The grease-stained receipts show the spice level of each tender.

Nancy Luna/Insider

Dave’s Hot Chicken was named the fastest-growing chain in the US last year. In 2023, the chain is on track to launch up to 75 locations. It opened its first store in Washington DC in March. 
The chain, backed by celebrities Drake and Samuel L. Jackson, sells Nashville-style hot chicken tenders and sliders, as well as crinkle-cut fries and macaroni and cheese. 
I tried all spice levels, except the Reaper, seasoned with the hottest chili in the world. Those who dare try the palate-scorching Reaper must sign a waiver.  About 100,000 risk-takers have signed the chain’s waiver. 

In 2022, Dave’s Hot Chicken was named the fastest growing chain in the US.

Nancy Luna/Insider

The concept was founded in 2017 by stand-up comedian Arman Oganesyan, Dave Kopushyan and brothers Tommy and Gary Rubenyan. The first location was a pop-up restaurant set up in a parking lot in East Hollywood, California.The founders promoted the pop-up on Instagram.

Dave’s Hot Chicken

The founders loved fried chicken, so they decided on a Nashville-style hot chicken concept. Dave Kopushyan, who previously worked as a sous chef at celebrity chef Thomas Keller’s Bouchon, developed the recipes.Dave Kopushyan, dressed in a red apron, worked in fine dining.

Dave’s Hot Chicken

The Nashville-style hot chicken chain began its fast ascent in 2021. It started the year with seven locations.A Dave’s Hot Chicken in Anaheim, California.

Nancy Luna/Insider

The chain finished 2021 with 40 stores. Sales grew by 262% to $79.6 million. In 2022, the fast-casual brand opened 62 restaurants, including its first location in Manhattan.

Dave’s Hot Chicken

Source: Technomic

In early March 2023, Dave’s opened its first location in Washington DC.Dave’s Hot Chicken opened its first store in Washington DC in early March.

Dave’s Hot Chicken

Dave’s Hot Chicken keeps its menu simple. …read more

Source:: Businessinsider