Dave’s Hot Chicken, a Los Angeles-based fast-casual restaurant chain celebrated for its Nashville-style hot chicken, is set to open its first Mercer County location in Hamilton. The new establishment will occupy the former Boston Market space on Route 33.
The company’s journey began in 2017 with a truly humble start. Three childhood friends, in their twenties, pooled together $900 to open their first hot chicken stand.
Their not-so-grand opening took place in a parking lot in East Hollywood, featuring a modest setup with a couple of folding tables and a portable fryer under the night sky.
The venture quickly gained traction thanks to social media, particularly Instagram, which drew initial customers.
A pivotal moment arrived when a reporter from EATER/LA published a review titled, “East Hollywood’s New Late Night Hot Chicken Stand Might Blow Your Mind.”
This review led to lines extending down the street and around the block, solidifying the company’s early success and prompting the opening of its first physical store. Dave’s Hot Chicken’s stated goal became clear: to “Make juicy, spicy, hot chicken that will ‘Blow Your Mind.'”
The upcoming Hamilton eatery will offer a menu featuring chicken tenders, sliders (including regular and mini sizes), and bites. A “no-chicken cauli option” made with cauliflower is also available.
Sides include loaded fries and top-loaded shakes. Customers can choose from a range of seven spice levels for their chicken, from “No Spice” to “Reaper.” Family-sized “Hot Boxes” will also be offered.
Dave’s Hot Chicken has been expanding nationwide from its West Coast origins. The company’s menu is noted for its customizable heat levels and includes “Dave’s After Dark” hours on weekends, providing later operating times.
While an official opening date for the Hamilton location has not yet been announced, a banner at the site confirms the impending arrival. Currently, other Dave’s Hot Chicken locations in New Jersey include East Brunswick, Cherry Hill, Ocean Township, Union, Kearny, Wayne and Secaucus.
For more information on Dave’s Hot Chicken, including its menu and existing locations, you can visit their official website at Dave’s Hot Chicken.
Artificial intelligence was used to assist in the creation of this story.
,
