News The First Chain Food Festival, Hosting Chili's, Panda Express, and Pizza Hut, Is Coming to Los Angeles And it's all thanks to B.J. Novak. By Stacey Leasca Published on October 18, 2023 Photo: Courtesy of Chain Can’t get enough Panda Express, Pizza Hut, and Red Robin in your life? Then, it’s time to book your flights to Los Angeles for the first-ever food festival dedicated to chain restaurants. Chain, a pop-up series co-founded by B.J. Novak, LA chef Tim Hollingsworth, and a few of their friends, is already dedicated to creating one-of-a-kind homages to childhood favorite chains. But now, it’s taking things a step further with Chainfest, a two-day event honoring their favorite chain restaurants. “I love chain food,” Novak shared in a statement provided to Food & Wine. “It’s as worthy of celebration as any other type of cuisine, and it’s high time it got the respect it deserves." You Are Not Too Good to Eat at a Chain Restaurant The festival will take place on December 1 and 2 at Nya Studios in Hollywood, California, and will include bites from Chili’s Grill and Bar, Dunkin’, Jack in the Box, Panda Express, Pizza Hut, Red Robin, and SONIC Drive-In, with soft drinks by Pepsi and specialty cocktails from Guinness, Smirnoff, Crown Royal, and Captain Morgan. Can’t get to every booth? Guests can use Postmates to get on-site delivery. And every single bite is included in the $75 cost of entry. Courtesy of Chain Though the foods may feel familiar, Chainfest is offering something special. As part of the event, Hollingsworth will put his spin on the classic dishes from each participating restaurant for meals you can only ever experience here. “Chain is a reflection of my background as a chef, working at those one-of-a-kind Michelin restaurants around the world while always cherishing the chain restaurants that I grew up going to,” Hollingsworth said. “It’s a pursuit of excellence through a reimagining of the iconic, easy-eating dishes that everyone loves.” Those who want to attend the festival or stay up to date on which brands are taking part can stay informed at EatatChain.com. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit