Dave's Hot Chicken — Restaurant in Lexington

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DRAKE! Thanks for putting my meal on your tab!

Background:

This franchise is interesting. The background history was that this place started in Los Angeles, CA and one of the original founders was trained by a chef who cooked at The French Laundry, a very upscale restaurant in CA (one that CA's governor, Gavin Newsom, went to during the pandemic without a mask and with a group of peope...m...hm...). Anyway, it started out as a stand and then it blew up and rapidly began expanding across the U.S. Lexington is lucky to have one, sort of like Winchester, KY is lucky to have a Fatburger (another chain out of Los Angeles)...we can state that it may even be better than IN N OUT... O_O! Drake, the rapper, has a stake in this chain just like Kanye West has a stake in Fatburger.

Experience:

I ordered a Carolina reaper slider (no, they do not make you sign a waiver) from this place and it was GOOD. It was basically a tender with dry rub AND sauce! You get both unlike other chicken places where they give you either/or. It is like 4d instead of 3d! It's like a liquid metal/endoskeleton terminator instead of an endoskeleton terminator. The future in spicing up chicken. Double whammy...OMG!! I had to coat my stomach first with Culver's free custard scoop! HOLY CHIT! Now for the pricing and, like locations from New York or Los Angeles; Lexingtonians will find that the price points will be high. This is because these chains come from high cost of living places, but do not bother to adjust their pricing to cities they expand to. There have been a number of reviews under this location that mention this and I thought to better clarify as to why.

Suggestions:

All in all, I actually do not prefer chicken tenders (I mean I like them, but do not go out of my way as much because they tend to use fillers to gel the chicken together). Why not sell actual chicken pieces like KFC or Lee's, bone in? Also, why Carolina Reaper? Why not jalapenos and habaneros? This is out of CA right? Why not an avocado spread?

I would be more willing to come back if they considered sending coupons through the mail though. Or maybe they could have like an app or online rewards account like Burger King or Wendy's to give...

I was not impressed. The menu was limited to just 3 meals and add ons (new place, keep it simple, I get it). I couldn't order individual items. I order the two tender meal (two tenders and fries). I spent $12 after tax and this did not come with a drink. The chicken was cooked great, but the hot seasoning looked like they just dumped a whole container on it and caked it on. I was given a lunch cafeteria portion of fries with sauce that did not have any taste to it. It seemed like mayo with enough thousand island for color. The pickles (which shouldn't be a problem) had lost their vinegar taste. With two slices of bread. I honestly felt like I was eating a middle/high school lunch. It's possible that I ordered the wrong thing to try out a new place, but this was not a good start. My co-workers ordered the sandwiches and said they were real good. Of course it came with slaw to compliment the sandwich. Bottom line, if I had spent $8 for this I wouldn't be so critical, but I wasted $12 and did not get a drink to wash it down. I'm not saying do not try this place, every person and experience is different. I'm just making you aware of what you are...

I recently visited Dave’s Hot Chicken, and it was an outstanding experience from start to finish. The restaurant has a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a casual meal with friends or family.

The menu offers a variety of spice levels, catering to all heat tolerances. I opted for the "Hot" chicken slider and tenders combo, and it did not disappoint. The chicken was incredibly juicy and flavorful, with the perfect amount of crunch. The heat level was just right, delivering a satisfying kick without being overwhelming.

The sides were equally impressive. The crinkle-cut fries were crispy and well-seasoned, and the creamy mac and cheese provided a delightful contrast to the spicy chicken. The pickles added a nice tangy element that balanced the meal perfectly.

Service was quick and friendly, with staff members eager to ensure a great dining experience. The restaurant was clean and well-maintained, making the visit even more enjoyable.

Overall, Dave’s Hot Chicken exceeded my expectations. The delicious food, friendly service, and lively atmosphere make it a must-visit for anyone who loves spicy chicken. I will definitely be...