About Dave's Hot Chicken
Born from a passion for bold flavors and fiery heat — learn the story behind New York's most beloved hot chicken restaurant.
Our Beginning
The Story Behind
Daves Hot Chicken
Dave's hot chicken started with a simple idea: bring the authentic, soul-warming heat of Nashville-style hot chicken to the heart of New York City. What began as a weekend pop-up at 944 8th Ave has grown into one of the city's most talked-about dining destinations.
Dave — a self-taught cook with Cajun roots and a deep obsession with spice — spent years perfecting his secret blend of 14 spices and hand-selecting the freshest local poultry. Every batch is marinated overnight, fried to a perfect golden crisp, and dusted with our signature heat levels ranging from "Country" to "Reaper."
"I wanted every bite to tell a story — not just heat for the sake of heat, but flavor that lingers, that makes you close your eyes for a second." — Dave, Founder
Today, dave's hot chicken serves hundreds of guests daily, but our commitment has never wavered: every piece of chicken gets the same love, the same care, the same fire that Dave put into that very first batch.
View Our MenuWhat We Stand For
Our Mission & Core Values
At Dave Hot Chicken, we believe that great food is built on great principles — quality, community, and an uncompromising love of flavor.
Unmatched Flavor
Every recipe is crafted with precision — a proprietary blend of spices, quality ingredients, and techniques refined over a decade.
Fresh Ingredients
We source locally whenever possible and insist on fresh, never-frozen chicken — because the quality of what goes in determines what comes out.
Community First
Daves chicken is more than a restaurant — it's a gathering place. We support our neighborhood and give back through local partnerships.
Cooked with Passion
From prep to plate, every order is handled with genuine care. We never cut corners because you deserve the best every single time.
Our Journey
From Pop-Up to New York Icon
A decade of bold decisions, bold flavors, and a bold restaurant that keeps growing.
The First Pop-Up
Dave sets up a weekend pop-up on 8th Ave with just a fryer, a folding table, and 14 secret spices. Lines form within the first hour.
The First Brick & Mortar
Demand grows so fast that Dave signs a lease for a small 30-seat restaurant. Dave's hot chicken officially opens its doors at 944 8th Ave, New York.
Best Hot Chicken in NYC
Daves hot chicken is awarded "Best Hot Chicken" by New York Food Weekly. The restaurant expands seating and introduces the beloved Chicken Tender Basket.
Menu Expansion
New sides, signature sauces, and the legendary Reaper Sandwich join the menu — along with catering services for NYC events and corporate clients.
Digital Ordering Launch
Dave's hot chicken launches online ordering and delivery — bringing the signature heat directly to your door across Manhattan and beyond.
Celebrating a Decade
Over 50,000 guests served, 4.9-star rating, and a passionate team of 30+. We celebrate 10+ years of fiery flavor and look forward to what's next.
The People Behind the Heat
Meet Our Team
The passionate individuals who wake up every morning to bring you the finest dave's hot chicken experience in New York City.
Dave Mitchell
Founder & Head Chef
The man behind the heat. Dave's Cajun upbringing and lifelong obsession with spice led to creating New York's hottest chicken recipe — cooked with love and 14 secret spices.
Maria Santos
Executive Chef
With 15 years of culinary experience across New York and New Orleans, Maria oversees kitchen operations and ensures every plate meets our uncompromising quality standards.
James Okafor
Restaurant Manager
James keeps the front of house running like a well-oiled machine. His warmth and attention to detail ensure every guest leaves feeling like a regular from day one.
Sofia Rivera
Catering & Events Director
Sofia brings the heat to your events. She leads our catering division and has orchestrated hundreds of corporate and private events across New York City.