One of Asia’s Most Prolific Night Market Vendors Just Landed in the SGV

If you’ve heard of Hot Star, famous makers of their so-called Large Fried Chicken, it’s likely because you’ve spent a fair bit of time traveling (and eating) through Asia. The restaurant chain began life as a stall at the famed Shilin night market in Taipei, but has since expanded into a global empire with over 100 international locations, including Toronto.

Domestically though, the only location has so far been in Rowland Heights. That operation opened only in mid-September (and rather quietly at that) but its their new location in Rosemead that has everyone dying to make the trip out to the San Gabriel Valley.

Originally opened around the first of the month, this Hot Star on Garvey Avenue is starting to draw eyeballs thanks to their colorful grand opening banner, and all the hype that has been propelling the long lines at all their other locations worldwide. Even Hainan chicken lover Johnny Lee is intent on checking the place out.

So what’s up with this iconic chicken franchise from Taipei? Basically the restaurant is known for their breaded chicken cutlets, pounded flat and fried into massive forms for easy on-the-go eating. Even the breading is apparently addictive, thanks to some special seasonings and the addition of bullion cubes in the mix.

That’s exactly what you’ll find at the Rosemead location, which is currently keeping daily hours from 10:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. There’s even potential talk of a Pasadena outlet to come down the line, though nothing official. Either way, you’d better get to Rosemead soon, before those domestic lines start forming as well. Though, in fairness, it’ll still probably be nothing like the wait at Howlin’ Ray’s.

Hot Star Large Fried Chicken
7540 Garvey Ave.
Rosemead, CA

• Watch: Sampling LA’s Hottest Chicken at Howlin’ Ray’s [ELA]
• Meet the Hainan Chicken Whisperer [ELA]