Today we’d like to introduce you to Andrew Scala.
Hi Andrew, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
JAM Hot Chicken began during one of the most uncertain times — the pandemic.
When Andrew was furloughed, what could have been a setback became an
opportunity to be inspired and finally chase a dream: creating something bold,
flavorful, and entirely his own. What started as a curbside service quickly gained
traction, as people lined up for a taste of Nashville-style heat paired with Orlando
soul.
That momentum turned into a series of pop-ups across the city, where word
spread fast and the love for our hot chicken grew even faster. Each event proved
that this wasn’t just a side project — it was the beginning of something bigger. In
December 2021, that dream became a reality when we opened our first brick-and-
mortar location in Hannibal Square. From day one, our goal has been simple: serve
the city’s best hot chicken while creating an atmosphere that feels like home.
Today, JAM Hot Chicken is more than a restaurant — it’s a community hub where
people gather for flavor, music, and culture. What began curbside has grown into a
lasting part of Orlando’s food scene, and we’re just getting started.
Mission Statement
JAM Hot Chicken exists to serve bold, crave-worthy hot chicken while bringing
people together through good vibes, good music, and real connection. Our mission
is simple: Hot Chicken, Jams, and Culture.
JAM HOT CHICKEN TIMELINE & KEY DATES
2019 – Concept launches as a pop-up.
Chef Andrew Scala starts JAM Hot Chicken while working at Orlando’s Pizza Bruno; he
develops the sandwich with his brother Justin Scala and begins serving at pop-ups. the32789
2020 – Pandemic disruption.
Scala is furloughed during COVID-19 but continues building the JAM concept born from
LA/Nashville hot-chicken inspiration. the32789
June 8–14, 2021 – Brick-and-mortar announced.
JAM confirms it’s taking over 400 W. New England Ave., Winter Park (Hannibal
Square)—the former Sausage Shack space. WhatNowBungalowerWKMG
Sept 7, 2021 – Founder profile & build-out underway.
Local coverage profiles owner Andrew Scala as the pop-up transitions to a permanent shop.
WKMG
Dec 7–11, 2021 – Soft opening (first service to the public).
JAM Hot Chicken begins limited-menu service at the new storefront; opening day is Tuesday,
Dec 7, 2021. the32789BungalowerOrlando WeeklyWKMG
Early 2022 – “Opened in late 2021.”
Follow-up coverage and reviews note the restaurant’s late-2021 opening and walk-up window
format at the Winter Park address. The Saboscrivner
Early 2022 – Regular Service Established
● By early 2022, the restaurant was operating with a walk-up window and regular hours,
building a loyal local following WanderlogRestaurantjiJam Hot Chicken.
2024 – Chef Pop-Up & Charity Collaboration
● In summer 2024, chef-owner Andrew Scala joined Superica’s Guest Chef Pop-up
Series, showcasing a special menu item in support of local charities the32789.
January 11, 2025 – 3-Year Anniversary “JamFest 3”
● JAM Hot Chicken celebrated its 3-year anniversary with “JamFest 3”—a community
event featuring live music, collaborators like Smoke Made Meats, special menu
additions (hot smoked beef ribs, wings, breakfast selections), and other vendors like
Qreate Coffee and Players Only vintage apparel Bungalower.
Mid-2025 – Continued Popularity
● JAM continues to draw strong customer reviews, with platforms like Restaurantji showing
a 4.7–4.8 star rating from hundreds of reviewers; signature items like the chicken
sandwich, tenders, slips, and chicken-and-waffle combos remain customer favorites
Restaurantji+1Chamber of CommerceWanderlog.
● JAM Hot Chicken wins Runner-Up in Orlando Weekly’s Best Of 2025: Fried Chicken
(behind Publix!)
● JAM Hot Chicken remains above 4.7 stars on Google with over 400 reviews!
● Operating hours remain consistent: closed Mondays, open Tuesday through Sunday
with varying hours, including extended weekend times Jam Hot
ChickenRestaurantjiWanderlogChamber of Commerce.
● Locals continue to rave about the food:
“Jam hot is sooo good but you gotta be careful of the spice lol the fries are also 🤯”
Reddit
“Worth every penny!” Reddit
“Jam Hot is where it’s at.” Reddit
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Expanding into a second location has definitely come with its share of challenges. One of the biggest hurdles is figuring out how to replicate what made our first location so successful, while also staying true to our brand as a whole. That means everything from hiring the right team, to trusting new people to help operate the business, to making sure we choose the right space.
Because we started small, every step of growth has been a first-time experience—whether it’s construction, staffing, menu decisions, or even signage. With the second location, the timeline has been MUCH tighter than when we opened the first, so we’ve had to move quickly while still paying attention to every detail. At the end of the day, that’s been the greatest challenge: balancing the need for speed with the need for quality, making sure nothing gets lost in the rush of expansion.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
JAM Hot Chicken started with a simple idea: bring authentic, Nashville & LA inspired style hot chicken to Central Florida in a way that feels bold, approachable, and fun. We’re known for our spice levels that go from easygoing to melt-your-face, but more than that, we’re known for creating an experience. Whether it’s your first time trying hot chicken or you’re a spice veteran, we want every guest to feel like they’re part of the JAM family.
What sets us apart is our commitment to consistency and culture. We’re not just serving food, we’re building a brand that celebrates community, creativity, music, and hospitality. From our carefully sourced ingredients to our signature sauces, to our award winning brand design we put thought into every detail.
I’m most proud of how far we’ve come as a team. We started small, with one location and a dream, and we’ve been able to grow while staying true to who we are. Now, as we expand into our second location, our goal is to continue raising the bar…not only for flavor, but for the way we show up for our guests, our staff, and our community.
At the end of the day, JAM Hot Chicken isn’t just about the food, it’s about energy, culture, and creating those ‘you have to try this’ moments people remember.”
What do you like and dislike about the city?
Orlando is an amazing place — it’s been my home for almost my entire life. What I love most is how diverse and inclusive the city is. The food and entertainment scenes are constantly growing, and being so connected to both industries, it’s been incredible to watch that evolution firsthand. There’s a real energy here that makes you proud to be part of it.
If I had to pick something I like least, it’s probably how busy the city has gotten. Traffic and getting from point A to point B can be a challenge. But honestly, that just comes with growth, and overall, there’s not much negative to say about a city that’s given me so much.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jamhotchickenfl.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamhotchicken/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JAMhotchicken/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@jamhotchicken/shorts
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/jam-hot-chicken-winter-park
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0sFWT4xOrhSX8pcmX3jiLv?si=4boqNbewQFqquTgg_J0oiw&nd=1&dlsi=cd5aef5c82d74474
Image Credits
Raditya Narendasuta, Uber Eats (hero shot)
