Canes, Wingstop, Kiki’s, Chick-Fil-A, Popeyes, Buffalo Wild wings…the list goes on. Chicken-based fast food franchises are in no short supply. One option blows all other choices out of the water: Dave’s Hot Chicken. 

While the sign out front of the new location will presumably say something like, “We are open!” or “New Dave’s location,” it might as well say, “Come eat our chicken if you want to feel like your taste buds have reached a higher purpose in life; by the way our chicken is way better than Chick-Fil-A’s unimpressive mediocre so-called nuggets.” But I guess that would be too long of a sign. 

Dave’s, while garnering significant attraction from celebrity endorsers from Usher, Samuel L. Jackson, Drake and others, it is still one of the best kept secrets of the food industry. Started by four Armenian American childhood friends, they began their business with $900 and pop-up locations all over Los Angeles, their hometown.

Cane’s is great, but it’s unseasoned; Wingstop is nice, but it often comes bathed in unnecessary oil; however, Dave’s never fails me. It always comes perfectly crispy, tender on the inside, and coated with spice-customizable seasoning. 

The franchise specializes in tenders and sliders, with only four meal options on the menu. With the increased demand for something “new,” chains are constantly experimenting with menu options, often losing their culinary identity to keep up with the short attention span of American consumers. 

Not Dave’s, though.

They know their brand, and they stick to it. And yet, it’s never boring. Dave’s Hot Chicken is bold, nostalgic yet original and perfectly satisfying every time.

Their sides are what really pushes them to the top. The fries? Perfect. Mac and cheese? Decent but still way better than Chick-Fil-A. The pickles? Could convert any pickle-hater. Dave’s simply understands a good flavor profile.

While the fast food industry has its flaws, drive throughs and pick-up meals have truly woven into the tapestry of America’s fast-paced, no nonsense culture. Dave’s embodies that. It’s fast food that can be slowly enjoyed, and Roseville’s newest location attests to the success of the four childhood best friends and culinary entrepreneurs.

Dave’s is open until 1 am, and all of their chicken is halal certified; definitely a potential option for those who are fasting for Ramadan.

Dave’s new location (Location: 10325 Fairway Dr.) is opening in Roseville on Friday, March 14.