Azzurri to launch Dave’s Hot Chicken in the UK with 60 sites planned

Azzurri Group has signed an agreement with US chicken brand Dave’s Hot Chicken to open 60 sites across the UK, with the first planned to open in London early next year.

Dave’s Hot Chicken was founded by three childhood friends, Dave Kopushyan, Arman Oganesyan and Tommy Rubenyan, in an East Hollywood carpark in 2017.

The brand is famous for its spiced-to-order chicken with seven levels of spice ranging from No Spice to Reaper, which requires a signed waiver from guests.  

It grew into a social media sensation with 2.4 million followers on TikTok and 1.2 million followers on Instagram. It now has 200 restaurants.

In 2019 the company began franchising the brand thanks to a deal with Wetzel’s Pretzels co-founder and former chief executive, Bill Phelps and investment from celebrities including Drake, Samuel L. Jackson and Usher.

It has since sold the rights to more than 700 franchise locations in the US, Middle East and Canada and plans to open more than 90 locations this year. 

Steve Holmes, CEO of Azzurri Group, said: “When we first tried Dave’s Hot Chicken we were blown away as it makes some of the most craveable and delicious food we’ve ever had.

“We’re excited to bring this incredible brand to the UK and to be their partner in this ambitious roll-out.”

Bill Phelps, CEO of Dave’s Hot Chicken added: “We know there is an opportunity to make Dave’s Hot Chicken one of the iconic restaurant brands, and we do that by partnering with incredible operators, like Azzurri Group.

“The flavour of Dave’s Hot Chicken resonates across borders, and we’re looking forward to the first UK store getting open soon.”

Azzurri, which operates Zizzi, ASK Italian, Coco di Mama and Irish fast-casual Mexican brand Boojum, employs nearly 6,000 people and serves over 15 million meals annually across its 230 restaurants and stores.