When you step into Chick & Hawk in Leucadia, Encinitas, you’re not just ordering a fried chicken sandwich, you’re stepping into a story. This restaurant was born from the unlikely but perfect pairing of Tony Hawk, the world’s most iconic skateboarder, and Andrew Bachelier, a celebrated chef known for his inventive, coastal‑inspired cuisine. Together, they created a space where fine dining meets skate culture, and where every bite carries the energy of Encinitas’ surf and skate history.
The Origin Story: Tony Hawk Meets Andrew Bachelier
Tony Hawk grew up skating the streets of North County, while Andrew Bachelier built his reputation in kitchens across San Diego. Their friendship sparked over a shared love of fried chicken and 90s nostalgia. The result? Chick & Hawk, a restaurant that blends pasture‑raised chicken, scratch‑made sauces, and bold flavors with the playful spirit of skateboarding.
Signature dishes like The Birdman! sandwich (hot fried chicken, kimchi “comeback sauce,” tangy slaw, and spicy pickles on a potato brioche bun) nod to Hawk’s legendary career while showcasing Bachelier’s culinary creativity. Spice levels—360, 720, and 900—are a wink to skate tricks, making the menu as fun as it is flavorful.
Why Leucadia?
Nestled in Leucadia, Encinitas, Chick & Hawk pays homage to a neighborhood known for its hidden beaches, funky shops, and artistic vibe. Leucadia’s history is rich with surf culture and countercultural roots, making it the perfect home for a restaurant that celebrates individuality and creativity. Just blocks from the ocean, Chick & Hawk embodies the laid‑back yet adventurous spirit of this coastal enclave.
Menu Highlights That Tell a Story
- Local Tuna Tataki – Blackened tuna with carrot‑orange ginger vinaigrette, a nod to coastal freshness.
- Maitake Bo Ssam – Tempura mushrooms with pickled carrot and peanut sauce, showcasing plant‑forward innovation.
- Bones Brigade Cocktail – Bourbon, huckleberry, sarsaparilla, pineapple, and spruce, named after Hawk’s legendary skate crew.
- Japan Air Cocktail – Japanese gin, pickled ginger, shiso, citrus, soda. An homage to skate tricks and global flavors.
Every dish reflects their mantra: ingredients matter. Hormone‑free chicken, non‑GMO oils, and house‑made sauces ensure quality you can taste.
Hours of Operation
Plan your visit to Chick & Hawk:
- Wednesday–Thursday: 11:30 AM – 8:00 PM
- Friday–Saturday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:30 AM – 8:00 PM
- Closed Monday & Tuesday
Swag: Wear the Culture
The Chick & Hawk experience doesn’t end with food. Their swag shop lets you take home the vibe with hoodies, trucker hats, graffiti totes, and oversized tees. Each piece reflects the skate‑meets‑culinary ethos, perfect for locals and visitors who want to rep Encinitas style.
Final Thoughts
Chick & Hawk is more than a restaurant! It’s a story of friendship, creativity, and community. From Tony Hawk’s skateboarding legacy to Andrew Bachelier’s culinary artistry, every detail celebrates Leucadia’s coastal culture. Whether you’re biting into the Birdman sandwich, sipping a Bones Brigade cocktail, or rocking a Chick & Hawk hoodie, you’re part of a movement that blends food, fun, and nostalgia in the heart of Encinitas.