2017
180
$500,000
$40,000
$1,413,500
No
Dave’s Hot Chicken is one of the fastest-growing fast-casual restaurant franchises in the U.S., specializing in Nashville-style hot chicken. With a simple menu of sliders, tenders, fries, and sides, paired with spice levels ranging from No Heat to Reaper™, Dave’s Hot Chicken offers a crave-worthy, Instagram-worthy experience that has earned a cult-like following. Franchisees benefit from a proven business model, high brand visibility, and an explosive growth trajectory.
Dave’s Hot Chicken began in 2017 as a humble parking lot stand in East Hollywood, California, founded by four friends with just $900 and a dream. The founders – Dave, Arman, Tommy, and Gary – took inspiration from Nashville’s spicy chicken traditions and elevated them with their own bold flavors. Within just a few years, the brand exploded in popularity and caught the attention of industry investors including Bill Phelps (co-founder of Wetzel’s Pretzels) and celebrities like Drake and Samuel L. Jackson. Dave’s Hot Chicken began franchising in 2019 and has since become one of the fastest-growing franchises in North America.
Dave’s Hot Chicken provides comprehensive support and training to ensure franchisee success:
Initial 4-6 week training program for owners and management
Site selection assistance and restaurant build-out guidance
Marketing support including digital campaigns, social media, and local store marketing
Operations support with ongoing field visits and performance reviews
Proprietary technology platforms for POS, reporting, and ordering
Franchisees receive hands-on guidance every step of the way.
The ideal Dave’s Hot Chicken franchisee is a multi-unit operator or experienced restaurateur who is passionate about hospitality, operations, and brand excellence. Key traits include:
Prior QSR or fast-casual restaurant experience
Strong leadership and operational skills
Commitment to delivering top-tier guest experiences
Financial capability to open multiple locations
Belief in the bold, irreverent Dave’s Hot Chicken brand
Total Investment Range: $626,300 – $1,413,500
Minimum Liquid Capital: $500,000
Net Worth Requirement: $1,000,000
Franchise Fee: $40,000
Royalty Fee: 5% of gross sales
Marketing Fund Contribution: 2% of gross sales
Franchise Units (as of 2024): Over 180+ open locations and 700+ in development
Franchise Term: 10 years (renewable)
