Dave’s Hot Chicken Opens First New Mexico Location in Albuquerque

Dave’s Hot Chicken, the rapidly expanding California-based chain specializing in Nashville-style hot chicken, officially opened its first New Mexico restaurant today in northwest Albuquerque.

The new location, situated in the Cottonwood Mall shopping area, saw eager customers lining up yesterday before the official opening. Jorge Frausto, a manager with Dave’s Hot Chicken, emphasized the company’s commitment to community engagement, stating, “You will see us interact a lot with the community. We like to be involved with law enforcement, would like to be involved with any organization that is here to support Albuquerque. We want to be there, and that’s that’s part of our mission, that’s part of our vision and our promise to every single state that we show up to.” The arrival of Dave’s Hot Chicken adds another option to Albuquerque’s growing culinary scene.

The restaurant will employ approximately 100 people, and plans are already underway to open a second location within Albuquerque. Dave’s Hot Chicken offers seven spice levels, ranging from “no spice” to the intensely hot “reaper,” which requires a signed waiver. Customers can learn more about the different heat levels and the restaurant’s menu on the Dave’s Hot Chicken website. The chain’s popularity has surged since its founding in 2017, fueled by its bold flavors and social media presence, as reported by Nation’s Restaurant News.

Frausto anticipates New Mexicans will embrace the challenge of the hotter spice levels, noting, “We got seven levels…and reaper is a different level.” Store managers confirmed they are already working towards expanding their presence in the state.