Established
2017
Franchise Units
400
Minimum Investment
$585,800
Franchise Fee
$30,000
Total Investment Range
$996,500
Home Based
No
Description
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.
Why Invest in Dave’s Hot Chicken?
Investing in Dave’s Hot Chicken means joining one of the fastest-growing restaurant chains in North America. Here is why savvy entrepreneurs are lining up:
Explosive Market Demand: Chicken remains the most consumed protein in the USA, and "Nashville Hot" is a flavor profile that has transitioned from a trend to a permanent staple in American dining.
Simple, Scalable Menu: The streamlined menu reduces kitchen complexity, lowers food waste, and allows for high-volume throughput, which is essential for maximizing labor efficiency.
Massive Brand Equity: Between the viral social media presence and celebrity partnerships, the brand often generates massive "line-out-the-door" excitement before a new location even opens.
Institutional Powerhouse Support: Backed by world-class infrastructure, franchisees benefit from sophisticated supply chain leverage, site selection technology, and advanced operational systems.
Background
When it comes to fast-casual dining, chicken concepts continue to lead the market. When consumers are looking for alternatives to burgers or pizza, chicken brands remain some of the most popular and profitable options in the restaurant industry. For investors exploring opportunities in this category, Dave’s Hot Chicken is a standout franchise to consider.
This California-based fast-casual brand was founded in 2018 by Dave Kopushyan, Arman Oganesyan, and brothers Tommy and Gary Rubenyan. The company began franchising in 2019 and has since expanded across North America.
Dave’s Hot Chicken is known for its bold menu built around customizable spice levels, allowing customers to choose from no spice, lite mild, mild, medium, hot, extra hot, and reaper. The brand’s hottest option is so intense that customers must sign a waiver before ordering it.
The franchise has attracted attention from both experienced investors and high-profile celebrities. Notable investors include Canadian rapper Drake, actor Samuel L. Jackson, and former professional football player Michael Strahan. Franchisees also value the brand’s multiple revenue streams, which include merchandise sales and online ordering channels.
Established Year: 2017
Franchising Since: 2019
Founders: Dave Kopushyan, Arman Oganesyan, Tommy Rubenyan, and Gary Rubenyan.
Active Units: Approximately 400+ locations open by early 2026, with over 1,000 units currently in the development pipeline across the USA and international markets.
Ownership: Majority ownership held by Roark Capital Group, with the founding team and celebrity investors maintaining significant involvement.
Industry Category: Fast-Casual / Chicken Concept.
Support Training
Dave’s Hot Chicken provides comprehensive support and training to ensure franchisee success:
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Initial 4-6 week training program for owners and management
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Site selection assistance and restaurant build-out guidance
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Marketing support including digital campaigns, social media, and local store marketing
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Operations support with ongoing field visits and performance reviews
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Proprietary technology platforms for POS, reporting, and ordering
Ideal Candidate
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:
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Prior QSR or fast-casual restaurant experience
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Strong leadership and operational skills
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Commitment to delivering top-tier guest experiences
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Financial capability to open multiple locations
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Belief in the bold, irreverent Dave’s Hot Chicken brand
Financial Detail
- Cash Requirement: $2,000,000
- Initial Franchise Fee: $30,000
- Net Worth Requirement: $3,000,000
- Initial Investment: $585,800 - $996,500
- Royalty Fee: 5%
- Ad Royalty Fee: 2%