Crown Palace + Chicken on the Run
Hours
Tues – Sat 3PM-2AM
Sun 3PM – 12AM
Closed
Monday
Two Places in One
Fried Chicken & Szechuan
Address
405 Craigflower Rd.
Victoria
Quick Review
Vic West’s best-kept secret and one of those places every Victorian seems to have a strong opinion about — always a good sign. Two menus, one tiny circular building covered in cartoon characters, and a family behind the counter who genuinely loves what they do. The chicken balls alone are worth the trip. This is a Victoria institution hiding in plain sight.
Atmosphere
This little spot is not much bigger than a bachelor pad, but boy, do they whip up some seriously delicious dishes. Don’t expect a formal, sit-down dining experience here; it’s more of an order-at-the-counter and take-home kind of vibe. This unique circular(ish) building adorned with vibrant cartoon characters on its side is a true family affair, lovingly owned and operated. In fact, they proudly hold the title of being Victoria’s sole locally-owned independent fried food joint.
Menu
Here, you’re in for a delightful dilemma with not one, but two distinct menus to choose from!
First up, there’s “Chicken on the Run,” featuring a mouthwatering array of fried chicken, crispy potatoes, onion rings, and wings. What sets their chicken apart is their unique broasting process, which uses less grease, resulting in an irresistible crispy texture and a flavour explosion in every bite. They also offer sides like coleslaw and macaroni salad.
Then, we have “Crown Palace,” a menu that’s a treasure trove of Szechuan cuisine, traditional Cantonese dishes, and other beloved favourites. You can savour items like their succulent Honey Garlic Chicken, flavorful Monk’s Curry, and the legendary Buddah Boxes. They also have some of the BEST chicken balls in town!! They also offer a wide selection of sodas.
Service
While they do offer cozy window bar-style seating for about three lucky patrons, the majority of visitors opt for a delightful takeaway experience (or even delivery, though we strongly endorse the in-person visit). You’ll find this hidden gem conveniently nestled right next to Vic West Rec, a stone’s throw away from a sprawling park area, complete with inviting benches and ample green space for a relaxing picnic.
What truly adds to the charm of this place is the warm hospitality of the family that runs the business. They’re more than happy to strike up a friendly conversation with you, making your visit all the more memorable. So, whether you’re seeking a quiet meal at their charming window bar or planning to savour your food amidst the beauty of the nearby park, a visit here promises a delightful experience.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible
- Counter-style ordering — no stairs or barriers
- Physical menus available
- Free parking lot and street parking
- Kid-friendly environment
- Bike-friendly — on the Galloping Goose trail (take Deadman’s Junction into Vic West)
- On the #14 bus route — short walk from #10 and #24
- Park and benches right next door — there is no indoor seating
- No Instagram, but they do have Facebook — word of mouth is how this place spreads
- Website available with full updated menus — check before you go
- Quick response time on social online
- Excellent value — generous portions at very reasonable prices
- Two full menus mean lots of options at different price points
- Perfect for feeding a group without breaking the bank
Uniqueness
What truly distinguishes them from every other restaurant is their deep-rooted connection to the community, making them a beloved local hotspot. Mention either “Chicken on the Run” or “Crown Palace” to a fellow Victorian, and you’re likely to be greeted with a beaming smile and a tantalizing review of their delectable fare. Their status as a community favourite is a testament to the exceptional experience they offer.
If you haven’t had the pleasure yet, consider this your official invitation to grab your shoes and head over there ASAP!
Find them online
Chicken on the Run & Crown Palace Chinese Restaurant
405 Craigflower Rd, Victoria, BC V9A 2V7
