A new restaurant takes over the former home of Tops Eatery in uptown Saint John. Following the closure of the beloved diner in February, the space at 215 Union Street transforms into Big Chicken Station.

A Dream Realized for a Newcomer

Yasin Alzamal Abu Nabbout owns Big Chicken Station. As a Syrian newcomer who arrived in Canada with his family in 2015, opening a restaurant fulfills a long held dream. This marks his first business venture. Before securing the space, he worked as a restaurant manager and a truck driver for Irving Oil.

Abu Nabbout rents the location from Naveen Saboo. Saboo acquired Tops Eatery and the building from founder Paul Daeres in 2024. Tops Eatery operated since 1989 but closed due to low sales.

While Abu Nabbout respects the legacy of Tops Eatery, he wants residents to embrace a new culinary experience.

“We try always to make new memories from [the] positive experience for whole Saint John, for our community, because Saint John and our community really deserve it,” Abu Nabbout told Your Saint John.

Fresh Flavors and Family Recipes

Big Chicken Station offers fresh fried chicken prepared from a family recipe. Abu Nabbout spent the last few years perfecting this recipe. He makes all dishes from scratch to provide a healthier fried chicken option for the uptown crowd.

Giving Back to Saint John

This restaurant represents more than a business for Abu Nabbout. It serves as his way of giving back to the city that welcomed him.

“When this opportunity came to me, I didn’t want to put it anywhere but here, who’s helped me, who’s given me a hand, who was very welcoming,” he said.

He expects the restaurant to open its doors between May 15 and June 1.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Big Chicken Station located?

The restaurant is located at 215 Union Street in uptown Saint John, the former site of Tops Eatery.

When does Big Chicken Station open?

The owner estimates the restaurant will open between May 15 and June 1.

What kind of food will they serve?

The menu features fresh, made from scratch fried chicken based on a perfected family recipe.

Who owns the new restaurant?

Yasin Alzamal Abu Nabbout, a Syrian newcomer who arrived in Canada in 2015, owns and operates the business.