TORONTO ─ Dave’s Hot Chicken, the L.A.-based fast-casual chain known for its Nashville hot chicken, is set to open its first-ever Canadian location in Toronto in January 2021.
The highly anticipated Canadian location will be located in the Parkdale neighbourhood at 1582 Queen St. W., with plans for local and national expansion over the course of the year.
The fast-casual concept specializes in hot chicken tenders and sliders, offered at seven various spice levels, ranging from ‘No Heat’ to ‘Reaper’ (which requires a signed waiver for those who dare), and a variety of sides including house-made Kale Slaw, creamy Mac n’Cheese and crispy french fries.
The Toronto location’s menu will feature items that are unique to Canada with locally sourced craft beers and classic Dave’s Hot Chicken staples shaped around Canadian cuisine. The restaurant will initially open offering take-out and will be available for online ordering and delivery.
Obelysk Food Ltd., which has extensive experience in the Canadian food-and-beverage and fast-casual industries, has signed a franchise deal with the brand to open 30 locations across Canada.
“We were devoted customers before we got the opportunity to introduce the brand to the Canadian market,” says Blair Bitove, director of Business Development, Obelysk. “In just a few years, Dave’s Hot Chicken has established a cult and celebrity following across the U.S. with its craveable menu offerings and unique combinations of spices. We look forward to continuing that momentum across Canada and watching Canadians flock to the brand.”
Co-founder and chef Dave Kopushyan, along with his three best friends, originated Dave’s Hot Chicken in early 2017. Kopushyan, a classically trained chef and self-described spice freak, was inspired by the unique, flavourful spice of Nashville hot chicken and set out to create his own version.
Dave’s Hot Chicken is heralded as one of the fastest-growing restaurant concepts in history, with more than 200 locations under contract across the U.S. since it began franchising in 2019, with plans to expand across Canada.
