NYC's Newest Viral Restaurant: Bird Box
If you've been scrolling through Instagram or TikTok lately, chances are you've come across Birdbox, the latest viral food sensation to hit New York City. Located near Times Square, Birdbox is the fried chicken spinoff of San Francisco's acclaimed Birdsong, a restaurant with two Michelin stars. The brainchild of chefs Christopher Bleidorn and Aarti Shetty, Birdbox has quickly become a must-visit for foodies and anyone addicted to their phone, thanks to its unique presentation and rave reviews. They're so popular that they are constantly selling out and posted this PSA to their customers (make sure to check them out on Instagram for the latest updates).
A Sandwich with a Claw
What sets Birdbox apart from the countless other chicken sandwich joints in NYC? The answer lies in the sandwich itself—specifically, the “Claude the Claw.” This standout dish is a fried chicken sandwich with a twist: it features a deboned thigh and drumstick combo, with a deep-fried claw protruding from the sandwich. The claw, which is more of a visual spectacle than an edible component, has become the sandwich’s signature feature, making it highly Instagrammable and a magnet for curious diners.
From San Francisco to Times Square
Birdbox’s journey to New York began in San Francisco, where the claw sandwich first took off during the pandemic. The idea came about when Birdsong had an excess of whole chickens, and chef Bleidorn decided to keep the claws on to create something different and that would catch people's attention. What started as a quirky idea quickly quickly became a social media hit– who wouldn't want to post a photo of their chicken sandwich with the claw still attached?
Now, Birdbox has finally made its way to NYC. Situated in the Backstage Food Hall near Times Square, Birdbox has made waves and has made the short list of must try spots from NYC food influencers this summer.