Former Louisville Restaurant Owner Launches Website to Recreate Favorite Dishes

Chef Jason McCollum announced on social media that he created a website to help people bring those flavors and dishes into their own kitchens.

The Asian-inspired comfort food restaurant, open since 2017, said rising food and operating costs led to the decision to close this weekend.

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — If you’re searching for new recipes to try at home, a former restaurant owner is offering a solution.

Chik’n & Mi, an Asian-inspired eatery located on Mellwood Avenue in Butchertown, closed on Feb. 28.

Now, fans can recreate some of their favorite dishes at home.

One of the former owners shared on social media that he launched a website to teach people how to make the restaurant’s signature flavors in their own kitchens.

“This is just the beginning,” Chef Jason McCollum said. “I’ll keep growing the site, adding more recipes, and improving things over time. It’s my way of keeping a little piece of what we built alive — and sharing it with anyone who wants to keep cooking.”

Currently, the site features recipes such as pan-roasted heirloom carrots, banana flower salad with red curry tofu dressing, and chicken or tofu lettuce wraps with Southeast Asian peanut sauce.

In a heartfelt Instagram post, owners Jason and Aenith McCollum said ongoing challenges over the past several years led to the closure.

“Skyrocketing food cost, inflated operational expenses, and the lasting financial impact of the pandemic has placed a strain on independent operators like us,” they said.

Chik’n & Mi opened in 2017 with a mission to make affordable dining special and highlight what independent restaurants bring to Louisville. The owners emphasized a culture of inclusivity, describing the business as “more than just a restaurant.”

Chik’n & Mi won the Best of Louisville award in 2025 for Best Fried Chicken.