The Finn, the chef-driven destination inside the Jones on Main building downtown, is home to Hot Peckers, the hot chicken concept from the team behind Fire Noodz. Hot Peckers serves hot chicken plates, sandwiches, and comfort dishes with six spice levels, ranging from no heat to the signature Peckin Fire. One of its most talked-about menu items is the Mac Daddy Sandwich, a build that brings several house-made ingredients together in one delicious, customizable, filling, and fun sandwich. hotpeckers.com
The Chicken
One of the highlights of the Mac Daddy Sandwich is the hot chicken itself. According to Mark Tiu, co-founder and chef at Hot Peckers, “Our hot chicken is made with boneless chicken thigh, brined in-house to keep it extra juicy.” The chicken goes through a layered breading process that includes dry batter, wet batter, and then a second dry batter seasoned in-house. “The chicken is double-fried, first low, then hot, creating a crisp, crackly exterior that gives way to tender, flavorful meat,” Tiu says. Guests choose their own spice level, from mild to “our signature Peckin Fire, a slow-building, mouth-tingling heat made for true spice lovers.”
The Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese is built directly into the sandwich, not treated as an afterthought. “Our mac and cheese is made in-house, starting with a combination of several cheeses melted down and seasoned with our house spice blend,” Tiu says. The decision to add it to the sandwich was very intentional. “It brings a rich, creamy contrast that softens the heat of the hot chicken while adding another layer of comfort and indulgence.” The result is an ingredient that evens out the spice rather than competing with it.
The Toppings
The Mac Daddy Sandwich features toppings that let guests customize each bite. “We serve our sassy slaw on the side so guests can choose how much to add,” Tiu explains. The slaw is slightly creamy with enough tang to cut through the heat. Sweet bread-and-butter pickle chips add acidity and sweetness. “Together, the slaw and pickles keep the sandwich indulgent yet balanced,” Tiu says.
The Bun
Holding everything together is a Martin’s Famous Potato Roll slider bun. “They’re soft, slightly sweet, and sturdy enough to hold everything together without getting in the way of the flavors,” Tiu says. “Why fix something that isn’t broken?”