Have you ever seen a line of people stretching around a city block just for a chicken sandwich? If you have, there is a very good chance you were standing near one of the many Daves Hot Chicken locations. What started as a tiny tiny stand in a parking lot has turned into a global sensation. Today, this brand is known for its juicy tenders and sliders that come in seven different spice levels. Whether you like your food mild or “reaper” hot, there is something for everyone.
The growth of this chain is truly mind-blowing. In just a few years, they went from serving friends in East Hollywood to opening hundreds of restaurants across the United States, Canada, and even the Middle East. People love it because the food is always fresh and the vibe is super cool. If you are hungry for bold flavors, finding a Daves near you is the best way to satisfy that craving. Let’s dive into where you can find them and why this chicken is taking over the world!
The Incredible Biography of Daves Hot Chicken
Before we look at all the Daves Hot Chicken locations, it is important to know where they came from. The brand was started by four best friends who had a big dream and very little money.
| Feature | Details |
| Founded Year | May 2017 |
| Founders | Dave Kopushyan, Arman Oganesyan, Tommy Rubenyan, Gary Rubenyan |
| Starting Capital | $900 |
| First Location | A parking lot in East Hollywood, California |
| Headquarters | Pasadena, California |
| Famous Investors | Drake, Samuel L. Jackson, Usher |
| Signature Dish | Nashville-style Hot Chicken Tenders & Sliders |
| Total Locations (2026) | Over 380+ in the US (and growing!) |
| Parent Company | Roark Capital Group (Acquired in 2025) |
Why Everyone Is Searching for Daves Hot Chicken Locations
The main reason people keep looking for Daves Hot Chicken locations is the quality of the food. Unlike many fast-food spots, Daves uses high-quality chicken that is never frozen. Each piece is hand-breaded and seasoned with a secret blend of spices. When you walk into a store, you can smell the delicious aroma of frying chicken and spices. It’s an experience that starts the moment you pull into the parking lot.
Another big draw is the celebrity connection. When superstar rapper Drake became an investor, the brand’s popularity exploded on social media. Now, kids and adults alike flock to these spots to try the “Reaper” challenge or grab a late-night slider. The stores are also decorated with bright, edgy street art, making them the perfect place to snap a photo for Instagram. It’s not just a meal; it’s a cultural event.
Where to Find Daves Hot Chicken Locations in the USA
As of 2026, there are more than 380 Daves Hot Chicken locations across the United States. California is the home of the brand and still has the most shops. However, you can now find them in almost every major state. From the sunny beaches of Florida to the busy streets of New York, the “Reaper” is everywhere. Texas and Florida have seen massive growth lately, with new stores opening in cities like Houston, Dallas, and Orlando every few months.
If you live in the Midwest or the East Coast, don’t worry! The company is planning to open even more spots this year. They use a smart franchising model, which means local business owners help bring the chicken to your neighborhood. You can usually find them in busy shopping centers or near college campuses. If you aren’t sure if there is one near you, a quick search on their official website or app will show you a map of every active store.
International Expansion: Daves Goes Global
It isn’t just Americans who are obsessed with this spicy bird. Daves Hot Chicken locations are now appearing all over the map. Canada was one of the first places to get a taste, with several popular spots in Toronto and Vancouver. But the expansion didn’t stop there. The brand has made a huge splash in the Middle East, with thriving restaurants in Dubai, Riyadh, and Qatar. People there love the bold spices and the high energy of the brand.
Recently, the United Kingdom has joined the party. After a massive opening in London, more shops are popping up in cities like Manchester and Birmingham. In 2026, the company plans to enter even more countries in Europe and Asia. This global growth proves that a great recipe and a cool story can work anywhere. No matter where you are in the world, the goal remains the same: to provide the best Nashville-style hot chicken on the planet.
Understanding the Seven Levels of Heat
When you visit one of the many Daves Hot Chicken locations, you have a very important choice to make. You have to pick your spice level! They offer seven different options to make sure everyone can enjoy their meal. If you don’t like spice at all, you can choose “No Spice.” It is still flavorful but won’t burn your tongue. For those who like a little tingle, “Mild” or “Medium” are the most popular choices.
For the brave souls, there is “Hot” and “Extra Hot.” But the ultimate test is the “Reaper.” This spice level is so intense that many locations require you to sign a physical waiver before you eat it! It is made with one of the hottest peppers in the world. If you choose the Reaper, make sure you have a chocolate milkshake nearby to help cool down your mouth. It’s a fun challenge to do with friends, but definitely not for the faint of heart!
What’s on the Menu at Daves Hot Chicken?
The menu at all Daves Hot Chicken locations is kept simple on purpose. This allows the cooks to focus on making every single order perfect. You can choose between two main items: Tenders or Sliders. A slider is served on a soft potato bun with kale slaw, pickles, and the famous Daves Sauce. Tenders come with a slice of white bread and pickles. You can also get them in combos that come with a side of seasoned crinkle-cut fries.
They also offer some delicious sides to complete your meal. Their Mac & Cheese is creamy and comforting, which is great if you need to balance out the heat. The Kale Slaw is fresh and crunchy, adding a nice contrast to the fried chicken. For dessert, they have thick, creamy milkshakes in flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry. Recently, they even added “Saucy Bites,” which are smaller pieces of chicken tossed in different sauces for those who want to skip the dry rub.
How to Order from Daves Hot Chicken Locations
Getting your hands on this famous chicken is easier than ever. Most Daves Hot Chicken locations offer several ways to order. You can walk right into the store and order at the counter, which lets you see the cool artwork while you wait. If you are in a rush, you can use the Daves Hot Chicken app to order ahead. This is a great way to skip the long lines that often form during lunch and dinner hours.
For those who want to stay at home, delivery is available through apps like Uber Eats and DoorDash. Many locations also offer catering options, which are perfect for birthday parties or office meetings. They have “Hot Boxes” that come with 10 sliders or 10 tenders, making it easy to feed a large group of hungry people. No matter how you choose to eat, the chicken arrives hot, crispy, and ready to enjoy.
The Secret Behind the “Daves Sauce”
One thing that makes all Daves Hot Chicken locations stand out is their signature sauce. While the chicken is the star of the show, the “Daves Sauce” is what brings everything together. It is a creamy, slightly tangy, and slightly spicy sauce that goes perfectly with both the tenders and the fries. Many fans try to guess the ingredients, but the exact recipe is a closely guarded secret.
The sauce is drizzled on every slider and served in a cup on the side with every tender order. It helps to mellow out the heat of the spicier levels while adding a rich flavor to the “No Spice” or “Mild” options. Some people love it so much that they ask for extra containers just to dip their fries in! It is one of those special touches that keeps customers coming back to Daves week after week.
Tips for Your First Visit to Daves Hot Chicken
If you are planning your first trip to one of the Daves Hot Chicken locations, here are a few tips to make it a great experience. First, start with a lower spice level than you think you need. Daves “Medium” is often spicier than the medium at other restaurants. You can always go hotter on your next visit! Second, definitely try a slider. The combination of the soft bun, crunchy slaw, and juicy chicken is hard to beat.
Third, don’t forget the sides. The crinkle-cut fries are seasoned perfectly and stay crunchy even after a drive home. Finally, check the hours before you go. Many locations are open late, especially on weekends, which makes them a favorite spot for a midnight snack. Whether you are going alone or with a group of friends, prepare for a meal that is full of flavor and fun. You might just find your new favorite place to eat!
Conclusion: The Future of Spicy Chicken
It is clear that the demand for Daves Hot Chicken locations isn’t slowing down anytime soon. From a tiny $900 investment to a billion-dollar brand, this story is an inspiration to everyone. They have proven that if you make amazing food and treat people well, success will follow. As they continue to open new stores across the globe, more people will get to experience the “mind-blowing” taste that started it all in an L.A. parking lot.
Are you ready to join the spice revolution? Whether you’re a spice pro or a total beginner, there is a seat waiting for you at a Daves near you. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your friends and head over to taste what everyone is talking about. Your taste buds will thank you!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Where was the first Daves Hot Chicken located?
The very first of the Daves Hot Chicken locations was actually a small pop-up stand in a parking lot in East Hollywood, California. It was started in 2017 by four friends with just a portable fryer and some folding tables.
2. How many Daves Hot Chicken locations are there now?
As of early 2026, there are over 380 locations across the United States, plus many more in Canada, the UK, and the Middle East. The brand is expanding very quickly and adds new stores every month.
3. Do I really have to sign a waiver for the Reaper spice?
Yes! Most Daves Hot Chicken locations require customers to sign a physical or digital waiver before ordering the Reaper. This is because the spice is extremely intense and can cause a physical reaction for some people.
4. Is the chicken at Daves Hot Chicken frozen?
No, the chicken used at all locations is fresh and never frozen. They use high-quality, jumbo-sized chicken tenders that are hand-breaded and cooked to order to ensure they are juicy and crispy.
5. Who are the famous owners of Daves Hot Chicken?
While the brand was started by four friends (Dave, Arman, Tommy, and Gary), it has many famous investors. These include the rapper Drake, actor Samuel L. Jackson, and singer Usher. In 2025, the company was acquired by Roark Capital.
6. Can I find Daves Hot Chicken locations outside the US?
Absolutely! You can find Daves Hot Chicken locations in several other countries. Currently, they have a strong presence in Canada, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Kingdom.