Croydon (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Dave’s Hot Chicken is accelerating its UK expansion, confirming a new Croydon outlet as the fast-growing chain strengthens its presence across London.
The Nashville-style chicken brand, which has expanded its portfolio nationwide over the past year, will offer music and a fast-casual hangout designed for locals at its flagship location on Shaftesbury Avenue and Westfield White City.
Jim Attwood, managing director of Dave’s Hot Chicken UK, said:
“We can’t wait to close out the year with our sixth new opening and bring our signature heat to Croydon. This dynamic borough, known for its fried chicken shops, has a vibrant food culture and an energy that fits Dave’s attitude like a glove.
We’re looking forward to opening our doors to welcome both new and returning fans to experience our unique spicy chicken. This launch isn’t just an expansion, it’s us bringing big flavour to one of London’s most iconic communities.”
Customers can enter to win free chicken for a year by filming a “mukbang” video of their first-ever Dave’s Hot Chicken meal at the Croydon location and geotagging Dave’s Hot Chicken Croydon on social media.
The winner will be announced on Dave’s social media platforms, and the reward consists of two weekly dinners at Dave’s Hot Chicken Croydon for 52 weeks.
Fans will anticipate the customary cult-favorite menu, which includes sides like mac and cheese and top-loaded fries, succulent chicken tenders and sliders, and the famous seven-level spice scale from No Spice to Reaper (waiver required). A variety of fruity slushes and creamy top-loaded shakes round out the lineup.
On December 16, the new store will open.
How has the local reaction been to Dave’s openings in London?
Original response to Dave’s Hot Chicken openings in London has been overwhelmingly positive, marked by long ranges, viral social media hype, and strong marketable success despite some minor grouches about delay times.
The Shaftesbury Avenue debut (December 2024) drew steady 3- month ranges and TikTok virality via the racy” Reaper” challenge (disclaimer needed), getting Azzurri Group’s top launch; Westfield White City followed suit with analogous excitement. Azzurri CEO Steve Holmes called UK response” phenomenal,” fueling 60- unit expansion plans amid rapid-fire sell- outs and artistic resonance.
Some Beaneries noted 20- 60 nanosecond delays and chaotic lines beforehand, with security demanded; TripAdvisor reviews praise flavor( e.g., tenders on spice scale) but mention occasional no- showspost-hype. Overall, the hype sustains growth, situating Dave’s as a fried funk contender in funk- shop-heavy London.
