Houston’s Hot Chicken co-founders Edmond Barseghian and Houston Crosta may be young—both are in their early 30s—but they already helm one of the fastest-growing restaurant franchises in the U.S.
The duo, who worked on the Houston’s Hot Chicken concept for two years before launch, opened their first store in Las Vegas in August 2021. Since then, they’ve sold more than 100 franchises in 12 states, and there are no signs of the brand losing momentum.
“We saw the hot chicken category taking off, but we wanted to be innovative,” says co-founder Barseghian. “Our brand is Texas hot chicken—the sauce is sweeter and more savory than Nashville.”
As the name implies, the brand serves hot chicken sandwiches and tenders, but it also serves a varied menu, including loaded fries, party platters, salads, and milkshakes. Houston’s Hot Chicken, however, further differentiates itself with high-quality ingredients, such as fresh-baked brioche buns and the healthiest organic chicken available.
In addition to top-tier ingredients, the restaurant’s interior also uses premium materials, which give the space a rustic, yet modern feel. Onyx countertops, brass metallic tables, polished concrete floors, reclaimed wood, and auto-inspired art hint at the elevated dining experience to come.
“We’re both heavily into the automotive industry,” says co-founder Houston Crosta. “We have taken the luxurious aspects from that industry, so when customers walk in, the high-end art and murals are among the first things they notice.”
In typical millennial fashion, the duo have a transparent, inclusive way of operating the business. They’re seeking franchisees who are interested in building a long-lasting partnership, not just a business arrangement. Interested franchisees must have a minimum net worth of $2 million (with $400,000–800,000 on hand), and be able to build a store without loans or debt. However, above all else, prospective franchisees must be a cultural fit.
Houston’s Hot Chicken provides robust support at every step of the franchising process, from site selection to construction, staff training, grand opening and beyond. With seven stores open so far, AUV is $3-4 million gross.
“Other brands rely on television and billboards, but direct social media marketing is much more effective for us,” Barseghian says. “We leverage our large YouTube and social media presence to grow our business. Our grand openings typically have 3,000–4,000 attendees.”
Barseghian and Crosta ideally seek franchisees who want to develop five-store and territory deals, although those who seek single-store agreements in smaller markets won’t be ruled out. The tandem is open to working with both experienced foodservice franchisees and those who are brand new to franchising in the restaurant space. “Our franchisees come from all walks of life and we couldn’t be happier with the diversity in our company,” Crosta says.
To learn more about franchising, visit houstonshotchicken.com.
