Pasadena-Based Dave’s Hot Chicken Sizzles With Rapid Expansion and Menu Innovation

In a remarkable trajectory from parking lot pop-up to fast-casual powerhouse, Dave’s Hot Chicken is setting the restaurant industry ablaze with its ambitious growth plans and menu innovations. The Nashville-style hot chicken chain, founded in 2017 and headquartered in Pasadena, is on track to reach 300 locations by the end of 2024.

After achieving 100% sales growth in 2023, Dave’s Hot Chicken has solidified its position as a leader in the fast-casual dining sector. A company statement said Dave’s crossed the 200-unit milestone in the first quarter of 2024.

“This year, we’ve been dialed in on growth and innovation, making our mark as the hottest concept in the Nashville-style hot chicken segment to date,” said Bill Phelps, CEO of Dave’s Hot Chicken. 

The brand now boasts over 206 locations across the United States, Canada, and the Middle East, with over 990 units signed to date.

Dave’s Hot Chicken’s success is fueled by a robust social media presence, with 1.2 million Instagram followers and 2.3 million on TikTok, the statement said. Celebrity endorsements and strategic partnerships have also helped amplify the brand’s reach and marketing campaigns. Notable investors include music artist Drake, actor Samuel L. Jackson, and former NFL player Michael Strahan.

In January 2024, the company launched “Dave’s NOT Chicken,” featuring cauliflower items, accompanied by a multifaceted marketing approach. Some restaurants temporarily changed their signage to “Dave’s NOT Chicken,” creating photo opportunities for fans. A 3D billboard near the Crypto.com Arena, featuring Dave, the brand’s mascot, further promoted the new menu items.

Dave’s Hot Chicken introduced Dave’s Bites in June – its first permanent menu addition since its inception. The bite-sized offering maintains the brand’s signature taste and quality.

“Throughout the rest of 2024 and into 2025, we’re taking Dave’s international in a big way,” said Jim Bitticks, President and COO. “With agreements made already in several countries overseas, our focus remains on making the most craveable hot chicken on the planet.”

Dave’s Hot Chicken has also garnered numerous accolades, including listings in Nation’s Restaurant News’s Top 500 Restaurants, Franchise Business Review’s Top 300 Franchises and Culture 100 Lists, and Entrepreneur’s Top and Emerging Franchises. The founders and Phelps were nominated for EY’s Entrepreneur of the Year award, while CMO Brad Haley earned a spot on NRN’s 2024 Power List.

The company is seeking qualified restaurant operators and franchise groups to develop the concept in key markets such as Florida, Tennessee, Louisiana, Pittsburgh, and Mississippi. It offers a comprehensive business model, including marketing support and assistance with site selection, according to the statement.

Dave’s had its humble beginnings as a parking lot venture started with $900 by Pasadena childhood friends Chef Dave Kopushyan, Arman Oganesyan, and Tommy Rubenyan. Oganesyan recently shared the brand’s journey on NPR’s “How I Built This.”

For more information, visit https://www.daveshotchicken.com/.