Have you ever had a meal so good that it literally changed your life? That is exactly how most people feel after their first bite of Daves. If you are searching for Daves Hot Chicken locations, you are part of a massive movement of foodies chasing that perfect crunch and heat. What started as a tiny street food stand has turned into a global sensation. Today, finding a spot nearby is easier than ever, but knowing which one to visit and what to order makes all the difference.
Whether you are a spice veteran or a total beginner, the vibe at every Daves is electric. From the cool street art on the walls to the smell of fresh spices in the air, it’s an experience you won’t forget. In this guide, we will break down where the newest shops are opening, how the brand grew so fast, and why everyone from your neighbor to famous rappers is obsessed with this chicken.
The Story Behind the Spice: A $900 Dream
Every great brand has a “garage story,” but Daves has a parking lot story. Back in 2017, four friends—Dave Kopushyan, Arman Oganesyan, Tommy Rubenyan, and Gary Rubenyan—scraped together just $900. They bought a portable fryer and set up shop in an East Hollywood parking lot. Dave was a professional chef who had worked at a Michelin-star restaurant, so he knew exactly how to make chicken that would “blow your mind.”
Thanks to the power of Instagram and a glowing review from Eater LA, the lines quickly started wrapping around the block. People weren’t just coming for a meal; they were coming for the hype. That humble beginning is the reason why every one of the Daves Hot Chicken locations you visit today still feels authentic and full of heart.
Daves Hot Chicken: Brand & Founder Details
| Feature | Details |
| Founders | Dave Kopushyan, Arman Oganesyan, Tommy & Gary Rubenyan |
| Year Founded | 2017 |
| Headquarters | Pasadena, California |
| Signature Dish | Nashville-Style Hot Chicken Tenders & Sliders |
| Total Locations | 380+ (as of early 2026) |
| Famous Investors | Drake, Samuel L. Jackson, Usher |
| Spice Levels | 7 (from No Spice to Reaper) |
Where Can You Find Daves Hot Chicken Locations?
As of 2026, there are over 380 Daves Hot Chicken locations across the United States. While the brand started in California, it has spread like wildfire to almost every corner of the country. California still holds the crown with the most spots (over 70!), but states like Texas, Florida, and New York are catching up fast.
If you live in a big city like Los Angeles, Houston, or New York City, you probably have a few options within a short drive. The company is opening new doors almost every week, targeting busy areas where people crave a quick, high-quality lunch or a late-night snack. They even have a “Hot Box” catering option if you want to bring the party to your house!
International Expansion: Taking the Heat Global
The craving for spicy chicken isn’t just an American thing. Daves has officially gone global! You can now find Daves Hot Chicken locations in the United Kingdom, Canada, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. In 2026, the brand is pushing even further into Europe, with new shops landing in cities like Leicester, Sheffield, and Bristol in the UK.
Seeing a brand go from an LA parking lot to the Dubai Mall is pretty incredible. It shows that no matter where you are in the world, people appreciate simple, delicious food made with real passion. If you are traveling abroad, keep an eye out—you might just find your favorite spicy slider in a completely different time zone.
Understanding the Seven Spice Levels
One of the most fun parts about visiting any of the Daves Hot Chicken locations is choosing your spice level. They don’t just do “mild” or “hot.” They have a seven-point scale that caters to everyone. If you aren’t a fan of heat, the “No Spice” or “Lite Mild” options are perfect—you still get that amazing crunch without the burn.
- No Spice: Just the savory, salty goodness.
- Lite Mild & Mild: A tiny kick for beginners.
- Medium: The “sweet spot” for most people.
- Hot & Extra Hot: Now we’re talking! Prepare for some sweating.
- Reaper: This one is legendary. You actually have to sign a waiver to eat it!
What’s on the Menu? Simple is Better
While some fast-food places try to do everything, Daves keeps it simple. By focusing on just a few items, they ensure every single meal is perfect. When you walk into any of the Daves Hot Chicken locations, you’ll usually choose between four main combos. These include combinations of their jumbo tenders and sliders served with fries.
Don’t skip the sides! Their kale slaw is surprisingly fresh and helps cool down your mouth, and the Mac n’ Cheese is creamy and comforting. Also, the “Daves Sauce” is a secret chipotle-based mayo that people try to recreate at home constantly—but nothing beats the original.
The “Drake” Effect: Celebrity Star Power
You might have heard that the rapper Drake is a huge fan of the brand. He isn’t just a fan; he’s a major investor! Having celebrities like Drake and Samuel L. Jackson involved has helped Daves Hot Chicken locations become some of the trendiest spots in the world.
Drake often shares photos of his meals on Instagram, which sends the “hype” into overdrive. However, the founders are quick to point out that while the celebrity backing helps, the chicken has to stand on its own. If the food wasn’t great, the lines wouldn’t stay long. It’s the combination of star power and Michelin-star quality that makes it a winner.
Why Is Daves Growing So Fast?
The growth of Daves Hot Chicken locations is actually record-breaking. They were named the fastest-growing restaurant chain in America for a reason. Their secret? A mix of experienced leadership and passionate franchisees. They don’t just let anyone open a store; they look for people who already know the restaurant business inside and out.
By 2026, the goal is to hit 1,000 units. That sounds like a lot, but when you consider that they have over 1,500 stores already in the “pipeline” (planned for the future), it seems very doable. They are using smart technology and a strong supply chain to make sure that a tender in Seattle tastes exactly like a tender in Miami.
How to Find a Daves Hot Chicken Near You
The easiest way to find Daves Hot Chicken locations is to use the official website or their mobile app. The app is actually a great tool because you can earn “frequent fryer” points for free food. You can simply type in your zip code, and it will show you the closest spots along with their current hours.
Many locations are open late, which makes them a favorite for college students or anyone looking for a midnight snack. Because the food is cooked to order, it’s always hot and fresh. If you’re in a rush, you can order ahead on the app so your sliders are waiting for you when you arrive.
Personal Tips for Your First Visit
I remember my first time at one of the Daves Hot Chicken locations. I thought I was tough, so I ordered the “Extra Hot.” Let’s just say I needed a lot of chocolate milk to get through it! My advice for your first visit is to start with “Medium.” It gives you enough heat to feel the Nashville vibe without ruining your taste buds for the rest of the day.
Also, try the “Slider.” Even though it’s called a slider, it’s actually a full-sized chicken tender on a bun with kale slaw and pickles. It’s much more filling than you might expect! And if you are feeling brave enough for the Reaper, make sure you have a friend with you to witness the madness—and maybe a camera to record your reaction.
The Future of Daves Hot Chicken
Looking ahead, the future for Daves Hot Chicken locations looks bright (and spicy). With plans to expand further into Europe and Asia, the brand is becoming a household name globally. They are also experimenting with new menu items, like the “Cauli-Slider” for vegetarians, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the Daves experience.
The brand has managed to keep its “cool” factor even as it gets bigger. By staying true to their roots and focusing on quality, they are proving that a small idea in a parking lot can truly change the world of fast-casual dining. Whether there are 300 locations or 3,000, the mission remains the same: “Blow Your Mind.”
Conclusion: Join the Spice Revolution
Finding Daves Hot Chicken locations is the first step toward an unforgettable meal. From the humble $900 start to the billion-dollar valuation it holds today, Daves is a testament to what happens when you do one thing better than anyone else. If you haven’t tried it yet, what are you waiting for? Grab a friend, find your nearest spot, and see if you can handle the heat!
Ready to get your spicy fix? Head over to their website and find a location near you today!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many Daves Hot Chicken locations are there?
As of early 2026, there are over 380 locations across the U.S. and several international markets, with plans to reach 1,000 in the coming years.
2. Who actually owns Daves Hot Chicken?
The brand was founded by Dave Kopushyan and his friends, but it was recently acquired by Roark Capital. Celebrity investors like Drake also own a significant portion of the company.
3. Do I really have to sign a waiver for the Reaper spice level?
Yes! Because the Reaper level is incredibly hot, every customer must sign a physical or digital waiver acknowledging the “risks” of the extreme heat before ordering.
4. Are there vegetarian options at Daves Hot Chicken locations?
Yes! Many locations now offer “Daves NOT Chicken,” which features cauliflower-based sliders and bites for those who don’t eat meat.
5. What is the most popular combo to order?
The #3 Combo (one tender and one slider with fries) is the most popular because it lets you try both styles of chicken in one meal.
6. Can I order Daves Hot Chicken for delivery?
Absolutely. Most Daves Hot Chicken locations are available on major delivery apps like DoorDash and Uber Eats, or you can order directly through the Daves app for rewards.