Photo by Daniel Zuliani
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Just a few weeks after a Raising Cane’s opened on Coral Way near Coral Gables, Miami’s fried chicken scene is about to get another serious upgrade. Fuku, the famed fried chicken spot from chef and cultural icon David Chang, will officially open its first standalone South Florida location on Wednesday, March 11, at 135 Miracle Mile in Coral Gables.
What began as a secret off-menu experiment inside the once-viral Momofuku Noodle Bar in New York City (if you were a foodie in 2015, you know about Momofuku) has grown into one of the country’s most recognizable chef-driven fast-casual brands. Now, the spicy fried chicken sandwich that built a national following is landing squarely in the heart of the Gables.
Photo by Daniel Zuliani
From Secret Menu Item to National Sensation
Long before fried chicken sandwiches dominated menus nationwide (and all across Miami), Chang’s original Fuku sando quietly developed a cult following among New Yorkers in the know. The sandwich’s popularity quickly outgrew its underground status, leading to Fuku’s first East Village location in 2015 and eventual expansion into stadiums, arenas, and ballparks across the country.
Today, the brand operates 15 locations nationwide, and the Coral Gables restaurant marks a major milestone as Fuku’s first permanent South Florida outpost. A second location is already planned for West Palm Beach later this year, signaling the brand’s continued national growth and confidence in the region’s dining scene. (For those in the know, foodies have been able to try Fuku at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens for a few years now, but this standalone in the Gables is huge.)
“This opening is about bringing Fuku back in a way that feels authentic and fun,” Chang says in a statement. “Great food, no overthinking it, and a place people actually want to hang out.”
Photo by Daniel Zuliani
A Menu Built Around the Perfect Sando
At the center of Fuku’s menu are its signature fried chicken sandwiches, each breaded in-house and served on a butter-toasted potato roll. Guests can choose between spicy or mild versions, including the “OG Sando” topped with Fuku mayo and pickles, the “Sweet & Spicy Sando” glazed in the brand’s signature sauce with pickled daikon, and a “Miso Ranch and Slaw” variation layered with rice vinegar slaw and scallion ranch.
Beyond the sandos, the menu leans into craveable comfort food territory. Expect waffle fries, loaded “Party Fries” topped with multiple sauces and crunchy toppings, tenders, garlic rice, salads, and classic sides. Dessert collaborations include cookies from Milk Bar and treats from Coconut Grove bakery Fookem’s Fabulous, giving the opening a distinctly local touch.
The beverage program keeps things casual and refreshing, with oolong sweet tea, yuzu lemonade, slushies, canned beer, and wine designed for quick lunches, late-night bites, or takeout on the go.
David Chang photo
A Playful New Hangout on Miracle Mile
The 2,000-square-foot restaurant features a bright, contemporary design anchored by Fuku’s signature peach tones, a nod to the Momofuku “lucky peach” origins. The space is meant to feel energetic and approachable, equally suited for a quick weekday lunch or a casual group hang.
Opening day will include a series of interactive experiences and giveaways. The first 135 guests will receive a limited-edition tote packed with merchandise, Momofuku Chili Crunch, Milk Bar cookies, and gift cards, with several surprise “golden bags” hidden among them. Guests can also expect a vintage photo booth, custom T-shirt printing, and local beverage collaborations throughout the day.
With its laid-back energy and chef-driven approach to fast food, Fuku Coral Gables is poised to become a new go-to for locals, foodies in the know, and anyone chasing Miami’s next big flavor (or fried chicken) obsession.
Fuku Coral Gables. 135 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables; eatfuku.com. Opening Wednesday, March 11.
