Dave Martinez
Founder & Head ChefThe mastermind behind every recipe, Dave's obsession with heat, flavor balance, and fresh ingredients is the soul of Dave's hot chicken.
Our Story
About Dave's Hot Chicken
Dave's hot chicken started with a backyard recipe and a dream to bring bold, fiery flavors to every table across the United States. Discover the passion, the people, and the purpose behind every bite.
10+
Years of Bold Flavor
Who We Are
The Story Behind Daves Hot Chicken
It all began in a humble backyard in Mason, Ohio, where founder Dave first perfected his legendary hot chicken recipe. Inspired by Nashville's rich culinary traditions and fueled by an obsession with bold spice levels, Dave's hot chicken was born out of love — love for great food, great community, and the kind of heat that makes you come back for more.
What started as a weekend passion project quickly drew crowds from across the neighborhood. Friends brought friends, and word spread fast. By 2014, that backyard cookout had grown into a full-fledged restaurant at 8150 Arbor Square Dr, Mason, OH — a place where daves chicken became the talk of the town.
"We don't just make chicken — we craft an experience. Every bite of dave hot chicken is a story of passion, spice, and community."
Today, Dave's hot chicken is a beloved destination in United States, serving thousands of loyal guests every week. We remain committed to the same principles that started it all: fresh ingredients, fearless flavors, and a genuine love for the people we serve.
10+
Years in Business
50K+
Happy Customers
7
Spice Heat Levels
4.8
Average Rating
Why We Exist
Our Mission & Vision
Everything we do at Dave's hot chicken is driven by a simple purpose: to serve food that ignites joy, builds community, and never compromises on quality.
Our Mission
To deliver boldly flavored, freshly prepared chicken that creates memorable dining experiences and brings people together around a shared love of great food.
Our Vision
To become the go-to name for hot chicken across the United States — a brand synonymous with bold flavor, genuine warmth, and an unforgettable guest experience.
Fresh Ingredients
Every piece of daves chicken is prepared fresh daily using locally sourced produce and premium cuts. No shortcuts, no compromises — only the best for our guests.
Community First
We are proud to be a cornerstone of our local community in Mason, OH. From neighborhood events to charity initiatives, giving back is part of our DNA.
What Drives Us
The Values Behind Daves Chicken
At the heart of everything we do are values that guide how we cook, how we treat our team, and how we connect with every guest who walks through our doors.
Relentless Flavor
We never settle for ordinary. Our recipes are constantly refined to push the boundaries of bold, satisfying taste — that's the Dave's hot chicken promise.
Uncompromising Quality
From sourcing to prep to plating, every step in our process is held to the highest standard. Our guests deserve nothing less than the very best.
People-First Culture
Our team is our family. We invest in every person who joins Dave's, fostering growth, respect, and a workplace where passion thrives.
Sustainable Practices
We are committed to reducing our environmental footprint — from sustainable packaging to partnering with local farms that share our values.
Honest Hospitality
No gimmicks, no hidden fees — just warm, genuine service that makes every guest feel like they're part of the Dave's family from the moment they arrive.
Our Journey
A Decade of Dave's Hot Chicken
From a backyard grill to a United States icon — here's how daves hot chicken grew into the brand you know today.
2013
The Backyard Beginning
Dave perfects his signature hot chicken recipe in his Mason, OH backyard. Neighbors can't get enough, and the idea of a real restaurant takes shape over weekend cookouts.
2014
Doors Open at Arbor Square
Dave's hot chicken officially opens at 8150 Arbor Square Dr, Mason, OH. The launch-day line stretches around the block — and never really stops.
2016
7 Heat Levels Introduced
In response to guest feedback, Dave's iconic 7-tier spice system launches — from No Spice to the legendary "Reaper" level. It becomes the brand's defining signature.
2018
Catering & Events Launch
Dave's hot chicken expands into catering services, bringing bold flavors to weddings, corporate events, and private parties across United States.
2021
50,000 Guests Served
A milestone celebration — Dave's hot chicken crosses 50,000 satisfied customers. The team celebrates with a community feast and a limited-edition menu.
2024
Award-Winning Recognition
Dave's hot chicken earns regional "Best Hot Chicken" awards and is featured in multiple food publications as a must-try destination in the United States.
The Faces Behind the Flavor
Meet Our Team
Behind every incredible dish at Dave's hot chicken is a passionate, dedicated team that lives and breathes bold flavor every single day.
Sarah Chen
Operations ManagerSarah ensures every guest experience at Dave's is seamless. With 8 years in hospitality, she keeps the kitchen humming and the smiles coming.
Marcus Thompson
Executive Sous ChefA culinary school graduate with a fiery passion for Southern cooking, Marcus brings technical precision and creative flair to every daves chicken dish.
Priya Patel
Catering DirectorPriya leads our catering division, transforming events across United States into unforgettable culinary experiences with the bold taste of Dave's chicken.