The Fried Chicken and Taco Collab That Might Break The Internet

Doug Stephen has been a busy fella these last few weeks. First it was joining forces, Wonder Twins-style with the enigmatic (and pretty awesome) new spot Pizza Coming Soon to create a DL Chicken Katsu Sandwich. Then he went up Main to the culinary high wire act that is Published on Main to join forces, Lethal Weapon-style, with chef Gus Stiefenhoffer Brandson to craft The Downlow Hot Schnitzel Sandwich (see below).Then back to Commercial to team with the Pepino’s gang, Hall and Oates-style, to resurrect the DL Hot Chicken Pizza.

And now, this morning, an effort which sounds like it might be the best 4th chapter since Rocky beat the crap out of Ivan Drago. The Queso-Hot Chicken Taco, available this Tuesday. Holy hell. People have been sorta losing their mind for Top Rope’s Birria tacos for the past few months—so much so that I half think many Vancouverites think that the Birria taco is their invention (it’s not, but that doesn’t mean they don’t kill it). The full details are below…you might want to start lining up now.

Vancouver, BC, April 9, 2021 – Vancouver’s OG spot for Nashville Hot Chicken, DL Chicken Shack, and Vancouver’s OG destination for authentic Birria tacos, Top Rope Birria, have teamed up for an off-the-charts indulgent-worthy creation – the Quesa-Hot Chicken Taco. Available on Tuesday, April 13, 2021 at The American (926 Main Street) for take-out or on the patio (weather permitting), guests can order on a first come, first serve basis, or pre-order a six-pack. The Quesa-Hot Chicken Taco features Top Rope Birria’s tortilla and Mexican cheese blend with a DL Hot Chicken tender, pickled red onions, cilantro, and served with a side of smoked chicken ‘consommé’ for dipping. A cheese skirt add-on is optional, though recommended. “I’m a huge fan of Top Rope and so stoked about this collaboration,” says Doug Stephen, co-owner of DL Chicken Shack. “I got a chance to try my first Birria a couple months ago and was blown away. I finished mine in a matter of minutes. Kevin McKenzie and I got chatting. We brainstormed for a few weeks, and the result is our Quesa-Hot Chicken Taco.” Both Top Rope’s original QuesaBirria and the Quesa-Hot Chicken Taco will be on the menu, available on six-inch tortillas. They are $8 for a single, $15 for a double, or $45 for the special, limited-edition six-pack. “The support for Top Rope has been incredible, and it’s been great seeing so many people from the hospitality industry giving us a try,” adds Kevin McKenzie, owner of Top Rope. “We love what Doug and Lindsey are doing over at DL, and couldn’t be happier to work with them.” Birria tacos are a traditional Mexican dish, usually made with succulent, tender goat meat, beef, lamb, or pork, filled inside fresh, corn tortillas. It is fried until crispy and enjoyed with a dipping broth. Fans can get their hands on the tacos starting at 12 p.m. on Tuesday, April 13, 2021 at The American.