Chef Joshua Skenes, renowned for his high-end culinary establishments, is venturing into the fried chicken arena with his latest concept, Happies Hand Made, opening today in Los Angeles’ Arts District. Located adjacent to Tatsu Ramen, this fast-casual restaurant will serve an exciting selection of thick, spicy fried chicken tenders influenced by Sichuan flavors, alongside an array of beverages and snacks.
Happies Hand Made is set to operate with limited hours from Friday to Sunday, debuting a menu that features the chef’s signature fried chicken tenders. These tenders, distinguished by a thick, crispy Southern-style exterior, will be doused with a mildly spicy Sichuan-style chile sauce, skillfully balancing smokiness and flavor.
In addition to the chicken, patrons can enjoy heavily seasoned beef tallow fries, creamy soft serve ice cream adorned with passionfruit and strawberry, and refreshing frozen cocktails. The tenders can be served on a variety of options, including crispy waffles, soft milk bread slices, or a generous portion of dressed salad greens.
Skenes, who previously opened the Italian American restaurant Leopardo, has made headlines with his new venture as speculation swirled around the future of his prior establishment. Leopardo, which received recognition from the California Michelin Guide, closed its doors in early 2025 to facilitate renovations and was known for its unique pizza offerings.
Before founding Leopardo, Skenes was the mind behind Saison, a restaurant that reached the pinnacle of culinary acclaim with three Michelin stars, although it currently holds two after his departure. His experience with Angler, which retained a Michelin star, showcases his ability to elevate dining experiences.
Happies Hand Made showcases Skenes’ ability to adapt his prestigious culinary skills to a more casual setting. The restaurant’s ambiance, reminiscent of a retro diner with wood-lined interiors, blends seamlessly with the vibrant industrial surroundings of the Arts District. Counter stools and plush booths create a cozy environment for diners, all while the restaurant prepares to introduce take-out and delivery options.
As for pricing, Skenes has kept the offerings reasonably affordable, with fried tender combinations starting at $26. This includes two tenders alongside a choice of side and housemade soda, while a side of fries is priced at $5 and the soft serve at $8.
The drink menu is equally impressive, offering a variety of unique beverages such as fruit sodas, lemon mint, honey oolong, hojicha tea, and boozy slushies infused with flavors like coconut and kyoho grape. With its grand opening, Happies Hand Made aims to provide a distinctive take on fast-casual dining, merging high-quality ingredients, exciting flavors, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Fans of Skenes’ culinary prowess will have the opportunity to experience his signature style in a new format that emphasizes comfort and flavor.
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