Where "Chiko Roll" Comes From
Invented by Frank McEncroe, a Bendigo boilermaker turned catering entrepreneur, after he noticed a competitor doing well selling Chinese-style chop suey rolls at football matches and country shows. McEncroe wanted something larger and sturdier — able to survive being eaten one-handed in a crowd — and debuted it at the Wagga Wagga Agricultural Show in 1951.
It was originally sold as the "Chicken Roll," despite containing no chicken at all; the name was later shortened and respelled to "Chiko Roll," which stuck.
Source:
"Grab me a chiko roll from the servo, will ya?"
How Aussies Actually Use It
It's one of Australia's most recognisable takeaway snacks, often eaten on the go.
Despite mixed opinions on its contents, it's held onto its status as a nostalgic Aussie classic.
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