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Couple says ‘yes yes’ to following their dreams

A long-held resolution has led a couple to achieve their dream of opening their own shop.

Kimchi Chicken Burger ($10.95), Bulgogi Chicken ($7.95 for 6 pieces) and Cheesy Mayo Chips ($5.95) from NeNe Chicken at Macquarie Centre.
Kimchi Chicken Burger ($10.95), Bulgogi Chicken ($7.95 for 6 pieces) and Cheesy Mayo Chips ($5.95) from NeNe Chicken at Macquarie Centre.

A long-held resolution has led a couple to achieve their dream of opening their own shop.

The first NSW franchise of popular South Korean brand NeNe Chicken opened at Macquarie Centre on December 10, with queues of customers lining up to sample one of the 1000 tasting boxes that were given away.

It was a successful first day for a brand that had previously not existed in the state — and an impressive start for first-time business owners Fan and Howard.

Howard with NeNe’s green tea and black sesame icecream.
Howard with NeNe’s green tea and black sesame icecream.
Tornado potato ($4.95).
Tornado potato ($4.95).

So how did Fan and Howard, who work in data analytics and IT respectively, end up as restaurant owners?

It began with a long-held tradition for the Castle Hill couple, who annually take time to reflect on their achievements as well as their hopes and dreams for the future.

Howard’s dream for years had been to open his own shop, and finally in 2016 the couple decided to take the plunge.

In April their plans began to take shape, and by December they had achieved their goal of opening before Christmas.

It has been a full-on year for the couple, who juggle their demanding jobs with their new restaurant, and looks set to only get busier with NeNe Chicken consistently in demand since it opened.

Swicy (sweet and spicy) and Snowing Cheese chicken.
Swicy (sweet and spicy) and Snowing Cheese chicken.
Cheesy Mayo Chips ($5.95).
Cheesy Mayo Chips ($5.95).

Despite being filled with customers, the store’s location — tucked away near the escalators to the rooftop car park — provides a peaceful refuge from the shopping centre.

The menu includes classic Korean flavoured fried chicken along with burgers, wraps and tacos.

The popular Swicy is a finger-licking sweet and spicy combination, while the Snowing Cheese is another favourite.

Try the “Freaking Hot” at your own risk — even the chilli-loving Howard only managed one drumstick.

For parties — or the very hungry — a 50-piece chicken platter will feed the masses, while the regular six-piece would satisfy most solo diners.

NeNe Chicken

What: The first NSW franchise of popular Korean fried chicken venue NeNe Chicken. NeNe, which means ‘Yes Yes’ in Korean, has more than 1000 stores in Korea as well as some in Queensland, Victoria and Western Australia.

Where: Level 4 (near Event Cinemas), Macquarie Centre, North Ryde

When: Sun-Weds 11am-8.30pm, Thurs.-Sat 11am-9.30pm

Details: nenechicken.com.au or call 8964 2698

Original URL: https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/northern-district-times/couple-says-yes-yes-to-following-their-dreams/news-story/a8d5ee11c1f02852eb44a35e4206a887