This article highlights the most current updates on Dave’s Hot Chicken, including new openings, menu pricing details, and customer reactions—key details for anyone skimming to get the facts.
Expansion into San Antonio Region
Dave’s Hot Chicken unveiled a new outlet in Schertz, Texas, on January 9, 2026. Situated at 18476 IH-35 N., Suite 500 in the newly opened Schertz Station shopping complex, the location hosted a soft opening the night before. The décor blends Los Angeles-inspired graffiti with local touches referencing the “Battle of 3009” high school rivalry.
The menu emphasizes tenders, sliders, and the famed combo—Dave’s No. 3, which includes a slider, tender, crinkle-cut fries, pickle chips, and Dave’s Sauce. The chain offers seven spice tiers from “no heat” to “Reaper,” the latter requiring a waiver.
New Hamden, Connecticut Location Drawing Teens
In late 2025, Dave’s Hot Chicken opened a new store at 2165 Dixwell Avenue, Hamden, CT. This site, replacing a former DiBella’s Sub location, quickly became an after-school hotspot for local high school students. General Manager Myeshia Brumell noted heavy foot traffic and plans to reward the student of the month with free meals starting in December. Hamden joins Milford, Newington, Stamford, and Southington, with another location upcoming in Brookfield.
Pop‑Culture Collab: Fallout Meal With Toy
On January 7, 2026, Dave’s launched a limited-time “Fallout”-themed meal—the Saucy Survival Kit—that includes either 10 saucy bites or a single slider, crinkle-cut fries, ranch, and a collectible Stimpak toy. Priced at $12.99 for both versions, the promotion ties into Amazon’s hit show’s 98% Rotten Tomatoes score and will roll out in the UK and Middle East next week, while supplies last. Social media customers shared excitement, posting lines like “Told myself I’m staying away from Dave’s this month but I need this!!”
Ownership Update: Roark Capital Acquisition
The company was acquired by private equity firm Roark Capital in a $1 billion deal announced on June 2, 2025. Although Roark manages large franchised brands like Subway and Inspire Brands chains, Dave’s leadership team including CEO Bill Phelps and the original founders remain in place. By the end of 2025, the chain expected to operate 400 global locations, up from earlier years.
Menu Pricing Snapshot: Combos, Feed‑a‑Crowd & Sides
Pricing ranges vary by location, but the menu remains focused and straightforward:
- Combo Meals
- 2 Sliders + Fries: ~$14.99
- 2 Tenders + Fries: ~$14.99
-
1 Tender + 1 Slider + Fries: ~$13.99
-
Feed‑a‑Crowd (Hot Boxes)
- Tenders: ~$40–45
- Sliders: ~$60–65
-
Dave’s Bites: ~$30
-
Sides & Extras
- Mac & Cheese: ~$4.29–5.99
- Fries: ~$3.99–4.59
- Kale Slaw: ~$3.99
- Loaded Fries & shakes available in select locations ($6–12)
Pricing varies, particularly in high-cost regions like Atlanta or Los Angeles; delivery and taxes may increase total.
Reviews Give Mixed Feedback
Customer experience varies widely depending on location and expectations.
On Reddit, some diners consider the offerings slightly overpriced, especially compared to traditional fast food. Others criticize inconsistent spice levels or dry chicken on average visits.
One traveler visiting Barrie on opening night reported:
– High combo prices (~$20, no drink included)
– Stale bread and freezer‑burnt buns
– Chicken rated “really good”
– Spice not spicy for Hot and Extra Hot orders
– Long lines and milkshake malfunctions
Still, some fans enjoy the crisp fries and flavor—though value remains a sticking point.
What to Watch Next
- Expansion continues: keep an eye on new location openings, especially in Brookfield, CT.
- Global promotions like the Fallout collaboration may recur, especially across international markets.
- Price transparency will matter as costs remain a criticism from diners. Monitoring combo pricing and perceived value will be key.
- Customer reviews vary by region; localized quality control and consistent menu execution may drive public sentiment going forward.
The article now weaves together expansion updates, pricing trends, and customer impressions—providing a full yet factual snapshot of Dave’s Hot Chicken as of early 2026.
Leave a comment