Get to know the people behind your favourite places & spaces in downtown Burlington! We’ll be introducing you to new owners & businesses throughout the year!

Meet Tala (and Osama), two of the the faces behind the family-owned shawarma restaurant in Burlington Downtown, Chickenista!

1. Tell us a little bit about your restaurant – what is Chickenista all about?

Chickenista is a proud Canadian-owned and operated, family restaurant in Burlington Downtown. Our business was built on serving our community with freshly prepared meals every day. From our signature shawarma and crispy fried chicken, to vegetarian favorites like falafel and hummus, we are passionate about catering to everyone.

We took our time to perfect our special fried chicken and tender recipes, which have quickly become one of the city’s favorite flavors. Every dish reflects our love for food, family, and community, making Chickenista a place where everyone feels welcomed and satisfied.

2. You’re a family-run business – mom, dad, daughter and son – what is the best part about working together?

The best part of being a family-run business — with mom, dad, daughter, and son all involved, is that everything we do comes from the heart. We share the same passion for food and the same goal of serving our community with care. Working side by side allows us to support each other, celebrate our successes together, and bring our family values into the restaurant.

Every recipe we create and every plate we serve is a reflection of who we are as a family, and that connection makes Chickenista feel less like a business and more like a welcoming home for our guests

3. Why did you choose Burlington Downtown to open your new location?

Burlington is our beloved city… it’s home. We wanted to grow our business in the heart of the community we love, surrounded by the people and places that inspire us every day. And Burlington Downtown gives us the chance to share our food with neighbors, friends, and families who make this city so special.

4. What downtown businesses do you frequent and do business with?

Banks (NMO, RBC, Shopping (Nofrills), Coffee shops (Tim Hortons).

5. What are your top three favorite items on the menu? (And yes, we understand it’s a challenge, after all, they all look delicious!)

Fried chicken meals, tenders meals, and the shawarma bowls!

6. Will you ever give out your secret recipe for the best chicken in Burlington? 

Not at the moment… however, we are actively developing our franchising concept! The vision is to provide partners with our menu items and special recipes to ensure the same great Chickenista experience everywhere!