Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles, an original concept created by celebrity shareholders Ne-Yo and Chef Crystal Smith, is set to open to the public the weekend of March 31 at Westgate Entertainment District in Glendale. 

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Johnny’s Chicken and Waffles menu features their namesake crispy and juicy fried chicken paired with golden waffles and their award-winning, Southern staple mac and cheese. Other menu items will include sweet, savory and satisfyingly, good recipes all developed by Chef Crystal. The full-service bar will feature a Ne-Yo signature cocktail, his spin on a strawberry lemonade. 

“We look forward to bringing a taste of Atlanta to Arizona and sharing both our love for chicken & waffles and music with guests,” said Ne-Yo. “Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles original location has been a huge hit and we believe it will become a new favorite dining destination at Westgate as well.”

Located adjacent to Yard House and Opa Life Greek Cafe, the 6,500 sq. ft. space will seat 150 customers both indoor and on a large, outdoor patio. Fifteen platinum albums from famous Atlanta-bred musicians will grace the walls of the restaurant. Ranging from R&B, Rap and Hip Hop, the collection will highlight names like OutKast, Ne-Yo, Ludacris, Usher and more. Impressive original pieces of artwork, a photo wall, and an Insta-worthy neon signage that reads “Everyday I’m Waffle’n” contribute to the music-influenced atmosphere of Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles.

“We are so excited to be bringing Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles to Arizona,” said Chef Crystal. “We’ve had such a great experience with our original location and can’t wait to bring our musically focused vibes and mouth watering food to a new city.”

This is Johnny’s Chicken & Waffles second location, following the brand’s successful debut in Atlanta. The restaurant will be open daily for brunch, lunch and dinner, with late-night service until 3 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. You can catch brunch every weekend with a live DJ on Sundays. Takeout and delivery also will be available.

​The new location can be found at: 9830 W Westgate Blvd D 101, Glendale, AZ 85305. For the full menu and more information, visit johnnyschickenandwaffles.com.