Savannah’s dining scene has a new player—Dave’s Hot Chicken is officially open at 1800 E. Victory Drive, right next to Seasons of Japan. The fast-growing chain, known for its Nashville-style hot chicken, welcomed its first customers on March 7 after a slight delay from its original February opening date.
Dave’s Hot Chicken started as a small parking lot pop-up in Los Angeles in 2017, and in just a few years, it has expanded to over 200 locations worldwide. The menu is simple but packed with heat, offering jumbo hot chicken tenders and sliders with spice levels ranging from “No Spice” to “Reaper” (yes, you’ll need to sign a waiver for that one).
I stopped by to check it out myself, and the Dave’s Sauce is a standout—it adds a creamy, tangy kick that pairs perfectly with the crispy chicken. They also serve milkshakes and slushies, a nice touch for cooling down if you go for one of the hotter spice levels.
Savannah’s Victory Drive corridor has seen a rotating lineup of restaurants over the years, with spots like Tijuana Flats and Kreole Kitchen coming and going. Some locals have questioned whether this location can sustain a business long-term. But Dave’s Hot Chicken has built a loyal following across the country, and if Savannah embraces its customizable heat levels and bold flavors, it just might stick around.
Dave’s Hot Chicken is now open daily—stop by and see if it lives up to the hype.
