Dave's Hot Chicken — Restaurant in Baton Rouge

I went here on their second day of business with my friends after seeing all the hype and stuff on social media and I can say it was worth the long lines and Louisiana heat. Anyone saying it's not worth the wait is like actually lying. Maybe I just got lucky, but my experience was pretty good.

Food: I ordered the slider with a tender and fries. For the spice levels, I went with Hot for the slider and Extra Hot for the tender. Let me be clear: if you're someone who values flavor over fire, consider opting for a milder heat. The “Hot” had a strong kick but was still manageable. “Extra Hot,” on the other hand, was borderline punishing. It overwhelmed the taste rather than enhancing it—fun for just trying, but maybe too intense for everyday eating.

That said, the food itself was excellent. The chicken was very good. The fries were well-cooked and nicely seasoned. I already find myself thinking about going back—but next time I'm definitely sticking with medium or mild.

Service: Given that I visited during the chaotic opening weekend, I expected a long line. While the wait was long—around 2 hours from getting in line to receiving food—the staff handled the crowd with patience and professionalism. The cashier who took my order, Kristopher, was very nice even with the pressure of a packed house. I imagine the process will only get smoother.

Atmosphere: First off, the art work was absolutely awesome inside. All the walls are covered with unique designs and images. The vibe inside the restaurant was upbeat and inviting. Even while waiting, it didn’t feel dull. The crowd was buzzing, and the interior had a fun element that sets it apart from typical fast-casual spots.

Overall Impression Despite the long wait, Dave’s Hot Chicken delivered. The food was flavorful (and fiery), the staff was friendly, and the atmosphere made the experience enjoyable. Once the initial rush dies down, I’m sure this will become a go-to for anyone craving a spicy chicken fix. Just be sure to respect the heat levels—and maybe keep a drink close by.

Also, I have not tried the reaper spice level but I will say based off of just trying the extra hot, it definitely is insanely insanely hot. I would bring a milk jug...

Tanner: The Heat Handler, the Flavor Facilitator, the Legend Behind the Counter

Walk into Dave’s Hot Chicken on any given day, and sure—you'll smell the spices, hear the crackle of fresh tenders, maybe even catch a glimpse of someone trying to survive Reaper level heat. But if you're lucky, Tanner will be behind the register. And that changes everything.

Tanner isn’t just working the front. He’s commanding the floor. This guy doesn’t take orders—he orchestrates cravings. You say you're torn between sliders and tenders? Mild or Medium? He reads your confusion like a seasoned sommelier reads a wine list, then hits you with the perfect recommendation like it’s second nature.

With the confidence of a seasoned chef and the timing of a stand-up comic, Tanner turned my moment of indecision into a full-blown dining revelation. One look, one nod, and suddenly I had the ideal combo in hand—hot, juicy, with extra sauce (because he knew I was that kind of person).

And it doesn’t stop there. The man hands out napkins like gifts from the flavor gods. Throws in jokes, hype, and just the right amount of swagger. You don’t leave his line with just food—you leave with a story.

Let’s be honest:

🔥 He’s the sauce sensei. 🔥 The vibe dealer. 🔥 The reason that line moves fast and feels fun.

Tanner isn’t just an employee. He’s part of what makes Dave’s Hot Chicken sing. Give him a raise. A golden apron. Maybe even a mural.

I came for chicken. I stayed for Tanner.

Long live the Sultan of...

"Tanner: The Sultan of Sauce, the Maestro of the Menu!"

From the moment I walked into Dave’s Hot Chicken, I knew something special was about to happen. Not because of the mouthwatering aroma or the sizzle of fresh chicken in the background—but because Tanner was at the register.

This man isn’t just a cashier. Oh no. Tanner is a culinary cupid, matching hungry hearts with the perfect spice level like it’s an art form. His smile? So warm it could toast your bun. His energy? Spicier than the Reaper level. His knowledge of the menu? Michelin star-worthy.

I came in confused—mild or hot? Sliders or tenders? Tanner saw the panic in my eyes and said, “I got you.” And boy, did he. Like a flavor guru descended from the heavens, he guided me to the combo of my dreams. It was as if he looked into my soul and whispered, “You’re a hot-with-a-side-of-extra-sauce kind of person.”

He rang me up with lightning speed, cracked a few perfectly-timed jokes, and even blessed me with extra napkins like a true gentleman of the grease gods. By the time I sat down, I didn’t just have a tray of food—I had an experience.

So here’s to Tanner: 🔥 The spice whisperer 🔥 The line-slayer 🔥 The crown jewel of Dave’s Hot Chicken

Give this man a raise, a crown, and maybe a custom chicken throne. Until then, I’ll be back—because the chicken’s great, but Tanner makes it...