Welcome to Dave’s Hot Chicken, where fiery flavors meet finger-licking goodness! In this article, we will delve into the captivating history and ownership of Dave’s Hot Chicken, a brand that has taken the culinary world by storm. From its humble beginnings to its rapid growth, Dave’s Hot Chicken has become a sensation in the food industry.

Established in 2017 by four childhood friends – Dave Kopushyan, Arman Oganesyan, Tommy Rubenyan, and Gary Rubenyan – Dave’s Hot Chicken started with a simple yet audacious idea: to redefine hot chicken and provide an unforgettable culinary experience. With only $900, they opened their first restaurant in a parking lot in East Hollywood. Little did they know, this small venture would pave the way for their extraordinary journey.

Thanks to social media and rave reviews, Dave’s Hot Chicken quickly gained popularity, captivating the taste buds of customers with their addictive hot chicken. The founders’ vision and the company’s commitment to excellence have been the driving forces behind its remarkable success. Today, Dave’s Hot Chicken continues to sizzle its way into the hearts of food enthusiasts across the nation.

Key Takeaways:

Table of Contents

The Rise of Dave’s Hot Chicken

Discover the fascinating brand story and company background of Dave’s Hot Chicken, a rapidly growing sensation in the fried chicken industry.

Founded by Dave Kopushyan and his childhood friends, Dave’s Hot Chicken is the result of the founders’ passion for fried chicken and their drive to create a unique dining experience.

“We were inspired by the growing demand for fried chicken in Los Angeles, and we wanted to deliver something truly special to our customers,” says Dave Kopushyan.

Dave, who trained as a chef at the renowned restaurant The French Laundry, used his culinary expertise to develop the chain’s signature hot chicken recipe. The combination of crispy, spicy chicken and flavorful seasonings quickly caught the attention of food enthusiasts.

The brand’s journey started from humble beginnings as a small street food stand in East Hollywood. The stand gained popularity after being featured on the food blog Eater Los Angeles, creating a buzz around Dave’s Hot Chicken and attracting a loyal customer base.

The success of the street food stand led to the opening of a restaurant in a nearby strip mall. The restaurant, adorned with vibrant street art by local artists, has become a symbol of the brand’s passion for flavor and creativity.

The rise of Dave’s Hot Chicken can be attributed to the founders’ dedication to delivering a unique and addictive hot chicken experience. Their commitment to quality ingredients, bold flavors, and friendly service has resonated with customers and set the brand apart from competitors.

“We want our customers to have an unforgettable dining experience every time they visit Dave’s Hot Chicken,” says Dave Kopushyan.

The brand’s success story and innovative approach have propelled Dave’s Hot Chicken to become a sought-after destination for hot chicken lovers across the country.

Expansion and Franchising

In 2019, Dave’s Hot Chicken entered into a groundbreaking agreement with an investment group to expand and franchise the restaurant. This move marked a significant milestone in the company’s journey towards establishing a widespread presence throughout the United States and Canada. The investment group included notable individuals such as former Wetzel’s Pretzels CEO Bill Phelps and renowned movie producer John Davis.

“We saw tremendous potential in Dave’s Hot Chicken and were impressed by its rapid growth and dedicated fan base. It made perfect sense to embark on this franchise partnership and help fuel the brand’s expansion,” said Bill Phelps.

As part of the franchising agreement, plans were set in motion to open over 300 Dave’s Hot Chicken locations across the United States and Canada. To oversee this expansion, Bill Phelps assumed the role of CEO of Dave’s Hot Chicken. Leveraging his industry expertise and proven track record, Phelps played a pivotal role in driving the brand’s rapid growth and success.

Since the historic franchising agreement, Dave’s Hot Chicken has experienced exponential growth, rapidly opening locations in various cities across California and other states. The restaurant chain’s popularity has continued to soar, capturing the hearts and taste buds of hot chicken enthusiasts across the nation.

In 2021, Dave’s Hot Chicken expanded internationally with the opening of its first international location in Toronto, Canada. This marked a significant milestone for the brand, showcasing its global appeal and setting the stage for further international expansion. Since then, Dave’s Hot Chicken has expanded its reach to Dubai and other Middle Eastern countries, solidifying its position as a leading player in the international fast-casual dining scene.

Franco’s Franchise Facts

Table: Dave’s Hot Chicken Expansion at a Glance

Year Expansion Milestone
2019 Formation of franchising agreement
2021 Opening of first international location in Toronto, Canada
2022 Expansion to Dubai and other Middle Eastern countries

Notable Investors

Dave’s Hot Chicken has attracted notable celebrity investors, contributing to its success and recognition in the industry. These high-profile investors include:

These influential individuals have recognized the potential and popularity of Dave’s Hot Chicken, choosing to invest in the brand. Their involvement not only adds a level of credibility and prestige but also contributes to the ongoing growth and expansion of the company. With their support, Dave’s Hot Chicken continues to captivate customers and solidify its position as a leading player in the restaurant industry.

Menu Offerings

At Dave’s Hot Chicken, we take pride in offering a mouthwatering menu that will leave you craving more. Our specialty lies in our jumbo hot chicken tenders and sliders, which are made with love and carefully crafted to perfection.

All of our hot chicken dishes are served with a variety of sides, ensuring a complete and satisfying meal. Indulge in the perfect blend of flavors with our house-made kale slaw, which provides a refreshing crunch. For the cheese lovers, our creamy mac n’ cheese is a must-try, delivering a comforting and cheesy delight. And if you’re in the mood for something crispy and savory, our seasoned french fries are the perfect complement to our hot chicken.

What sets Dave’s Hot Chicken apart is our unique spice customization. We offer our hot chicken at seven different spice levels, allowing you to choose the perfect amount of heat for your taste buds. From mild to fiery, there’s a spice level for everyone. For the daring and the brave, we even have the “Reaper” spice level that requires a signed waiver due to its intense heat.

Menu Highlights

Signature Dish Description
Jumbo Hot Chicken Tenders Our tender and juicy chicken tenders are coated in a secret blend of spices, then fried to perfection. Available in your choice of spice level, these tenders will satisfy your cravings.
Hot Chicken Slider If you’re looking for a smaller bite, our hot chicken sliders are the ideal choice. These mini sandwiches feature our hot chicken served on a soft bun, making them perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own.
House-Made Kale Slaw Our refreshing kale slaw is made in-house with fresh, crispy kale and a tangy dressing. It serves as the perfect light and crunchy side to complement the richness of our hot chicken.
Creamy Mac n’ Cheese If you’re a mac n’ cheese lover, you can’t miss out on our creamy and cheesy mac n’ cheese. Made with a blend of premium cheeses, this side dish will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.
Seasoned French Fries Our seasoned french fries are crisp on the outside and perfectly seasoned on the inside. They’re the ultimate side dish to enjoy alongside our hot chicken, adding a satisfying crunch to every bite.

Our menu not only offers a range of delicious hot chicken options but also provides a variety of sides that pair perfectly with the star of the show. With our customizable spice levels and delectable dishes, Dave’s Hot Chicken has quickly become a favorite among chicken enthusiasts.

Rapid Growth and Recognition

Dave’s Hot Chicken has been experiencing rapid growth, solidifying its position as the fastest-growing restaurant chain in America. With an impressive increase of 156% in total sales compared to the previous year, the brand’s popularity and success continue to soar.

The chain’s expansion plans are impressive, with over 700 locations in the development pipeline. Dave’s Hot Chicken has already established a presence in major cities across the US, Canada, and even Dubai.

What sets Dave’s Hot Chicken apart is its strong online presence and cult following. The brand has amassed over 200 million organic views of Dave’s Hot Chicken on TikTok, showcasing the power of social media and word-of-mouth marketing.

On Instagram, Dave’s Hot Chicken boasts the highest number of followers per restaurant among national fast-casual brands, highlighting its widespread appeal and engagement with customers.

“Dave’s Hot Chicken has experienced unprecedented growth, both in terms of sales and customer loyalty. The brand’s unique and addictive hot chicken has captured the hearts and taste buds of people across the nation and beyond.” – Restaurant Analyst

This recognition and growth have put Dave’s Hot Chicken at the forefront of the fast-growing restaurant industry. The brand’s commitment to providing a high-quality hot chicken experience, combined with its expanding reach and devoted customer base, sets the stage for an exciting future.

East Hollywood Pop-Up Celebration

To commemorate its 6th anniversary, Dave’s Hot Chicken organized a spectacular pop-up event at the very location where it all began – the East Hollywood parking lot. It was a joyous occasion filled with excitement, delicious food, and an opportunity for both devoted fans and newcomers to indulge in the addictive taste of Dave’s Hot Chicken. This special celebration not only honored the roots of the brand but also showcased its incredible journey from a humble pop-up to a rapidly expanding restaurant chain.

The East Hollywood Pop-Up Celebration was a true reflection of Dave’s Hot Chicken’s commitment to its customers and the community. The event featured an inviting and vibrant atmosphere, with live music, local art displays, and engaging activities for attendees of all ages. Attendees had the chance to savor the mouthwatering hot chicken that has captivated taste buds and won the hearts of countless food enthusiasts.

Free food samples, including Dave’s Hot Chicken’s signature jumbo tenders and sliders, were generously offered to everyone in attendance. Loyal customers who have been supporting Dave’s Hot Chicken since its early days were able to relive the flavors that made them fall in love with the brand. Newcomers, on the other hand, were treated to an unforgettable culinary experience that left them eagerly craving more.

The pop-up event also paid homage to the brand’s beginnings by recreating the nostalgic ambiance of the original East Hollywood location. The founders shared their inspiring journey, from their humble origins as childhood friends with a dream to the entrepreneurial success story that Dave’s Hot Chicken represents today. The celebration was a testament to the founders’ unwavering passion and determination to share their unique hot chicken recipe with the world.

“Dave’s Hot Chicken started as a small pop-up in this very parking lot, and it’s incredible to see how far we’ve come. From serving our delicious hot chicken to a handful of people to now delighting customers across multiple states, we are beyond grateful for the support and love we have received.”

The East Hollywood Pop-Up Celebration marked an important milestone for Dave’s Hot Chicken. It not only celebrated the brand’s 6th anniversary but also served as a reminder of the dedication and hard work that went into building a successful restaurant chain. As Dave’s Hot Chicken continues to expand its reach and elevate the hot chicken experience, it remains committed to its loyal customers and the pursuit of culinary excellence.

Leadership and Vision

The success of Dave’s Hot Chicken can be attributed to the strong leadership team assembled by the founders. Dave’s Hot Chicken founders – Dave Kopushyan, Arman Oganesyan, Tommy Rubenyan, and Gary Rubenyan – have a clear and passionate vision of providing a unique and high-quality hot chicken experience to their customers. Their dedication to quality and commitment to excellence have been the driving forces behind the rapid expansion and growth of the brand.

Under the leadership of CEO Bill Phelps, an industry professional with significant experience in the restaurant industry, Dave’s Hot Chicken has continued to thrive. Phelps brings his expertise and strategic insights to the table, further fueling the brand’s success. The company’s leadership team, including experienced franchisees and industry professionals, work together to ensure that the brand’s vision is realized.

The founders’ unwavering commitment to quality is reflected in every aspect of Dave’s Hot Chicken, from the sourcing of the finest ingredients to the meticulous preparation of each dish. They strive to deliver a hot chicken experience that is consistently flavorful and addictive, ensuring that customers keep coming back for more.

The leadership team at Dave’s Hot Chicken understands the importance of customer satisfaction and goes above and beyond to create a welcoming and enjoyable dining experience. Their passion for hot chicken and commitment to excellence are what set Dave’s Hot Chicken apart from the competition.

“Our vision is to provide a one-of-a-kind hot chicken experience that leaves a lasting impression on our customers. We are obsessed with quality, flavor, and creating a welcoming atmosphere for everyone who walks through our doors.” – Dave Kopushyan, Co-founder of Dave’s Hot Chicken

Recognition as America’s Fastest Growing Restaurant Chain

Dave’s Hot Chicken has garnered significant industry recognition as the fastest-growing restaurant chain in America. A recent study conducted by Technomic, a reputable research company, revealed that Dave’s Hot Chicken achieved a remarkable systemwide sales growth of 156% in the past year. This outstanding performance surpassed that of every other chain in the nation, solidifying Dave’s Hot Chicken’s position as a trailblazer in the restaurant industry.

This incredible growth can be attributed to the brand’s commitment to providing a truly unique and addictive hot chicken experience. From its humble beginnings in an East Hollywood parking lot to its rapid expansion and widespread popularity, Dave’s Hot Chicken has captivated the hearts and taste buds of customers nationwide.

The Rise of Dave’s Hot Chicken

The story of Dave’s Hot Chicken is a tale of ambition, passion, and dedication. Founded by childhood friends, Dave Kopushyan, Arman Oganesyan, Tommy Rubenyan, and Gary Rubenyan in 2017, the chain quickly gained recognition for its delicious hot chicken. The founders’ vision and their commitment to providing a unique and addictive hot chicken experience have driven the brand’s success.

What started as a small street food stand in East Hollywood soon became a sensation after being featured on the renowned food blog Eater Los Angeles. The stand’s popularity led to the opening of a restaurant in a nearby strip mall, adorned with vibrant street art by local artists. Social media played a significant role in amplifying the brand’s reach and attracting a loyal following.

“Dave’s Hot Chicken achieved a remarkable systemwide sales growth of 156% in the past year.”

Expanding the Legacy: Franchising and Notable Investors

To further expand its reach, Dave’s Hot Chicken entered into a franchising agreement in 2019 with an investment group that included Bill Phelps, former CEO of Wetzel’s Pretzels, and John Davis, a renowned movie producer. This partnership paved the way for the rapid expansion of Dave’s Hot Chicken, with plans to open over 300 locations in the United States and Canada.

Besides attracting accomplished franchisees, Dave’s Hot Chicken has caught the attention of notable celebrity investors, further fueling its growth and success. Moreover, celebrity investors such as Drake, Samuel L. Jackson, Maria Shriver, Michael Strahan, and Tom Werner have recognized the brand’s potential and popularity, contributing to its remarkable growth.

The Irresistible Menu

The menu at Dave’s Hot Chicken showcases the brand’s commitment to crafting delicious hot chicken dishes that keep customers coming back for more. The specialty lies in jumbo hot chicken tenders and sliders, perfectly spiced-to-order and served with a selection of tantalizing sides such as house-made kale slaw, creamy mac n’ cheese, and seasoned french fries. With seven different spice levels to suit every palate, including the daringly fiery “Reaper” option, Dave’s Hot Chicken offers a flavor journey worth exploring.

Rapid Growth and Cult Following

Driven by its mouthwatering menu and growing fan base, Dave’s Hot Chicken has experienced phenomenal growth. Total sales have skyrocketed, increasing by an astounding 156% in 2022 compared to the previous year. This surge in popularity has led to the development of more than 700 locations in the pipeline, with restaurants already operating in key cities across the United States, Canada, and even Dubai.

This rapid growth and recognition have firmly established Dave’s Hot Chicken as the fastest-growing restaurant chain in America, showcasing its remarkable success and positioning it as a leader in the industry.

Commitment to Quality and Customer Satisfaction

Dave’s Hot Chicken prides itself on its unwavering commitment to quality and ensuring customer satisfaction. By prioritizing these core values, the brand has been able to establish a strong reputation and loyal customer base.

At Dave’s Hot Chicken, quality is paramount. From the selection of the finest ingredients to the meticulous preparation of each dish, every step is taken to ensure that customers receive the highest standard of food. The brand’s commitment to quality is reflected in the delicious and consistent taste of its hot chicken, making it a favorite among customers.

To further enhance the customer experience, Dave’s Hot Chicken has launched a mobile app and loyalty program. This innovative approach allows customers to conveniently place their orders, earn rewards, and stay updated on the latest promotions. The user-friendly interface and seamless functionality of the app have received positive ratings and strong downloads, showcasing the brand’s dedication to customer service.

“At Dave’s Hot Chicken, our mission is to deliver a unique and flavorful hot chicken experience while exceeding customer expectations. We constantly strive to improve and innovate, ensuring that every customer leaves satisfied and eager to return.”

The brand’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has resulted in a growing number of loyal customers and positive reviews. Dave’s Hot Chicken understands that a happy and satisfied customer is the key to success, and every effort is made to provide an exceptional dining experience from start to finish.

The Key Elements of Dave’s Hot Chicken’s Commitment to Quality:

By upholding its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, Dave’s Hot Chicken continues to be a leading force in the competitive fast-casual dining industry. With its unique and addictive hot chicken experience, the brand remains dedicated to delivering the highest standard of food and service to its valued customers.

Future Expansion and Growth

Dave’s Hot Chicken has exciting plans for the future, aiming to expand its reach and continue its impressive growth trajectory. With over 700 franchise locations in the development pipeline, the brand is set to make a significant impact in the restaurant industry.

The company’s goal is to open more than 70 new locations this year alone, showcasing its commitment to rapid expansion. By strategically selecting new markets and capitalizing on the demand for its addictive hot chicken, Dave’s Hot Chicken is poised for continued success.

As the brand expands, it aims to captivate customers in both domestic and international markets. With its unique flavor profile and the growing global popularity of hot chicken, Dave’s Hot Chicken has the potential to become a beloved dining option worldwide.

In addition to geographical expansion, Dave’s Hot Chicken also plans to diversify its menu and offer new and exciting dishes to its loyal customers. By continuously innovating and staying ahead of changing palates, the brand aims to remain a leader in the industry.

With its ambitious growth projections and commitment to providing an exceptional dining experience, Dave’s Hot Chicken is well-positioned to become one of the most influential players in the fast-casual restaurant industry.

Stay tuned for updates on Dave’s Hot Chicken’s expansion plans as the brand continues to make waves in the culinary world.

Conclusion

Dave’s Hot Chicken’s remarkable success story is a testament to the founders’ unwavering entrepreneurial spirit, relentless dedication to quality, and their commitment to providing a unique culinary experience. What started as a small street food stand in an East Hollywood parking lot has evolved into America’s fastest-growing restaurant chain.

With their mouthwatering hot chicken, Dave Kopushyan and his childhood friends have captured the hearts and taste buds of customers across the country. The brand’s rapid expansion and growth are a result of their relentless pursuit of excellence.

As Dave’s Hot Chicken continues its expansion and solidifies its position in the competitive restaurant industry, customers can look forward to indulging in their addictive hot chicken and experiencing the unparalleled flavors that have made Dave’s Hot Chicken a household name. The success of Dave’s Hot Chicken is a true testament to the power of passion, determination, and delivering an extraordinary culinary experience.

FAQ

Who owns Dave’s Hot Chicken?

Dave’s Hot Chicken was founded by four childhood friends – Dave Kopushyan, Arman Oganesyan, Tommy Rubenyan, and Gary Rubenyan.

What is the history of Dave’s Hot Chicken?

Dave’s Hot Chicken was founded in 2017 with its first location in a parking lot in East Hollywood. The founders started with just $900 and the brand gained popularity through social media and positive reviews.

How did Dave’s Hot Chicken start?

Dave’s Hot Chicken was inspired by the growing demand for fried chicken in Los Angeles and the success of In-N-Out Burger. Dave Kopushyan, who trained at The French Laundry, developed the chain’s signature hot chicken recipe. The original location was a small street food stand in East Hollywood.

How did Dave’s Hot Chicken expand?

In 2019, Dave’s Hot Chicken formed an agreement with an investment group to franchise the restaurant, with plans for over 300 locations in the United States and Canada. Bill Phelps became the CEO of Dave’s Hot Chicken as part of the agreement.

Who are some notable investors in Dave’s Hot Chicken?

Notable investors in Dave’s Hot Chicken include Drake, Samuel L. Jackson, Maria Shriver, Michael Strahan, and Tom Werner.

What is on the menu at Dave’s Hot Chicken?

Dave’s Hot Chicken specializes in jumbo hot chicken tenders and sliders. The menu also includes sides such as kale slaw, mac n’ cheese, and seasoned french fries.

How fast has Dave’s Hot Chicken grown?

Dave’s Hot Chicken experienced 156% growth in total sales in 2022 compared to the previous year. It has over 700 locations in the development pipeline and is the fastest-growing restaurant chain in America.

How did Dave’s Hot Chicken celebrate its 6th anniversary?

Dave’s Hot Chicken hosted a pop-up event at the East Hollywood parking lot where it all began. The event featured free food for both loyal customers and newcomers.

What has contributed to Dave’s Hot Chicken’s success?

The founders’ vision, the leadership of CEO Bill Phelps, the commitment to quality, and the rapid expansion of the brand have contributed to Dave’s Hot Chicken’s success.

Has Dave’s Hot Chicken received industry recognition?

Yes, Dave’s Hot Chicken was recognized as America’s Fastest Growing Restaurant Chain, with a 156% increase in systemwide sales in the past year.

What is Dave’s Hot Chicken’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction?

Dave’s Hot Chicken is committed to providing high-quality food and a unique hot chicken experience. The brand continuously strives to improve and innovate, as evidenced by its mobile app and loyalty program.

What are Dave’s Hot Chicken’s future expansion plans?

Dave’s Hot Chicken has over 700 franchise locations in the development pipeline and aims to open more than 70 locations this year. The brand continues to expand across the United States and internationally.

What is the success story of Dave’s Hot Chicken?

From its humble beginnings in an East Hollywood parking lot, Dave’s Hot Chicken has become America’s fastest-growing restaurant chain, driven by its founders’ entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to quality.