Bye Bye Bonchon

Bonchon Chicken Dallas gives Greenville Avenue the bird

No more fried chicken for you.

Photo courtesy of Bonchon

Time to go get you some chicken. The Dallas branch of international chicken chain Bonchon Chicken is closing, possibly as soon as July 26 but definitely "within two weeks," confirmed the company's franchise division in New York.

According to a manager at the restaurant, the location will be reconcepted into a more traditional restaurant called Ashwood, which he described as a "bar and burger joint," with wings and salads.

Founded in Korea, Bonchon is noted for its unique chicken, available in wings and tenders, with a sweet caramelized crust. It also serves a respectable assortment of craft beers, which is unique at a chicken joint.

It opened its first U.S. branch in New York City in 2007. There are currently 30 locations in the United States and 70 more overseas in Brunei, Indonesia, Philippines and Thailand.

Its opening in Dallas in December 2013 was heralded by foodies as a welcome dose of cosmopolitan elan. When it first opened, it was so deluged by customers that it had to close for a week to regroup.

Its chicken was good enough to come out on top in our roundup of chicken tenders. The author described the chicken as a delectable combination of "spicy, chewy and sweet" that made it seem like jerky or candy, and loved the spicy kimchi slaw.

Mike Kim, in charge of franchising for Bonchon, said that the company would not rule out finding another franchise partner to re-open a store in Dallas. "We're just focused on closing this one first," he said.

Early indications of the imminent demise emerged on the restaurant's social media outlets. It stopped updating its Facebook page on July 12, and the Twitter page went quiet on July 4.

A call to the restaurant management was not returned.

UPDATE: Bonchon sent out a release announcing the closure, which will take place on August 15.

"We decided along with the owners of the restaurant that it would be best to close at this point," said franchise manager Mike Kim. "We feel the Bonchon concept might have been premature for the Dallas market, and are currently developing new offerings that might appeal better to the American public in general. We are grateful for the hard work and support of the franchisee, staff and the local community."

Although there are no immediate plans to open another Dallas location, the franchise is open to exploring options in the future.

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Fro Yo News

Healthy dual restaurant serving smoothies and froyo to open in Prosper

Red Mango

Smoothies and frozen yogurt are coming to Prosper with two restaurants in one: Smoothie Factory + Kitchen and co-branded Red Mango will open at 1470 W. Frontier Pkwy. #102, on May 17.

On the Smoothie Kitchen side, they'll serve smoothies, juices, fruit power bowls, toasts, and grilled sandwich folds.

On the Red Mango side, they'll serve frozen yogurt with a self-serve model featuring four flavors, two additional swirl combinations, and 13 toppings.

Smoothie Factory was founded in the 1980s; Red Mango was founded in Dallas in 2007 had has 60 locations in the U.S. and internationally. The concepts are siblings — both part of the franchise portfolio of Dallas-based franchising company Brix Holdings, LLC.

Bringing the concept to Prosper are franchisees Lanford and Chianna Rodgers. Lanford is a former Illinois state trooper and independent insurance business owner, and Chiana is a financial advisor.

Together, they’re looking to offer a healthy and welcoming experience to a growing city.

“My professional career has changed over the years, but the one thing that unifies my experience is my purpose to help, support and build a community with new people,” says Chianna. “As I begin my journey as a small business owner and we open our doors to the Prosper community, I’m dedicated to leading a team that feels supported and is passionate about serving high-quality products and creating an unforgettable customer experience.”

Customers who show up on opening day can expect promotions, giveaways, prizes, and activities.

”The opening of the new Smoothie Factory + Kitchen and Red Mango location is one of many of our continuous efforts to provide better-for-you options to our guests by increasing access to healthy and delicious options in our communities,” says BRIX Holdings CEO Sherif Mityas in a statement. “Lanford is a passionate and dedicated owner with a team ready to make a positive impact and change the lives of their guests with fresh food, quality service, and a seamless customer experience. I’m confident that this location will be a Prosper neighborhood staple.”

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