BUENA PARK, Calif. — Knott’s Berry Farm has announced Crafty’s Kitchen, a brand new dining experience coming to Charleston Circle in Summer 2026. The new restaurant will replace the current Johnny Rockets location, transforming into a chicken-focused eatery with a playful backstory tied to one of the park’s most mischievous characters.
What is Crafty’s Kitchen?
Crafty’s Kitchen draws its inspiration from Crafty Coyote, the notorious pie thief from the beloved Knott’s Bear-y Tales: Return to the Fair dark ride. According to park lore, the crafty canine has hung up his outlaw ways and reinvented himself as a restaurateur — though a hint of mischief still lingers in his quirky culinary creations.
The restaurant will be located in what the story describes as the previously shuttered cafeteria of the Beary Factory. Guests can expect walls lined with playful mug shots, wanted posters, and blueprints for Crafty’s wacky fryer inventions, blending Knott’s Berry Farm nostalgia with a fresh, contemporary vibe.
The Menu
Crafty’s Kitchen will feature a self-service line where crew members in Crafty Coyote hats will serve up:
- Plump, juicy chicken tenders
- Crispy wings
- A take on chicken and biscuits
- Fresh-cut fries — available salted or loaded
- Homemade pickles
- A variety of “sassy pup sauces”
Alternative chicken options will be available for guests with dietary preferences. And for dessert? Boysenberry pie shakes made from pies baked fresh daily — not stolen, of course!
Timeline
The transformation begins April 15, 2026, right after the conclusion of the popular annual Boysenberry Festival. The new restaurant is expected to open in Summer 2026.
“Knott’s Berry Farm guests have long enjoyed the unique and immersive experiences found throughout the park. So, when we looked to reimagine the food and beverage space from its current concept, it made sense to draw upon the legends and characters already here,” said Raffi Kaprelyan. “Crafty’s Kitchen will bring together Knott’s culinary excellence featuring clever chicken dishes and boysenberry, of course, with a continuation of Crafty Coyote’s story.”
Location
Crafty’s Kitchen will be located in Charleston Circle, right across from the famous fountain — putting it in the heart of the park’s action. The address falls on Memory Lane, adding another layer of nostalgia to the experience.
For more information about Knott’s Berry Farm, visit sixflags.com/knotts.
