Next time you're on the hunt for something tasty that won't break the bank in Circular Quay, head to Belles Hot Chicken's third and most impressive Sydney outpost. Here the cult-favourite Nashville-style fried chicken chain (among our contenders for the best fried chicken in Sydney) is swapping takeaway boxes for table service with a 130-seat flagship restaurant.
Open in the Quay Quarter Tower, Belles Hot Chicken Circular Quay brings the expected hallmarks of the chain to an expansive new space with views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Belles' vintage Americana style is delivered in spades. Architectural studio Ewert Leaf has collaborated with Belles' Design Director Vicki Punch to create a warm, welcoming space tricked out with neon signs, vintage tiling and vending machines, plus an entirely chrome ceiling and cork detailing.
On the menu, things stick close to the other locations, with an elevated and varied drinks menu to complement the eats. Pair tenders, drumsticks, wings and buffalo cauliflower — all available in heat levels ranging from chicken salt to Really F**king Hot — with Belles Original Draught, orange wines and house cocktails like spiked iced tea.
Spicy chicken sandwiches and loaded fries also feature, with a highlight-reel set menu available for $40 per person if you want the decisions taken out of your hands. Some of the more extravagant drinks include Old Rip Van Winkle 15-year bourbon, Louis Roederer Cristal Brut (who doesn't want to pair champagne and fried chicken?), and the canned rakija and tonic RTDs that are the result of an inspired collab between Baba's Place and DNA Distillery.
Rounding out the vibrant energy of this outpost is a set of vinyl turntables ready for a DJ to take hold and spark a party at any point in time. With enough champagne and spiked iced tea, it's very likely to happen.
