Dave’s Hot Chicken, the California-based chain, officially opened its first New Mexico location in northwest Albuquerque on Oct. 10.
The new restaurant, at 3703 Ellison Road NW Suite C, had customers lined up outside the front door, eager to dig into that hot chicken.
The West Side location is not only Albuquerque’s first location, but the first location in the state.
The chain was started in 2017 after three childhood friends scraped together $900 and opened in East Hollywood, with folding tables and a portable fryer.
Store managers say the new location will employ close to 100 people, and there are plans to bring a second location to Albuquerque.
The company has gained a following over the past few years, due to the heat and spiciness of the food.
The Chamber welcomes Dave’s Hot Chicken to Albuquerque and is eager to see the company continue its expansion throughout the city and state.