Los Angeles-based Dave’s Hot Chicken added a new core menu item for the first time in seven years—and it’s not chicken.
In fact, the plant-based option is called Dave’s “Not” Chicken Cauliflower Sliders and Bites, and it launched at all 180 locations nationwide Monday.
The items start with a fresh, whole head of cauliflower that is hand-sliced, then breaded, seasoned and fried crisp to order, using the signature spices that have turned Dave’s chicken tenders into a fan favorite. Guests have the same choice of seven spice levels, ranging from No Spice to Reaper.
“For years, our fans have been asking us to make a meatless option that has all the flavor, crunch and spice of our hot chicken,” said Bill Phelps, CEO of Dave’s Hot Chicken, in a statement. “After spending weeks in the test kitchen testing countless different products, just like the founders did back in the parking lot pop-up days, we’ve created a meat-alternative that’s so tasty, even our most dedicated hot chicken loyalists will want to try it.”
A number of locations have even changed the signage on the restaurants to “Dave’s NOT Chicken” to provide Instagrammable backgrounds for photo-obsessed customers to post. These locations span the country, from Boston to New York, Dallas, Las Vegas, Milwaukee, Tampa, San Diego and more.
Diners in the chain’s home turf of L.A. can view a 3-D billboard highlighting Dave, the company’s mascot, and the new cauliflower sliders and bites. It’s positioned at the Moxy Hotel, close to the city’s convention center and basketball arena.
Instagram has been a good friend to Dave’s Hot Chicken since its founding, helping to propel the chain’s rapid growth. Since its parking lot days, the founders focused on building a strong social media presence. That, coupled with a simple menu of craveable chicken tenders, has fueled investment, intense franchise interest and impressive sales.
Dave’s Hot Chicken has plans to open 90-plus units this year and has sold the rights to more than 700 franchise locations.
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