Last year, a humble yet explosive dish from India made waves on the global stage. Chicken 65 climbed from the 10th to the 3rd spot on TasteAtlas’ list of the best fried chicken dishes in the world. It was a proud moment for Indians everywhere—especially for the chefs at Chennai’s legendary Buhari Hotel, the birthplace of this cult-favorite appetizer.
Even today, the signature dish holds its place on the Buhari menu, continuing to capture hearts and taste buds with its unmistakable crunch and fiery kick. But what makes Chicken 65 so special? And how did a hyper-regional dish from a single eatery in Chennai become a sensation across India and beyond?
The Mystery Behind ‘65’
One bite into Chicken 65, and it’s an explosion of flavors—spicy, tangy, and deeply satisfying. But the origins of its intriguing name remain a subject of much debate. Some say it refers to the number of ingredients used in the dish. Others claim it was named after the year of its creation—1965. A more absurd myth suggests the chicken is marinated for 65 days before cooking. And then there’s the legend that claims the dish originally contained exactly 65 pieces of chicken!
The most plausible theory, however, takes us back to the soldiers stationed in Chennai in the mid-20th century. These army men, regular visitors at the city’s mess halls, often struggled with Tamil menus due to the language barrier. Legend has it that a soldier once pointed at item number 65 on Buhari Hotel’s menu, tasted the crispy fried chicken, and fell in love with it. Word spread, and soon, everyone was ordering ‘Chicken 65’—a name that stuck around ever since.
The Birth of an Icon
Buhari Hotel in Chennai, where the magic first happened, has a history as rich as the dish itself. Founded in 1951 by A M Buhari, a former sheriff of Madras, the hotel was born out of his passion for food, discovered during his time in Colombo. Buhari envisioned a space where food would serve as a bridge between cultures and communities, and his venture soon became one of the city’s most beloved eateries.
While the menu boasted a variety of delectable dishes, it was Chicken 65 that became an instant classic. The eatery’s jukebox, playing the hit song Dum Maro Dum, added to the electric atmosphere as diners flocked in to savor the crispy, spicy delight.
Why Chicken 65 is More Than Just a Starter
Despite being categorized as an appetizer, Chicken 65 refuses to be boxed in. Its versatility means that while some enjoy it as a side, others turn it into a full meal, pairing it with fluffy rumali roti or fragrant biryani. The passage of time has done little to dull its popularity—in fact, it has only amplified it.
Where to Try the Best Chicken 65
If you want to experience the best versions of Chicken 65, these iconic eateries should be on your list:
1. Buhari Hotel, Chennai
The birthplace of Chicken 65 still serves it in its original, unadulterated form. The menu also offers other intriguing chicken dishes named after their respective years of creation—Chicken 78, Chicken 82, and Chicken 90. Come with an appetite, because you’ll want to try everything!
2. Erode Amman Mess, Chennai
This spot is known for bold, zesty flavors. Alongside Chicken 65, their Andhra Chilli Chicken is another must-try. As Chef and culinary consultant Mathangi Kumar puts it, “These spicy dishes are not for the faint-hearted, but they keep diners coming back for more. The batter used is never greasy, and the balance between crust thickness and meat size is always perfect.”
3. Dakshin, Delhi
For a refined experience, head to Dakshin in Delhi, where the menu is a love letter to South Indian cuisine. Inspired by the ‘Military Hotels’ that once catered to army personnel, Dakshin’s menu features flavors from across Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana. Their Chicken 65 stays true to its roots while offering a touch of elegance.
Bringing Chicken 65 to Your Kitchen
Until you get the chance to visit these iconic eateries, why not try making Chicken 65 at home? Chef Saransh Goila has a fantastic recipe that captures the essence of this fiery delight. So roll up your sleeves, gather your spices, and prepare to indulge in a dish that has stood the test of time—one crispy, spicy bite at a time.