Los Angeles is buzzing with excitement as the beloved chicken chain, Koo Koo Roo, returns to the LA dining scene. This iconic restaurant, which shuttered its doors in 2014, is making a comeback, much to the delight of locals who have missed its famous charbroiled chicken and healthier fast-food options. With a refreshed focus on locally sourced ingredients and a community-driven approach, Koo Koo Roo is poised to reclaim its spot as a favorite in the city’s vibrant food culture.
A New Chapter for an Old Favorite: Koo Koo Roo Returns to the LA Dining Scene
The story of Koo Koo Roo began in 1988 when restaurateurs Mike and Ray Badalian opened the first location in Los Angeles. The chain quickly gained popularity for its no-fry, no-preservative approach to chicken, offering a healthier alternative to the fast food available at the time. Kenneth Berg initially joined the business as a silent partner but soon took control, buying out the Badalian brothers and recruiting a team to lead the brand’s growth. In October 1991, Berg took the company public, and by 1994, financier Michael Milken provided a significant financial investment through a family trust, securing a majority ownership stake. However, this turnaround was short-lived, as Milken withdrew his offer later that year due to disputes over terms. Koo Koo Roo faced ongoing struggles, eventually filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2003. Despite being acquired by multiple companies, the chain’s last remaining Southern California restaurant closed in 2014.
Now, Koo Koo Roo is set to make a triumphant return, and this revival is being led by LA real estate company Tiger West Capital LLC. The company’s Managing Partner, Daniel Farasat, is overseeing this relaunch, bringing with him a wealth of experience in the fast-casual dining space. Farasat, an early-stage investor in Sweetgreen—another health-focused fast-casual chain—and Genesis Bank, is well-equipped to guide Koo Koo Roo back to success. Under Farasat’s leadership, Koo Koo Roo’s new version will not only stay true to its roots by offering fan-favorite dishes like charbroiled skinless chicken and healthy sides but will also introduce modern menu items that reflect today’s demand for fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
In a recent statement, Farasat expressed his enthusiasm for reviving the beloved brand, saying, “We have so much respect for what Koo Koo Roo means to this city. It’s more than just a restaurant; it’s part of LA’s history. We’re committed to bringing back the authentic Koo Koo Roo experience while embracing modern tastes and culinary trends.”
Koo Koo Roo’s return is not just about nostalgia; it signals a broader trend of restaurant revivals and healthier fast food options becoming more prevalent in Los Angeles. The city’s food scene has evolved since the chain’s closure, and Koo Koo Roo is well-positioned to cater to current consumer preferences for healthier, convenient dining experiences.
The chain is also set to make a splash at ChainFEST Los Angeles this October, where it will offer exclusive items from its revived menu (WestsideToday). This event will provide a sneak peek into the new Koo Koo Roo experience, creating anticipation among both longtime fans and new customers alike.
The relaunch of Koo Koo Roo comes with its own set of legal implications for the food and beverage industry, particularly in areas such as compliance with health and safety regulations, franchising agreements, and food sourcing standards. At Juris Law Group, we specialize in navigating these complexities for our clients in the food and beverage sector. Whether you’re reviving a beloved brand like Koo Koo Roo or launching a new venture, we are here to help guide you through the legal landscape.
Koo Koo Roo’s return is shaping up to be one of the most exciting stories in the LA food scene. Stay tuned for more updates as this legendary chain prepares to make its mark once again.
