Knott’s Berry Farm is cooking up something special this summer, and it comes with a side of mischief.
Coming to the heart of the park, Crafty’s Kitchen is a brand-new chicken and fries destination inspired by none other than Crafty Coyote from Knott’s Bear-y Tales. Yes, that Crafty. The notorious pie thief has officially gone legit, trading sneaky heists for clever comfort food. The new eatery will replace Johnny Rockets, with transformation work beginning April 15, just after the Boysenberry Festival wraps up.
Located in Charleston Circle on Memory Lane, directly across from the iconic fountain, Crafty’s Kitchen is set to become a central hub for guests looking to refuel between rides and nostalgia-fueled strolls through the park. Knott’s is leaning fully into its storytelling roots here, blending food, characters, and history into one cohesive experience.
The menu is where things really get interesting. Guests can expect Knott’s classics like chicken and boysenberry, but reimagined in playful and unexpected ways. Think plump chicken tenders, crispy wings, a twist on chicken and biscuits, and a lineup of sassy pup sauces designed to add just the right amount of kick. Fresh-cut fries will be available either simply salted or fully loaded, joined by homemade pickles and other crave-worthy sides. There will also be alternative chicken options, making sure everyone can get in on Crafty’s culinary comeback.
And because this is Knott’s Berry Farm, dessert is non-negotiable. Crafty’s Kitchen will serve boysenberry pie shakes made from pies baked fresh daily. Not stolen. That part of Crafty’s life is officially behind him.
The story continues inside the space itself. According to Knott’s lore, Crafty’s Kitchen is housed in the long-shuttered factory cafeteria of the Knott’s Beary Factory. Crafty has taken over and decorated the space with relics from his outlaw days alongside blueprints and ideas for his new fryer-focused inventions. Expect playful mug shots, wanted posters, and whimsical details that feel straight out of Bear-y Tales, all mixed with a fresh and contemporary design.
Raffi Kaprelyan, Vice President and General Manager of Knott’s Berry Farm, summed it up perfectly when he shared that reimagining the space was an opportunity to pull directly from the park’s legendary characters and immersive storytelling. Crafty’s Kitchen isn’t just a new restaurant, it’s a continuation of a story many guests already know and love.
With its nostalgic self-service line, crew members sporting Crafty Coyote hats, and a menu that leans into both comfort and creativity, Crafty’s Kitchen is shaping up to be more than just a place to eat. It’s a flavorful chapter in Knott’s ongoing tradition of blending food, fun, and folklore.
Mischief included. Flavor guaranteed.