Paddington’s in a flap over fried chicken, and this is definitely not your average bird. Brisbane’s first Nashville-style chicken joint, Winner Winner, has landed on Given Terrace, taking over the quaint worker’s cottage that was formerly home to Ruby Cafe.

Just what sets it apart from other birds in the coop? For starters, that crunch. To achieve a crisp, golden coating each piece is double-breaded for maximum crunch. The second major difference is the spice, with three levels to choose from: original – some heat; medium – you know it’s spicy; and – yes we mean hot.

Don’t bother trying to get the exact recipe out of owners Luke Stringer and Ashleigh Bates – they’re as tight-lipped as Colonel Sanders on the subject. Typically, Nashville-style chicken requires copious amounts of cayenne pepper before being fried to crisp, fiery perfection.

“The original, while being mild, will still have good spice to it, more of a sweet paprika flavour, and the hot will definitely pack a punch,” Stringer says. There’ll be a range of cuts including tenders, drumsticks, thighs, wings plus a burger. Sides include mash with butter, crinkle-cut fries, zesty slaw, corn on the cob and pickles. For dessert there’s an old-school sundae with vanilla ice cream.

Stringer is quick to point out they’re definitely not trying to be a restaurant. “It’s a step up from fast food, a fun, casual spot to eat some great chicken, have a few beers and listen to some cool tunes,” he says.

Taps will feature local beers like Green Beacon and Stone & Wood, and there’ll be a short, sharp list of wine, all available by the glass.

The two-storey Queenslander has had a fresh black-and-white facelift and the distinctive neon-lit Winner Winner logo now adorns the main wall. The bi-fold windows remain, offering suburban views, and downstairs is a second dining room with a big communal table, ideal for functions. Not only a winner at dinner, it’s also a winner for lunch.