“Winner winner, chicken dinner!” When I think of dinner, I usually need a filling meal. That typically means lots of meat, veggies, and carbs. Although I have much admiration for vegetarians and vegans, I feel like I still need my meats. Whether it’s steak, pork, lamb, or, of course, chicken, I need a hearty protein to make me feel completely satisfied. Speaking of chicken, this week, we’re heading to The Koop for some KFC!
Now, by “KFC”, I mean Korean fried chicken, not the kind from Kentucky. In Korea, they took inspiration from classic fried chicken but added their own Asian touches to fit the Asian tastes. KFC has become popularized in the states for a while now as many chains from Korea have opened up. Some well-known chains include BBQ Chicken, KyoChon, BHC, and Nene Chicken. Most KFC spots are similar to American fried chicken, except that it is often lighter and paired with sauces, like soy sauce or gochujang. Additionally, many KFC spots serve primarily wings and drums. Overall, KFC is the perfect combination of western styles of chicken with Asian flavors.
The Koop is the perfect spot for some KFC as well as other Korean dishes. Furthermore, The Koop has interesting roots in the State College area. It’s located right on Locust Lane, which connects to the Atherton Hall driveway, so it’s super close to “Athertonians”. Before being “The Koop”, the KFC spot was actually called “Waker Chicken“, which is why the website is still under that URL. I actually first went to The Koop when it was under its previous name a few years ago with my siblings, who were friends with the owners’ daughter.
When you go into The Koop, it is just a few small rooms with a counter in the front. For the most part, the inside isn’t the most appealing or aesthetic,
but the food is worth it. Their menu is packed with yummy options. Personally, I recommend their chicken with either the spicy soy garlic sauce or the sweet & spicy sauce. However, all of the sauces go great with the chicken. Also, make sure to order it with the pickled radish. I’m absolutely obsessed with it, and it serves as the perfect palate cleanser. The chicken comes out hot and crispy with the mouthwatering sauce completely coating it for a delectable dinner.
Moreover, The Koop also serves traditional Korean dishes, such as bulgogi (marinated beef), ddukbokki (chewy rice cakes), and kimchi jiggae (spicy stew). If you are new to Korean food, I would say that The Koop is an awesome place to get a first taste of the delicious cuisine in the State College area.
Whenever you’re craving some quality chicken or looking to expand your palate, look no further than The Koop, serving up some spicy dishes.
What is your favorite protein?
-Rachel
The Koop- 129 Locust Ln, State College, PA 16801
I’ve never tried this place but I’ve passed by it so many times. I used to love bulgogi! That’s about the only food I recognize off this post though. Now chicken is about the only meat I eat so this place is perfect for me. The part about the place not being that aesthetic is fine to me–sometimes the best food is the kind you can pick up and then eat outside! I’m glad they changed the name to the Koop–it sounds so much more cozy than Waker Chicken.
I have never heard of Koop before but it sounds yummy! I have never had the opportunity to try Korean food, but KFC sounds really good. Especially with it being so close, I will have to try it out soon!
I had the Koop for the first time last semester, and I absolutely fell in love with it. I ordered the Bibimbap, which was a perfect blend of rice, meats and veggies. The combination filled me up, but still made me feel refreshed because of the greens. The Koop is definitely not a fine-dining restaurant, but it is cozy. Also, you can draw on the walls, thus you can personalize your experience and make a mark on the eatery. Your blog makes me want to go back!
Wow, your post has made me really hungry once again! I had no idea that The Koop existed, but from the dishes you described, I may have to go there tonight! I have had some Korean cuisine in my life, but I am by no means an expert. I am definitely not a huge fan of spicy food, so is their food spicy? I would probably try it anyway, but I would like to be prepared for the spiciness 🙂
Hi Jack,
So happy to hear about your experiences with Korean cuisine. I would say that a lot of dishes tend to pack a punch, but you can always ask them to limit the spiciness. Also, dishes like bulgogi and soy garlic chicken are perfect for you if you just want some yummy Korean food.
I’ve tried Korean food only a handful of times and I haven’t explored many restaurants in the State College area yet, so this sounds perfect! I checked out the menu you linked, and I think I will definitely be stopping by before we leave in May. I always love trying new foods, however I tend to stick with chicken wherever I go.
Hey Rachel! I’ve never tried Korean food before but after reading this blog post, I am really eager to try it. I wanted to try something new in State College but don’t know much places to visit. The Koop sounds like a perfect place to explore!
Oh my goodness Korean fried chicken is absolutely huge where I live. There are a lot of Asians but most of the population is aware and are fans of KFC. I a Korean myself have had chicken very often. But it is very ironic because I don’t like KFC. But I really am glad that people are able to enjoy one of the most popular fast foods in Asian countries!
The last time I tried to try Korean BBQ, there was a two hour wait for a table for two. I haven’t made the effort to try the Koop, always coming up with some excuse of another, but your post certainly has me rethinking my decisions.