Why Is Chicken 65 Called... Chicken 65?
If you've ever wondered.
By Tamara Jayne — 27 Feb 2023, 11:27 AM
It's flavourful, deep-fried, and marinated in all the perfect spices that leaves you wanting more.
Chicken 65 is the ultimate side dish whenever we eat at an Indian restaurant. But have you ever wondered how it got its name?
Originating from South India, Chicken 65 is a popular order across restaurants in Malaysia, especially banana leaf spots.
Some assume that it got its name because 65 small pieces of chicken were used to create the dish. Others claim that it's because 65 spices were used for its marinade.
Another belief is that a 65-day-old chicken was used to make it, while another story states that soldiers in Chennai were presented a long menu and this dish was the 65th place on the list.
But what is the answer for its unique moniker?
The most widely accepted reason is that Chicken 65 got its name from the year it was made — in 1965 at the Buhari Hotel in Chennai, India.
The hotel was opened by a man named AM Buhari and it is said to be the first place to introduce fine dining in Madras (now known as Chennai). Apparently, the establishment previously served Chicken 78 and 82, and currently serves Chicken 90.
Buhari Hotel is said to have had the first jukebox in Chennai, which set it apart from other diners.
Image via Buhari HotelThe hotel, which currently has seven branches in Chennai, is said to have welcomed many celebrity guests over the years who have "tasted and relished" their renowned food.
Now that you know the meaning behind the dish name, impress your banana leaf kakis with this fun fact!
