People of the OCQ: Ricky, Pam, and Maddy
From Struggle to Sizzle: The Passion Behind FLAMEZ CHICKEN in Nanaimo
When you walk into FLAMEZ CHICKEN, nestled on a busy corner in Nanaimo’s Old City Quarter, you’re greeted not just by the aroma of freshly breaded fried chicken, flamed grilled chicken and rich butter gravy, but by a story of resilience, passion, and community.
“We chose Nanaimo because we felt it needed more food options,” says co-owner Ricky, who, along with business partners Pam and Maddy, opened FLAMEZ CHICKEN in April 2025 after nearly two years of planning and renovations. “Three years ago, it was hard to find anything open past eight thirty in the evening. Now, we’re here to change that.”
Ricky brings 25 years of experience managing some international brands with extensive culinary experience. Maddy, the second partner and Executive Chef of FLAMEZ CHICKEN, brings exceptional culinary expertise to the team. At the same time, Pam – the third partner – brings valuable experience in IT and marketing. With their combined strengths, the three owners came together to found FLAMEZ CHICKEN.
FLAMEZ CHICKEN’s signature offering, fried chicken dipped in butter chicken sauce was a concept that started as a happy kitchen experiment. “It was so good, we thought, why not build a whole menu around it?” recalls Pam.
The journey wasn’t easy. Ricky’s previous restaurant in Langley was lost due to challenges during the pandemic. “I had to start over from scratch,” he says. But he turned adversity into action, pouring his experience into a new vision rooted in quality food, community, and job creation.
“We opened with a lineup at the door,” says Ricky. “That’s the magic of Nanaimo — people here support small businesses.”
FLAMEZ CHICKEN uses locally sourced, Halal-certified, hormone-free chicken and house-made sauces like Mango Lime and Flames Hot. “Everything is fresh. We marinate for 24 hours. That’s what sets us apart,” he says proudly.
Beyond the menu, what sets FLAMEZ apart is its heart. Built from the ground up – no investors, no franchise backing – the team is committed to giving back. That spirit will shine on June 14, during the grand opening celebration, with $1 drumsticks and all proceeds donated to the Nanaimo Child Development Centre. FLAMEZ CHICKEN will match every dollar raised.
FLAMEZ CHICKEN is on the corner of 299 Wallace Street and open every day from noon until 11pm or midnight.