St. Augustine is getting another spot for crispy chicken and serious heat as Dave’s Hot Chicken heads to U.S. 1.
The new restaurant will open at 1830 U.S. 1 S., taking over the space previously occupied by Wendy’s according to the Jacksonville Business Journal. The location is being brought to the area by franchise owner Andrew Hamerling.
Dave’s Hot Chicken built its following around Nashville-style hot chicken, serving hand-breaded tenders, sliders and chicken bites with a choice of spice levels. The brand currently offers seven heat levels, ranging from no spice to its signature Reaper level.
Customers can build meals around the chain’s chicken tenders and sliders, with sides including seasoned fries, kale slaw and mac and cheese. The menu also features chicken bites, shakes, dipping sauces and newer offerings such as Hot Mozz and mini sliders.
The concept has a story that started much smaller. Dave’s Hot Chicken was founded in 2017 by three friends who put together $900 to open a late-night chicken stand in an East Hollywood parking lot. After word spread, the pop-up developed a following and eventually grew into a national restaurant brand.
Today, Dave’s describes its restaurants as a place for Nashville hot chicken, tenders, sliders, bites, fries, shakes and other casual fare, with the ability to choose how much heat goes into each order.
An opening date for the St. Augustine location has not yet been announced.
