In a crowded entertainment landscape, Chicken N Pickle has carved out a distinct niche by harnessing the unstoppable rise of pickleball. This burgeoning indoor-outdoor eatertainment concept with 10 locations and counting has built a loyal following and nationwide expansion by blending pickleball’s community-driven appeal with a focus on chef-inspired food, vibrant social spaces and an inclusive, backyard-style atmosphere.
Here, discover how Chicken N Pickle is redefining the intersection of sports and hospitality, offering guests more than just a game but also a place where connections happen and memories are made.
A Fresh Vision Inspired by Community
The story of Chicken N Pickle begins not on a pickleball court but rather with a spark of inspiration to build a space where people could gather, connect and enjoy time together. Founder Dave Johnson originally envisioned a golf entertainment concept inspired by Topgolf, but a trip to Arizona in 2015 changed everything. There, he discovered pickleball.
“Every time he passed by the courts, they were packed,” recalled Kelli Alldredge, the president of Chicken N Pickle. As such, Johnson quickly abandoned the golf concept and set his sights on building a pickleball venue, envisioning a place that combined his love for food, sports and community. By 2016, the first Chicken N Pickle location opened in Kansas City, and the rest is history.
Today, with an 11th location opening on November 19, 2024, Chicken N Pickle has grown into much more than a pickleball venue — it’s a destination for memorable experiences, where pickleball is just the start.
The Heartbeat of Success: Food, Events and Inclusivity
Unlike many businesses that focus solely on the main attraction, Chicken N Pickle has thrived by making its model far more comprehensive. With chef-driven kitchens and bars that cater to a wide audience, Chicken N Pickle brings in guests for a multitude of reasons, including team outings, charity events and family gatherings. “It’s not just our pickleball that has funded our fast growth,” explained Alldredge. “It’s also the events, our incredible food and the vibrant bar.”
Each location features a “cool backyard” vibe, where people can feel at home, arriving in anything from pajamas to business attire. Chicken N Pickle is also careful in keeping technology at bay where possible, preferring human interaction over touchscreens. The simplicity of this approach creates a comforting space for visitors to relax and engage.
Growing Stronger Through the Pandemic
When the pandemic brought uncertainty, Chicken N Pickle faced a critical moment. Pickleball was becoming the fastest-growing sport in the U.S., and Chicken N Pickle saw an opportunity. Recognizing that their indoor-outdoor design could offer safe, socially-distanced recreation, the company opened three new locations while many others were pulling back. This bold expansion marked a turning point, establishing the brand as a resilient leader in the eatertainment industry and reinforcing the value of community-oriented spaces.
Keys to Sustainable Growth: Fun, Simplicity and Collaboration
As pickleball’s popularity surged, so did the demand for pickleball venues. But as Alldredge points out, building a successful pickleball complex isn’t as simple as it seems. “People think, ‘I’m going to build pickleball courts and open a restaurant,’ but it’s not as easy as it looks,” she said. She emphasized that businesses must prioritize fun, simplicity and community connection.
Chicken N Pickle’s formula is straightforward: keep it simple, keep it fun and make sure guests feel like they belong. With a special focus on making pickleball accessible to newcomers, the brand offers “newbie nights,” and caters to what they call the “party of one,” allowing solo players to join without needing a full group. This focus on inclusivity has earned them a strong reputation and customer loyalty, ensuring that anyone, regardless of experience level, can have a great time.
On the Horizon: Expanding the Backyard
Looking ahead, Chicken N Pickle’s growth shows no signs of slowing. With new locations planned across Texas, Colorado, Indiana and Nebraska, the brand aims to extend its unique brand of hospitality across the U.S., bringing people together through pickleball and unforgettable experiences. “Our goal is to get to as many communities as we can, because we really do feel like we brighten communities,” said Alldredge.
Chicken N Pickle stands as a model of how a well-rounded concept, rooted in community values, can transform the entertainment and sports landscape. With each new location, Chicken N Pickle continues to spread its message: whether you come for the pickleball, the food or just a good time, you’re always welcome here.
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With over a decade spent covering the business side of sports and fitness, Rachel Chonko brings a wealth of experience and a true passion for active communities to Peake Media. As Editor-in-Chief, she’s focused on helping pickleball clubs and fitness facilities thrive, from guiding growth strategies to showcasing the latest industry trends. Rachel also hosts the Club Solutions Magazine Podcast, where she interviews leaders in fitness and pickleball to share insights and success stories with the wider community to give her listeners a competitive edge.
After taking up pickleball herself, Rachel has come to appreciate the sport’s unique blend of social connection and active living — a mix that’s perfectly in line with her editorial philosophy. Connect with her on LinkedIn, or check out her articles below for a deep dive into the energy and culture driving pickleball’s rapid rise.
