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Daddy’s Chicken Shack is preparing for its New Jersey debut.

The outpost is scheduled to open soon at 1810 Wayside Road in Tinton Falls. The upcoming eatery is the first of 13 locations under development by Esperto Hospitality Group.

Founded in 2018, Daddy’s Chicken Shack’s Southern-inspired menu includes fried and grilled chicken, as well as sandwiches, sliders, popcorn chicken, burritos, salads and loaded fries.

1810 Wayside Road, Tinton Falls:

Since launching a franchise program in 2021, the Colorado-based brand says it has about 160 restaurants in development. However, as of March 2026, the chain has just two locations open: Littleton, Co., and Leander, Texas.

Esperto was among the first franchise groups to sign a deal with Daddy’s Chicken Shack. The operator’s portfolio includes several of its own upscale concepts, such as Covo Italian Steakhouse, The Office Restaurant & Lounge, Catezza Italian Kitchen & Bar, Local House Kitchen + Bar and Café Pari.

After securing a franchise agreement with the brand in July 2024, Esperto founder John DiLeo said he and his team were “thrilled to kickstart this exciting journey with Daddy’s Chicken Shack.”

He also praised the “chef-driven menu offerings,” as well as the support from the chain’s leadership.

“Their commitment to quality and innovation aligns perfectly with our vision, and we see immense potential in bringing this concept across New Jersey,” DiLeo said.

Within New Jersey, the team expects to grow the brand’s footprint in Monmouth and Ocean counties. Additional details on where or when those sites will open were not immediately available.

In Tinton Falls, Daddy’s Chicken Shack is taking space just off the Garden State Parkway at Wayside Crossing. Its neighbors will include recreational cannabis dispensary The Wildflower Market and a recently approved Wawa convenience store with gas station.