Los Angeles-based fast-casual restaurant, Dave’s Hot Chicken, inked a franchise agreement with Amit Patel to open 14 locations in northern New Jersey, the company announced Aug. 19.
Patel signed a deal with the brand to open restaurants throughout Bergen, Passaic, Essex, Hudson and Union Counties.
“The New Jersey-New York DMA is very important to our growth. Partnering with an experienced operator with deep community ties like Amit will be key to success in the area,” said CEO Bill Phelps. “I’m thrilled to introduce Dave’s Hot Chicken to more new customers throughout the East Coast.”
Patel’s team is in the process of seeking locations now, specifically 2,000 to 2,500 square feet endcaps or freestanding locations.
“I’ve been able to form great, lasting relationships with several members of the Dave’s corporate team, which was definitely a big draw for me to the brand. And, the brand has an incredible following of fans who crave the atmosphere and food,” said Patel, who also owns a number of Buffalo Wild Wings and Blaze Pizza franchises throughout New Jersey. “I think there will be a lot of excitement in North Jersey for Dave’s Hot Chicken.”
Founded by classically-trained chef Dave Kopushyan and three friends in 2017, Dave’s Hot Chicken has 20 brick-and-mortar locations open in the U.S. and Canada.
Specializing in hot chicken tenders and sliders, each restaurant also cooks up sides including kale slaw, creamy mac and cheese and cheese fries.
“I’m happy to have an operator with credentials like Amit join Dave’s Hot Chicken,” said Shannon Swenson, vice president of franchise development. “He has a proven track record of success with other restaurant brands, and I anticipate he’ll do the same with Dave’s Hot Chicken in New Jersey.”
