Damien Randell at his new stand in the Broad Street Market
Damien’s Fried Chicken is only on its second day open in the Broad Street Market, but owner Damien Randell said he’s already getting requests.
“I’m like the chicken DJ,” he said jokingly.
At his stand in the stone market building, Randell fries wings, breasts, drumsticks, gizzards and livers, and makes fresh cut fries too.
The menu is intentionally simple to start, as he gets his footing with the new business, but he plans to add more. Several customers have already put their votes in for potato salad, he said.
Randell most recently managed a local Restaurant Depot and has had businesses in the past, but this is his first in the food industry. While working at the Restaurant Depot, Randell said he got to know several market vendors, who encouraged him to consider starting a business in the market.
Randell had visited the market when he used to make the trip to Harrisburg from Reading to visit family when he was young. The diversity of vendors and customers stood out to him, he said. He also said he sees the “potential” of the market and believes that he arrived at the perfect time, as the fire-burned brick building is being restored.
So far, he said his debut in the market has been welcomed.
“It’s been nothing but love,” he said. “Everybody’s been so helpful.”
And while he’s new to owning a restaurant, Randell is seasoned in the kitchen. Having five kids has made him a chef, he explained. Cooking even helped him form a special connection with his daughter, who he would watch cooking shows with.
For the chicken he serves up hot to hungry market customers, Randell uses a “secret spice.” He wouldn’t give up the secret, but said you’ll have to come try his chicken and taste it.
“I just want to bring the community together through some fried chicken,” he said.
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