Dave's Hot Chicken Is Coming To Lakeville

LAKEVILLE, MN — A California-based chain of hot chicken restaurants announced Monday that it plans to open six locations in the Twin Cities area, including one in Lakeville.

Dave's Hot Chicken said it has signed a franchise agreement with restaurant operator Michael McGuire to open restaurants in Apple Valley, Rosemount, Edina, Bloomington, and Lakeville.

The restaurant specializes in chicken tenders and sliders, with spice levels from "No Spice" to "Reaper," and also serves house-made Kale Slaw, creamy Mac & Cheese, and crispy fries.

"After trying the craveable product that Dave's Hot Chicken has to offer, I knew I needed to do what it takes to bring the restaurant to this area of Minnesota," said McGuire, who will be operating the restaurants with his son Kavrin. "I am eager to grow Dave's Hot Chicken in the surrounding area around the Twin Cities."

According to a press release, McGuire has 34 years of experience in the quick-service restaurant sector, including owning brands like Jersey Mike's, Little Caesars, Krispy Kreme, and Dominos Pizza.

"I'm excited to continue expanding our footprint across Minnesota with someone as experienced in multi-unit operations like (McGuire)," said Shannon Swenson, vice president of franchise development at Dave's Hot Chicken. "He stands out as a trusted franchisee with strong ties to the area, and I have no doubt he will be successful in this endeavor."

Dave's Hot Chicken, according to its website, was created in East Hollywood, California in 2017 by four best friends, including classically-trained chef Arman Oganesyan.

Dave's initially opened as a parking lot pop-up. But after a local publication wrote about the food under the headline: "East Hollywood's Late Night Chicken Stand Might Blow Your Mind," lines quickly stretched around the block.

Reporting from Dan Shalin, Patch Staff was used in this story.