Dave’s Hot Chicken, the Los Angeles-based Street food sensation turned breakthrough fast-casual brand, announced that it has locked in a new franchise agreement with the brand’s original franchisees. This group includes business partners

Deryl Pangelinan, Tony Moyer, Denise Calette, Andrew Feghali and Lawrence Kourie. After being the first to franchise with Dave’s Hot Chicken in 2020, the group has inked a nine-unit development deal within several counties throughout Alabama, Florida and Georgia. 

“Our franchise system thrives off the dedication of our current franchise partners. We are delighted to share the news that several of our initial franchisees are extending their business footprint, leveraging their operational proficiency, and expanding Dave’s Hot Chicken’s influence into promising, unexplored territories,” remarked Bill Phelps, CEO of Dave’s Hot Chicken. “Their excellence as seasoned operators is truly commendable, and we have complete confidence in their capacity to serve Dave’s Hot Chicken enthusiasts in the Southern region of the nation.”

After witnessing the contemporary success story of Dave’s Hot Chicken, which began in an East Hollywood parking lot, the group is embarking on an ambitious nationwide expansion endeavor. They are launching multiple standout locations across the three states, significantly expanding into the Southern market. With a total of nine new establishments reaching over 49 counties within Alabama, 12 counties in Florida and eight counties within Georgia, the brand is in prime position to bring the heat into the Southern chicken segment.


“In each new market we enter, we are met with a warm and embracing reception from the community. Having the chance to introduce our brand to more guests is a significant privilege,” says Moyer. “Choosing our first location and then launching subsequent openings in these markets is a venture we eagerly look forward to. Our goal is to maintain the string of successes we’ve had with our brand and foster a strong bond with the local community.”

Founded by Arman Oganesyan and classically trained chef Dave Kopushyan, along with brothers, Tommy, and Gary Rubenyan in early 2017, Dave’s Hot Chicken initially opened as a parking lot pop-up, with lines quickly wrapping around the block. Since then, the brand has exploded in popularity and now has over 140 locations in the United States and Canada.

Specializing in hot chicken tenders and sliders, with spice levels ranging from “No Spice” to “Reaper,” each restaurant also serves sides of house-made Kale Slaw, creamy Mac & Cheese and crispy Fries or Cheese Fries. 

Dave’s Hot Chicken offers a robust business model, including national and local marketing support, proven systems, manuals, and operating procedures, as well as assistance with site selection. As the brand expands, it is seeking qualified, experienced, and passionate restaurant operators and franchise groups to develop the concept in key markets such as Florida, Tennessee, Louisiana, Pittsburgh, Missouri, Arkansas, Iowa, and Mississippi.

Fast Casual, Franchising, Growth, News, Dave's Hot Chicken