US fast food chain Dave’s Hot Chicken begins national UK expansion

US fast food chain Dave’s Hot Chicken is kicking off its UK national expansion plans with the launch of two new sites. 

The fried chicken brand, which originated in Los Angeles, will be rolling out new shops in Birmingham and Manchester this summer.

Last year, Dave’s Hot Chicken signed an agreement with hospitality investment firm Azzurri Group, the company behind food-to-go chains including Ask Italian and Zizzi, and unveiled plans to launch 60 locations across the UK this year.

Opening next month, the Birmingham site on 56 New Street features 120 covers and a space-themed interior with graffiti art, inspired by LA-based street artists Splatterhaus and Dehmq. 

Meanwhile, a 139-cover venue will open in Manchester’s Printworks on 8 August and will take on an industrial design. 

"Birmingham and Manchester are on the up, with food scenes to rival London’s," said Dave's Hot Chicken UK managing director Jim Attwood. "Opening up our next two locations here kicks off our national expansion, and we can’t wait to welcome our first fans through the doors.

"Kicking off in July, Birmingham is our first major moment – the first UK site outside London – whilst our new spot in Printworks Manchester is right in the heart of one of the UK’s most exciting cities. We’re taking Dave’s Hot Chicken nationwide. Watch this space."

The two new stores follow the launch of the restaurant's flagship site in London on Shaftesbury Avenue in December 2024. 

They will both offer the same menu as the London store, including sliders, tenders, top-loaded shakes, and Slushers.