April 29, 2021 Dave s Hot Chicken opened a location in Denver in April. (Photo courtesy of Dave s Hot Chicken)
Dave’s Hot Chicken, a fast-growing Los Angeles-based restaurant chain, has signed a deal with a Fort Wayne-based franchise group that plans to open multiple locations in the Indianapolis market.
In March, the franchise group Dave Diggity signed a deal to open 15 Dave’s Hot Chicken locations in Indiana, and another 13 in the Columbus, Ohio, market.
The franchise group is working with Del DeMao of DeMao Retail Consultants to scout for locations.
“We’ll likely start in Indianapolis, and I imagine we’ll develop 10 or 11 in Indianapolis,” said Dave Diggity CEO Todd Hollman. “We hope to have our first location open by the end of this year in Indiana, if not [early] 2022.”
Hot Chicken Takeover
This relatively new entry into the Columbus dining scene began its life as a pop-up in 2014, and is quickly becoming the standard-bearer for Nashville-style hot chicken in central Ohio (although a “cold” option is available for those who prefer their fried chicken with less of a kick). The chain has four Columbus area locations, and a restaurant in the Cleveland suburb of Westlake. Menu items range from $8 to $10, although you can buy a whole chicken for $27.
The Eagle Food and Beer Hall
The Short North Location of this Midwestern chain lets customers enjoy a crispy, fried meal along with a craft beer and the occasional live band. The Eagle also offers a whole chicken for $19 or a half chicken for $11. A sandwich menu offers handheld dining options ranging from $7 to $12. Sitting in the heart of the city’s most popular nightlife district, The Eagle is the ideal place to enjoy a nice dinner before hitting the bars with your friends.
Dave s Hot Chicken
Founded by classically-trained chef Dave Kopushyan and three friends in early 2017, Dave’s Hot Chicken initially opened as a parking lot pop-up, with lines quickly wrapping around the block.
Dave’s Hot Chicken announced that it has inked a franchise agreement with Tyler Freeland, Todd Hollman and Matt Fortney to open 28 locations in Indiana and Ohio.
“As we continue to expand in key markets throughout the Midwest, it’s vital that we partner with seasoned operators like Tyler, Todd and Matt to ensure success right out of the gate,” says Bill Phelps, CEO of Dave’s Hot Chicken. “Their multi-unit experience is invaluable as we introduce the craveable food of Dave’s Hot Chicken to more people in Indiana and Ohio.”