Chef José Garzón is more than just a culinary master; he’s a storyteller whose dishes weave tales of culture, tradition, and personal history. As the concept generator of Garzon, Chifa Baby, Lola Supperclub, and, now, Bad Chancla on E Olive Way below The Reef pot shop, Garzón’s journey from musician to well loved chef is a testament to his passion for food and community.

Having played in bands from Sunset Lily to MxPx, Garzón has traveled around the world playing music and eating street food. Each of Chef Garzón’s culinary ventures offers a unique dining experience that reflects his diverse background and culinary influences. From his celebration of Latin American street food to Lola Supperclub’s homage to his beloved caretaker in Ecuador, Garzón’s menus are a fusion of flavors and narratives.
Joining with other local chefs, Garzon is hoping to be a part of the change in Seattle’s kitchen culture “the kitchen scene or whatever you want to call it. It’s so different these days. And a lot of people will tell you, it’s bad, but I think it’s great. It’s growing and it’s healthier. You know, chefs and management now care about days off. We care about your well being.”
CHS reported here late last year on Garzon’s plans for the small E Olive Way walk-up and takeout joint formerly home to La Rue Creperie. The Bad Chancla name evokes the power of a flip-flop in Latin cultures where mom or grandma might wield a sandal as a disciplinary weapon.

When it comes to food he grew up with and still eats, Garzon’s tastes are expansive. “Chifa Baby is a pop-up that centers on Chinese Taiwanese Latin American food,” Garzón explains. “There’s a big culture of Chinese food in South America. And I grew up eating a ton of that.”

The new Bad Chancla, nestled along E Olive Way’s strip of neighborhood bars and eateries on Capitol Hill, has quickly become a local favorite. Bad Chancla’s sandwiches and bowls are now feeding locals and tourists alike, with breakfast options including three sandwiches and two rice bowls now offered on the menu and later opening hours coming in the future.

Thanks to his friendship with the owners of La Rue, he was at the top of the list for possible replacement tenants. And despite facing initial challenges like Google Maps discrepancies and establishing an online presence, Chef Garzón remains optimistic about Bad Chancla’s future. “We’re stoked to be in the neighborhood,” he said. “We’re new in the neighborhood, and we want to meet everyone.”

Bad Chancla’s menu is simple but bursting with flavor and authenticity. “We offer three different sandwiches, breakfast wraps, savory rice bowls, and sides like chips and soda. It’s all about bringing the flavors of Latin America to the table in a delicious and accessible way,” Garzón says.

As Bad Chancla continues to carve out its place in E Olive Way’s food and drink landscape, Garzón invites neighbors and visitors alike to experience the vibrant flavors and stories of Latin America. “Please come and see us and let us tell stories through food,” he says.

Bad Chancla is now open at 1525 E Olive. Learn more at garzonpnw.com/bad-chancla.

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