlin’!)
Located at The Gallery Social Eats on the Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica, Fuku is a fast-food chain that offers a variety of fried chicken sandwiches, fries, and sauces. The restaurant was founded by chef David Chang, who is known for Momofuku.
What I Ate:
I ordered the Finger Sandwich Meal, which included Fuku fingers on a Martin’s potato roll with pickles and butter to first try the quality of the chicken. The fingers were crispy and flavorful, and the potato roll was soft and fresh.
Next up was “The Rippin’ Hot Chicken,” a Leg & Thigh covered in Carolina Reapers, scorpion peppers, and Szechuan peppercorn. If you know me, you know I am NOT GOOD WITH SPICY! (Check out my reaction to trying Howlin’ Rays for the first time here.) But I was prepared with gloves and bravery! Or so I thought!
The spiciness hit me immediately (watch the video above!) and did not stop! It HITS! Lips burning and plumped, tears streaming from eyes, face fully red! However, I have to admit, the flavor was delicious! Make sure to have cooling ranch on the side, and all the drinks to save you!
If you’re a fan of fried chicken and looking for a new spot to try, I would recommend giving Fuku a visit. And, if you’re feeling brave, give “The Rippin’ Hot Chicken” a try – just make sure you have a glass of milk…and gloves and hours to cool down!
For more spicy chicken check out my Howlin’ Rays review.
